THE DILEMMA OF CHIEF E.C.D. ABIA

By Livingstone Akpan 

In the twilight hours of his life, His Royal Majesty Obong E.C.D. Abia has become a victim of his ethnicity. Born 87 years ago, he began his working career as a Court Clerk in the Eastern Region Government. After a while, he took a bow and went to the Ibadan campus of the College Hospital London and obtained a certificate in Medical Technology. His restless spirit did not find an anchor in medical technology, so he moved on to law and obtained an intermediate LL.B. Not still done, he moved on again to study Economics and Accounting in the University of Dublin and obtained a Bachelor’s degree 
(Second Class Upper). In 1965, he became a chartered accountant and in the same year, the current Oku Ibom Ibibio, His Royal Majesty Ntenyin Solomon Etuk, marked his seventh birthday. 

Abia had finally found his fort, and went into cruise control. He was the ideas man when South Eastern State (later Cross River State) was created with Brig U.J. Esuene as the military governor. As the Accountant General, and later as a Permanent Secretary, (but importantly as Esuene’s Man Friday), Abia led the efforts to rebuild the state after the civil war. He was instrumental in the setting up of Mercantile Bank, Manilla Insurance, Investment Trust and a host of other viable government concerns. 

A shining star, Abia wrote his name into the folklores of the state. He moved on to the business world, got the franchise for Dr. Pepper Bottling Company, and set up the plant in Eket Local Government Area. It was a master stroke and for the first time the Coca Cola brand was challenged in the Nigerian market. He would move on and set up other lucrative businesses like Grandi Lovori, an engineering firm; Masibob; and several other businesses. He was the toast of the 80’s and 90’s in the business world.

A man who enjoys the love of his people, he currently sits in sweet and deserved retirement as the Paramount Ruler of Eket Local Government Area. He is accomplished, knowledgeable, widely connected, widely travelled and dignified. He is a global citizen and a treasure to Akwa Ibom State. But that, unfortunately, is where we draw the curtain on his life. Why? Because he has a problem which, like a terminal disease, he can do nothing about. 

What is the problem? He is from Eket. In Akwa Ibom State, as it stands now, it is major problem for you not to be Ibibio. So Abia, in spite of being first among equals can never be the President General of the Supreme Council of Ibom Traditional Rulers. Even if Angel Michael were to be an Eket man or an Annang man or an Oron man, he would not be qualified to sit on that ethicized throne. That throne has been reserved by an obnoxious, apartheid law only for the Ibibios ad infinitum.

The current Ibibio person who sits in that throne was born when Abia was 32 years old. He is 65 years old, and he is Ntenyin Solomon Etuk. Etuk obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in 2007 at the age of 49. At this time, Abia had already retired after a meritorious service to humanity, and was actively serving his community. In 2010, Etuk obtained an MBA from the same university. Then he went on to study for a law degree in the National Open University. Compared to what Abia has achieved, Etuk has not achieved anything in life worthy of the faintest note. His only qualification to the said office is that he is an Ibibio man. He lords over Abia, though Abia is old enough to be his father and intelligent enough to be his teacher.

Abia is, clearly, in a dilemma. He is in the twilight of his life. He is obviously tired and spent. The river has run its course and is now meandering around marshes and dirt it could have swept aside when its current was stronger. At 87, he is too old to wage a “war.” He would have hoped for the Government to respect his grey hairs, acknowledge his worth, and act in the best interest of the entire state. Abia is done and dusted. So, he sits humbly at the feet of Etuk, his head bowed. Etuk belongs to the master ethnic group, and Abia does not belong not. It is not Abia’s fault, neither is it God’s fault. God chose where to Abia should come from, but Abia is now a victim of God’s choice. 

Abia’s dilemma is a living metaphor of everything that is wrong with the controversial, so-called Supreme Council of Ibom Traditional Rulers Law. An apartheid law which was recently passed by the “misrepresentatives” of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and assented to by Governor Umo Eno. A law that has brought shame to a once peaceful, united state.

Livingstone Akpan, a public affairs commentator writes from Uyo.

UMO ENO’S APARTHEID LAW, AND THE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY

By Livingstone Akpan

Recently the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, gave assent to an atrocious, apartheid law (Traditional Rulers Council [TRC] Bill, Cap 155), which seeks to create a master ethnic group in Akwa Ibom State. The law also seeks to put the other ethnic groups in perpetual subjugation. In context, form, spirit and lettering the law is an indictment of the present crop of journeymen in the House of Assembly. It is the evidence that in spite of all the prayers to deliver the state from ancestral curses, some residual curses endure in the state legislature. One such curse is in Isaiah 3:4-5 (NASB) “And I will make mere lads their princes, And capricious children will rule over them, And the people will be oppressed, Each one by another, and each one by his neighbor; The youth will storm against the elder And the inferior against the honorable.”

There was a time when the House of Assembly was peopled by honorable men who had paid their dues in public service and were truly honorable. Men of timber and caliber who walked tall, did right and talked right. No more, now mere lads and capricious children have taken over. Otherwise, how do you explain why House members representing the victims of this Haman’s law sat still in the House, and watched the law passed? In this darkness, only Effiong Johnson proved himself a man (a truly honorable man) by walking out of the circus show in protest. Queen Esther, in the Bible story, faced in the same situation, was prepared to die for her people and declared thus, “If I perish, I perish.” Not these capricious band!

Good laws generally do not mention tribes, ethnic groups, or races. This was the sour point in the fight of Rev Dr Martin Luther King, Jr, against segregation in America. The segregation law mentioned races and sought to place whites and blacks separately in the social structure and that amounted to racism. In the apartheid law in South Africa and Rhodesia, the same thing happened, and the world cried against it. Races were mentioned in the laws. Apartheid had to fall. In Akwa Ibom State this apartheid law states that the “Ibibios because of being the major ethnic group…” would in perpetuity enjoy privileges that the other ethnic groups would never enjoy. How dare you bring ethnicity into a law in this century when the world did away with all vestiges of such laws in the last century?

This apartheid law establishes what it calls the Supreme Council of Ibom Traditional Rulers, and states that because the Ibibio are the majority ethnic group in the state, whosever is the Oku Ibom Ibibio should automatically become the President General of the council. The Oku Ibom Ibibio is a stool meant only for the Ibibio, so the law technically shuts out persons from the other ethnic groups in the state from ever becoming the President General of the council. It at the same time makes it possible for any Ibibio man or woman (simply by reason of being Ibibio) to become the President General. What this means is that even if someone like Chief Assam Assam (SAN), Nigeria’s former ambassador to Russia and one of the most distinguished lawyers in Nigeria, were to become the paramount ruler of Eket, he would never be the president general of the council because he is not Ibibio. Even if the Oku Ibom Ibibio were to be a secondary school leaver, the secondary school leaver would be the President General because he is Ibibio. Chief Assam, in spite of his exposure, eminent status, scholarship and towering credentials would be consigned to taking orders from this Oku Ibom. Why? Because he is Ekid not Ibibio.

