₦airaland Forum

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Widows Must Smile 2021: Emeka Nwankpa Empowers 5000 Widows, Artisans, Youths In Abia

A Chieftain of the All Progressive Congress and the General Overseer of Amb Bishop Dr. Emeka Micheal Nwankpa Foundation has empowered over 5000 widows, artisans, youths in his 16th Edition of "Widows Must Smile” yearly program.

Addressing news men in his country home during the event, Bishop Nwankpa said his inspiration is from God who is a giver.

According to him, “As a man of God, we must practice fully what we preach. God says Give, he also gave his only begotten son, so as a child of God, I must give.”

“Secondly, this is umukalu village, I know that we were once one of the poorest families in this community, there was no hope of common food but look at me today, God has blessed me, and in appreciation, I must give hope to the indigent members of the society. My heart will be so happy and I will sleep well today.”

Also speaking, the coordinator of Emeka Nwankpa foundation Mr. Chinaesom revealed that the item ranging from rice, sowing machines, motorcycles, dryers, wrappers etc must get to every widow who is present in this program today.

“As you can see, we are ready, I can assure you that every widow, who is here today must get atleast one item and must leave this program happy.”

Mr Achilefu who is the state leader of Lions Squad said that most members of his pro group were selected and will be empowered today.

He thanked God for the man Bishop Nwankpa and prayed to God to continue to bless him.

One of the recipient's, Mrs Lovina Adiele said that Bishop Nwankpa has always provided for the widows as she was full of Praise

Another beneficiary identified as John Amadi who received a motorcycle thanked Bishop Nwankpa for giving him a means of livelihood.

Amb. Bishop Dr Nwankpa, Dedicates House Built for a Widow (Mrs Angelina Eze) At Enugu State

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and philanthropist, Ambassador Bishop Dr. Emeka Micheal Nwankpa, on Saturday, being Christmas Day, dedicated a house built for a widow at Isiama Oduma Achara, Enugu State.

The building project, which is among the various philanthropic gestures embarked upon Amb. Bishop Dr Nwankpa, was conceived by the cleric, following the healing of the widow ( Mrs Angelina Eze) who has been down with stroke for years.

Speaking during the dedication of the building, Amb. Bishop Dr. Nwankpa, narrated how the widow, visited his Church, and God healed her from stroke that has held her captive for years.

The servant of God, revealed that in order to take her home, he decided to build a home for the widow since there was no house in her husband's compound at the moment.

Amb. Bishop, Dr Nwankpa, pledged to continue to put smiles on the faces of people, adding that when God blesses a man, the only way he can appreciate it is by putting smiles on the faces of people.

Responding, the widow Mrs Angelina Eze thanked Amb. Bishop Dr. Nwankpa for this rare gesture, praying God to continue to bless the philanthropic cum servant of God.

Profile of Obinna Eze Oriaku ‘Ekwe Dike of Ngwa Land’: Risk Manager in Politics

EARLY LIFE
Obinna Eze Oriaku was born on March 17, 1973 to his teacher and Anglican parents Mr Emmanuel and Mrs Grace Oriaku of Owerrinta, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government, Abia State.

By 1978, at Owerrinta Primary School through the deliberate attempt of his parents, Obinna had started taking lessons on prudence, honesty, trust, accountability, transparency, self respect and obedience.

His transition to Ascension junior Seminary Asa in 1984 was a further attempt to sustain the acquisition of core moral and religious values that complement a purpose- driven life.

Though Obinna did not take further lessons on Theology, he picked up rich values to help his growing up and personal development.

EDUCATION
Obinna cut his academic teeth at Oweerinta Primary School, Isiala Ngwa in 1978. Leaving home to faraway Asa was no accident as Ascension Junior Seminary Asa, as at 1984 when Obinna was enrolled, was nest of champions and a model school for character moulding.

His voyage to Abia State University Uturu in 1992, which he was to later reveal, was to prepare him roundly for public service. Thus, the four years he spent at the department of Government and Public Adminstration (GPD)where he graduated with (2.1)were committed to being schooled in the rudiments of policy making, conflict resolution, total quality management, public affairs and organisational management.

Graduating as one of the tops in 1997 GPD class, Obinna rejected an offer of Graduate Assistant Lecturer to pursue his dream of tinkering the growth and sustenance of blue chip companies.

Apart from various certifications on risk management, credit monitoring and financial management running across the financial and management industries, the Owerrinta born Banker, turned politician, returned to the classroom in 2015 to acquire knowledge from ESUT BUSINESS SCHOOL where he bagged a Masters in Business Administration (MBA). This exposure gave him the comparative advantage of learning practicable Business development models, development economics, the rules of engagement in socio - political dynamics and, most importantly, ideals of profitable business management


MEMBERSHIP OF PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS:
Obinna is Fellow, Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered), Fellow, Chartered Institute of Finance & Control (CIFCN) and also Fellow, Institute of Credit Administration (SICA)

The attainment of these noble feats are eloquent testimonies that the Master of Business Administration is a major player in Management, Finance/Control and Credit Administration among others.

WORK EXPERIENCE
The former Commissioner for Finance, Abia State fed his passion for Banking and financial management early enough. Shortly after his mandatory National Service, Obinna joined FSB International in 1999 as a Relationship Officer. Though he had joggled in between four other banks and financial institutions, Obinna had stuck with First Bank Nigeria Ltd where he rose to the rank of Regional Business Development Manager .

2.
Bank PHB PLC 2006 - 2010
Business Development Manager, Enugu State.

3. First City Monument Bank June 2006 - August 2006
Relationship Officer, Commercial Banking Group

4.Diamond Bank Plc January 2005 to June 2006
Relationship Officer, Commercial Banking Group

5.Citizens Bank International Plc 2002 - 2005
Relationship Officer, (Head of Credit) Commercial Banking Group

In the banking sector, Obinna grew in integrity quotient heading very sensitive and trust challenging positions.He managed the entire Enugu State government relationship with BankPhb / First bank Nigeria from 2005 to 2015 serving two Governors of Enugu State meritoriously, His Excellency Chimaroke Nnamani and His Excellency Sullivan Chime .Obinna Oriaku became an integral part of Enugu state government economic management team, this exposed him to the rudiments of public sector/government management. .No doubt 22 years in the banking sector is an imprimatur on probity, accountability, prudence, honesty and transparency, the cardinal principles that shape leadership.

POLITICS
In 2015, first in a bid to actualize the dream of having a Governor of Ngwa extraction and most importantly to support his brother and friend Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu to become Governor, the son of teacher joined the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State.

Considering his wealth of experience and a visible passion to support aggressive paradigm shift in fiscal discipline, the newly elected Ikpeazu sort the approval of First bank Nigeria Ltd to second Obinna to serve Abia State government on PRO BONO (without salary)and appointed him Special Adviser, Economic Affairs. Thus, Obinna made history as the very first few appointments the Governor made to drive his identified pillars of governance.

Not long, after in 2015, Obinna was elevated to the rank of Commisioner for Finance in Abia State when the executive council was formed, being the first Ngwa man to occupy that office, a position he held till May 29, 2019. It is instructive to note that he was very key to the achievements recorded during the first term ,no wonder he was among the two Commissioners that survived two executive council desolutions within the first term . While he served as Adviser, Economic Affairs and Commissioner for Finance, the financial expert who Chaired the State Management of Bailout funds, Paris club refund, Abia Development Plan Framework (2015-2025) introduced far reaching reforms, including but not limited to:

a. restructuring of most institutions including the Educational
Sector and the entire civil service.
b. supervised the automation and deployment of centralized payroll of
Civil Servants’ salary payment.
c. introduced the automated and biometric capturing of pensioneers.
d. developed and deepened the relationship with the multilateral and
donor agencies such as World Bank, USAID, AFDB and other
development assistance agencies.
e. introduced reforms that reduced the overhead, padding of salaries and cost of governance
in Abia State by about Six Hundred Million Naira.

The former Commissioner was to manage frosty relationship with his party members and colleagues who were either threatened by his rising profile or were obviously not comfortable with his reforms that changed the narratives in fiscal responsibility then in Abia State . Obinna was to later get embroiled in the uncivil fight of who becomes the Chief of Staff (COS) to Governor in 2019 shortly after the inauguration of Governor Ikpeazu's second term in office. Obinna had the disposition that public service should not be attractive enough for people to become desperate about political appointments. He left the PDP, a party he joined in 2015.

By April 2020, Obinna had announced his defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). His defection to APC apart from unsettling his foes as per his next move, put a natural end to the bickering and tussle about who becomes the Chief of Staff.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Obinna announced upon his appointment as Adviser to the Governor that his services to the Abia State Government will be at no salary implication to the State Government. In a move many considered to be uncommon, his employers wrote off his bills while Abia State Government saved what they would have spent paying him salaries for four years.

2. Undergraduate students in his local Owerrinta have, since 2012 benefitted from his scholarship scheme.

3. He was reputed to have personally paid counterpart funds for the CSDP market and electrification projects sited in Owerrinta and Umuochala respectively

4. While serving as a Commissioner, the ABSU trained Administrator was able to attract two major roads which the State Government executed, the Umuojima and Umuochala roads. He also ensured that two schools were remodeled while committing resources to provide rural electrification, bore hole and employments for qualified indigenes.

Little wonder, the immediate past Chairman, Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers His Eminence Eze Eberechi Dick, nominated and eventually conferred on him EKWE DIKE EKWUOLA 1 of NGWA LAND, a Chieftaincy title fit for only warriors.

Obinna has by this recognition been admitted to the select rank of titled Chiefs in Ngwa land, nay Nigeria

MARRIAGE
Obinna Eze Oriaku is married to Happiness, a Federal Civil Servant. Their marriage is blessed with children .

