₦airaland Forum

By Comr. Duke Imandu


The Peoples Democratic Party's disgraceful performance in the just concluded Anambra State Governorship Election on November 8, 2025, is a clear reminder of how far the once “all mighty PDP” has fallen. In an election where APGA's Charles Soludo secured 422,664 votes to clinch re-election, the PDP candidate, Jude Ezenwafor, got what could best be described as near zero vote; a paltry 1,401 votes out of the 584,054 valid votes, finishing in a distant and humiliating sixth position behind even relatively obscure parties.

Personally, this is more than just an electoral defeat, it shows the complete disintegration of a party that once proudly proclaimed itself "the largest party in Africa."

PDP’s Days of Political Dominance
Founded in August 1998 by prominent political figures and retired military officers including over 100 senior officers, the PDP quickly became Nigeria's dominant party under the guidance of Olusegun Obasanjo who has since trashed the party in his basket of political woes. The party won the first democratic elections in 1999 and maintained power for 16 consecutive years until 2015, controlling the presidency and a majority of state governorships.

In the 2003 legislative elections, the party won 54.5% of the popular vote and 223 out of 360 seats in the House of Representatives, and 76 out of 109 seats in the Senate. During its peak years, the PDP was indeed the undisputed giant of Nigerian politics, with a broad national reach and unarguably very strong electoral machinery.

The Glaring Contrast that Caught My Attention: Anambra 2021 vs 2025
The magnitude of PDP's collapse becomes even more obvious when comparing the 2021 and 2025 Anambra governorship elections. In 2021, PDP candidate, Valentine Ozigbo secured 53,807 votes, finishing second to Soludo who polled 112,229 votes. While Ozigbo lost that election, the PDP still commanded respectable support and remained a viable political force in the state.

Fast forward to 2025, and the party's support has dwindled to an almost invisible degree. From 53,807 votes in 2021 to just 1,401 votes in 2025 represents a whopping 97.4% collapse in support. This sharp decline clearly defies conventional political analysis.

The Anambra disaster is particularly devastating given that the South East region, where Anambra is critically positioned, was traditionally considered a PDP stronghold. Yet, in several local government areas, the PDP in this election received votes in double digits or even single digits, with results such as 73 votes, 111 votes, 18 votes, and 207 votes in different LGAs.

In most polling units around the state capital, Awka, only APGA and APC had their party agents on the ground, with PDP conspicuously absent. This organisational collapse demonstrates that the party's problems extend far beyond mere unpopularity, it has ceased to function as a credible electoral machine in many communities in Nigeria.

A Party at War With Itself
The roots of PDP's abysmal decline lie in months of poorly managed internal crises that have paralyzed the party and driven away key members. It has even become almost impossible to hold the statutory National Convention like the planned November 2025 National Convention which has now been meshed in controversy, court orders and counter court orders.

In October 2025, the PDP suspended screening of aspirants for its 2025 Elective National Convention citing "unforeseen circumstances," while former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido expressed anger over his inability to obtain nomination forms for National Chairman, threatening court action. The party's National Convention Organising Committee announced the postponement less than a month before the much anticipated convention, raising concerns about unabating internal challenges.

The crisis took a new dimension when the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu petitioned the Department of State Services, Inspector General of Police, and INEC over alleged forgery of his signature on correspondence about the proposed November convention. Over 20 federal lawmakers elected on the PDP platform threatened to defect from the party over an alleged plot by leadership to clear a nominee of an APC governor for the position of National Woman Leader.

Governors Defections That Hit Hard
Perhaps, nothing illustrates PDP's existential crisis more dramatically than the massive wave of high profile defections that have hit the party's strength below the belt. In 2025 alone, the former main opposition party has lost four governors; Douye Diri of Bayelsa, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, and Peter Mbah of Enugu.

Diri announced his resignation from the PDP on October 15, 2025, and was formally received into the APC by Vice President Kashim Shettima in a grand ceremony in Yenagoa. Governor Oborevwori, along with his predecessor, Ifeanyi Okowa, members of the House of Assembly and all PDP members in Delta State defected to the APC in April, 2025.

Pastor Umo Eno's defection from the PDP to the APC on June 6, 2025, was accompanied by 31 local government chairmen and lawmakers. Governor Peter Mbah officially dumped the PDP and defected to the APC in October, 2025.

Between October and December 2024, 14 House of Representatives members from the PDP and Labour Party defected to the APC, with four senators from Osun and Akwa Ibom also leaving the PDP for the APC by October, 2024.

Since the conclusion of the 2023 elections, the PDP has been navigating serious internal rifts, with tensions inflamed by the prolonged feud between Rivers State Governor, Sim Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike in the state. In fact, it will not be out of place to say that the FCT Minister, Barr. Wike is the leader of the caucus piloting PDP's crisis.

The Scoreboard That Displays The Humiliation
The 2025 Anambra results paint a picture of utter electoral irrelevance for PDP.
1. APGA (Winner): 422,664 votes (72.4%)
2. APC (Second): 99,445 votes (17.0%)
3. YPP (Third): 37,753 votes (6.5%)
4. LP (Fourth): 10,576 votes (1.8%)
5. ADC (Fifth): 8,208 votes (1.4%)
6. PDP (Sixth): 1,401 votes (0.2%)

The result prompted shocked reactions on social media, with observers questioning how the party that once controlled Nigeria could secure only 1,401 votes in a major governorship election, less than half a percent of the votes.

To put this in perspective, the PDP received fewer votes than the African Democratic Congress, a party many Nigerians would struggle to identify. Even smaller parties like the African Action Congress (AAC) with 292 votes and the Action Alliance (AA) with 1,145 votes came remarkably close to matching or almost surpassing the PDP's performance.

It is important to note that there were concerns of widespread vote buying and voter apathy which Yiaga Africa put turnout to below 25 percent. Out of 2,788,864 registered voters, only 598,229 were accredited, with 584,054 valid votes cast, about 21% turnout.

However, it is pathetic that the PDP could not mobilise support from the few turnouts just as other parties did. The party's ground game has now completely evaporated, with almost no presence at many polling units and virtually no visible campaign infrastructure.


Duke is a communication and PR practitioner.

By Comr. C. I. Duke

When I first heard that Senator Orji Uzor Kalu was sponsoring an electric vehicle bill, I was initially genuinely concerned with some questions running through my mind. Electric vehicles? In Nigeria? Where we can’t even get steady electricity? A country that relies on crude oil?

Without a closer look, it sounded like one of those fancy bills that would look good on paper but have nothing to do with our everyday reality. But then, I said, if this bill is coming from OUK, a man who grew up in “ogbe” (we can comfortably call him onye ogbe anyị), understanding the challenges, problems and feelings of the common man, down to the beggars on the streets, it should not be dismissed with a wave of hand.

A brief look into the framework, I can tell you that this sustainable transportation initiative is beyond what I expected. This is not some copy and paste job from Western countries, typical of what we see in some bills that end up not being implementable. A bill that actually understands Nigeria’s challenges and proposes realistic solutions. And if this sustainable transportation initiative succeeds, we might just look back at 2025 as the year Nigeria began to seriously transform its automotive sector.

What Electric Vehicle Transition Bill Is
Let me walk you through what Senator Kalu’s sustainable transportation initiative actually proposes.

A comprehensive legislation that seeks to transition Nigeria from fossil fuel-dependent transportation to electric vehicles, this OUK’s bill creates a multi-agency regulatory framework to position Nigeria as Africa’s hub for electric vehicle production whilst creating jobs and reducing carbon emissions.

First, there are serious incentives for anyone willing to invest in electric vehicles in Nigeria. We are talking tax holidays for manufacturers, import duty waivers on components, and exemptions from tolls and road taxes for electric vehicle users.

The bill also mandates that every fuel station in Nigeria must install charging points. This initiative obviously solves the problem of where to charge them from the start; a major concern of Nigerians on electric vehicles.

But here is where it gets really interesting for us as Nigerians. The bill says foreign car companies must partner with Nigerian companies and set up actual manufacturing plants here within three years. Not just bring in finished cars and sell them. And by 2030, 30% of the parts used in these vehicles must be made right here in Nigeria. This means job opportunities for Nigerians. Real manufacturing jobs. Not just the usual import-and-sell business that has kept us as perpetual consumers. This Electric Vehicle Transition Bill is about building actual industrial capacity.

The bill also sets up a coordinated system involving the Ministries of Industry, Transportation, Power, Environment, and the Federal Inland Revenue Service. This multi-agency approach shows that Senator Kalu understands that this sustainable transportation initiative isn’t just about cars, it is about power supply, it is about infrastructure, it is about taxation, it is about everything.