If this is not apartheid, then tell me what it is. Apartheid is defined as a policy or system of discrimination on grounds of race. This law is a policy or system of discrimination on the grounds of ethnicity. It seeks to create a kingdom where none ever existed. It seeks to colonize. It seeks to dominate ethnic groups which have no history of ever being ruled by the Ibibio. It seeks to make vassals out of free people, and create first class and second-class citizens. It is driven by the same spirit that drove apartheid in South Africa. This ill-motivated, apartheid law is a complete violation of section 42 of the 1999 constitution as amended in 2023. Fortunately many righteous Ibibio have spoken against it and described it as unnecessary.

Why did Governor Umo Eno assent to such a callous, apartheid law? I do not know, but one thing is certain, his defense raised more questions than it provided answers. He claimed that the law was agreed upon by paramount rulers. The affected paramount rulers immediately repudiated the claim. The law as passed, they argued, was never discussed by them. But even if the law was agreed upon by them, so what? At his swearing-in, the governor held a Bible in his right hand and took an oath of office, before God, to do justice to all manners of people, and he should live up to his oath? The buck stops on his table. Ecclesiastes 5:4 (BBE) says “When you take an oath before God, put it quickly into effect, because he has no pleasure in the foolish; keep the oath you have taken.” My very dear pastor, please keep your oath!

More so, I believe he has read the Bible up to the point where it is written in Galatians 3:28 (KJV) “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus”? His assenting to such an unjust, atrocious, apartheid law is the greatest disservice to the Christian faith, and has already given the unbelievers grounds to attack the faith. Now, in stead of addressing the fault lines in the law they are busy pointing fingers at people in an attempt to obfuscate the issues. The issue is about morality - not politics. What is morally abominable, cannot be politically justifiable.

The strident defense of the law by government agents is laughable. Scampering like a cat on hot bricks, they claim that the law wants to strengthen the traditional institution in Akwa Ibom State to be at par with that of the Emir of Kano, Obong of Calabar, Ooni of Ife, Sultan of Sokoto etc. Laughable! These traditional stools were not legislated into office by Houses of Assembly. Succession in these respected traditional institutions is through the monarchical system of family inheritances. But this Eno’s apartheid law is about one ethnic group only producing the so-called President General – not a family. They claim that the Oku Ibom was made the President General to be at par with the Obong of Calabar. Nonsense! The Obong of Calabar is not the president general of any council in Cross River State. The stool of the Obong of Calabar is renowned for its rich history and tradition. It was not created by the Cross River State House of Assembly.

The Akwa Ibom State Government has no business establishing and funding a traditional stool with the tax payers money in order to establish a master ethnic group and subjugate other ethnic groups. The sooner Pastor Umo Eno, walks the path of honor, keeps his oath, owns up to his mistake and amends this law, the better for his image and that of the Church. A word is enough


Akpan, a public affairs commentator, writes from Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Foundation supports NB Plc, donates education items to less privileged pupils

A non-governmental charity organisation, David & Desmond Foundation, has donated education materials to selected Primary schools with underprivileged pupils in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.

The founder of the foundation, Ozo Onyebuchi Ani while presenting some education materials and a cash donation of N250, 000 to the management of Ama Hillcrest Foundation School, Umuezeani Ameke Ngwo, said that the foundation is out to inspire learning at the developmental stage.

"We are not only inspiring our children to learn but also supporting Nigerian Breweries Plc-Ama team ably led by Mr Peter Ani in their efforts through Cooperate Social Responsibility in providing quality education to their host community.

"We cannot ignore the fact that every child needs quality education in building the future of our society and that of nation."

Ozo Onyebuchi also noted that the foundation is dedicated to building our immediate environment's educated future and the prosperity of Enugu State.

He also noted that the foundation after thinking of what to do to ease pressure on parents, decided to make the donations to impact on the pupils of Ama Hillcrest Foundation School Umuezeani Ameke Ngwo.

The foundation has in the past provided exercise books, textbooks, uniforms cash donations and other educational materials including handling school fees payments for pupils in some communities in Udi Local Govt Area since its inception three years ago.

In her appreciation message on behalf of the school management, Mrs Blessing Ozike expressed gratitude to the foundation for distributing the educational items to the pupils and their efforts in supporting education in the state.

Also note that Nigerian Breweries Plc Ama through its Cooperate Social Responsibility have built a ultra modern Civic Center, Ama Skills Acquisition Center, fish pond, as well as provision of scholarships for the Umuezeani Ameke Ngwo, the host community.

*BREAKING NEWS*

NGWO CLAN GENERAL ASSEMBLY DRAGS UNTH ENUGU, ITS CHIEF MEDICAL DIRECTOR-PROF OBINNA ONODUGO TO COURT.

The Leadership of Ngwo Clan General Assembly led by its President -Hon Barr Kenneth Ani, has drag the entire management of University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital* (UNTH) Enugu before the Federal High Court Enugu* in suit *No:FHC/EN/CS/115/2023* .

The noble body, in an originating writ of Summons had decried the monumental denial of Ngwo Clan in the socio-economic packages meant for the host communities habouring the health institution in Enugu State. The body had been saddened that despite the large expanse of land released to the health institution many years ago, they had failed, neglected and refused to reciprocate under an agreed understanding of empowering the people of Ngwo Clan in offer of employment packages, educational training in medical lines, medical admissions, periodic health treatments etc as the oldest host community to the prestigious health institution.

The body through their counsel, Ozo Alex Amujiogu Esq had therefore demanded the honourable court to compels them to release all the socio-economic packages meant for Ngwo clan as one of the host communities to the health institution especially in the areas of admission quotas, employments, contracts just to mention but a few.

No date has been fixed for the hearing of the case which will come up in *due course.*

THE ENUGU STATE GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION PETITION TRIBUNAL SUMMONS PETER NDUBUISI MBAH TO APPEAR BEFORE IT

The Chairman of the Enugu State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, Hon Justice Akano, had summoned Mr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah to appear before it on the 22nd day of June 2023 for the purposes of clarifying certain issues emanating from a petition brought against him by the candidate of Peoples Redemption Party(PRP) in the just concluded Governorship Election in Enugu State- Elder Christopher Agu.

The order is sequel to a pending Governorship Petition brought against him wherein the Petitioners are seeking not only for his disqualification from the Election but also that the Petitioners be declared winner of the election or in the alternative, an order for the conduct of fresh election with the exclusion of Mr Peter Mbah.