I

Federal Secretariat: Abia State Government Playing Politics With The People’s Interest By Nnaemeka Oruh

The news making round in the last few days on how Abia State Government denied Abians the privilege of having a federal Secretariat has taken a new turn as the Media Adviser to the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency in the National Assembly in a media chat revealed to Abians evidence backing their claims.

Below is the full statement with evidence..
 
On Friday, December 3, 2021, during a simulcast by FLO FM, Vision Africa, Family Love FM, and ABNTV, one of the anchors asked the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North/South Federal Constituency, Rt Hon Sam Onuigbo, why Abia State does not have a federal secretariat thirty years (32) after its creation. In his response, Rt Hon. Onuigbo agreed that it was sad that the state does not have a federal secretariat. He pointed out that he had challenged the Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola about this, during a budget defence session on October 23, 2019. Responding, Fashola had asked Rt Hon . Onuigbo to work with his Governor, Dr Ikpeazu, to provide a piece of land for the secretariat and the federal government will build one. On the strength of that, Hon. Onuigbo wrote to the Governor on October 23, 2019, and subsequently met with him to convey the Minister’s challenge. Thereafter the Governor wrote to the Minister on October 25, 2019, conveying the State Government’s intention to provide a piece of land for the Federal Government to build the secretariat. 
 
Rt Hon . Onuigbo followed up on this with both the Governor, and the then Commissioner for Lands, Survey, and Urban Planning, Alhaji Suleiman Ukandu, finally a piece of land was allocated for the secretariat at Ekeoba Housing Estate (see the letter from the Abia State Ministry of Lands, Survey, and Urban Planning, dated September 11, 2020). However, the title documents for the land—Certificate of Occupancy and Survey plan— were not made available to the Federal Government. The Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, when accosted by Hon. Onuigbo on March 11, 2021, on why they have not taken action, The Hon Minster confirmed that without the title documents, the Federal Government cannot start the process of costing and including the construction of the secretariat in the federal annual budget. This made Hon .Onuigbo to again reach out to the Governor in a letter dated March 12, 2021, and delivered to his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Ude Oko Chukwu, pleading that efforts be made to get the title documents across to the Federal Government. 
 
On Sat Aug 21, 2021, Hon Onuigbo met the Governor and asked if he received his (Onuigbo) letter of March 12, 2021 and inquired from him if the title documents had been issued. The Governor stated that he had given them instructions to conclude the process in a few weeks. 
 
In conclusion, during the simulcast, Hon Onuigbo had stated that once the State Government provides the title documents, he is confident that the Federal Government will start the process of building the Federal Secretariat.
 
However, when invited to respond to the issue during Family Love FM’s “Open Parliament” on December 7, 2021, the Abia State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Eze Chikamnayo instead of toeing the noble path of honour by saying that he is not fully briefed on the development, decided to respond with a barrage of lies and propaganda. 
 
I will now list Chikamnayo’s lies and respond to them one after the other. 
 
First, Chikamnayo said that Onuigbo only decided to raise this issue because he had left the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). This is a lie. As the attached documents, which include the Governor’s letter to the Minister shows, Rep. Onuigbo began this process while he was still a member of the PDP and even after he left, he has not relented.

Rt Hon . Onuigbo believes it is about the welfare of Abia and not political party affiliation.
 
Secondly, Eze Chikamnayo said the title documents have been ready . Please why has the State Government not handed it over to the Federal Government?  I am aware that the Federal Director of Housing, Abia State, Victor George, has also been going to the Secretary to the State Government to mount pressure for the provision of these documents, to no avail. So which documents was Chikamnayo talking about? Are the documents ready and for some reason the Abia State Government does not want to release them to the Federal Government? This is even after the Traditional Ruler of Ekeoba, His Royal Highness Eze Ifeanyi Nwokenna, had officially written to the State Government through the Secretary to the State Government officially reducing the initial compensation of N35m due to them, to N25m in order to fast track the process! Do they need a courier to send the documents to the Federal Government? If they do, I can personally come and pick them up and take them to the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing. 
 
Thirdly, Chikamnayo insinuated that the Federal Secretariat project is not a “Constituency project” and that Hon Onuigbo should be transparent about it. The question is, transparent in what way? All of the communications about the process of making this happen have been done openly with the Federal Government even communicating directly with the state government on this. In addition, Rep. Onuigbo had also met the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Chris Ezem twice (first on Saturday, August 7, 2021, and the second time on Saturday, September 25, 2021) and was assured that efforts were being made. In fact, when he met Barr. Ezem on September 25, 2021, Barr. Ezem was in the company of the Abia State Commissioner for Finance, Ahanna Uko, and both of them stated that they are working towards the provision of the documents. Was Chikamnayo shocked that not all politicians are that enthusiastic about pushing for the good of their people as Hon . Onuigbo is.
 
And lastly, in what can be termed a complete “own goal”, Chikamnayo makes a complete mockery of his capability to be a government official when he says that the hitch with starting the building of the federal Secretariat is that Hom . Onuigbo wants the contract for the building to be awarded to his company. Pray, tell me, friends and foes, how can there be a bidding for a contract that has not even been appropriated for? Was Mr. Chikamnayo actually thinking when he said that, or as usual, he was projecting his usual propagandas and lies which everyone now knows are his stock-in-trade? 
 
What is clear from Mr. Chikamnayo’s outing on that programme is that he is the Abia State Government’s front for lies and propaganda and he does that shamelessly. Little wonder his nature of lying made him contradict what his predecessor, John Okiyi, had earlier said about the deadline for relocating traders at Ariaria market, during the same programme! 
 
Abia State deserves to have a federal secretariat. Those playing politics with it by refusing to process and release the title documents should please, and for once, put the good of the people ahead of their petty politics. Rt Hon. Onuigbo on his part is not interested in their petty politics. He is willing and will always collaborate with anyone irrespective of party affiliations to ensure that the badly battered people of Abia State get some respite. 
 
I have attached proofs of the entire process here in the spirit of transparency. Transparency is the watchword of Rep. Onuigbo. 

Nnaemeka Oruh writes from Abia State!

2023: Abia APC to witness birth of ‘Lions Squad’— A Pro-Group

All is now set for the inauguration of the "Lions Squad", a Pro-group in Abia All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement personally endorsed by the convener, Ambassador Bishop, Emeka Nwankpa and issued to newsmen on Tuesday, venue for the event is Central School, Nbawsi in Isiala Ngwa North, LGA of Abia State, date is Thursday, December 9th, 2021 while time is 10am prompt.

Giving insight as to what " Lions Squad" stands for, Ambassador Bishop Nwankpa, informed that the pro-group, is a structure in the APC, that will be saddled with the responsibility of carrying out house-to-house mobilisation for the purposes of achieving the change Abians deserve in 2023.

The release urged APC chieftains, party faithful, lovers of the party in Abia State and beyond, to attend the epoch making event as the party repositions for 2023 election in the State.

Kwara/ Abia State ‘OTOGE’ Movement to ‘OZUGO’ Movement 2023 By A.R.G

The saying that "no empire lasts forever" is a truism that also reminds one that power is transient. At the height of the Songhia and Roman Empire, nobody thought end was near.

Pre-2015, the People’s Democratic Party boasted that they would rule Nigeria for another 60yrs, but fate, providence and a people’s determination to change their lot, amids the audacity of hope (apologies Rotimi Amaechi) even though it turned out not exactly what we expected with the present Buhari administration, ended PDP’s dream before their very own eyes.

This saying also came to fruition recently in Kwara State in the 2019 Governorship election in the state.

As it is with every Emperor governing a conqued territory, the Saraki dynasty, just like the Abia situation, determined who slept, built, or ruled Kwara for years, even during the military era untill it’s end in 2019.

The Emperor style or strategy to perpetuate this strong hold on a people is almost the same everywhere, politically in Nigeria of today. Like the colonial masters, they employed divide and rule tactics as a tool to consistently divide the people and ensured that they never come together to confront their rule or the Hitler that has held them down for years.

Poverty and unemployment are ready tools they also employ to keep the youths perpetually poor and vulnerable to be used as veritable tools in their quest to remain in office.

With hunger, poverty, deprivation and unemployment, the youths subsequently see these Emperors as the only road to salvation whilst their land is raped and plundered with impunity and in some cases peanuts are given to them from the stolen common resources.

The old are not exempted from this trauma as they also are occasionally lined for daily handouts ranging from food to pocket money which is usually not enough.

The above scenario was usually an everyday experience in the Olusola Saraki’s house (Oloye) then, which was usually a Mecca of sort, as thousands line up for daily meal just like Azikiwe road in Umuahia of today has been turned to an overnight philanthropic organization for many Abians who want to have a slice of the cake (which ordinarily should be his/her entitlement) and are ready to dance to the tune of the macabre songs that castrated Abia as a State.

We have people that turned professional politicians and have been in government since 22 years of the third republic. No wonder Abia is still at standstill till date.

Most Abians are no long proud of their State. A State that was the envy of sister States at creation has been turned to a laughing stock due to poor leadership. But we can turn this around if only we all can agree and say OZUGO.

On the march to 2023 general elections, they have started using public funds to recruit hungry youths by luring them with cars and property, to maintain their stronghold on the treasury and the levers of governance, while poverty continues to ravage the entire state, even as the youths remain helpless in the pilfering that has become the lot of the state.

Today, there is no positive change either in terms of infrastructural development in Abia State or the pockets of Abians as the looting continues unchallenged.

Kwara State 2019 is on my mind just as we approach a change of government come 2023. The OTOGE movement of Kwara that swept off the Saraki’s from Government House can be initiated here in Abia as a movement of an ideology “OZUGO ” movement. As it has become imperative that no single political party (Progressives in PDP)(APC, APGA YPP and ADC) can independently displace this behemoth that has held down development in the State.