The Economic Sense Behind The Bill
The global electric vehicle market is projected to hit $957.42 billion by 2030. Right now, Africa accounts for less than 1% of that market. Nigeria, with our population of over 200 million people and as a competing economy at the top, should be capturing a significant chunk of the African market. Capturing the market and possibly moving it beyond the current approximate 1%, demands adequate preparation. This bill, which will not be out of place to be referred to as OUK’s bill, is the basics for the preparation and setting the architectural framework for success.

The automotive industry is special in the sense that for every one job created in vehicle assembly, you create about seven to ten other jobs in the supply chain. In this, you talk about component manufacturing, retail shops, maintenance centres, spare parts businesses and public transportation itself. If this sustainable transportation initiative takes off and we establish even a moderate electric vehicle manufacturing capacity, that would take care of hundreds of thousands of jobs.

Despite the current improvement in locally refined petrol, every year, we are spending billions of dollars on fuel imports. Now imagine if a significant portion of our vehicles were running on electricity generated locally. That is billions of dollars retained and circulated within Nigeria economy instead of being sent abroad. This sustainable transportation initiative could transform our balance of payments.

Air pollution costs our economy billions every year through healthcare expenses and lost productivity. The constant smog, the coughing, the breathing problems are all associated with air pollution. This sustainable transportation initiative addresses that directly. Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions. The air gets cleaner, people get healthier, and we spend less on treating pollution related illnesses.


Looking at What Other Countries Have Done
Let us look at how other countries have handled their sustainable transportation initiatives, and the lessons are fascinating.

China is the most instructive case. In 2009, they launched their New Energy Vehicle programme with aggressive subsidies, infrastructure development, and local content requirements, similar to what Senator Kalu’s sustainable transportation initiative proposes. Today, China dominates global electric vehicle production. They account for over 60% of worldwide sales. Chinese companies like BYD are now global leaders, and they have created millions of jobs in the sector.

But here is what is important for us: China did not start with rich people buying electric cars. They started with electric buses, electric taxis, electric delivery vehicles. They made electric vehicles part of everyday life for ordinary citizens first. That is the template this sustainable transportation initiative tends to follow if well implemented.

Norway took a different approach. They focused heavily on consumer incentives. Electric vehicle buyers got exemptions from purchase taxes, VAT, road tolls, and parking fees. They could use bus lanes and charge for free at public stations. The result? Today, over 80% of new car sales in Norway are electric vehicles.

India’s approach is particularly relevant for us because their economic situation is similar to ours. India focused on electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers (their version of keke) before tackling private cars. They recognized that for most Indians, these were the relevant forms of transport. By 2023, electric two-wheelers accounted for 5% of the Indian market and growing fast.

Costa Rica combined their electric vehicle push with renewable energy development. They achieved over 98% renewable electricity and are rapidly transitioning their transport sector. This is another important angle, that a sustainable transportation initiative only makes sense if the electricity powering the vehicles is clean and reliable.

How Electric Cars Can Benefit Everyday Nigerians
A sustainable transportation initiative that only benefits wealthy Nigerians is just another elite project. But my excitement is that this project has the potential of cutting across every strata of the society if done right.

Imagine electric buses replacing the smoke-belching danfo, molue, rickety coaster buses, popular “Elrufai buses” and private taxis that currently dominate Lagos, Abuja, and other cities. Electric buses have lower operating costs because electricity is cheaper than petrol, and they need less maintenance. These savings can translate to lower transport fares for us as commuters. Plus, cleaner air to breathe. This sustainable transportation initiative could make your daily commute cheaper and healthier.

For a taxi driver, keke rider, or okada rider, the operating cost of an electric vehicle is roughly 70% lower than a petrol vehicle over its lifetime. In a closer breakdown, if you are currently spending ₦10,000 daily on fuel, with an electric vehicle, you could potentially reduce that to ₦3,000. That is ₦7,000 daily extra income. Over a month, over ₦200,000 extra could be in your pocket. For most Nigerian families, that is life changing.

Small business owners who rely on delivery vehicles or keke for logistics, this sustainable transportation initiative could transform the operating costs. Electric delivery vehicles would slash fuel expenses, potentially leading to price reduction for customers. The entrepreneurs using this option would have better competitive opportunities.

Additionally, this sustainable transportation initiative would open up entirely new career paths for those who have technical skills or are willing to learn. Professions like battery technicians, charging infrastructure specialists, electric vehicle mechanics will need thousands of workers as the sector develops. And these are not jobs that require fancy university degrees. Good technical training is enough.

There will be opportunities to set up charging stations, especially in areas where the big companies don’t immediately focus. There will be opportunities in maintenance and repairs. There will be opportunities in component manufacturing. This sustainable transportation initiative is going to create a whole new business ecosystem.

Why the Electric Vehicle Transition Bill Matters for Nigeria’s Future
We have seen too many interesting policies that go nowhere, but I have this confidence that this sustainable transportation initiative would be different.

The global automotive industry is rapidly shifting to electric vehicles. The International Energy Agency projects that by 2030, electric vehicles will account for 60% of global vehicle sales. Countries without electric vehicle manufacturing capacity will just be consumers, importing expensive vehicles and technology forever.

By establishing local manufacturing now through this sustainable transportation initiative, Nigeria positions itself to potentially become an electric vehicle exporter to other African countries. With our population and growing manufacturing capacity, we could become the automotive hub for West Africa.

The technology transfer provisions in this sustainable transportation initiative are particularly smart. We are not just assembling vehicles from completely imported parts, we are forcing actual technology transfer and capability development. By 2030, Nigerian companies will have the knowledge and capacity to manufacture 30% of vehicle components. By 2040, this could be 50% or more. This is how you build real industrial capacity through a sustainable transportation initiative.

Why Senator Orji Uzor Kalu Deserves Recognition
Senator Kalu deserves serious credit for this sustainable transportation initiative which is thinking decades ahead. What impresses me most is the bill’s comprehensiveness. It is not just about electric vehicles but about manufacturing, technology transfer, infrastructure development, environmental repairs, and economic diversification. It is rare to see legislation that thinks systemically about how different pieces fit together. This holistic approach is what makes it a truly transformative sustainable transportation initiative.

The local content provisions deserve special praise. Too many Nigerian policies encourage imports or token local assembly with all real value going to foreign companies. This sustainable transportation initiative mandates actual capability development. That is nationalism done right, not by shutting out the world, but by ensuring Nigeria benefits substantially from global engagement.

The bipartisan support this sustainable transportation initiative has received is also noteworthy. In our polarised political environment, the fact that senators across party lines are backing this bill suggests it addresses a genuine national need that transcends partisan politics.

Way Forward
The bill has passed second reading, a significant milestone but just the beginning. The real work starts now in the committee stage, where details will be refined and implementation mechanisms clarified.
This is where civil society, labour unions, consumer groups, and ordinary Nigerians need to engage. The principles of this sustainable transportation initiative are excellent, but the details of implementation will determine success or failure. We need to ensure strong consumer protections, real affordability mechanisms, solid job creation provisions, and accountability measures.

International partners should be engaged for technical support and financing. Countries like China, Norway, and India have learned valuable lessons that we can benefit from. Multilateral development banks should be approached for concessional financing. Global partnerships will strengthen this sustainable transportation initiative.

The private sector needs clarity and credible commitment from the government to invest at the required scale. If properly implemented, this sustainable transportation initiative will create massive opportunities for private investment in manufacturing, infrastructure, and services. This is what the sustainable transportation initiative represents, not just a bill about electric vehicles, but a different vision of what Nigerian governance could be.

As I Conclude
So, if this succeeds, a big salute to OUK. Not because the bill is perfect, but because it represents the kind of forward-thinking, comprehensive, ambitious policymaking that can actually transform Nigeria.

In a political environment dominated by short-term thinking and ethnic calculations, Senator Kalu has demonstrated what visionary leadership looks like. He is championing a policy that won’t fully bear fruit within his political lifetime, thinking about what Nigeria could be rather than just managing what Nigeria is.

This is also a call to all of us to engage with this sustainable transportation initiative, refine it, improve it, and ensure it actually delivers on its promise to transform Nigeria’s automotive sector and create opportunities for ordinary Nigerians.

The framework has been provided. Now it is up to all of us to turn it into reality.

Duke writes from Abia North

By FEC Jonas

As the clamour for inclusiveness in government and the correction of imbalance in the political structure of Nigeria gains momentum, it has been revealed that President Ahmed Tinubu was not responsible for the perceived marginalisation of Ndi Igbo in the sharing of government offices.