Counsel for the Petitioners, Ozo Alex Amujiogu Esq while appearing with Hon J C Eze Esq had applied for a Subpoena Testificandum against His Excellency, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah which was approved by the Honourable tribunal , demanding that he appears by complying with the directive of the tribunal as contained in the subpoena.

Meanwhile, the Tribunal has also fixed Wednesday, the 21st of June ,2023 for the Petitioners to commence in proving their case.

In his reaction after the tribunal sitting, Bar Alex Amujiogu while further briefing journalist at the end of the session, had assured the good people of Enugu State to remain calm as they enter the legal pitch to reclaim their stolen mandate before the tribunal who are well fortified to hear the petitioners case.

The Indigenous Ama Contractors have applauded the Nigeria Breweries, NB Plc for being consistent with their cooperate social responsibility (CSR) to the host community.

In a statement made available to NEWSPORTFOLIO by the President of the Union, Ozo Onyebuchi Ani after their first meeting of the year, disclosed that the company over the years has continued to reinvest it's profit back to the society through Cooperate Social Responsibility, instead of sharing the entire profit among shareholders.

"We want to use this medium to thank Nigeria Breweries Plc in a special way on how they have handled their host community especially with regards to CSR.

"We will continue to work and win together with them especially with the Brewery Manager, Mr Peter Ani, who is like a father to us", said Ozo Onyebuchi.

On behalf of the union members, Ozo Onyebuchi thanked the Brewery Manager for the successful completion of Ama Skill Acquisition Center built for the host community and pleaded with him to consider qualified indigenes for employment.

He however stated that in as much as they are positively meeting up with their CSR, he still believes that there is always room for improvement.

He further revealed that the union will implement a scholarship empowerment program to members of the community to further boost their interest in education.

Ozo Onyebuchi Ani equally urgied other corporate organizations within the community to emulate the gesture.
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Enugu North Senatorial District 2023: Time to pay Ugwuanyi back for his good works: UEPA DG

The Director General of Udi/Ezeagu Progressive Alliance (UEPA), Ozo Onyebuchi Ani has called on Ndi Enugu especially Enugu North Senatorial zone to vote massively for Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi who also is the Senatorial candidate for PDP in the forthcoming coming 2023 general election.

In a statement made available to NEWSPORTFOLIO, Ozo Onyebuchi said that the governor deserve to represent Enugu North senatorial zone because of his commitment to peace, good governance and love for the poor masses.

"For the uncommon leadership style of the governor which has translated into/restored peace, unity and good governance in the state I am convinced that his election in the Red Chamber To represent the good people of Enugu North Senatorial District is deservedly assured".

The equally enjoined Ndi Enugu to keep faith with governor Ugwuanyi vision and their party, the People's Democratic Party (PDP) by voting massively for the governorship candidate, Barr. Peter Mbah and other candidates across the elective strata of offices.

He however reiterated UEPA's resolve to be on PDP campaign train throughout the campaign period.

"We therefore ask all the well meaning residents of Enugu to join hands with us (UEPA) in this notable course", he stated.

Udi/Ezeagu Progressive Alliance (UEPA) is a registered socio-political organisation.

We don't have any issues with all the companies in our community - Ozo Onyebuchi Ani

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a business model that helps a company be socially accountable to itself, its stakeholders, and the public. Some analysts on the economy view Corporate Social Responsibility as a management concept whereby companies integrate social and environmental concerns in their business operations and interactions with their stakeholders.

Described in a broad term as a company’s efforts to improve quality lives, CSR is undeniably not only important to companies, nonprofits and employees but also to the communities.

It is in view of the above that one of the leaders of Umuezani, the host community to Nigeria Brewery Ama, Ozo Onyebuchi Ani in an interview with our correspondence debunked news flying around online that the beverage company is not living up to it's CRS.

Ozo Amujiogu had claimed that the community have not been benefitting from the corporate social responsibility of NB PLC which Ozo Onyebuchi Ani clearly described as "a lie from the pit of hell."

"I want to make it clear that Ozo Amujiogu is neither the spokesperson of Umuezani community, Ndi Ozo nor does he hold any position in the gathering of Ndi Ozo not to talk of holding the position of Traditional Prime Minister anywhere.

"His recent outburst is not unconnected with the decision of the brewery management to share some of the contracts that are meant for the community to other members of the host community which he has been in control for more than a decade"

On the issue of the CRS of the brewery to the host community, Ozo Onyebuchi stated NB PLC committed so many projects which are verifiable.

"We have ultra modern civic center, borehole, a town hall, street lights and so on are all verifiable projects built by the brewery.

"So for someone to wake and start spewing all manner of lies is unfortunate," he said.

Ozo Onyebuchi further stated that the brewery also built a modern fish farm which was handed over to the same Ozo Amujiogu for management which he said was "looted and vandalised by the same Ozo Amujiogu".

The first annual N10 million scholarship to students from the community paid to the community was shared by indigenes of the community under the leadership of late Bona Agu and this made the brewery management to stop paying directly to the community and formed scholarship committee that handles it afterwards, Ozo Onyebuchi revealed.

Ozo Onyebuchi however said that the relationship between the host community and the brewery is cordial and peaceful.

"We don'ts have any problems with all the companies in our including Nigeria Brewery.

"Ozo Amujiogu is just trying to seek unnecessary attention and urge all to disregard whatever he said as those things are fake and untrue".

Ozo Onyebuchi finally stated that there is always room for more projects to be attracted to the community from the brewery but it will done through dialogue and negotiations.

He equally appealed to the brewery management to do more in the area of empowerment.

He further revealed that the Ndi Ozo Ngwo, the umbrella body that unites all the Ozo title holders in Ngwo will pay a courtesy visit to the brewery management soon.

NB PLC And Deposition Of Toxic Wastes: Host community debunks report, describes it as false, misleading

UMUEZEANI; The host community to Nigerian Breweries PLC, Ama on Tuesday dismissed as false and misleading report on the alleged deposition of toxic wastes in Eke community by the company.

A report emerged online on Monday where it was claimed that the lives of the people from Eke community is in danger due to the wastes from the brewery company.

However, a statement made available to NEWPORTFOLIO by Hon. Alex Amujiogu Esq and the Legal Adviser to the host Community, Umuezeani described the report as false.

"Recently, some persons who claimed to be from Eke community and whose identity is not known had associated one of the leading company in our land - Nigerian Breweries PLC, with deposition of toxic wastes on their land.

"We wish to set the record straight that the area in issue is a designated dump site mapped out by our community Umuezeani which has nothing to do with Eke community who lives more than three (3) kilometres away," partly read the statement.