Abians should resolve to collaborate amongst ourselves to ensure that come 2023, we as Abia youths, will come together to say enough is enough to all these looters. We should pave the way to assisting our women to stand tall like the Ebenebe women in Anambra that rejected (N10,000 )and opted for good governance which will guarantee even development in the state.

Our "OZUGO" movement will ensure that our youths will stand to be counted believing that the future belongs to them and not those that have held us down for long, whom again are warming up "to come or stay back”.

Our ‘OZUGO’ movement will ensure that we align behind a credible candidate that has no affiliation with the gods that have raped our common wealth.

OZUGO" movement will enthrone a total new concept and template of governance that will focus on the people and development of Abia instead of the current situation where we run a familicracy system.

If Kwarans were able to achieve this in 2019 , we can, as Abians and non Abians. If we believe we can, say "Ozugo". Let that movement start today to liberate Abia.

If you are passionate about changing the narrative of Abia Gods own State which few people have reduced to laughing stock, kindly sign on to the movement platform with KWARA / ABIA STATE ‘OTOGE’ movement to ‘OZUGO’ Movement 2023.

Let that movement start today to liberate Abia. kindly sign on with +2349088066933 on the whatsapp group or ozugomovement@gmail.co

Abia Renaissance Group (A.R.G)

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Bishop Nwankpa Bags Grassroot Mobilizer and Lover of Democracy Award

A Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress(APC) in Abia State, and the General Overseer of Faith International Bible Church Worldwide, Ambassador, Bishop Dr. Emeka Nwankpa has bagged an award of grassroots mobiliser and lover of democracy.

Movement for Better Nigeria, an Association in the 36 States of the federation, led by the National leader, Dr Abiola oshodi, who presented the award to the cleric on Saturday at Graceland Garden 788c Sani Abacha Expressway Wuse 2, Abuja, said he has exhibited traits that portray him as a lover of democracy and a grassroots mobilize over the years.

The Movement said having followed the activities of Ambassador, Bishop Dr. Emeka Nwankpa, they are happy to honour him with the prestigious award, adding that his dedication to the promotion of Nigeria synchronises with that of the Movement, hence the need for the award.

Movement for Better Nigeria, urged the philanthropist not to relent in touching the lives of the people especially those in the grassroots, as awards like this, calls for greater service.

Speaking while receiving the award, Ambassador, Bishop Dr. Emeka Nwankpa, appreciated the Group for finding him worthy of such an Award, stressing that Nigerians are blessed to have democracy as a system of government in practice.

He noted that some nations of the world have struggled to have democracy as a system of Government in place, noting that since Nigeria is opportuned to have it in practice, the only thing the citizenry could do was to ventilate democratic ideals.

Dr. Nwankpa whose Foundation Bishop Emeka Nwankpa Foundation has touched lives and empowered so many indigent members of the public over the years, charged government and leaders at all levels to do more to provide dividends of democracy to the citizenry so as to make them continue to see "Democracy" as the best system of government suitable for the country.

Correspondent reports that Ambassador, Bishop Dr. Emeka Nwankpa was accompanied by members of foundation among others while the National president of Movement for Better Nigeria, Dr. Tunde Bello was present during the event.

2023: Is Obinna Oriaku The Solution To Abia Problems?

Until June 2015, not many people within the Abia political space knew anything about the Owerrinta Isiala Ngwa South born Obinna Eze Oriaku. From the obscure political exposure prior to June 2015 when he was appointed Gov. Okezie Ikpeazu’s Special Adviser on Economic Affairs to when he literally bestrode the political space rising to become the State Commissioner for Finance, a record four years, it does appear Obinna has cut his political teeth successfully.

48 year Obinna is believed to have lived and slept banking, and have since 1999 virtually had a stint with most first generation banks in Nigeria like Bank PHB (now Keystone Bank), Diamond Bank (now Access Bank) defunct Citizens Bank, First City Monument Bank (FCMB) with the icing being his rise in First Bank PLC to Regional Business Development Manager, Public Sector, Enugu.

These years were basically his finest moments in the private sector proving his mettle as a proficient Risk Manager, Investment Banker of note, economic development strategist and financial expert.

It is correct to say that Obinna has passed the integrity test, posting clean sheets in no fewer than six Banks, so much that First Bank drafted him to offer his services “free of charge” to the Abia State Government, the four years he served.
FLIP SIDE

What looked like stirring the hornet’s nest happened shortly after the end of Obinna’s tenure (2015-2019) as Commissioner for Finance when many alleged that, the 1997 Abia State University, Uturu graduate of Government and Public Administration was positioning himself for appointment as the Chief of Staff to the Governor.

The Master of Business Administration perhaps was swallowed in what became an undeclared political war, which immediate consequence was Obinna dumping the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

While pundits recognize the former Finance Commissioner as an unapologetic supporter of Governor Okezie, his exit, though shocking , looked every inch like a protest against those who felt did not want Oriaku to rise beyond a Commissioner.

The events that followed his exit from PDP would correctly form his successful voyage in the murky waters of politics or give him a lift to oblivion.

Those who hold this opinion believe that Oriaku’s political friends are in the PDP, the party in Abia without any visible crack or crises. It is still left to be seen by some, how a seeming political neophyte would make progress by collapsing the ladder that gave him the lift.

Hate or love him, Obinna has in the past months made an eloquent statement that he has both the mental and intellectual capability to acquire power through legitimate means.
2023.

If Obinna decides to seek election as Governor of Abia State, he would have an uphill task of facing heavy weights, particularly some serial Governorship hopefuls who are in the APC. The hurdle of this heavyweight will only come to reckoning if APC is able to get over its leadership challenges that weakened the party into several factions.

Beyond the survival of the fittest, the Owerrinta born Risk Manager would have several foes to contend with. These foes to be drawn largely from the pool of those who will hardly give him any chance to those who think it is proper to annex whatever fight that forced him out of the PDP.

Interestingly, his stewardship as particularly Finance Commissioner will come to limelight. Ironically, the four year stint which observers see as Obinna’s strength would be the bases of evaluating his candidacy, given the many thumbs down his foes have extracted from his stewardship as Commissioner for Finance.

In all of these, Obinna is not known to have originated or inherited any political structure that could guarantee his acceptance across the seventeen local governments of the State. One does not need to ask bankers or one with the kind of exposure Obinna has where he hopes to raise funds to finance a project as huge as Governorship Campaign.

One permanent fact that should provoke his thoughts is the reality that it requires huge financial chest to navigate a terrain as Abia where the PDP is standing like the solid rock of Gibraltar.

Oriaku’s associates often boast that the Former Abia Commissioner for Finance has a long queue of billionaire VIPs as his friends. How these would disentangle him from the cobweb of those who want his star to stop shinning or translate to electoral victory will be a matter of time.

We would still pause to ask, is Obinna Oriaku coming?

INSECURITY: Ooni of Ife, Bishop Nwankpa Harp on Peace, Advise FG to Dialogue

The Federal Government led by President Muhammadu Buhari has been urged to engage all aggrieved sections of the country with a view to addressing various misgivings.

The call was made collectively by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; (Ọjájá II) and a Chieftain of the All progressive Congress (APC) in Abia state, and the General Overseer, Faith lnternational Bible Church Worldwide, Ambassador, Bishop Dr. Emeka Nwankpa while interacting with newsmen at the Ooni's Palace.

The Ooni of Ife who harped on the need for Nigerians irrespective of ethnic, religious and political colorations to come together and unite in peace, added that the issue of insecurity, bedeviling the country, requires a holistic approach so as to address the issue once and for all.

He urged those fanning the embers of disintegration to jettison their thoughts, stressing that Nigeria is better as one, advising the Federal Government to address issues causing agitations for the sake of peace.

The Ooni also called on the Federal Government to engage all aggrieved groups in the country, pointing out that through dialogue, a lot would be achieved.

On his part, Ambassador Bishop Dr. Emeka Nwankpa, corroborated the views of the Ooni stressing that Nigeria is better as one indivisible entity. He stated that engaging all aggrieved groups in the country, remains the surest and possible way of addressing the insecurity challenges that is threatening the corporate existence of the nation.

Dr. Nwankpa who was with his entourage, decried the killings in all the geo-political zones of the country, adding that those perpetuating these crimes are enemies of Nigeria bent on bringing the country to it's knees, but expressed hope that the President Muhammadu Buhari's led government will find solution to the myriad challenges facing the country.

He appealed to all groups causing unrest in the country to sheath their swords and embrace peace which has no alternative while calling on President Buhari to open doors for dialogue with a view to galvanizing all aggrieved groups in the country.

The cleric also used the opportunity to urge Abians to keep hope alive as the state is on the verge of being liberated from bad governance.

proeast:
Paid fools!!!

Emeka Ihedioha is the next governor of Imo State come 2024, and there is nothing efulefus can do about it!!!

No vex boss

How Abia House of Assembly compromised investigative panel reports on N200m Micro Finance Fraud and Matters arising— Group alleges

A group under the aegis of Abia Integrity Group on Thursday said the Abia House of Assembly led by Rt. Hon. Chinedum Orji some months ago in a widely advertised siting set up a committee headed by Hon. Barr Jerry Uzosike and others to investigate the alleged misappropriation of N200m that was meant for the Abia Small and medium scale Micro finance bank in the 17 local government areas of Abia state.

The group alleged that Abians were excited that at last the state and Abians will know the story behind the non existing Abia Micro finance bank that the government of Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu has always trumpeted as one the achievements towards lifting the youth out of poverty.