In a shocking revelation that shows the selfishness and insincerity of most Igbo politicians, a former Governor from the South West spoke in a private gathering to a select group of Igbo politicians who came to solicit his support to cede the position of Senate President to South East.

According to our sources, the ex-governor was quoted as saying that "Asiwaju is a fair-minded man. Look at his wife, a Christian and pastor while himself is a Muslim. Let me shock you, Asiwaju had conceded the Senate Presidency to your people in principle but the two governors from your place under APC at that time dissuaded him"
From the political record available, Sen. Hope Uzodimma and Engr David Umahi were the only APC Igbo governors then.

The shocking news today is not only that both governors prevented their zone from getting a prime position but are now lobbying Mr President to endorse them for the same position. Umahi is currently battling his Senator in a bid to replace him and become SP while Uzodimma may be relying on "Omuma Magic" or "Ben Johnson Way" to get to the Senate and become President.


Recall that the then South East senators-elect, led by late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, had issued a communique warning President Tinubu against imposing a candidate from the South-South on the region. They argued that since the South East was denied the presidential ticket, it was only fair that they be given the Senate Presidency.

Similarly, Sen. Okorocha was alleged to have played a similar role by stopping Hon. Barr. Emeka Nwajiuba from being the Speaker of the House of Representatives. As the only APC governor from South East then, he wanted to remain the APC Igbo leader in the zone.

Sad

By Ik Ogbonna

Until this controversy came to public knowledge, the Enugu State Governor had a reputation of a performer but the details oozing from this scandal has raised questions of due process and the quality of projects of the state government.

Issues to ponder on...
1. Here is a contractor who openly admits he had never handled a similar project before and got such a job?
2. A single contractor was handed an ₦11 billion legacy project—22 Smart Schools across the entire state, why?
3. He claimed that he was promised other contracts without a formal bid.
4. The numbers are not adding up. ₦11 billion for 22 schools is about ₦520 million per school.
5. How come the Jaiz Bank bond suddenly turned into payments sent through Zenith Bank? The bond was meant to protect the government in a situation like this.
6. This is not the first time Sujimoto’s name has come up in unsavoury circumstances. If due process was followed, this wouldn't have cropped up.

The loser in all these is not Sujimoto, he might go to prison and or lose his credibility and investments but the Governor and Government of Enugu State who has been seen as performing. I'm also hearing that Abia Smart school project is facing a similar situation.

There are questions around the award of a single school project for half a billion Naira while most public schools are in ruins. This project was designed to fail because it wasn't designed appropriately with due process, and necessary checks put in place.

Ik Ogbonna is a Journalist and PR practitioner based in Owerri.
+2348037203559.

Recently, I started seeing some comments online about Senator Orji Uzor Kalu going for the office of the Senate President in 2027. The latest was the write-up of my senior brother, Iroegbu Emenike. The intent of the write-up was to discredit the senator representing Abia North, but on the surface, it projected him as a good contestant for the leader of the Red Chamber.

I was wondering when I missed this development. Since last night, I have searched all the official social media handles of the senator, including those of his support groups, and I could not see any post or comment either from OUK himself or his aides declaring his intention to run for that position. Not even one suggesting it. I also did a quick check on news blogs, and it was not captured anywhere that the Abia North linchpin has declared for that position.

This simply means that his opponents have recognised that OUK is eminently qualified to hold the position of the Senate President of Nigeria by all standards and measures. If Senator Kalu does not have the capacity to be the senate president, I am quite sure that no one will start fighting it when he has not said he is interested in it. Sincerely, as a person, it raises a feeling of pride that the senator representing my constituency has been adjudged to be qualified for that position, and most honourable is that his opponents are the ones engineering and promoting it.

Our people will say: "onweghị onye etinyere shuga n'ọnụ ya agbụpụ ya". Let me join by calling on the Distinguished Senator Orji Uzor Kalu to please consider this and go for it. On behalf of the opposition group, we have all agreed to support this one. It will be an honour to have a Senate President from my beautiful hometown of Abia North.


Comr. Duke C. I. wrote from Abia North.

Yesterday, August 27, 2025, as we marked the 34 years of the creation of Abia State, it reminded me once again, the day my state of origin changed. That announcement came with mixed feelings of happiness, anxiety and uncertainties for both the citizens and the state as an entity. Barely one year after, the joy and hope seemed to have jumped to gear-2 with the return to democracy where the first civilian governor emerged.

Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, elected as the state's first civilian governor in 1992, came with the promise of an early prosperous state, so much hope and aspirations of a young state eager to chart its democratic course. He was determined to take the state to an enviable level but his tenure was abruptly cut short by the military coup of 1993, leaving the state without the foundational democratic leadership it desperately needed during its formative years. This interruption came with a major setback which denied our dear young state the opportunity to establish its basic infrastructure, democratic institutions, and operational frameworks to smoothly run a state.

When democracy returned to Nigeria in 1999, Abia State, unlike the older states, found itself in a unique position, more like a precarious situation. Starting from scratch. The brief democratic experience of 1992 to 1993 was too short to establish any tangible foundation, leaving the incoming civilian administration with the huge task of building a state from the ground up. Thankfully, it was Dr Orji Uzor Kalu who assumed office as governor in 1999. With that clear understanding that he was not just succeeding a military administrator or coming for political grandstanding, OUK as fondly called, knew that he had an enormous mandate of democratic state-building, administrative structuring, establishing both political and bureaucratic operational standards, erecting basic required infrastructure which should have been established seven years earlier.

The foundational work he undertook between 1999 and 2007 essentially constituted the real democratic birth of the Abia State we are celebrating today. During his eight years tenure, Kalu embarked on what can only be described as a comprehensive state building project, establishing the basic infrastructure that any modern state requires: roads, schools, functional hospitals, and government institutions. More importantly, he created the democratic culture and expectations that have continued to define Abia State's political landscape to this day.

His approach to economic development of the state stemming from absolutely no preestablished framework, re-engineered the business spirit of Aba city, positioning it again as the “Japan of Africa”. He focused heavily on that city, setting it as the commercial nerve centre of the state. His investments in Aba's infrastructure, particularly the road networks and power supply, laid the foundation for what has become one of Nigeria's most vibrant commercial hubs. The growth of Aba during his tenure was not accidental, but the result of his deliberate policies designed to create an economic foundation for the state.

𝙄𝙣 𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙞𝙥𝙡𝙚, 𝙊𝙐𝙆 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙘𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙘 𝙜𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙣𝙤𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝘼𝙗𝙞𝙖 𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙥𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙚, 𝙝𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩.
𝙄𝙣 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙪𝙨, 𝙊𝙐𝙆 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙘𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙖𝙣 𝙜𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙣𝙤𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝘼𝙗𝙞𝙖 𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮, 𝙝𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩.


……………. I will be back on this matter.


From the desk of;
𝑪𝒐𝒎𝒓. 𝑫𝒖𝒌𝒆 𝑪. 𝑰.

By Comr. Duke C. I.

As an Igbo, it would amount to living in self-denial if we claim not to be aware that other regions in Nigeria find it somewhat uncomfortable to support a candidate from the zone to occupy certain positions, especially elective ones. This is as a result of the "trust deficit" accumulated over the years. The cause of this trust deficit is a story for another day, but the obvious truth is that it has continued to deny us every necessary cooperation from our sister regions in Nigeria. To tackle this, there is a need to consciously build formidable relationships with other political zones established on the foundation of genuineness and sincerity. It is heartwarming that a few key political players from the zone, led by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, have started to put concerted efforts into redressing this challenge.

With the understanding of Nigeria's complex political landscape, we should start appreciating the strategic importance of bridge building. There are historical experiences that created these inter-regional suspicions, however, they can be systematically addressed through deliberate relationship building targeted at restoring trusts. Knowing that the Nigerian political structure demands that any region that want to occupy high elective positions need overwhelming support from at least one of the other two regions (here I'm aggregating to North, Southwest, and old Southeast). This is where we have always gotten hooked up, considerably because of our confrontational approach instead of a relational approach. The Southeast's political strategy has often been characterised by demands, threats and ultimatums rather than strategic partnerships and mutually beneficial alliances. This approach has constantly proven counterproductive in the present Nigeria's political culture which is consensus-driven.

One man who has consistently progressed in building bridges throughout his political journey is Distinguished Senator Orji Uzor Kalu. During his days as Abia State Governor, Kalu rallied unmatched support and cooperation from other governors, where he played prominent roles in what we know today as the "Class of '99 Governors." This collaborative spirit clearly speaks to the reason why he has not just remained, among his peers, one of the most relevant figures in national politics till today, but has become a key player who is reckoned with across party lines and regional divides.