The statement further disclosed that "the said area of solids and liquids wastes dump site have been duly approved and certified by the Enugu state waste management Authority (ENSWAMA)."

Speaking in that vain, the legal adviser condemned the said report as having been tainted in bad faith and a clandestine attempt to malign the international image and reputation of Nigerian Breweries PLC, which do not compromise in any form on quality environmental standards.

In his reaction, Mr Offor Nwonoh Jnr said;

"We would like to make it clear to the whole world that the story is not true but is emanating from enemies of progress who want to rubbish the image of the company and that of the Enugu State Government.

“As we all know that this is election time, we are sure that some politicians are behind this malicious and false story just to discredit the government of HE Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and his industrialization strides.

"Let me also remind you that we play host to companies like Aqua Rapha, 7Up bottling company and others...

“I am stating here categorically that none of the companies here can dare to do what runs contrary to the dictates of our laws in this country.

“Their operation is in tandem with international standards and wastes from them are properly evacuated"

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A secret suit against the member representing Aba South Constituency, Hon. Obinna Ichita has been uncovered.

Hon. Ichita made this known through one of his social media platforms on Thursday 28 Nov, 2021.

NEWSPORTFOLIO gathered that the suit was filed in the state High Court by Charles Esonu, Abia State Commissioner for Youths and Abia State Commissioner for Trade and Investment was listed as witnesses.

Mr Esonu is asking the Court to stop Hon. Ichita from asking questions concerning the $56 million dollars received by the Abia State government from the World Bank for flood mitigation in Abia State especially Aba South Constituency as well as ordering him to pay N200 million Naira for damages.

"Dear constituents and friends, we have uncovered a secret suit filed against me by agents of Abia State government.

"It is interesting that instead of utilizing the money (over 56 Million US dollars ) that Abia State government received from the World Bank for flood mitigation project in Aba, Abia State government officials are secretly asking the High Court of Abia State to order me to stop talking about abandoned and dilapidated roads in my constituency", Hon. Ichita said.

Hon. Ichita has been on the forefront tackling the state government for the construction of Ohanku, Obohia, Ngwa, Port Harcourt, Uratta and Omuma roads which are all in a sorry state for years now and are all in Aba South Constituency.

It would also be recalled that the Abia State House of Assembly on the 14th of July, 2021 passed a resolution asking the Abia State Government to come to the aid of Aba South people concerning the impassable roads.

Below is the full statement;
Dear constituents and friends,
we have uncovered a secret suit filled against me by agents of Abia State government.

It is interesting that instead of utilizing the money (over 56 Million US dollars ) that Abia State government received from the World Bank for flood mitigation project in Aba, Abia State government officials are secretly asking the High Court of Abia State to order me to stop talking about abandoned and dilapidated roads in my constituency.
They also want the court to order me to pay them 200 Million Naira as damages for talking about bad roads in Aba south, the constituency I was elected to represent.

The suit was filed by Charles Esonu, Abia State Commissioner for Youths, he listed the Abia State Commissioner for Trade and Investment as one of his witnesses.
Ha choro ikpe m ikpe azu ?!

Please watch the state of a major road in Aba. Sadly, some people still defend Abia State government.

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The member representing Aba South State Constituency in the Abia House of Assembly, Hon Obinna Ichita, has emerged as the new leader of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Abia.

Hon Ichita was announced as the new leader of the party in the state, shortly after a crucial meeting with members of the State Working Committee, National Working Committee and Board of Trustees of the party at the APGA Secretariat in Umuahia.

While briefing the Press, the Abia State Chairman of APGA, Rev. Augustine Ehiemere, stated that the party in accordance with its Constitution and part of its decision to make the party formidable in the state, is choosing Hon Obinna Ichita as the new leader of the party in the state, being the highest political office holder in Abia.

According to Ehiemere, the party is committed to live up to its expectation and having a vibrant Legislature as a leader, would further boost the party’s strength in the state.

The APGA state chairman, however, beckoned on the press to be the watch dog of the party and the state, make constructive reportage and as well help check the excesses of the government and its policies, rather than keeping quiet.

Ehiemere further disclosed that the party in the state is not factionalized as perceived in some quarters, stressing that since 2019 after the party’s congress, no faction, has existed in the party. “Chikwe Udensi that was leading one faction of the party is now a BoT member”, he stated.

In his response, the new leader of the party in the state, Hon Obinna Ichita, disclosed that he accepts the position with all humility, pointing that his leadership would provide regular checks and balances in the governance of the state, as well as show a more verile opposition, as far as the state is concerned.

“The government of Abia has been docile on the area of infrastructure. It is our responsibility to ask them questions.

“We do not intend to be intimidated by anyone. We will carry out our responsibility in accordance with the Constitution”.

Reacting to questions from journalists, the lawmaker noted that the recent defection of the member, representing Aba Central State Constituency, Hon Abraham Oba from APGA to PDP, has in no way affected the state, maintaining that the party is still waxing strong in the state.

While lamenting the level of abandonment of major infrastructures in the state, the new APGA leader pointed out that he can cope with the task ahead of him, stating that nobody can take power away from him except his constituents that voted for him, therefore, he does not feel threatened as the only House member standing in APGA.