“We started sensing normal government efforts towards compromising the committee when the second day siting was cancelled and media representatives sent out and advised not to show up again.”

“This was followed by the man at the centre of the storm, Hon Chinenye Nwogu the Special Adviser to the Governor on inter governmental affairs and State focal person on federal social investment Programmes reaching out to concerned Abians and legislators preaching for them to see reason and calm down on their positions as some key people in government were in the picture of what transpired in the N200m scam.”

According to the group, the members of the committee especially those in the PDP were not speared of the threat from the executive. Many were told to forget about their second term ambition if they continue on the path they have chosen.”

“Our concern on this report is about the complicity of the opposition members in Abia house of assembly like Hon Obinna Ichita, Hon. Chijioke Chukwu and other members of opposition in that committee.”

“We had expected these non PDP members to use the opportunity provided by this investigative hearing to help strengthen governance structure in the state but we are not disappointed as this has confirmed our position that there is no opposition members in Abia house of Assembly, though we understand good number of these opposition members did not sign the reports, at least we are sure Hon Obinna Ichita did not sign that report as presented by Hon Jerry Uzosike.”

“We expect a minority report from these members that did not sign or agree with that reports as submitted by Hon. Barr Jerry Uzosike.”

The Posers for the Speaker, Jerry Uzosike and his members are as follows:

1. It's now clear that either the house committee did not understand their job which shows the level of intelligence of people we have in Abia house of assembly or they were bought over and completely compromised.

2. Abians were almost begging for this committee to send in their report after 8 months and what we are presented with is this poorly, inarticulate, uninspiring report as if all Abians are kindergarten.

The committee failed in the following ways:

a: From the report submitted by the panel to the Abia house of assembly, they stated that N200m was sort by the committee for licensing/ establishment of 17 Muti layer Micro Finance for the 17 local governments in Abia state.

b:This same panel forgot to point out that N108m out of the 200m was used to procure an old licence of a distressed Micro finance bank that had gone into liquidation.

c: They closed their eyes on the fact that new licence is not same as going to buy an old licence without changing to the new name Abia Micro Finance bank if it ever existed .

d: They did not ask for the new approval that gave the Hon Chinenye Nwogu committee the power or right to change from 17 Micro finance new licence to acquisition of old distress bank with its liabilities.

e: This house committee failed to question why they spent 108m in acquiring one old bank against licence that would have enable Abia operate from 17 local government locations .

f: They decided to ignore the illegality of deceiving Abians especially the youths that, there was an Abia Micro finance bank when in reality and before law there was non .How can the committee ignore such deceit in their final report .

g: They ignored the submission of the Permanent secretary of the ministry of SME Mr Nkwachukwu Agomuo that the approval of the governor was to the Minstry of SME but Chinenye Nwogu committee decided to work with his committee ignoring the main Minstry in the whole disbursement of the N200m.

h: The Jerry Uzosike committee did not find it strange that then Commissioner for small and medium scale enterprise Mr Wachukwu stated in his submissions that he never knew about the existence of the bank as nothing of such was mentioned in the handover note presented to him on assumption of office 3 months earlier and was merely invited a day to the commissioning of the Abia Micro Finance bank at Aba.

i: The committee also deliberately ignored the misnomer in this committee going to the board of internal revenue (BIR)to borrow N200m from Keystone bank ltd on their behalf without recourse to Minstry of finance that is Statutorily allowed by law to borrow money on behalf of the State.

j: The committee did not summon the board of internal revenue to explain why they decided to make themselves a conduit for fruad even when they brandished governors approval for such.

K: The fraud in sourcing a loan of N200m without going through the Minstry of finance as the offical obligo to the State.

L: They failed to understand that there is a unit called Minstry of finance incorporated(MOFI) that is responsible for warehousing State,s investment and equity as done even at the federal level . It's unfortunate that the civil service rules have gone to the winds under this administration.

The committee cannot reference any bank statement from Keystone bank to confirm that N38m was paid as the cost of the bank.

The bank statement from Key stone bank would have shown the balance of N92m if any but the committee looked the other way since many among them have been threatened.

The N19m stated as loan repayment in that report is fake. Does it suggest that 19m was deducted from the SME account as loan repayment when BIR we are told paid back monthly from their collections.

The N11m for vechles is also questionable and vague as the number of cars were not stated .

The 8.728.000.00 for plants and equipment is conflicting with N7.263.000.00 for banking software and security infrastructure. These does not add up as some explanations needs to be made .

The 4.166.000.00 for the official commissioning is also questionable. Did they mobilize the entire 17 local government in that day.

If the Micro finance bank had worked for months before now, was it done pro bono as the statement did not mention salaries and emoluments within this period.

As professional accountant, anytime accounts are ending in round figures as seen here, note that there are hiding expense heads being covered up.

In summary, The house committee headed by Jerry Uzosike ,The Speaker Chinenye Nwogu , Emeh Okoro and the entire committee should note that Abains are not satisfied with the report as efforts were not even made to cover this fruad in an unprofessional way.

“Abians are being taken for granted as if we are all morons. We expected more from this committee members as Abians are not that docile as they think”, the statement read.

2024 Imo Guber: Owerri Zone Group Disowns Ihedioha

The Owerri Zonal Development Union has advised all gubernatorial aspirants from the Mbaise clan in Imo State to drop their ambitions and support aspirants from other parts of Owerri zone who are yet to produce a Governor.

In a press release signed by the Publicity Secretary of the group Chief Stanley Onyechere, the group stated in clear terms that although the people of Owerri zone are determined to ensure the emergence of an Owerri zone candidate as the next governor of Imo State, it is very important that such governor should emerge from other parts of the zone who are yet to taste the position. According to Chief Onyechere, the decision was taken at the General Meeting of the group held in Owerri the Imo state capital on Wednesday 8th September 2021.

"We resolved that the next governor of Imo State should come from Owerri Zone, in the interest of equity and justice. However, Mbaise should be honourable enough to stay out of the contest as the immediate past governor Rt Hon Emeka Ihedioha has taken the turn of Mbaise".

The group insisted that other parts of the zone such as Mbaitoli, Owerri West, Owerri North, Owerri Municipal and Ngor Okpala should be supported in the next election. "If we will support any aspirant from Mbaise, it could be from Ahiazu or Ezinihite, but definitely not from Aboh where Ihedioha comes from". They noted that there are hundreds of qualified aspirants who can be Governor from Owerri Zone and wondered why Rt Hon Emeka Ihedioha should even think of contesting again after carelessly losing the mandate at the Supreme Court.

The highpoint of the general meeting was the constitution of a Contact and Mobilization Committee to commence consultation with stakeholders from other Zones in Imo State and leadership of various political parties towards the realization of the Owerri zone agenda. The Owerri Zonal Development Union also instituted a scholarship scheme which will cater for the university education of indigent orphans from the zone.

Oxford English Dictionary defines the word “Rebuild” as “to reconstruct, reassemble, or build again, that which has been destroyed.” When the Emeka Ihedioha-led government was illegally sworn-in on May 29, 2019, he publicly declared that his government would be anchored on the mantra of “Rebuild Imo.”

Such declaration was a direct condemnation of the then immediate past government of Owelle Rochas Okorocha as having destroyed Imo state completely, necessitating the need to rebuild the state. But today, it is indeed alarming and unfortunate that evidences point to the fact that the same Ihedioha is discussing with Okorocha to join forces with him in the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP to further destroy Imo state.

Since the collapse of the Ihedioha administration and the emergence of Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma as the Executive Governor of Imo state, there has been a trend among the opposition in Imo state to deny the incumbent Governor any breathing space to govern, even if it means completely destroying the entire state.

Because of the personal, inordinate, selfish and “lunatic” ambition of one man to rule Imo state at all cost, the opposition has unleashed a vicious media war and cyber-terrorism against the state government, aimed at making the state ungovernable and destroying the state.

Every week, the opposition comes up with a barrage of lies and falsehood, in the process deceiving some of the gullible and unsuspecting members of the public. These merchants of lies have deployed so many anti-Imo strategies and actions to actualize their agenda. They hail and clap for unknown gunmen when they unleash bloody terror against innocent Imo citizens and destroy government property.

They applaud bank and other agencies when they lock their gates against customers, even when IPOB has publicly denied declaring any sit-at-home on Mondays. They join forces with tanker drivers to embark on strike over an independent marketer’s personal issue with the past government, thereby punishing the Imo citizens they claim to love, and destroying the economy of the state, just to propagate the selfish ambition of one man to rule Imo state at all costs. They even sabotage some of the laudable efforts of the government in provision of infrastructure, just for the ambition of this “one man”.

All over the world, opposition is rated based on their ability to proffer solutions to problems, where the incumbent is not doing well. This is the motivation that drives the electorate to vote for the opposition in future elections. Unfortunately in Imo state, the opposition is not interested in making the state better. The state which they claimed to have come to rebuild in 2019 is the same state they have now sworn to destroy, just because of the ambition of one man. What an irony? From merchants of lie, they have graduated to cyber-terrorists, as was clearly evident in the cloning of the front page of Friday 27th August, 2021 edition of THISDAY newspaper.

Opposition in Imo state has today been reduced to the selfish ambition of one man. What a shame? The pertinent question is: “should the people of Imo state allow the opposition to completely destroy the state in their agenda of propagating the selfish and lunatic ambition of “one man” to rule Imo state at all cost?” The answer is No!

All hands must therefore be on deck to ensure that Imo state is not destroyed on the altars of one man’s selfish ambition. Let us join hands to ensure the prosperity, security and betterment of our dear state because there is no other state we have but Imo state. The opposition should desist from acts that destroy the state, but they should join hands with government to build the Imo state of our dreams.