If you have followed his political history, he is an Igbo politician who has carefully avoided ethnocentric inflammatory comments capable of drawing ill will to the region, and he has continued to boldly advocate for equitable national participation. Unlike many politicians from the zone who have sometimes gone confrontational, discouraging potential allies, Kalu has maintained an inclusive approach to political discourse. As a current senator, Orji Kalu has continued to build bridges amongst his colleagues in the Red Chamber, and across other regions, with a clear understanding that sustainable political influence requires long term relationship.

As an admired senator in the current 10th Assembly from the Southeast, he has continued to represent the positive side of the zone to his colleagues, resulting in the goodwill he enjoys today. His personal relationships have created an enviable respect for him that extends beyond partisan politics. He has also continued to maintain a very cordial relationship with the presidency and President Bola Tinubu, whom he refers to as his friend. This level of personal relationship is an asset the zone should tap into to negotiate issues of regional interest effectively.

His strategic engagements with other leaders of thought across the regions have continued to systematically closeup on the trust deficit and build trust credit in turn. Most importantly, these are built on mutual respect, shared experiences, and proven reliability over decades of political interaction. Such relationships become very valuable during critical political negotiations and decision-making processes. The ideology of making changes from the inside is obviously the best strategy for the zone to secure a top political position in the country. This approach, which Senator Kalu has, in his wisdom, adopted, recognises that for the region to secure its political desires, it requires working within existing structures while gradually pushing for the targets. External pressure and confrontational tactics have repeatedly failed to yield desired results for the Southeast, making the insider approach not just preferable but necessary at this time.

As it is a concern to ndị Igbo that for a good number of political cycles now, no Igbo person has occupied any of the top four political positions, OUK's calculated return bid to the senate in 2027 should be supported by every Easterner. This support should be seen as a strategic investment in the region's political future. As a ranking member of the senate who has significantly covered the trust gap by building meaningful relationships across the board, he stands a clear chance of clinching a top principal office in the next senate.

At this level of political exposure, the Southeast needs to move beyond the politics of lamentation to the politics of strategic engagement. Supporting a leader like Orji Uzor Kalu who has demonstrated the capacity to build the cross-regional alliances necessary for political success in the present Nigeria, should go beyond Abia North’s project.

By Comr. Duke C. I.

It is understandable that one of our political attitudes in Nigeria is the continuous ethnic-motivated or clan-motivated talk about the place a politician or leader comes from instead of the person's character, personality, integrity, and capacity. Though nauseating, that is our political reality. Recently, I followed the conversations around the statement from a group of people from Ohafia that it is the turn of Ohafia to represent Abia North in the Senate. So, they are scheming that Senator Orji Uzor Kalu should be voted out during the 2027 general election for an Ohafia indigene to take the slot.

I do not find it strange because it is a Nigerian phenomenon and not peculiar to any particular clime. We are in a country where ethnic origin is prioritised over competence, and it is becoming increasingly disturbing. A particular ethnic group or region can support, mobilise, and vote for a known failure as long as he or she is from their ethnic group. In other words, Nigerians can actually vote against God (if He contests for election) just because "He is not from their place." Needless to say that this particular act of unpatriotism, traced back right from the time of independence, is the major factor that has kept Nigeria in the mess it is today, where it has become, for a considerable number of years, a retrogressive country. So, people would be comfortable as long as the person in authority speaks the same language with them, and they will actually benefit nothing, but let it not be the man who speaks another language even if it would benefit them more. They would rather suffer under the leadership of their “brother” than enjoy progress and prosperity with a “stranger” in power. This is exactly what a few of our brothers from Ohafia are advocating for.

From 1999, Abia North as a senatorial zone has produced four senators who, in their individual capacities, have served the zone, with OUK still serving. It would not be an extravagant statement to say that for the 20 years we had the three previous senators before the election of Senator Kalu, no one can confidently walk to any site of a project which can be said to have been executed or, at least, attracted by them. The scanty streetlights which were once celebrated as a constituency project of one of the past lawmakers didn't work up to a month from the date of installation. It is still very fresh in our minds that the only constituency project done by OUK's immediate predecessor, at least to our knowledge, was the distribution of frying pans to some women for akara frying business as an empowerment program. Most disturbing is that Abia North had once gone down in history as the zone whose senator was Chairman, Senate Committee on Education, but all the schools in the zone remained dilapidated, and the pupils learned outside, upholding the NYSC's popular "Under the rain or in the sun" mantra even before getting into the universities.

Presently, Orji Uzor Kalu is gradually dismantling the old order of the zone having senators without projects. This is more especially evident in Ohafia. It is on record and on the ground that Senator Kalu has initiated and successfully executed numerous projects in that town alone, much more than what they have gotten from any of their sons in politics, including the Deputy Governor's position which they currently occupy. The senator has renovated and attracted refurbishment of more than ten (10) schools in Ohafia alone, distributed educational materials to more than 15 schools, and installed over 500 solar streetlights. These are in addition to many empowerment projects for youths and women, provision of employment opportunities for graduates of the town, and attraction of key road constructions including Bourdex Road by Bourdex Event Centre, Abiriba; a rural road at Agboji, Abiriba; a rural road from Akanukwu to Aro Junction; a rural road at Amaogudu Township, Abiriba; Agboji-Abiriba Road, Ohafia; Bishop Court Road, Amaekpu, Ohafia; Catholic Road, Ohafia; a rural road at Amangwu, Ohafia; Market Road, Ohafia; a rural road at Abia, Ohafia; and a rural road at Isiugwu, Ohafia.

Interestingly too, in the 2025 Federal Budget set for implementation, Senator Orji Kalu has secured the construction of about seven critical road infrastructure projects in Ohafia alone. For the avoidance of doubt, the following roads are already captured for implementation: Abia Road, Akanu Ukwu Road, Isiugwu Road, Ndiorieke-Eziafor Road, Ebem Township Road, Elu Ohafia Township Road, and Okagwe-Ohafia Road.

So, should we now continue to dwell on the irrelevant factor of where the leader is from, or concentrate on his personality and the dividends of democracy he is delivering to the masses? Obviously, every right-thinking person will agree that performance is more valuable than place of origin, and Distinguished Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has proven this beyond doubt.

By Comr. Duke C. I.


While the Nigerian female teams won African titles back-to-back, and as I witnessed the unadulterated joy, happiness, and excitement on the faces of Nigerians, home and abroad, irrespective of religious, ethnic, political, and social affiliations, I was taken back to the glorious days of Enyimba of Aba.

Recently, the Super Falcons, in a dramatic comeback, made football history by lifting their 10th WAFCON trophy in Morocco. Following that triumph, just within one week, the D'Tigress capped the euphoria by clinching their fifth consecutive FIBA Women's AfroBasket title. Since then, there has been a plethora of reactions from Nigerians across the board. The Nigerian president, in response to their outstanding performances, showered both the Super Falcons and the D'Tigress with house and cash gifts. Expectedly, that generous gesture generated its own reactions, with some commending the president's lavishness while others dissented. It is expected!

One of the notable reactions to President Tinubu's benevolence came from Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, OUK - as he is fondly called - former Governor of Abia State. Senator Kalu went a step further, beyond what every other commentator touched, to draw the president's attention to the dire need to revamp the Nigeria Premier League. For the purpose of clarity, let me quote him: "I also implore Mr President to pay attention to our indigenous Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and make it more attractive. Nigerian clubs should be able to reclaim championship winning in Africa. As a nation, we have more to gain than lose when our sports are strengthened."
I paused for a while and asked myself, why is OUK called the "African Pillar of Sports"?

Every Nigerian and African, as it were, who was 12 years and above in 2001, whether interested in sports or not, will still remember the continent-wide buzz, excitement, and anxiety that the performances of Enyimba Football Club of Aba generated. Prior to then, nobody watched Enyimba, nobody stayed awake at night to watch Enyimba, nobody left work or locked shop to watch Enyimba, nobody trekked around their community looking for where they could watch Enyimba play - until OUK came.

At the return of democracy in 1999, Kalu became the governor of Abia State, exuding tremendous energy, undeniable passion, unmistakable focus, and assuring commitment to governance. One of those transformative actions was the revitalisation of Enyimba Football Club, Aba. He took up the challenge of building two stadia in the state. The now-renowned Enyimba International Stadium, Aba, was formerly a playing ground which he converted into a stadium with the capacity to accommodate 16,000 people. It became the home ground of Enyimba FC, and they started hosting visiting teams from across Africa. This was the beginning of the psychological repositioning of the players, which changed the entire narrative. The former governor, understanding the crucial place of adequate funding in football, deployed every needed fund and resource to the club, which facilitated the magical turnaround. New players were signed with mouth-watering incentives and welfare packages; playing for Enyimba became every African player's dream.