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A Dangerous Trend is Creeping into Abia State; Politics of Hate, Desperation, Deceit and Elimination of the Sanctity of Human Life . Two days ago, an elected local government chairman in Abia State and the chairman of the state chapter of Association of Local Government Chairmen of Nigeria (ALGON) issued a press release informing the World of a threat to his life. He said his residence in Aba, and his house in the village were being monitored by “unknown persons”. The reason for the threat to his life according to the press release was because he questioned the procurement process of the vehicles for council chairmen . In other words, he questioned how public money was being spent (or planned to be spent ). The council chairman must be so scared for his life that he went into hiding because he said he was issuing the press release “ from an undisclosed location”. The terrified chairman is Hon. Ibe Nwoko ( popularly known as Abuh’ Dhabi for reasons I do not know; some say he used to live in the Middle East ).The man is the elected chairman of Obingwa local government area in Abia state. He is a close associate (of) and a brother to the governor of Abia state. The Governor of Abia State is from Obingwa local government area. In nigerian parlance , they are five and six( meaning they are close, very close… ). A local government chairman is the head of the security committee of his local government area . This committee is made up of all the Divisional Police Officers ( DPOs) in the local government area, the Officer in charge of the State Security Service in the local government, the head of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corp ( NSCDC) and others. These are all arms-bearing security agencies, yet the Local Government chairman went into hiding, because of the threat to his life. To query the veracity or otherwise of the issues that gave rise to this security situation of threat to life is not the intention of this piece. The author is disturbed that we seem to have lowered the sanctity of human life in Abia State. Surprisingly, Abia State government has kept mute over this serious security situation. As if the silence of the state government wasn’t shocking enough, the deputy chairmen of all the local government areas in Abia State issued a release. They deputy chairmen distanced themselves from the chairman of their chairmen and berated him for “attacking the state government”. Maybe to the deputy chairmen, the Chairman of Obingwa local government “attacked the state government” because he questioned the use of public fund ( if the press release by the chairman is anything to go by). Does it mean some of us didn’t get the memo when any question relating to accountability in the use of public fund was elevated to the status of a mortal sin punishable by threat to life, threat of suspension and actual attack to kill ?! In Aba South, we are questioning the use of the 56 Million US dollars loan received by Abia State government from the World Bank for the Uratta flood mitigation project and some road construction projects in our constituency. The whereabouts of the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) for which billions of naira had been paid is not known to us or anyone. Instead of providing answers to these and other questions that relate to money received by the state government on our behalf as citizens of Abia State, my life as the representative of the people of Aba South was threatened too. On the 29th July, 2021, we issued a press release informing the public and the security agencies, the heads of diplomatic Corp of the EU countries, the UK High Commission and the US Embassy of this threat to my life . We forwarded the details to appropriate superior authorities. Almost immediately the press statement was released, Abia State government issued a counter release trying to politicize an issue as serious as threat to life. The state government claimed to have set up a committee to investigate the threat to the life of of a state lawmaker. Many persons didn’t believe the content of the government press release because we are used to their promise and fail. Remember the government press release on 26th May 2021 that promised to complete the works on Ahia Ohuru new marker in six weeks. This is September, 2021.On 25th August, 2021, while holding a Town Hall Meeting with my constituents, where we were discussing the bad state of our roads and the inhuman condition that we have been subjected to as a result of the refusal of Abia State government to comply with the resolutions of Abia State House of Assembly as it relates to the dirty state of our environment and the way forward, I was attacked by those who were sent to kill. The intention of these terrorists and their sponsors was to stop us from asking further questions about public fund through these barbaric acts of intimidation and terror. Interestingly, just the same way Abia State government has remained silent in the face of this threat to the life of a local government chairman, they kept quiet when a state lawmaker was attacked in front of his constituency office while holding a peaceful meeting with his constituents. No one has heard from the phantom Committee set up by Abia State government to investigate the threat to the life of a state legislator. The state government and all her officials have suddenly gone mute. If I was killed on the 25th August 2021, these persons and authorities would have released series of powerfully and nicely worded yet empty press release. Not a few persons believe that the silence of Abia State government and its officials in the face of threats to( and actual attack on ) the life of public officers who question the use of public fund is not just very loud but suggestive .Does it mean that once you talk of accountability in public office, they will threaten your life, threaten to suspend you from office and even attempt to kill you?! Could it be the reason the deputy chairmen hurriedly put together a watery press release in a bid to show their “loyalty” ?! I had earlier cautioned in one one of my posts that there exists a marked difference between loyalty and stupidity. I have also argued elsewhere, that no smart leader would take any sycophant seriously. This conscious effort to consecrate sycophancy in our dear state and thus, deepen the Stockholm syndrome that seems to have pervaded our political space must be arrested. We all have a duty to put an end to our state being made a laughing stock everywhere and every time as a result of bad governance and administrative ineptitude. Go outside Abia and see how those who should emulate us, now humiliate us. The time has come for all of us to resist this ugly trend that is creeping into our state. Obviously, some persons through their action and inaction, want this state to fail.It is our collective duty to resist this drift towards failure. No person is more abian than another. And no public office is the exclusive preserve of any abian. Hence, Abia Money is our money ! It’s not a private money neither is the state a private enterprise. Why should Abia State government and her officials be upset when the use of public money is questioned?Has this government forgotten that Abia money doesn’t belong to the government? Abia money belongs to Abia People ! Finally, it needs not be said that the deadline given to Abia state government by the people of Aba South constituency as part of our resolution during our Town Hall Meeting held on the 25th August 2021, has elapsed. As usual, the state government didn’t bother because they don’t seem to care. Part of our resolution was that, if Abia state government failed to do anything to alleviate our sufferings by working on our roads and removing the heaps of rubbish in our environment within seven days from the date of that resolution, that we shall embark on a peaceful protest to demonstrate our feeling of being treated as slaves in a state we call our own. That resolution stands. Please be on the lookout for the announcement. Kindly inform others too.

Hon. Obinna Ichita, Member representing Aba South Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly

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Due to poor condition of roads in Aba, especially Aba south constituency, the member representing Aba south in the Abia state House of assembly, Hon. Obinna Ichita has called for an `Emergency Town Hall Meeting` slated to hold on Wednesday 25th of August 2021.

In a statement made available to NEWSPORTFOLIO, Hon. Ichita said that all his efforts including that of his colleagues in the state assembly to draw the attention of the state government to the sufferings of his constituents are not yielding any result.

"For some time now, we have drawn the attention of Abia State government to our plight but nothing has been done. We have been ignored by the government that should protect us,” he said.

He lamented that despite securing $56 million USD from World Bank for the construction of Ohanku road, Obohia road, Ngwa road, Port Harcourt road, Uratta road and Omuma road, those roads have become impassable day by day.

Below is the full statement;

Dear constituents and friends,It is settled that our environment is not fit for human habitation as could be seen in the mountains of refuse that litter various parts of Aba South and the horrible nature of our roads.

Below is the full statement;

Dear constituents and friends,It is settled that our environment is not fit for human habitation as could be seen in the mountains of refuse that litter various parts of Aba South and the horrible nature of our roads.

It is also a known fact that the 56 Million US dollars secured from the World Bank for the construction of Ohanku road, Obohia road, Ngwa road, Port Harcourt road, Uratta road and Omuma road, all in Aba South constituency has not yielded any result as none of the roads mentioned can be accessed end-to-end. For some time now, we have drawn the attention of Abia State government to our plight but nothing has been done. We have been ignored by the government that should protect us.

On the 14th day of July, 2021, I informed you that The Abia State House of Assembly passed a resolution asking the Abia State Governement to come to the rescue of the People of Aba South constituency, whose environment and roads have been reduced to a sub-human condition, yet the Abia state government refused to comply with this resolution. The concomitant effect is the continued sufferings experienced by our people every day.

Since democracy is defined as “the government of the people by the people and for the people”, I hereby invite the PEOPLE of Aba South Constituency to an Emergency Town Hall Meeting tomorrow, Wednesday, 25th August, 2021.

Venue is Aba South Constituency Office, 20Port Harcourt road, Aba by 12 noon.