Written By:
HENRY EMEREKOWE
A Public Affairs Analyst

EXPOSED: Abia Newmap $56m fraud continues unabated— Group alleges

A group named Abia Professional said it has uncovered the fraudulent plans and collusion between the state government and officials of Newmap in Abia State led by Mr Izuchukwu Onwughara to redirect Hartland Nigeria Ltd back to Port Harcourt road to construct one lane which will serve as rembursable for the amount already paid to Heartland for the aborted Ngwa road / Obohia Urratta flood water management contract which was fraudulently mismanaged.

The group, in a statement on Wednesday, alleged that the state government have spent enough funds on media trying to deceive Abians that this project is still alive but undergoing review despite official cancellation of the $57m by world bank without raising any official query to the Abia Newmap till date.

The statement reads: “Few days ago the Abia State Commissioner for information treated us to another round of deceitful misinformation when he said during his press interview that before the end of the year (December 2021)the State government will move back to Port Harcourt road and that the road will be completed before May 2023 which is 18 months from today being 1st of September 2023.”

“At first we waved off that information as one of those numerous, deceitful narrative that has characterized this administration. A government that cannot pay salaries of N2b after receiving an average of N5.3b as shown in their annual report as published cannot afford N9b as the contract sum for the Port Harcourt road/ Asa road job.”

“However, we have uncovered the fraudulent plans and collusion between the state government and officials of Newmap in Abia State led by Mr Izuchukwu Onwughara to redirect Hartland Nigeria Ltd back to Port Harcourt road to construct one lane which will serve as rembursable for the amount already paid to Heartland for the aborted Ngwa road / Obohia Urratta flood water management contract which was fraudulently mismanaged.”

“About a month a go, we reported that the world bank have officially cancelled the $57m without raising any official query to the Abia Newmap till date. The state government have spent enough funds on media trying to deceive the gullible Abians that this project is still live but undergoing review.”

“It would be recalled that a total sum of $27m representing 13b was paid to Hartland and their UAE counterpart for mobilization to site which includes of the tunnel boring machine for the underground tunneling of flood water which did not come till date. This was basically why NEWMAP stopped the project as it was discovered that Hartland embarked on surface drainage construction instead of the underground tunnelling in collaboration/collusion with corrupt govt officials of Abia State.”

“It is instructive we note that Hartland is owned by Mr Abu Umoru who is from Edo State and incidentally the Chairman of Setraco construction Ltd ( family business).This Hartland/ Setraco handled the gully erosion remediation work at Isi Ngwu in Umuahia which today has started showing signs of failure. They are same company that handled the failed Faulks road at Aba that has failed after 7b was paid.”

“Edo State government recently announced plans of probing $200m Benin city storm water project done years back which has failed by same company.”

“Today, they have mismanaged the Ndiegoro flood water management of $56m and Abia state in collusion with NEWMAP have decided to compensate them with Port Harcourt / Asa road project through the back door.”

“We are asking ,what is special with this construction company that Abia State government cannot look beyond them.”

“What kind of mutual arrangement exist between some officials of Abia state government and this company.We cannot be seen as reinforcing failure with Hartland/ Setraco in Abia.”

“The plan is for the State government to secretly transfer all the payments made for the aborted Ndiegoro job back to Port Harcourt/ Asa road and still claim to have funded the job instead of NEWMAP.”

“The NEWMAP funds is Abia state funds and its given as loan to the State no wonder our total outstanding loans both local and foreign has grown from N30.4b in 2014 to N160B as June 2020.”

“The implication is that we must make government accountable for all these loans as we have noticed collusion among the parties in defrauding Abians by going ahead to tamper with what is left of this fund.”

“We noticed that even in face of this failure by the goverment and its agencies, Hartland was paid recently what is left in the NEWMAP account without recourse to world bank/ Newmap office in Abuja.”

“We call on all the civil society organisations, NGOs and all men of good will to rise and challenge this constant rape of our resources by these fellows who does not have the interests of Abians at heart.”

“We call on federal Ministry of finance /EFCC/ ICPC /world bank and the NEWMAP Abuja office to investigate this charade going on in Abia State NEWMAP as we cannot afford to watch the mismanagement of state resources by these governments officials which Abia will end up paying back.”

“The Ndiegoro project failed because of greed and corruption which has defined this administration and the current efforts to woodwind Abians again has failed as we are wiser than before.”

As the clock winds down to the 2023 general elections, Abia is one of the states that their Governor will certainly hand over to a successor on the 29th of May 2023.

Speculations are therefore rife on who the cap would fit. However the pendulum swings one thing is certain that Abians are desirous for a remarkable change from the status quo. They yearn for a Governor that will possibly take the state to greater heights.

What is clear is that Abians and non Abians are interested more than ever in who becomes the next Abia governor as they have come to the conclusion that Abia needs a total break from the past to chart a new couse for Abia of our dream..

A team of public Affairs analyst went to town to ascertain the feelings of the People with regards to 2023 and the likely successors. The analysis is in no particular order.

1: Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe

Senator Abaribe is one of the top politicians that may likely takeover from Governor Ikpeazu.

Senator Abaribe who is the current Minority leader of the 9th Senate was born on March 1st 1955.

He is one of the lawmakers in this country who is known to be outspoken.

Before he became a Senator of the Federal Republic Of Nigeria, he served as the Deputy Governor of Abia State between 1999 to 2002.

He successfully ran for Abia south Senatorial elections and was reelected in 2011,2015,and 2019 marking his 4th term in the Senate.

The political experience and supports he enjoys in Abia state coupled with his role in the release of the leader of the Indigenous people of Biafra Mazi Nnamdi Kanu positioned him as on of the likely successors of Governor ikpeazu come 2023


2.Rt.Hon Ude Oko Chukwu

Rt.Hon Ude was born on January 1 1962. He is a Nigerian Accountant and the current Deputy Governor Of Abia state after he was elected into office in 2015.

Prior to his Swearing in as deputy Governor, he had served as the Speaker of the 5th Abia State House Of Assembly.

He became politically active in 2001 and in 2003 won a seat in the Abia State House Of Assembly, representing Ohafia North state constituency.

Their are indications that he is seriously scheming for the number one position as his supporters are of the view that having done the number 3 and number 2 roles very well, that the account turned politican is the right man to replace his boss who he has shown total support and loyalty to.

Their are also the arguments in some quarters that power should return to Abia North, observers and some stakeholders in the Northern part of the state is seriously rooting for him as they allege that he has the support of the former first family.



3: Dr.Alex Chioma Otti OFR

Dr.Alex Otti is a former Group Managing Director of Diamond Bank Plc. He was the gubernatorial candidate of the All progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) in 2015 and 2019 where he lost on both occasions, to Dr Okezie ikpeazu Ph.D.

In August 2020,Dr Otti said he was Joining the APC for the good of His people, saying "We must always put the people First "

Otti promised to tackle insecurity, decayed infrastructure, unpaid salaries and pensions, unemployment, endemic poverty among other Challenges, when he is elected Governor.

The supporters are of the opinion that, with his experience in the private sector, he will be the best bet to get Abia working. However, Otti carries the baggage of distrust and vindictiveness, especially,on his perceived hardline posture against Ikpeazu. It doesn't seem that the Ngwa people will easily forgive him.

4: Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah OON.

Dr. Uchechukwu Ogah is the current Minister of state Mines and Steel Development. The Banker turned oil Magnet is an entrepreneur. He is the President and chief executive Officer (CEO) of Masters Energy Group ,a business corporation with over 15 subsidiaries.

The Man with the Midas Touch, as he is fondly called by his supporters, joined APC in 2017 and in November 2018. He won the Gubernatorial primaries and was the parties Candidate for the 2019 Governorship election which he lost to the incumbent after pulling over 100,000 votes.

Ogah enjoys the support of the youths, especially,from the Old Bende Bloc, who have benefited from his philanthropy. He has never hidden his desire to industrialize Abia when he is made the Governor of Abia state. The fear for his emergent is stemmed on the speculation of likely disagreements among key stakeholders of APC. It is believed that the likes of Orji Kalu , Otti and Ikechi Emenike may not allow an Ogah candidate to emerge from their party.

5: Mr.Obinna Eze Oriaku
The name Obinna Oriaku came into the political limelight in Abia in June 2015, when Dr.Okezie Ikpeazu made him the Special Adviser Economic Management and Finance.

As a technocrat coming from a first Generation Bank, he hit the ground running when he stopped the 19 sub-treasuries from handling the payment of pensions in the state, instead, he introduced the automated bank payment system that obviously didn't go well with some top civil servants who surreptitiously benefitted from the analogue payment system. He was known for introducing many landmark reforms which remain largely unimplemented which would have helped the state in recovery.

Obinna proved, while in the Government of Ikpeazu,to have a deep knowledge of the management of public accounts. However,his versed understanding of the Economy of Abia State is also his greatest undoing as he is not well loved by top bureaucrat who believe that he " put sand into their garri." For instance, sometimes in 2015 he revealed that "Abia was suffering from over bloated wage bill which would require a salary committee to checkmate the issues of Ghost workers and double payment of government workers." While the policy led to the recovery of huge sums of money, to the tone of 500m monthly for the State, it equally brought so many enemies to Mr Oriaku.

Oriaku joined APC in 2020 and has insisted that "for Abia to move forward, there should be a paradigm shift from what is obtainable today to a template that will breed Development."

His supporters,which cut across the elites and the progressive youths, has insisted that he is better experienced having been an inner part of the system. Insisting that his kind of personality ,with courage,confidence and financial intelligence, is what the State needs now instead of neophytes.