It would not be out of place to say that his immeasurable investment in Enyimba FC led to the growth of football tourism in Abia State during that era. Fans from all over Nigeria and Africa flocked to Aba to watch the team play at their home stadium, the Enyimba International Stadium. This, in turn, led to an unprecedented increase in economic activities in Aba metropolis, generating substantial revenues for local businesses and residents. Their remarkable success story provided a platform for the country to showcase its football talent and ingenuity globally. This brought hope and opportunities to players who had hitherto been losing hope in their football careers. They gained international recognition and secured opportunities to play for the Nigerian national teams and international club sides, elevating the country's reputation in the international football community.

OUK's passionate approach to this endeavor obviously started bringing in the required results. Enyimba FC rose to become the football overlord in the Nigeria Premier Football League and extended its dominance across the African continent by clinching the CAF Champions League trophy in 2003 and 2004 - what was referred to as a dramatic back-to-back victory - becoming the first Nigerian club to achieve this remarkable feat. Since its establishment in November 1976, Enyimba's prominence only rose when OUK assumed governance—more than 20 years after its establishment - and it started winning titles both domestically and continentally. They have won the Nigerian Premier League a record nine (9) times, with five (5) of those victories occurring during OUK's tenure: 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, and 2007. They have also clinched the Nigerian FA Cup four times, with the first victory in 2005, and the Nigerian Super Cup four times, with two of those victories in 2001 and 2003. In addition to being the only Nigerian club to have won the prestigious CAF Champions League - which they achieved back-to-back in 2003 and 2004 as I earlier highlighted - they also won the CAF Super Cup in 2004 and 2005. Enyimba has not won it again since Distinguished Senator Kalu left office. The club subsequently became one of the most successful clubs in the history of African football, winning more awards than any other Nigerian football club, including the BEST EVER NIGERIAN CLUB award from FIFA.

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, as Abia State Governor then, was the number one fan of Enyimba. He recognised and celebrated every single achievement of the club. He rewarded every player with a brand new car, state recognitions, and cash gifts in appreciation of their outstanding performances. Prior to then, no other governor had demonstrated such generosity, and it became a standard across Africa. It clearly showed his absolute commitment and unalloyed support for sports development in Africa as a continent. So, what President Tinubu has done for the players and crew of both Super Falcons and D'Tigress today, OUK had accomplished for Enyimba more than two decades ago.

His generous gestures became both an encouragement and a challenge to other Nigerian clubs and African countries' local clubs to strive for greatness in continental football competitions. Enyimba became a benchmark for African football excellence. The rise in profile attracted numerous investments and sponsorship opportunities to the club and even the NPFL. Corporate organisations, local and international brands, as well as affluent individuals, started tapping into Enyimba's potential, which led to increased funding and lucrative endorsement deals. OUK also initiated the project to list Enyimba on the stock market, reaching out to BGL at that time to assess how the club could go public. This deal was about to be sealed before the expiration of his tenure as governor, but was later abandoned by his successor, T. A. Orji.

The achievements and triumphs of Enyimba FC under OUK's leadership served as an inspiration to young footballers and aspiring ones. It became the driving force behind increased interest in sports participation amongst African youths. His remarkable exploits were a clear indication that with adequate funding, advanced infrastructure, and political will, African football can reach enviable heights and compete favourably with its counterparts in Europe and other continents.

By Duke Imandu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's government has commenced plans to create Humanitarian and Poverty Alleviation Trust Fund (HPATF) to tackle increasing poverty index in the country, and deliver on the administration's target of lifting over fifteen million households out of poverty.

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Dr. Betta Edu disclosed this today during a meeting with the World bank's Country Director, Mr. Shubham Chaudhuri at Abuja. While expressing gratitude to the World Bank for it's continuous partnership with the Nigerian government in the areas of education, health, agriculture, private sector development and social services, the Honourable Minister expressed the Federal Government's readiness in hosting the proposed Humanitarian Dialogue culminating in the creation of Renewed Hope Humanitarian and Poverty Alleviation Trust Fund. She noted that the Trust Fund would be funded through budget allocation, development partners, international communities and contributions from the private sector.

Also speaking on the planned expansion of the National Social Register (NSR), Dr. Betta Edu sought the World Bank's support in the verification and expansion of the register by offering technical assistance towards achieving the president's target.

Responding, the Country Director of the World Bank, Mr. Shubham Chaudhuri, assured the minister of the World Bank's commitment to providing all the required supports and partnership with the refocused ministry. He also hinted that the proposed Social Safety Nets Project fund of $800M will soon be disbursed.

According to Mr. Shubham, "The proposed disbursement of $800M for the Social Safety Nets Project will commence soonest. We will support the verification and scaling up of the National Social Register, provide technical support in the preparation of the Ministry to attend UNGA and give specialized backing for the establishment of the Trust Fund."

A leading youth group in Abia State, Tinubu Support Organisation has commended the All Progressive Congress, APC and its Presidential Candidate, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the successful constitution of an all-encompassing Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) inaugurated today, and the appointment of its State Coordinator, Hon. Prince Darlington Dick into one of the strategic committees.

The group congratulates its State Coordinator, Hon. Prince Darlington Dick who was appointed as a member of the Grassroots Engagement and Orientation, South-East of the APC Presidential Campaign Council (PCC). In a statement released by its Publicity and Media Director, Comr. Duke Imandu, TSO Abia State said that it is not surprising that Hon. Darlington was appointed to the Grassroots Engagement and Orientation committee of the PCC noting that his commitment and doggedness in grassroots mobilisation earned him the position.

The statement reads in part:
"It is not surprising that our principal and incoming president of Nigeria, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of our great party, APC found you worthy to be part of the capable hands to drive the 2023 presidential election campaign for the party. Your commitment, doggedness and intelligence earned you this daunting but elevated task.

You have shown capacity and leadership prowess in grassroots mobilisation. The TSO Abia State family is proud of you and confident that your appointment will advance the course of securing a large number of votes in Abia State for our presidential candidate."

The youths reiterate their commitment to delivering the party and its candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2023 Presidential Election.

A leading youth group in Abia State, Tinubu Support Organisation has commended the All Progressive Congress, APC and its Presidential Candidate, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the successful constitution of an all-encompassing Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) inaugurated today, and the appointment of its State Coordinator, Hon. Prince Darlington Dick into one of the strategic committees.

The group congratulates its State Coordinator, Hon. Prince Darlington Dick who was appointed as a member of the Grassroots Engagement and Orientation, South-East of the APC Presidential Campaign Council (PCC). In a statement released by its Publicity and Media Director, Comr. Duke Imandu, TSO Abia State said that it is not surprising that Hon. Darlington was appointed to the Grassroots Engagement and Orientation committee of the PCC noting that his commitment and doggedness in grassroots mobilisation earned him the position.

The statement reads in part:
"It is not surprising that our principal and incoming president of Nigeria, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of our great party, APC found you worthy to be part of the capable hands to drive the 2023 presidential election campaign for the party. Your commitment, doggedness and intelligence earned you this daunting but elevated task.

You have shown capacity and leadership prowess in grassroots mobilisation. The TSO Abia State family is proud of you and confident that your appointment will advance the course of securing a large number of votes in Abia State for our presidential candidate."

The youths reiterated its commitment to delivering the party and its candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2023 Presidential Election.

[6:46 PM, 9/17/2020] Mainline: Young Visioneers' Association of Nigeria (YVAN)
-Nigerian Youths Forum-

17-09-2020

PRESS RELEASE

YVAN Hails USA on Visa Ban Issued to Election Riggers in Nigeria, Urges Other Western Countries to do Same

The Young Visioneers' Association of Nigeria (YVAN) applauds the United States of America on its recent visa ban handed down to some Nigerian politicians who were involved in electoral malpractices in the previous elections conducted in the country.

On September 14, 2020, the Department of States, through its spokesperson, Morgan Ortagus, had issued a statement containing the long awaited visa ban on some politicians who can better be described as enemies of the country by virtue of their hell-bent involvement in destroying the democratic values of Nigeria by being in the forefront of election rigging in the country.

YVAN, as a leading youth body in Nigeria, notes that the ban is a welcomed development. Though the visa ban and even more stringent measures were long expected, but it is better late than never. The Nigerian youths have been at the receiving end of the many negative effects of electoral malpractices. The politicians who get to occupy political positions through corrupt practices and electoral frauds, end up embezzling public funds meant for the development of the country, and continue to leave the country in perpetual ruins.