Please don’t forget to share this information with others and endeavor to attend as vital issues that concern the people of Aba South Constituency will be discussed and decisions will be taken.

Remember, “If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have taken sides with the oppressor”

“ The POWER of the PEOPLE is greater than the people in Power “ Aluta Continua !

RESIDENTS of Aba, the commercial city of Abia State and its environs have lamented the deplorable state of roads within Abia South constituency and appealed to the state government to come to their aid before the rainy season cause more damage than already is.

Aba south, the most industrious and populated city in Abia has the worst road network in the entire South East and life is made very difficult for its inhabitants, especially during the rainy reason.

After each rainfall, most roads become impassable, especially Ngwa Road, Obohia road, Uratta road, Port Harcourt road, Ohanku road and Omuma road all in Aba south constituency coupled with the mountain of refuse littered in various parts of Aba south.

A businessman, Chief Ogba, expressing disappointment, said that every rainy season their own part of Aba (Aba south constituency) will be cut-off from the rest of the city due to the rains, which submerges the roads and buildings.

Hon, Obinna Ichita, member representing Aba south constituency in the Abia state House of Assembly when contacted by NEWSPORTFOLIO correspondent lamented the poor state of the roads in his constituency.

“For some time now, we have drawn the attention of Abia state government to our plight but nothing has been done. We have been ignored by the government that should protect us,” Hon. Ichita lamented.

He said that despite $56 million USD secured from World Bank for the construction of the above mentioned roads, there is nothing on ground to show for it as those roads are still impassable end-to-end.

It would be recalled that on the 14th of july 2021, the Abia state House of Assembly passed a resolution asking the Abia state government to as a matter of public health concern do something about the poor living and environmetal conditions of the people of Aba south constituency but the state government is yet to comply with this resolution.

The member representing Aba South Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Obinna Ichita has notified the relevant security agencies and Heads of Deplomatic Missions of European countries in Nigeria of plans to eliminate him under the guise of 'unknown gunmen'.

In a statement made available to NEWSPORTFOLIO, Hon. Ichita said the need "for a thorough investigation by appropriate superior authorities is accentuated by the plans of some persons/quarters to hide under the shadow of insecurity..." in the South East to eliminate him.

He revealed that his only crime is demanding for accountability in the use of public funds as it concerns to over N27b World Bank intervention fund for flood control in ABa South Constituency.

Below is the full statement:

Press Release

I wish to inform the general public that my life has come under a serious threat. Accordingly, the relevant security and intelligence agencies have been notified.

The Office of the National Security Adviser and the Headquarters of the AU Committee on Intelligence and Security Services have been furnished with details of this threat.
The Heads of Diplomatic Missions of European countries in Nigeria, The European Union,The US Embassy and the UK High Commission have all been alerted.

The need for a thorough investigation by the appropriate superior authorities is accentuated by the plans of some persons/ quarters to hide under the shadow of insecurity in the South East geopolitical zone of Nigeria to perpetuate heinous crimes in the hope that culpability for such crimes would be placed on the doorsteps of “unknown gunmen ”.

I want to restate that no amount of threat would deplete my belief in accountability in the use of Public funds especially as it relates to the over 27 Billion Naira world bank intervention for flood control and construction of major roads in Aba south through NEWMAP, which money has been paid in full by the World Bank to the State Government.

Lastly, my duties as a member of the Abia House of Assembly especially as it relates to the Ad hoc committee investigating the allegations / controversies surrounding the 22 Billion Naira Paris Club refund to the State government would continue to be discharged without any fear of intimidation from any quarter.

Signed
Hon. Obinna Ichita,
Member Representing Aba South Constituency
Abia State House of Assembly
Umuahia

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Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has denied announcing interest to contest the 2023 presidential election.

On Monday, his office disowned a website calling on Nigerians to join a volunteer organization mobilizing support.

A statement by Presidential Aide, Laolu Akande, said solicitation by the group is trending on WhatsApp with a suggestion that the Vice President “quietly” declared intention to run.

Akande said the VP was not in any way connected to the said website or the group behind it and considers such an enterprise an unnecessary distraction.

“Prof. Osinbajo has not declared any interest whatsoever in the 2023 election”, the spokesman noted.

“He is rather focused on working in his capacity as Vice President in the current administration to address all the compelling issues in the country and concerns of Nigerians, including finding effective and lasting solutions to the security challenges.

“We ask that people desist from such unhelpful permutations while we all deal together with the challenges confronting us as Nigerians, and resolve them for the benefit of our people, peace and prosperity in the land”, the statement read.

For more news visit; https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2021/05/17/zinedine-zidane-denies-telling-madrid-players-he-is-leaving/

How Hon. Obinna Ichita is changing the fortune of Aba traders By Peter Agba Kalu

There's something that is becoming highly obvious about democracy. It's like a well refined wine that gets more mature with time. Complain as we do, which anyway is our socio-political right to do so. If you actually take time to reflect, you will discover that there are slight improvements on the political environment.

Take for instance, some of our political office holders are gradually becoming people oriented in their approach to service. Though it's just handful of them, but gradually, in spite of the social challenges we're facing today, that handful are spreading.

There are very few politicians who actually came with the sincere desire to serve the people, and you will see sincerity of purpose, humanity mixed with humility in their approach to issues. Their focus are normally people oriented projects, which they carry out with deep and sincerely convincing passion.

Such qualitative character was what l discovered yesterday in Obinna Ichita when l attended the Aba South Constituency Summit he organized for Aba traders who trade with Chinese partners. The Special Guest of Honour was His Excellency, Ambassador C. O. Oguh, Head, Nigerian Mission, Shanghai, China. To a technocrat like me, listening to the traders lament about what they have been passing through in the hands of Chinese business partners was an eye opener.
First, our traders getting visa to China is very difficult as they have to pass through so many difficult hurdles. It didn't just stop at that, they're being taken undue advantage of by an exploitative systematic policy put in place by a cartel. Whereas other traders coming from outside the eastern enclave pay far less to obtain visas, our traders are subjected to pay 200% of the same amount to process their visas. One of the traders, Mr. Innocent lamented how he had to go to Kano State to register with their chamber of commerce just to obtain Chinese visa, yet, when it was due for him to get it, he was told that he had to register to vote in Kano before such can happen. It was a story like this that really made me to appreciate the impact of that summit that Honourable Obinna, the APGA Lawmaker representing Aba South organized.