6 Engr.Enyinnaya Nwafor

Enyinnaya Nwafor is not a new name in Abia political landscape. He is the Son of a former Deputy Governor of the state (H.E. Dr. Chima Nwafor)

The Umuojima born philanthropist is the Chairman, Chief Executive Officer of Rock Waters and Tunnel End Construction Companies. He also seats on the board of many Companies.

Nana, as he is fondly called, is a very good friend of the Governor. As he has done several road projects between 2015 and today.

His supporters are of the view that the level of infrastructural decay in the State requires a man like Nana who would replicate the feat achieved by the Governor of Ebonyi state who is also an Engineer.

Nana is loved by so many youths, farmers and civil servants who constantly receive his fertility improved seedlings and cash gifts during Christmas and farming periods. However, one of Nana's challenge to the coveted position, observers believe, is his misunderstanding with his erstwhile confidant and friend Chinedum Orji.

7. Rt.Hon Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji (Ikuku)

Chinedum Orji is the first Son of the immediate past Governor of Abia state Distinguished Senator TA Orji (Ochendo Global )

He is the 11th Speaker of the Abia State House Of Assembly and the member Representing Umuahia Central State Constituency.

Ikuku, as he is fondly called by admirers is perceived to have played a vital role in the choice of the incumbent Governor of Abia state Dr. Okezie ikpeazu Ph.D.

He is seen by many Abians as the de facto Governor as he does not hide his influence on the Governor.

A lot has been said about his desire to replace his friend Dr. Ikpeazu, an allegation he has often denied . But recently, it became obvious as he has rekindled the "ikuku Apostles" political structure that criscross the 17 local government areas of the state.

If there is no interference by the National leadership of the party on who becomes the flag bearer of PDP in Abia in 2023, ikuku will likely emerge as the governorship candidate as their family house at Azikiwe Road is where the loyalty of many Abia politicians domiciled.

They are at his beck and call and will support his ambition as he is virtually in charge of the party structure in the state.
However, majority of Abians , especially the apolitical folks are not disposed to an Ikuku emergence as they decry the stranglehold of the Theodore Orji family to the political ruins of Abia State.

Abia state: The likely Successors of Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu in 2023

As the clock winds down to the 2023 general elections, Abia is one of the states their Governor will certainly hand over to a successor on the 29th of May 2023.

Speculations are therefore rife on who the cap would fit. As the pendulum swings, one thing is very certain as Abians are desirous for a remarkable change from the status quo. They yearn for a Governor that will possibly take the state to greater heights.

A team of public Affairs analyst went to town to ascertain the feelings of the People with regards to 2023 and the likely successors. The analysis is in no particular order.

1: Dr.Alex Chioma Otti OFR

Dr. Alex Otti is a former Group Managing Director of Diamond Bank Plc. He was the gubernatorial candidate of the All progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) in 2015 and 2019 where he lost on both occasions, to Dr Okezie ikpeazu Ph.D.

In August 2020, Dr Otti said he was joining the APC for the good of His people, saying "We must always put the people First”.

Otti promised to tackle insecurity, decayed infrastructure, unpaid salaries and pensions, unemployment, endemic poverty among other Challenges, when he is elected Governor.

The supporters are of the opinion that, with his experience in the private sector, he will be the best bet to get Abia working. However, Otti carries the baggage of distrust and vindictiveness, especially, on his perceived hardline posture against Ikpeazu. It doesn't seem that the Ngwa people will easily forgive him.

2: Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah OON.

Dr. Uchechukwu Ogah is the current Minister of state Mines and Steel Development. The Banker turned oil Magnet is an entrepreneur. He is the President and chief executive Officer (CEO) of Masters Energy Group, a business corporation with over 15 subsidiaries.

The Man with the Midas Touch, as he is fondly called by his supporters, joined APC in 2017 and in November 2018. He won the Gubernatorial primaries and was the parties Candidate for the 2019 Governorship election which he lost to the incumbent after pulling over 100,000 votes.

Ogah enjoys the support of the youths, especially, from the Old Bende Bloc, who have benefited from his philanthropy. He has never hidden his desire to industrialize Abia when he is made the Governor of Abia state. The fear for his emergent is stemmed on the speculation of likely disagreements among key stakeholders of APC. It is believed that the likes of Orji Kalu, Otti and Ikechi Emenike may not allow an Ogah candidate to emerge from their party.

3: Mr.Obinna Eze Oriaku
The name Obinna Oriaku came into the political limelight in Abia in June 2015, when Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu made him the Special Adviser Economic Management and Finance.

As a technocrat coming from a first Generation Bank, he hit the ground running when he stopped the 19 sub-treasuries from handling the payment of pensions in the state, instead, he introduced the automated bank payment system that obviously didn't go well with some top civil servants who surreptitiously benefitted from the analogue payment system. He was known for introducing many landmark reforms which remain largely unimplemented which would have helped the state in recovery.

Obinna proved, while in the Government of Ikpeazu,to have a deep knowledge of the management of public accounts. However,his versed understanding of the Economy of Abia State is also his greatest undoing as he is not well loved by top bureaucrat who believe that he " put sand into their garri." For instance, sometimes in 2015 he revealed that "Abia was suffering from over bloated wage bill which would require a salary committee to checkmate the issues of Ghost workers and double payment of government workers." While the policy led to the recovery of huge sums of money, to the tone of 500m monthly for the State, it equally brought so many enemies to Mr Oriaku.

Oriaku joined APC in 2020 and has insisted that "for Abia to move forward, there should be a paradigm shift from what is obtainable today to a template that will breed Development."

His supporters,which cut across the elites and the progressive youths, has insisted that he is better experienced having been an inner part of the system. Insisting that his kind of personality ,with courage,confidence and financial intelligence, is what the State needs now instead of neophytes.

4: Engr.Enyinnaya Nwafor

Enyinnaya Nwafor is not a new name in Abia political landscape. He is the Son of a former Deputy Governor of the state (H.E. Dr. Chima Nwafor)

The Umuojima born philanthropist is the Chairman, Chief Executive Officer of Rock Waters Construction Company. He also seats on the board of many Companies.

Nana, as he is foldly called, is a very good friend of the Governor. As he has done several road projects between 2015 and today.

His supporters are of the view that the level of infrastructural decay in the State requires a man like Nana who would replicate the feat achieved by the Governor of Ebonyi state who is also an Engineer.

Nana is loved by so many youths, farmers and civil servants who constantly receive his fertility improved seedlings and cash gifts during Christmas and farming periods. However, one of Nana's challenge to the coveted position, observers believe ,is his misunderstanding with his erstwhile confidant and friend Chinedum Orji.

5: Prof Gregory Ibe.

Professor Ibe is the Vice Chancellor of Gregory University Uturu.

The Isuikwuato born educationist has insisted that he possesses the right quality at this time to lead the state to its economic boom.

In one of his series, why I want to be governor, he said that "the negligence and the alienation of the masses, especially youth, from the affairs of the state have induced unconscious biases.These have engendered dichotomy and false dualism of they and us, the rest of us, has differentiated the government from the governed.

These misgivings have stimulated a few prevalent street parlances like “they don’t care about us”, “vagabonds in power”, and “pen criminals”,who ascribe to public officeholders."

On how his government will improve health –human lives – Prof. Ibe said thus:
“People want to be alive. Through my human development plan, we will expand their opportunities to avoid premature death. We will ensure a healthy environment and ensure they maintain a healthy lifestyle. They will receive quality medical care, and we’ll ensure they attain the highest possible standard of physical and mental health.”

On how his government will improve education –access to knowledge – Prof. Ibe said: “Access to knowledge is a critical determinant of long-term well-being and is essential to individual freedom, self-determination, and self-sufficiency.”
He noted that education is critical to people’s genuine freedom to decide what to do and who to be.

Professor One,who is an Internationally acclaimed Consultant is loved for his lofty contributions in Education and other spheres of the economy in Nigeria and Abia State.

6. Chief Gabriel Chinenye Onyendilefu JP, KSA , FCNA.

Sir G. C. Onyendilefu is a well known name in Abia State having been the longest serving Accountant General in Abia State. He retired as a Permanent Secretary and was appointed as the Commissioner of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs after his failure to unseat Hon. Darlington Nwokocha as the member representing Isiala Ngwa South/ North Federal Constituency.in 2019.

Onyendilefu is well known for his financial astuteness and depth in Abia Finances. He is a close friend to former Governor T.A. Orji and analyst believes that in an event of a consensus for the Abia Central to produce the successor of Governor Ikpeazu, that T.A. Orji may be better disposed to an Onyendilefu that he can trust.

7. Rt.Hon Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji (Ikuku)

Chinedum Orji is the first Son of the immediate past Governor of Abia state Distinguished Senator TA Orji (Ochendo Global )

He is the 11th Speaker of the Abia State House Of Assembly and the member Representing Umuahia Central State Constituency.

Ikuku, as he is fondly called by admirers is perceived to have played a vital role in the choice of the incumbent Governor of Abia state Dr. Okezie ikpeazu Ph.D.

He is seen by many Abians as the de facto Governor as he does not hide his influence on the Governor.

A lot has been said about his desire to replace his friend Dr. Ikpeazu, an allegation he has often denied. But recently, it became obvious as he has rekindled the "ikuku Apostles" political structure that criscross the 17 local government areas of the state.

If there is no interference by the National leadership of the party on who becomes the flag bearer of PDP in Abia in 2023, ikuku will likely emerge as the governorship candidate as their family house at Azikiwe Road is where the loyalty of many Abia politicians domiciled.

They are at his beck and call and will support his ambition as he is virtually in charge of the party structure in the state.

However, majority of Abians, especially the apolitical folks are not disposed to an Ikuku emergence as they decry the stranglehold of the Theodore Orji family to the political ruins of Abia State.