The youth group believes that past elections in Nigeria were not free and fair with reference to the recent Kogi and Bayelsa states elections which were a charade of what democratic elections should be. The YIAGA Africa and other foreign observers' reports corroborate to this stance. The judiciary on its part, has continued to disappoint the Nigerian masses. As against being the last hope of the common man, the judiciary through its judgements on electoral matters, has continued to affirm such electoral frauds committed against the people.

The Nigerian Youths Forum - YVAN - once again appreciate the USA for setting this pace. The appreciation is also extended to the United Kingdom for its recent warning of intention to issuing visa bans and seizure of foreign assets belonging to any politician who engages in electoral malpractices in the forthcoming Edo and Ondo states guber elections. While asking other western countries to also do the same, the youth group therefore encourages the UK to ensure that it keeps to this warning.

It is now obvious that above every other thing, Nigeria needs urgent electoral reforms, and revitalization of the judiciary. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is therefore urged to live by its name and be truly independent.


YVAN National Media Unit

By Lawrence Agbasoga

The name Chief Hope Uzodinma, the Senator from Orlu zone of Imo State has gone down in the history of Imo State as the leader who rescued Imo State at this time from the iron grip of an Emperor who had cowed virtually everyone in the state into submission to his insistence on running a dynasty here in the eastern heartland. Like Moses of ancient Israel, God had sent him to deliver His people of Imo State who had been subjected to extreme poverty, deprivation and inhuman treatment in the hands of an emperor who had found it unnecessary to partner with them in the task of developing the state or in the business of governance.

According to Woodrow Wilson, the 28th American president, "the ear of the leader must ring with the voices of the people". That is Chief Hope Uzodinma! As a leader his ears had been saturated with the voices of his people and he could not help but respond.
The "deliverance" of our dear state from the tight grip of Governor Rochas Okorocha whose insistence on succeeding himself by proxy through Uche Nwosu is an indictment on our so-called leaders who, at the most critical time in the life of this state, preferred to do nothing but only complain, Complain alone could not achieve much. Action was needed and the man of action came on board and the result is the joy across the state in all homes. As a result of the acceptance of Chief Hope Uzodinma's governorship bid, a royal father I met last December told me he was not a member of APC but that he would vote for the senator, just for being able to confront and engage Okorocha squarely and defeat him, setting the state free from the injuries inflicted on it by the present administration.

The politics of Imo State today is of individuals and not of political parties or zone of origin. It is a weak and infantile argument for anyone to say that Orlu zone should not produce a governor again. Where were the so-called astute, dogged politicians from Owerri, Okigwe and even Orlu zones when Chief Hope Uzodinma took on Okorocha for the sake of Imolites? Why did they just look on when Okorocha was carefully perfecting his plans to succeed himself through his son-in-law, Uche Nwosu? The intervention of Senator Uzodinma proved his love for the state. Materially, he is comfortable. But like our saviour Jesus Christ who left his comfortable abode in heaven and became human, just for humanity's sake, to save us, even so chief Hope Uzodinma counted his personal comfort as nothing when the generality of his people of Imo State were crying and in pains as a result of injuries inflected on them by bad governance. He could not isolate himself from our excruciating pain, hence his intervention!

The argument of zone of origin remains weak. Chief Sam Mbakwe of blessed memory still holds |he record of achievements in the governance of this state. He hailed from Obowo in Okigwe Zone.
Today, when Chief Sam Mbakwe is mentioned, Obowo or Okigwe zone is not mentioned or remembered. This is because Mbakwe did not consider himself as coming from Obowo or Okigwe zone. He saw the entire state as his constituency and regarded everyone in it as brothers and sisters. He did not run a family government, neither did he treat Obowo or Okigwe zone as special. He is remembered today for his good works which were possible due to his leadership skills that made him place the best brains around into positions of responsibility. That is good leadership. The opposite of this is Governor Okorocha's style of considering members of his family first, associates, and then people from Ideato nation. This is wrong and leads to poor performance as in the case of Okorocha. From the same Okigwe zone as Chief Mbakwe came Ikedi Ohakim as governor. He didn't do well and in 2011 even people from his own Isiala Mbano joined forces with other Imolites to sack him. It is not about zone of origin, but about a leader's heart. Hope Uzodinma is not materialistic. I was once told that since he became Senator in 2011, this Oru East born "deliverer" has never bought any piece of land or house, but has committed himself to serving humanity. Imo needs such a leader who is not sectional. We need someone who will allow the people's common wealth to spread across board. Imolites don't need a leader who will stockpile their commonwealth for the purpose of financing the next election and deceive them with sub-standard infrastructure. We need a true servant -leader who will see the entire state as his immediate constituency. Hope Uzodinma represents what this state needs at this time, hence everyone sees him as the expected Hope of this state.
The choice of Prof. Piacid Njoku as running mate and the recent Imo Stakeholders meeting facilitated by Senator Hope Uzoinma depict a leader eager to deliver on his electoral promise.

At the stakeholders meeting, Senator Uzodinma required of Imo people themselves to articulate a way forward for the State. He is not a man that claims to know it all. The expected governor of the State believes that no person is a repository of knowledge. Senator Uzodinma has on many occasions- by words and action -agreed with former president George W.H. Bush who said thus: uuse power to help people. For we are give power not to advance our own purposes nor to make a great show in the world, nor a name. There is but one use of power and it is to serve people".

Imolites must get it right this time. Out-fashioned sentiments like zoning must be abandoned, especially now that our dear state is in a critical situation. We must not toy with our lives today and in the future. This state needs a true patriot in the class of Chief Sam Mbakwe to re-position the state after years of plunder and mismanagement. Hope can be trusted. He loves our state. He is an Imolite who hates injustice, man's inhumanity to man and greed. As an individual he has touched lives<cross the state. Igbos believes that certain names have something divine associated with them. When the parents of Senator Hope Uzodinma named him, they had no thought he would one day be the expected Hope of a great state like ours. There is really something divine in Senator Uzodinma's intervention in the governorship affairs of our state and we must not lose sight of that. Imo needs him now. He listens, fears God, cares, not materialistic, and he is one of us.

HAVE YOU SEEN WHAT IMO PEOPLE DID TO SENATOR ARARAUME AS HE WENT FOR SHOPPING YESTERDAY?
Watch video and pictures here

On May 14, 2018, distinguished Senator Ifeanyi Godwin Araraume took out time after the successful LGA Congress of APC which took place all over the state to go buy himself a few items.
He went to a popular Supermarket chain in the state capital Owerri, and after shopping, a brave staff of the mall ran to him saying "MY NEXT GOVERNOR, CAN I HAVE SOME PHOTOGRAPHS WITH YOU Sir?" The Federal Commissioner representing South East in the National Communications Commission (NCC) granted the request. Other staff of the shopping mall upon seeing how friendly and easy going the senator was, ran to him for their own photo sessions.
They sang, danced and prayed for him to succeed in his political intentions for the state.

The Imo State government today, locked the government house gate against some Imo State women who came to express their solidarity to women all over the world, and demand for good governance.

The women under the aegis of Women Unite To Live Initiative, a non governmental organization, trooped out in their numbers to seek audience with the state governor today which is recognised as International Women's Day. The women however, were met with stern looking security men at the gate who seemed to have taken order from inside to send the women away.

Some of the women who spoke to journalists around the government house gate said that they were informed by the security men that neither the governor nor any other government official was ready to receive them. According to the organization's president, Comrade Mrs. Chika Nwachukwu, "we are here at the government house to celebrate women worldwide and also call for good governance but they told us at the gate that the governor is not around, the Chief of Staff is not around, in fact, that there is nobody in the government house to talk to us."

The group which noted that the standard of living in the state has deteriorated, lamented that "there is no electricity, no health care, no water, no food. Women are dying". They said they are calling for end of violence against women, free education for the female child, women empowerment and proper remuneration for men who are their husbands. They said that this will complement their programmes of going round the communities of the state to empower women through skills acquisition.

Also, in a written address they made available to journalists, the group called on the Federal Government to expedite actions towards the rescue of the abducted Chibok and Dapchi girls.

Today, March 8 is celebrated as International Women's Day worldwide as it was declared by the United Nations in 1975.
One will wonder why a government will decide to treat women with disdain on day like this which they are being celebrated elsewhere in the world.

By Duke C. Duke

The stakeholders of All Progressive Congress (APC), Imo State, has dissociated themselves from what they call indescriminate endorsement of Hon. Uche Nwosu by few biased members of Imo APC. The stakeholders under the aegis of The Restoration Coalition, APC, Imo State in a communique released in Owerri on Wednesday, March 7, 2018 described the activities of the Rochas Okorocha's led government as unfortunate, stating that it is capable of bringing disgrace to the party in the forth coming general elections.