Several traders lamented how their Chinese business partners always find a way to outsmart them and take undue advantage of them. From shortchanging them on agreed goods to be shipped, showing them one thing and shipping another, paying for a full container and getting lesser which push them into debt after clearing their goods at a very high cost. It was one sorrowful business disappointment stories after another and the traders were completely helpless not knowing who to run to, or where to lay their complain. So you can imagine their relief when the Nigerian Head Mission to Shanghai was sitting there, listening and taking note of all their complaints and asking them to forward their documents, promising to go straight and meet the Chinese Ambassador and also to set up a permanent committee specifically to look into some of these issues enumerated above that has hampered their economic growth and development.

You can then reflect and see the positive impact this is going to make on the business fortunes of Aba traders and discover why l talked about Hon. Obinna Ichita in such high regards. Seeing how far he has gone in bringing the Nigerian Head Mission to Shanghai to Aba and the positive attributes that came out of it made me think that this is what quality representation should be all about. Feeling the vibes of your people and answering to them is what social service should be all about. Governance isn't just all about building roads and all of that. Luckily for Aba traders, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu is answering to that.

So, in organizing this Summit the Honourable member is complimenting it to give his constituents an all round quality service.
Can you imagine that there are several Chinese people that collected funds from our traders and stopped communicating with them? Others you will send like $10,000 USD and they'll ship $7,500USD worth of goods.
The Chinese Embassy even stopped issuing our traders visas at some point, they insisted that you must be issued visa only if you have traveled in the last 3 years. And, they equally stopped issuing new entrant visas. While taking all these steps, they now started planning to start flooding Aba markets with the same goods that our people visit to import. With all these background information l am convinced that by now you are getting the full positive impact of the value of this intervention that Honourable Obinna has started making.
This is what representation should be all about. Other political leaders should learn to listen and know where the shoe pinches their electorates the most, and take steps to address them.

Once more, my sincere appreciation to Hon. Obinna Ichita for such a selfless service to our people.

For more news visit; www.newsportfolio.com.ng

EASTER: Ozoji Family Lineage donates food items and other necessaries to two orphanage homes in Enugu

Easter is the season of joy, peace, and happiness. It is the special season set aside to celebrate the resurrection of our LordJesus Christ from death. Though this was its original purpose, the celebration of Easter has grown to become a symbolic time for living in peace and love.

In the spirit of the Easter celebration, the Ozoji Family Lineage of Amankwo Eke, Udi local government, decided to show love by reaching out to the less privileged, and the motherless babies - as a way to engender friendship, and peaceful coexistence.

The 2021 beneficiaries of the Family's charity gesture are:

1. Home for Needy Children (Conceptionists) located at number 26 Ishienu Street, Independence Layout, Enugu.

2. Holy Child Motherless Babies Home, Holy Ghost Cathedral, Ogui Enugu.

Presenting the gift items on behalf of the Ozoji Family Lineage are: Lolo Ngozi Udaba (nee Onyeama), Mrs Eucharia Uzo (nee Nwankwo), and Ms Ifeyinwa Emehelu.

This idea of a Charity Visit, aimed at reaching out to the less privileged, is the brainchild of one of the Ozoji daughters, Ada Ihe Chief Sandra Onyekachi Viehoever (nee Onyeama), with active support from the duo of Chief Ambrose Nwankwo, and Mr Oluchukwu Emehelu.

Ozoji Family is made up of the following families: Onyeama, Nwankwo, Emehelu, Anigbo, Amadife, Aniagolu, Agu, Enu, Chikelu, Okolo, and Aniagu families in Amankwo Eke, Udi LGA of Enugu State.

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Gov. Ugwuanyi to Commission Roads in Nsukka/Igbo Eze South Federal Constituency Attracted by Rt. Hon. Dr. Pat Asadu

… flag-off distribution of several empowerment items to constituents

His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Executive Governor, Enugu State, will on the 20th of December, 2020, be at the Nsukka/Igbo Eze South Federal Constituency, to commission a lists of projects attracted by Rt. Hon. Dr. Patrick Asadu, who is the member representing the said constituency.

This was disclosed to newsmen in a press release signed by Asadu, the member representing Nsukka/Igbo Eze South Federal Constituency and the sponsor of the programme.

The said projects to be commissioned by the Governor, includes the Agbamere Road in Eha Alumona, (Nsukka Local Government Area) the Inland Road phase 1 of Ibagwa-Aka (Igbo-Eze South LGA), inspect the ongoing construction of Umugbabe to Uhunowerre Road project (Igbo-Eze South LGA) and then lay a foundation stone for the construction of Nru Road in Nsukka Local Government Area of the state.

According to the release, the Governor will also hand over several empowerment items to the constituents in line with his empowerment agenda in the state.

These empowerment items include, “ cars to some benefitiaries, motorcycles to each autonomous community to strengthen security and forest guard programmes”.

The Governor is also expected to flag-off the distribution of power generating sets, clothing materials to women and the elderly in each village, foodstuff to all the 36 wards that make the constituency and monies to the party faithful as palliatives to boost their wellbeing and to encourage political participation in the constituency.

“We are using this medium to invite stakeholders and the good people of Nsukka/Igbo Eze South Federal Constituency to come and witness this people oriented programme billed to take place in Ugwuoye Primary School, Nsukka LG after the commissioning activities”. The release futher disclosed.

According to the report also, the empowerment programme will not displace the free medical outreach which the Pat Asadu Foundation carries out frequently for his constituents adding, "the Pat Asadu Foundation free medical outreach programme for Nsukka/Igbo-Eze South Federal Constituency has come to stay. We are strengthened and motivated by the many testimonies of healing that are recorded from the free medical programme".

For more news visit: [url]https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2020/12/12/gov-ugwuanyi-to-commission-roads-in-nsukka-igbo-eze-south-federal-constituency-attracted-by-rt-hon-dr-pat-asadu/[/url]

Katsina State Government said it has rescued two more kidnapped victims thus bringing the total to 19 out of the 20 kidnapped passengers of a Mina –Katsina bound commercial bus.

The passengers who were travelling to Katsina from Mina were flagged down at Maraba Kankara by unknown gunmen who disguised as security operatives at about 9pm on Sunday, March 22 
.

The victims were later released in batches in the later part of March with the remaining two released on April 9th.

However, the Secretary to the Government of the state, Mustapha Muhammad Inuwa on Friday morning told newsmen of the two rescued women that the exercise was successfully carried out by repentant bandits, security agents, and the state government

.

In his words, ’’we appreciate their roles especially the repentant bandits. We have no words to thank them for what they have been doing.

‘’So far, out of the 20 victims, 19 are back and have joined their families. Only one victim is not rescued yet.

“We are working towards getting him back if he is still alive. The police that brought the two girls said they will join the repentant bandits to search for him,” he added.

The SGS further assured that the two latest rescued victims will be taken to Government House Clinic for medical examination and rehabilitation before they are allowed to join their families.