World Bank terminates N27b NEWMAP project in Abia state

Dr Uchenna Okere, the National President Abia Professionals Association has revealed how World Bank terminated N27b Newmap project in Abia state under Okezie Ikpeazu administration in 2015.

Okere said that Dr Okezie Ikpeazu with the then economic team headed by Obinna Oriaku went straight to the world Bank country office in Abuja for presentation on the state of poor infrastructure in Aba and Abia state in general.

According to him, Abia was a pariah state as most donor agencies had before then cancelled or withdrawn their support to Abia State because of many reasons which may not be necessary now.

He said the world bank decided to support the State by including Abia State in many of their developmental projects plans which NEWMAP is one of them.

“After lots of presentations and engagements world Bank through Federal Ministry of Finance and NEWMAP awarded the contract for $56m ( Fifty six million dollars) N27b at then exchange rate to today's N34b to Heatland/ Setraco Nigeria Ltd for Erosion and flood water management of Porth Harcourt road/ Urratta and Obohia /Ngwa road project.”

“This job entails underground tunneling of flood water from Uratta crisscrossing Obohia / Ngwa road to the Ogbo hill river and construction of Ngwa road and other adjoining roads.

He stated that the technical aspect of the contract including the underground tunneling was abandoned by the contractor and the designs of this important project were altered by the contractor in collaboration with some officials of the State government.

“The world Bank and Minstry of finance rose from their meeting last week with a decision to terminate/ determine this contract that would have solved the perennial flooding problems of Aba because of fraud / greed and incompetence of the state government.”

The statement added that: “The implication is that since last month as witnessed by residents of Ngwa road, there is no job going on at the site, as world bank has stopped the work and is currently auditing the project which will determine their next line of action.”

“This is another lost opportunity by Abia state government to greed and incompetence from the same government that has been trumpeting sincerity of purpose in their dealings.”

“We call on world bank to kindly re-award this job to a more competent company and for EFCC to immediately commence investigations on how the funds were misappropriated and the officials involved.”

“This is also a call on Abia elders to know that such opportunity comes only once”, the statement read.

How Abia Oil wells ceded from River was fraudulently siphoned (N3.1 billion) at 25% by Cagewox Dot Net Nigeria Ltd

A pressure political group, Abia Investigative for Good Governance (AIGG) has alleged that the deliberate looting of funds meant for development of Abia did not start today.

The group claimed that Abia oil wells ceded from Rivers state was fraudulently siphoned (3.1billion) at 25% by Cagewox Dot Net Nigeria Ltd.

According to the group, we are happy that gradually all those fraudulent transactions used to siphon billions of Abia money are resurrecting and gradually God is exposing past hidden dirty deals and the liberation of Abia has come sooner than we all expected.

According to AIGG, The attached documents shows how the past administration of Sen TA Orji entered into agreement with a company called Techno Consult for the sole purpose of recovering proceeds of 22 oil wells and arrears of funds that were wrongly counting for Rivers State government.

The group added that the formal engagement letter dated 09/03/2010 was issued and agreement signed between Abia State government and Techno Consult ran by Engr Odo Ijere by then Commissioner Jones Udeogu who left govt shortly after signing the contract that Abia State government will pay 15% of all the recoveries. This includes the recovery of proceeds of 22 oil wells wrongly paid to Rivers State government valued at about 12,612.767,468.75 ( Twelve billon Six hundred and twelve million, Seven hundred sixty seven thousand four hundred sixty eight Naira Seventy five kobo )

“Techno Consult started work by interfacing with Directorate of Petroleum Resources (DPR )and RAMFAC in same 2010 towards reconciliations and recovery of arrears of proceeds from the 22 oil wells from Rivers State government.”

“They recounted their experience in the hands of some government officials and how the then Governor, TA Orji on noticing that they have opened formal communication between DPR/ RAMFAC and the State, sent the then Commissioner for finance Dr Nick Eleri who invited them to Umuahia for a meeting at the government house.”

“They were told that the contract agreement will be altered as the state government will be willing to part with only 10% while they return the 5% to a third party which they later identified as Mr Sampson Orji the known conduit pipe of then administration.”

“In another meeting at Umuahia Government house between Techno Consult , the Governor and some of his aides which included Mr Sampson Orji.Dr Nick Eleri and Mr Emma Nwabuko, they were told that they have decided to use a common company account called (Cagewok Dot Net Ltd )for the purpose of recovering the proceeds of the 22 oil wells refund contracts which they vehemently refused insisting that they (Techno Consult) have a valied and life contract with Abia State Government ( attached).”

“Engr Odo Ijere later discovered that Abia State government officials led by Mr Sampson Orji have also been fraudulently introduced to some officials of RAMFC for the sole purpose of edging out Techno Consult ltd from the job because they had seen/ discovered that the N12billon ( Twelve billion Naira)was recoverable.”

“Cagewox Dot Net Ltd powered by Sampson Orji on behalf of the then runners of Abia State was used in connivance/ collaboration of the State government officials to fraudulently replace/ remove Techno Consult who initiated and concluded the recovery of these oil wells and the funds that were returned to Abia State from River State from 2015 to 2017.”

“It is instructive to note that whereas Abia State Government engaged a company, Techno Consult LTD in 2010 to help recover arrears of recovered proceeds of 22 oil wells retrieved from River State on 15% Commission of whatever amount recovered from Rivers State government, they later bypassed the company (Techno Consult Ltd)and ensured that another firm Cagewox Dot Net Ltd fraudulently nominated by them was paid 25% of Abia Oil refund money .This is the hight of fraud as the matter has been in court since 2017.”

“The matter in court is between Techno Consult and Abia Government CV/1044/17 at Jabi High Court and is awaiting final determination.
A total of N12.798.822.205.17 was paid to Abia State from March 2015 as these funds were paid in N355m per month in 36months installments and Cagewox Dot Net Nigeria Ltd was fraudulently paid N3,199.720.551(Three billion One hundred and ninety nine million seven hundred and twenty thousand five hundred and Fifty one Niara being 25% of the total amount recovered from River State by present officials of Abia State, leaving the company that initiated and did the job.”

“The fraud is so complex as it is alleged that original owners of the company Cagewox dot net Ltd was not aware that their company was fraudulently used for transaction in Abia State . It took the insistence of FIRS on remittance of company tax form the original owners to understand that their company was used in Abia for such a fraudulent transaction. We call on EFCC to deepen their investigation and help return Abia money siphoned by these officals.”

“Abians needs to rise up and take back their State. We also understand that this issue is currently being investigated by EFCC at Port Harcourt. We are gradually removing the vile that has held Abia back for years. God is at work in Abia. No matter how long it takes the truth must be made open one day. Abia must be liberated from the greedy few that have stagnated the development of Abia State.”

A political pressure group, Abia North Renaissance (ANR) has berated the Abia State House of Assembly over it's plan to suspend the Minority Leader of the Assembly, Hon Chijioke Chukwu over alleged uncomplementary remarks against the People's Democratic party (PDP) led Government of Okezie Ikpeazu.

Hon Chukwu who represents Bende North state constituency in the Assembly, had last week in an interview, condemned those agitating which area of the state the governorship will come from in 2023, saying, they were only trying to shift attention from the inadequacies and maladministration of the present government.

The PDP dominated Assembly felt Hon Chukwu castigated the governor and urged him to apologise or be suspended.

However, ANR in a statement by it's leader, Comrade Kalu Uka said Hon Chijioke had not done anything wrong to warrant suspension from the House.

Uka made it clear that what the Minority Leader said in the contentious interview could not in any way be compared with what PDP members in the National Assembly, including those from Abia have said against President Muhammadu Buhari and nobody has contemplated suspending them.

Uka said any attempt to suspend Hon Chukwu will be resisted by his group and other lovers of democracy across the state, moreso, when Chukwu's statement was not against Gov Ikpeazu as a person.

Uka disclosed that the group has it on good information that the man at the centre of the controversy had boasted before his colleagues how he came to the Assembly with thugs to deal with Chukwu, but for the intervention of the speaker.

Uka equally said ANR has it on good authority that the same person is considering other options to silence or outrightly assassinate Hon Chukwu.

The group said it will not sit idly and watch as Chukwu is being threatened from different quarters, warning that if anything untoward happens to the lawmaker, it would be met with dare consequences.

Abia Assembly probe of ex-Commissioner dead on arrival— Group

A group named “Abia Concerned Group for Good Governance Advocacy” on Wednesday said its attention has been drawn to the publication on the Vaguard of 28th June 2021, that House of Assembly will begin probe of ex- Commissioner of Finance over alleged misappropriation of N22bn Paris Club Refund.

Describing the development as “dead on arrival”, the group noted that the probe of any past or present Commissioner of Finance cannot be done on isolation because the Commissioner is an appointee of the Governor who he takes orders from.

According to the statement, it is important to inform the House that a probe against Obinna is invariably a probe against the Government of Dr Okezie Ikpeazu under whose authority the Commissioner for Finance functioned.

It read: For the interest of the public, we wish to make the following clarifications:

1. We have always believed that it is the constitutional right of any House of Assembly to engage in over sight function as that is the beauty of democracy.

2. That the probe of any past or present Commissioner of Finance cannot be done on isolation because the commissioner is an appointee of the Governor who he takes orders from. So, it is important to inform the House that a probe against Obinna is invariably a probe against the Government of Dr Okezie Ikpeazu under whose authority the Commissioner for Finance functioned.

3. Given the aforementioned premises. It is also important to observe the obvious conflicts of interest between the resolutions of the Abia State House of Assembly; the onus of the investigation, vis-a- vis, the alleged culpability of the Former administration of Chief T. A. Orji, who, interestingly, is the father of the current Speaker of the State House of Assembly. If justice is therefore akin to fairness then the Speaker cannot be a Judge in his own case.