The group which rejected the endorsements said that they were "obtained by blackmail, coercion and intimidation".
Part of the communique reads

"4. However, having been seeing and witnessing contemptible, despicable and condemnable happenings in our great party in the state in recent times, we are convinced that unless urgent steps are quickly taken in calling certain people to order, the APC is headed for a shameful, abysmal and colossal failure in the state in the 2019 elections - this will tragically cut across and regrettably affect the Presidential, Governorship, National Assembly and State House of Assembly chances. We sincerely, call on Governor Rochas Okorocha as the leader of the party in Imo State, to instill law, order, discipline as well promote peace and tranquility as the party gets set for the all important primaries in the state.
5. Certainly, we totally, without any reservation, condemn the clandestine Endorsements, indiscriminate Adoptions and wanton "Anointments" of certain elements in the party without due processes and without any regard to laid down procedures and respect for party leadership and discipline. It is quite disturbing that these endorsements obtained by Blackmail, Coercion and Intimidation are taking place in the hallowed orbit of the Imo State Government House under the watch of the Governor. We are embarrassed because this theatre of the absurdity, as we have confirmed, has the full backing and financial muscles of Imo State Government as the persons being endorsed, one Chief Uche Nwosu, his Son In-Law is also his serving Chief of Staff. As a matter of fact, this is an anomaly and points to a dangerous and destructive party politics of APC in Imo State. We, therefore, call our members to caution as endorsements do not frankly reflect the true picture of Imo APC. We call on Governor Owelle Okorocha to act as a true unifier, a leader to ensure a level playing field for all APC aspirants in all positions. To that effect, we reject in its entirety the endorsements of Uche Nwosu as being currently carried out in our party. This is so because these leprous endorsements have the capacity and capability of truncating and dismantling the very cord that binds us together as family. We respectfully urge Governor Okorocha to be very sensitive to the name, integrity and sanctity of Imo as an entity and the thrust, honour and dignity that go with the governorship enterprise.
6. We wish to insist that natural justice, equity, fair play and democratic norms must take their natural course as we step closer to the Imo State APC primaries and subsequently, the elections thereof. It will be politically suicidal for the Imo State Governor to emerge from Orlu zone after Governor Okorocha’s eight years rule making a total of 16 years of ORLU GOVERNORSHIP. This is improper and if imposed will be resisted by all responsible and conscientious members of the Party."

The coalition also condemned the recent attack on Archbishop AJV Obinna, the Bishop of Owerri Catholic Diocese, by some group of men purported to be working for the state government.
"It is our opinion as a party that we take exception to the insinuations emanating from the media crediting the actions to APC. That is not our Character as a Party.", the coalition said.

Thank you our Senator Ifeanyi Ararume for speaking up against this evil

SEN. IFEANYICHUKWU GODWIN ARARAUME; A LIFE OF DESTINY & SERVICE


Writing about the person of Distinguished Senator Ifeanyichukwu Godwin Araraume is a herculean task as one is confused as to where to start from. It is akin to the blind man who was asked to touch an elephant and describe what he felt. How do you talk about a business titan, political colossus, Senator of the Federal Republic, silent philanthropist, dotting father and loving grand dad, notable Nigerian and statesman.

 

Ifeanyi Godwin Araraume can be described as a child of destiny with his steps, guided by God almighty. A sole male child kept alive by God to fulfil his purpose in life. A man who from dint of God’s grace and hardwork is today one of the most prominent and influential men in the political firmament of Nigeria; a recurrent political decimal in Imo and Nigerian politics.

 

BACKGROUND

Araraume hails from a community known as ISIEBU in Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State and was born on 16th December, 1958, to the family of late Mr. Marcus and Mrs Grace Adaezi Araraume with strict Christian discipline and standards. This training is responsible for his Christian ethics of fidelity, strong will, faith in God and charity.

                                 

ACADEMIC PEDIGREE

The young Araraume attended St. Eugene’s Primary School, Eziukwu Aba now in Abia State and St. Christopher Primary School, Umuluwe, Osuachara in Isiala Mbano Local Government Area, Imo State and thereafter proceeded to Sapele Technical College, Sapele in Delta State and later to Dick Tiger Memorial Secondary School, Amaigbo, Nwangele Local Government Area of Imo State where he finally finished his secondary school education.

With a burning for success and with the knowledge that a university degree will set him on the route achieve his dreams, he sojourned to the United States of America where he bagged a first Degree in Business Administration from Liberty University, Lynchburg, Virginia. Not satisfied with thirst for more knowledge, Araraume went further to burnish his academic laurels with a Master’s Degree in International Relations from the University of Benin, Nigeria. He has attended several conferences and workshops to update his knowledge and keep abreast of social, economic and political dynamics of modern society. In addition, he is an avid reader with an eye for details.

 

LIFE AND ACHIEVEMENTS AS AN ENTERPRENEUR
Often times when men attain high political offices, it blights their achievements in other spheres of life as people only remember them for their political activities. Senator Araraume’s accomplishments are not restricted to politics alone as he had made a success of his business pursuits before venturing in to the murky waters of Nigerian politics. In business, he has succeeded with dogged determination to build a conglomerate that has taken hundreds of youths off the labor market.

He has vast business interests in Construction, Retail, Real Estate, Banking, Insurance and Trade. He is the Chairman of Exclusive Stores Limited, Climax Insurance Brokers Ltd, Harmony Properties Limited and a one-time Director, defunct Inland Bank Plc (now part of FCMB) etc.  

In a bid to reduce the unemployment situation in his home state of Imo, he is currently building two industries in Owerri to strengthen the State’s economy and provide jobs for Imo youths’ that will house a branch of Exclusive Stores and Bakery in Owerri.

                

POLITICAL ODYSSEY

Having achieved some measure of success in his business pursuit and desiring to make contributions towards a better Nigeria, Sen Araraume joined partisan politics in the Third Republic. Prior to this time, he has been involved in assisting others gain political power and nominating people to offices, former Gov Ikedi Ohakim benefitted from his magnanimity when he nominated him as a commissioner at the request of Sen Evan Enwerem, the former Governor of Imo State.

 

In the realm of politics, Senator Araraume’s political experience includes being:

The pioneer State Chairman of the defunct All Peoples Party (APP);

later ANPP in Imo State (1998 – 1999)

State Treasurer, Liberal Convention in old Imo State (1988 – 1989)

Member, National Finance Committee of the National

Republican Convention (NRC) from 1990 to 1993, and

Chairman, NRC Presidential Primaries for Kwara and Delta States.

He was elected to the Senate in 1999 and was re-elected in 2003.

Senator Araraume is currently a member of the All Progressive Congress (APC).

 

ACHIEVEMENTS AS A SENATOR
Ifeanyi Godwin Ararume was elected Senator for  Imo North, Okigwe Senatorial Zone of Imo State, Nigeria at the start of the Nigerian Fourth Republic in 1999 on the platform of the People's Democratic Party (PDP). He was re-elected in April 2003 and served out his term.

 

POSITIONS HELD IN THE SENATE
While in the Senate, Senator Araraume held the following positions:

Chairman, Senate Committee on Power and Steel Development.
Chairman, Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debts.
Pioneer Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on the Niger Delta.
Chairman, Southern Senators’ Forum.
Chairman, South-East Caucus Committee on the creation of an additional State for the South-East.

Chairman, Senate Committee for Public Hearing in the South-West on Constitution Amendment.
Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Governmental Affairs.
Vice Chairman South-East Caucus of National Assembly.  

Legislative Achievements:    
Senator Araraume was a First Class Senator and one of the most outstanding legislators’ in the Senate between 1999 and 2007. He had his imprimatur on all major activities of the Senate in his time and recorded the following achievements:        
He was influential in the decision of the Constitutional Review Committee of the National Assembly to include a recommendation urging the Federal Government to create an additional state for the South-East; he led a delegation of Lawmakers from the South-East to mobilize support for this objective.

He facilitated the rehabilitation of the Okigwe Regional Water Scheme by the Federal Government.
He attracted the Okohia-Isiebu-Umuelemai Road.
He attracted the Okigwe-Umuelemai-Isinweke-Umuahia Road.
The Isiebu Community Water Scheme.
The Isiebu Community Police Station.
Transmission Lines from Alaoji to Okigwe and provision of transformers (including MV Transformers) to many Communities in Imo, Abia and the entire South-East.
He attracted the NTA Station, Okigwe.
The Anara Power Station (Exchange).
He attracted, through the NDDC, a road from Isinweke to Umuahia with a second bridge across the Imo River.

He was the Pioneer Vice-Chairman of the Niger Delta Committee and played a major role in the inclusion of Imo and Abia as NDDC States. The original bill presented by President Olusegun Obasanjo did not include Imo and Abia State etc.

 

Awards/Recognitions

A golden fish, they say, has no hiding place. Although a man not used to undue publicity and self-glorification, Araraume has been roundly been recognized for his business acumen, managerial dexterity and political accomplishments. He is a recipient of the following merit awards:

Fellow, Institute of Sales Management of Nigeria (FNISM).

Fellow, Institute of Sales Management of Nigeria (FNISM);

Fellow Institute of Corporate Administration (FICA) etc. 

Patron, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ);
Grand Achiever, Field of Science, Faculty of Science Students Association, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ife (GAFS)
Recipient, Justice of Peace Award
Award for outstanding performance by the Umuduru Development Administration, Lagos Branch; 
Honorary Fellowship of the Institute of Internal Auditors of Nigeria; 
World Figure of Outstanding Leadership Union; 
Award for Excellent Performance by the Nigerian Youth Movement (NYM);
Award for Democracy & Good Governance by the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abuja Council;
Best Serving Senator of the South East (2003 – 2007) award by Encomium Magazine etc.
         

HIS QUEST TO GOVERN IMO

Sen Ifeanyi Araraume believes there is a limit to what his personal wealth and influence can do to alleviate the suffering of people around him. He knows that with the instrument of government, he can reach as much people as possible with amenities and opportunities with proper utilization of resources, probity, due process and respect for rule of law. This underlines his quest for political power and the desire to occupy the seat of Governor of Imo State. As an individual, he is comfortable with the little God has blessed him with. He has been quoted to have said severally that he doesn’t desire to be governor for personal aggrandizement or as a laurel on his political accomplishments but sees the office as an instrument to help others and provide an enabling environment for others, especially the youths to achieve their dreams in life. His solid Report Card and dividends attracted to his senatorial zone indicates a man who says what he means, and means what he says. A man who power doesn’t intoxicate or moved by its privileges and pecks. A man who  keeps to agreements and faithful to his friends’ and associates alike.

By Ik Ogbonna, M.Sc, PGDJ, anipr

Special Adviser on Media to Sen Ifeanyi G. Araraume.

The Game Changer Series – PART 1

ARARUME’S BUSINESS EMPIRE – His Impact Outside Politics.

By Duke C. Duke.

The last time I was in Abakaliki, I was discussing with someone about the political aspirations of Distinguished Senator Ifeanyi Godwin Ararume. Amidst the discussion, he asked me, “what exactly does this Ararume do? I mean, what exactly is his job outside politics?”. That question called my attention back to a scenario in this part of the world.

We have chequerred system in this country where some political players do not have a substantive means of livelihood before their now celebrated political entrance. And unfortunately, the masses do not care, nobody wants to know. That is why we have a lot of hitherto jobless people who are now being hailed in politics, just like what we are seeing in Imo ‘agburu’ political dynasty today. So we have a young man whose father-in-law is desperate to dump on the governorship stool of Imo State by all crooked means; a young man who has no traceable means of livelihood before the same ‘nnam-oha’ father-in-law of his, hoisted him on various unmerited positions; a young man whose only qualification was that he is from agburu ha. Anyway, let me leave this for another day and hit the focus of this piece at once.

After Senator Ararume returned from U.S.A. where he obtained his B.Sc. in Business Administration, from the prestigious Liberty University, Lynchburg, Virginia, he went straight to the University of Benin, Edo State, Nigeria where he bagged M.Sc. in International Relations. The ambitious young Ararume then, delved into private business and became a key player in that sector.

An employer of labour, Senator Ararume has interest in Real Estate, Insurance, Retail, Trade, Construction, and Banking. He established Exclusive Stores Limited which runs in Abuja and Benin City, Edo State with hundreds of employees across tribes and religion. He is presently putting finishing touches to the Owerri branch of Exclusive Stores where over a hundred Imo youths will be employed soon.

He is also the Chairman of Climax Insurance Brokers Limited, and Harmony Properties Limited. The senator is presently building two industries in Imo State which will provide another hundreds of job opportunities for Imo youths as well as strengthen the state’s economy. In his banking career, the Isiebu Mbano born senator rose to the position of a director in the defunct Inland Bank Plc which is now part of FCMB.

This former Chairman of Southern Senators is a member of many professional bodies among which are: Institute of Chattered Insurance, London: Benin Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture: Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM). Again, in recognition to his accomplishments in business and politics, Sen. Ararume is a recipient of some fellowship merit awards including: Fellow, Institute of Sales Management of Nigeria (FNISM), and Fellow, Institute of Corporate Administration (FICA).

The Distinguished Senator Ifeanyi Godwin Ararume has proven himself to be a renowned manager, astute administrator, a great team player and a successful business man.
Now you know…

Duke C. Duke wrote in from Calabar.

By Chukwudi Obi

The Abia State chapter of Young Visioneers' Association of Nigeria, YVAN, a national youth pressure group, has called on youths in the state to participate actively in both politics and the process of choosing their representatives.

This is even as the group has rolled out activities to ensure massive public enlightenment and mobilization of youths at the grass root level.

Speaking during their monthly general meeting in Umuahia, the state capital recently, State Coordinator of the group, Comr Stanly Nwankwo reiterated the group's commitment to ensuring active youths participation in the electoral process in the state.

Comrade Nwankwo who stressed the need for more young people to be actively involved in politics, noted that part of their enlightenment campaign will focus on building the capacity of the youths such that they can hold elective positions as well as hold elected officials accountable apart from participating actively in the electoral process in the state.

According to Nwankwo who urged youths to shun selling their votes for any amount of money, the best way to enthrone true democracy in the state is to ensure that all stakeholders including the youths are active participants in the process of electing their officials.

Nwankwo, however lamented the nonchalant attitudes of many youths in the state to the on going voter registration exercise across the country adding that the figures peddled on some social media platforms indicate that the south east has the lowest number of registered voters.

In his own speech, the state Publicity Secretary of the group, Ambassador Duke Imandu averred that the group will embark on the sensitization campaign as part of its community mobilization project, insisting that youths who have not registered for their voter's card will be encouraged to do so.

In his words, "YVAN will select some local government areas in Abia that will be visited in the first phase of the sensitization campaign. After that, another group of LGAs will be selected for the next batch."

The Publicity Secretary added that the campaign will expose the youths to the benefits of political participation and dissuade them from being paid agents or mercenaries of desperate politicians whose wish is to kill and maim in order to win elections.

Ambassador Imandu opined that the enlightenment programme will also offer opportunity for the youths to learn financial intelligence, budget tracking and good governance apart from teaching them leadership and management skills even as he hinted that the group will liaise with the Abia State INEC Commissioner and other officials at Local Governments level to ensure a hitch free voter registration exercise in rural communities.

NATIONAL YOUTH GROUP APPOINTS ABIA CHAPTER INTERIM EXCOS  - Maps out strategies for massive mobilization of youths.

By Chukwudi Obi


All is set for a national youth group, Young Visioneers Association of Nigeria (YVAN), Abia State Chapter, to pay familiarization visits to some of the security agencies and justices in the state.

The visits, it was learnt are to solicit for support and partnerships for its campaign on youths involvement in politics, campaign against youth indiscipline and corruption, youths registration for voter's card and campaigning against youth involvement in electoral violence.

This is even as the group has appointed interim officers to fill in vacant positions to help reposition the group in a bid to break new grounds.
These formed part of the highpoints and resolutions taken at the group’s monthly meeting recently held in Umuahia, the Abia State Capital.

The new appointees include:
Comrade Stanley Nwankwo – State Coordinator, Amb. Duke Imandu- Deputy State Coordinator / Publicity Secretary and
Comrade Ikpengwa Uchenna - Secretary.
Others are Comrade Eziaha Odinkenmere – Treasurer, Comrade Yakubu Akofe Mutiu - Organising Secretary, Comrade Clifford Egwu - Welfare Director, Comrade Iyke Atumah - Financial Secretary and Comrade Amos Ocholi - Umuahia South Coordinator.



Some of the resolutions taken at the well attended meeting to ensure the group realize its vision to be a force to reckon with in the state include massive grass root mobilization and sensitization, courtesy visit to members of the judiciary, the various traditional rulers, security agencies, and paid advertisements in radio stations and on social media platforms.

Young Visioneers Association of Nigeria (YVAN) is a national youth pressure group whose aim is to restore the fallen moral standards in the society apart from charting a new course for youths who have a blurred vision of life.

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