4. The N22b Paris refund received in 2016 under Okezie Ikpeazu was well utilized for the payment of arrears of salaries inherited and Abia state won award as the best State in deployment of Paris refund from the Governors forum. The issue that should be investigated is the receipt of initial N8.2b in 2011 during Jonathan administration as this funds were hidden from Abians until recently, and the amount paid as consultancy fee.

5. It is also a well known fact that the State House of Assembly lack the power to delibrate on a matter that is presently before a court of competent jurisdiction. For the benefit of hindsight the issues in question are before two courts at Abuja for over one year. The reference numbers are as follows: CV/2470/17 FCT High court. FHC/ABCJ/CS323/202.

6. Aside the ongoing litigations at the Abuja high court, a similar matter affecting the questionable engagement of two consultants for same Paris club refund between 2011 and 2014 at 20% and 30% by past administration which would have resulted to payment or loss of N11billion Naira as consultancy fee) being 50% of N22billon) except for the diligence of same Mr Obinna Oriaku is also before the EFCC Enugu.

7. The ongoing investigation also include the engagement of one of these two consultants by past administration at 25% for the Rivers State oil well refund of N9billon for job not proven. This means that Abia paid out N2.3b.

8. It is therefore preposterous that a revered State House of Assembly with the primary task of representing the common man will venture into a deliberate or accidental probe into a matter that is already receiving attention in the law court and EFCC. If the target is one of their series of efforts to victimise Obinna Oriaku then they have to wait longer and in futility as they will surely fail as usual.

9. Our group is of the opinion that any attempt to distract the natural course of justice, which portends hope for the majority of Abians, will be resisted by every available legal means.

10. In conclusion, we insist that hurriedly setting up an investigation at this ninth hour over a matter that was nearly covered up but for the prying eyes of the EFCC is reactive and diversionary.

11. Abians are earnestly looking up to EFCC and the Court to unravel the allegations concerning the claims of the homongous N4.3billion as consultancy charges by certain consultant.

“Abians have once been beaten but are twice shy. This is the time to reclaim our State from the scavengers that have held us down for long,” the statement read.

“Abia Concerned Group For Good Governance Advocacy.”

‘I am sorry for my vituperations against you’— Nze Goddy Ezebuiro begs Obinna Oriaku

A unionist, Nze Goddy Ezebuiro has tendered is unreserved apology to Abia Former Commissioner for Finance, Obinna Oriaku for his vituperations against him.

This was contained in a long epistle tagged “Nze Goddy Ezebuiro: I am sorry for my vituperations against you (Obinna Oriaku) and made available to media houses.

According to him, “To err is human and to forgive, they say, is divine. Honestly, I care less about the perception of people about me and what I am doing now, as long as my conscience is, after all, cleared.”

He said he was one of those who erroneously vilified Mr Oriaku for some reasons predicated on blackmail and misinformation.

“For example, I had this impression that you Mr Obinna oriaku was actually responsible for the delay in salary payments. Infact, as a unionist, I was tacitly aligned to the spurious allegations that obinna was an avid enemy of the civil servants.”

“However, as the days roll by, I have rather realised that I was wrong. What suffices then was a faulty system which needed some sort of surgery or complete overhaul /rejigging”.

Speaking further, “Obinna and few others were at the forefront of the restructuring the rotten system perhaps, because of his experiences, in the public sector, drawn overtime from his managerial position in the banking industry and having served under two past administrations while in Enugu State (Chimaroke and Sulivan).”

“Take the case of FAAC allocation, for instance, I was to learn later that what seem to have changed is that the Federal Government chose, through the intervention of Forum of Commissioners of Finance in April 2019 and others in the FAAC committee then, pleaded with the Federal Government to adjust the date of FAAC disbursement earlier than what it used to, this is to enable the salaries paid early. That request was granted as date changed backwards from 26th to 17th of every month when Obinna had just exited the Government in May 2019.”

“Even with that favourable adjustments, workers will still not receive their salaries till, at times, the first week of the new month. Why? Because the govt sooner than FAAC arrives uses the receipt to pay down their indebtedness and thereafter resort to TOD for sustenance. Thereby exposinig the state to perpetual borrowing which he worked very hard to stop.”

“Currently, the state has, surreptitiously, plunged itself into huge debt burden that only God knows how the debts will be paid as the momentary relief of those financial decisions were not sustained. Today, we are not sure which date the salaries will come.”

“There are, honestly, no basis of comparison between Obinna Oriaku as commissioner of finance then and now. How can we possibly draw that comparison without biting our tongues. A man who we learnt worked without salaries for the
4 years from Abia State government as his bank First bank paid him for the services to Abia State. Hon Obinna Oriaku was wrongly and deliberately painted black by many who felt he blocked them from continued raping of the state. He stopped unjustifiable allowances and incentives. Consider the astronomical jerk in Faac allowance as we learnt went from paltry N500,000 to a whopping N1.6m naira monthly which was reintroduced immediately he left government.”

“Obinna, I am really sorry and I hope you will find a place in your heart to forgive me. I have now realised, like what you used to say, that our state needs a fundamentally systemic, deliberate and conscientious paradigm change which is a product of sacrifice,sacrifice and sacrifice!”

The Unionist said, “No government can thrive without a deliberate fiscal policy that will inturn engender the culture of discipline and frugality. That sacrifice was what Obinna championed, alongside the late Chief of staff(Chijioke Nwakodo) the Governor and few others. But sadly, the real naysayers (the acclaimed owners of the state) and those who see Abia resources as their personal property would not hear of it not the less allow it to be sustained. All the reforms introduced then have all been reversed especially in salary management. Fraudulent workers are happy and excited they are back to Egypt. (padding)”

“Thank God that you are even alive today, may be, like the late COS, you would have long gone and done with! God forbid.”

“With the current revelation, you have been vindicated my brother. When I look at the intractable Osisioma interchange, the Ururuka road shamfaced projects and your spirited efforts to advance those projects even with a more leaner inflow. I can only but say that I am sorry!”

“I have realised that you were truly not as bad as you were painted. You ensured prioritization of the funds and that money was set aside for capital projects.”

“After all 95% of the acclaimed" 97 delivered roads "where all done during his time as Commissioner of Finance.”

“While a few of those in Government feed fat on the Commonwealth, others go hungry. The gap is wider now! The "thieving" is now more reckless and manifest!”

“The other day, in our Union session, I was forced to ask my colleagues, " I thought Obinna was the problem ,so how come the entire health workers are not being paid and outstanding months gap have grown compared to when Obinna was there. months outstanding salaries of these are now ABSUTH 24 Months. Secondary School Teachers 15 months Primary school Teacher 7 months including half salary, Abiapoly 26 Months, Collage of Education Technical Aro- Chukwu 27 months, State Pension 24 months with 4 months paid as half and others are still pilling up. Of course, my guess is as good as theirs.”

“With every sense of honesty, I hereby withdraw every written or verbal tantrum, I sponsored or personally wrote,against you (Obinna Oriaku).”

“Obinna's only sin, that I know, is that he courageously stood against a beligerent and warped system which is uncommon in Abia State.”

“It has been proven that Obinna dared to challenge the cabals (The Azikiwe Dynasty) without due deference to their capacity and weight which has been the bean of our problem as a State where sycophancy is elevated to high heaven.”

“I enjoin all well meaning Abians, home and abroad, to join Obinna (the man who saw tomorrow) to condemn, in it's entirety, this provocative version of democracy, of a few by a few and for a family. Democracy of deceit and self conceit. Otherwise, before 2023, what will remain of Abia would be a horrific carcass of a confiscated Commonwealth.”

“Nze Godfrey Ezebuiro writes from Umuahia.”

iphi:
ouch!!! Too late already sent the text, no reply yet

Bros... Wts the response?

Sirwallace:
Journalist hangout deserved the award. That Babajide otitoju is the messi of that show. The dude is so cerebral and thorough with his analysis.
As a real journalist, Babajide does not play partisan politics like channels staff. He always keep me glue to TVC very 5pm.

Seun Okinbaloye too is a younger version of Babajide. Very intelligent ane he has a way of bringing two rival politicians to his show.

These guys are the best thing to happen to broadcasting in this dispensation after Deji Badamosi and Angela Ajetumobi left channels.

You're so on point... My love for BQ ehn. He's too knowledgeable

Tolulopefinest:
Who else noticed that both Channels TV and TVC always claim the best TV station of the year ?

I do.. Lol... Especially channels claiming best TV station for the 13th time

GiftcardandBTC:
Performing with full military regalia makes no sense to me

I learnt she has a military background so it was more of a tribute to her dad

Jerrygotswagg:
Who else need the name of the APP he used ??

Kindly share!

Kalixx:
TOP 20 TRENDS ON NAIRALAND (2019)

1. Fuoye
2. RUGA
3. Sniper
4. PH Serial Killer
5. Xenophobia
6. Shiites
7. Tacha (Smell, bleach, BBNaija bla bla)
8. Dakolo vs COZA, Fatoyinbo
9. Regina Daniels, Nwoko
10. Cold Room (Unilag)
11. Sky B death prank
12. Hate Speech bill
13. Soapy
14. Mompha's arrest
15. Weytin __ no go see (e.g. weytin Adele no go see for the other side)
16. Mad Melon's demise
17. Audio money, audio endorsements ...
18. IPOB vs Ekweremadu
19. Real nigggarrr (Slalowmir)
20. Gateway 404 Error

Quote only to list honourable mentions.

Hustle o (Hustle o ...make efcc no come your compound carry everyone leave only you)

This is a well written, beautiful and educative piece... God bless you, Op... More grace!