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Juliet Ibekaku Nwagwu has threatened to file legal action against the Sahara Reporters for spreading false news that she has been indicted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The threat is contained in a Press Release made available to TheNigeriaLawyer (TNL) Titled: RE: SAHARA REPORTER’S PUBLICATION ON JULIET IBEKAKU NWAGWU,

Okafor says: “We have read with profound dismay a publication by Sahara Reporters, in which it alleged that Mrs. Ibekaku Nwagwu was indicted illegally and benefited from corrupt funds. We have conferred with Mrs. Ibekaku Nwagwu and hereby state unequivocally that the publication is false in its entirety.”

“In the said publication that was published online and widely disseminated by Sahara Reporters to several papers, it claimed that EFCC has alleged that Mrs. Ibekaku Nwagwu benefited from funds that was gifted to the Federal Ministry of Justice in 2011.”

Okafor says the news is without a source because “Since reading that report, we have made efforts to find out the source of the information as we only became aware of such story on the pages of the newspaper. The EFCC is yet to inform Mrs Ibekaku Nwagwu of how she benefited personally from the funds and why her name was mentioned in a document that does not reflect the work she did for the Federal Ministry of Justice.”

She says “Mrs Ibekaku Nwagwu was only an Adviser to the Federal Ministry of Justice on Justice Reform in 2011 as she was on leave of absence from EFCC, her primary place of assignment. She was also providing support through the British High Commission to the Federal Ministry of Justice. She was never a staff of the Ministry of Justice. All her work was geared towards providing training to various departments in the Federal Ministry of Justice. She was also tasked with developing Justice Reform Plans for the Federal Ministry of Justice. She never had any approving or accounting role and therefore could not have benefitted from any fund personally.”

She debunked the statement by Sahara Reporters that the Honourable Justice Funmilayo A. Ajayi of the Federal High Court Benin in Suit No. FHC/B/CS/103/2018 indicted Mrs Ibekaku Nwagwu in November 2019.

The Press Release reads in part:

“It has become necessary to reiterate that Mrs. Ibekaku Nwagwu was not a party to the said suit and at no point was she indicted by the Court. We have read through the record of proceedings and Judgement of the court and no where was Mrs. Ibekaku Nwagwu mentioned in the whole process. The issue of responding to Freedom of Information requests is the responsibility of the Freedom of Information Unit of the Federal Ministry of Justice which they have executed based on the order of the court. The said court ruling is annexed to this letter. At no point was Mrs Ibekaku’s name mentioned. It is also on record that Daily Independent the news medium that first reported the false information withdrew their report and apologized to Mrs Ibekaku.

“(A copy is available at this link: http://saharareporters.com/2020/02/06/president-buharis-judicial-reforms-adviser-juliet-ibekaku-nwagwu-indicted-illegally).

“We shall be taking necessary legal actions to protect her person, her family and hard earned reputation.

read more news on; https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2020/02/08/nddc-inaugurates-project-contract-committees-for-finance-auditing/

Protesting villagers from the UMUEZEANI community, Amaeke –Ngwo, in Udi local government area of Enugu state Tuesday shutdown the Ama Brewery accusing the Nigerian Breweries Plc of divide and rule.

The villagers including women, youths and the elderly carried placards, barricading front of the company premises and demanded for withdrawal of some management staff from the Brewery.

Some of the placards read: “Give us our Christmas gifts; “Conflict sponsors must go, “BM and PAM must go” among other inscriptions.

Chairman of Umuezeani community, Evangelist Okezie Amujiogu said that his people were expressing grievances over the happenings at Nigeria Breweries Plc where they are the host community.

“The Public Affairs Manager and the Brewery Manager are instigating problems in our community. They are recognizing people that are not in authority in the community, using and sponsoring them to cause problems and breach of peace in the community.

“On the issue of economic empowerment, they are collaborating with them. They went to court and brought a fraudulent court injunction, restraining me and others from parading ourselves as executive members of Umuezeani community and our people are not happy about it.

“Some of the things the company is supposed to be doing for us such as contracts that are meant for the community, the NB staffs collaborated with a few of our community members to execute the contracts and share the money.

“Instead of discussing with the community, they are collaborating with only four members of our community to use our entitlements to fight us.

“They are sitting on an empowerment programme which the NB head office gave Ama Brewery order to execute for us, saying that we are not the authority. The Brewery Manager was mandated to reshuffle some of the contracts meant for the community but he doesn’t want to do it because he is collaborating with few to use it for their own selfish needs.

“These are what made our people to be aggrieved and they are not happy at all. We have waited but up till this moment they have not called us. They don’t want to recognize us as the authority of the community.

“Our demands are that we need to harmonies the contract list. They should let us know those executing the community contracts so that everybody can benefit. The empowerment programme and the staff should stop sponsoring court matters against the host community. We have not received any Christmas gifts from the company,” Amujiogu narrated.

NewsPortfolio further gathered that for more than 15 years of NB plc in Umuezeani, it has less than 4 indigenes as a staff.

As at the time of filing this report, all efforts to get the reactions of the Public Affairs Manager proved abortive as his phone lines were off

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The Presidency has brushed aside the decision of Punch newspapers to henceforth refer to President Muhammadu Buhari, with his military rank of Major-General.

According to President Buhari’s media adviser, Femi Adesina, there is no big deal about the decision and rather, it further reinforces the existence of freedom of speech and freedom of the press in the country.

“Nothing untoward in it. It is a rank the President attained by dint of hard work before he retired from the Nigerian Army. And today, constitutionally, he is also Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces”, he said.

“All over the world, just as in our country, a large number of retired military officers are now democrats. It does not make those who did not pass through military service better than them.

“Rather than being pejorative, addressing President Buhari by his military rank is another testimony to free speech and freedom of the press, which this administration (or regime, if anyone prefers: it is a matter of semantics) has pledged to uphold and preserve”.

PUNCH announced its decision today in a strong editorial, in which it deplored the administration’s human rights abuses, invasion of the court of law by DSS goons, in order to re-arrest Omoyele Sowore, publisher of Saharareporters and convener of #RevolutionNow movement

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A Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered all Nigerian banks not to honour any Mastercard transaction that has the logo of the National Identity Card Management Commission (NIMC) on it pending determination of a design infringement suit filed by Chams Plc and Chams Consortium against the Singaporean payment and financial technology company.

The trial judge, Justice Rilawanu Aikawa also ordered that the court order and other processes including the writ of summons, statement of claims, witness statement on oath, list of documents, and any other documents be served outside jurisdiction on Mastercard’s office at 152 Beach Road, 35-00, The Gateway East, Singapore.

The court made the order sequel to an ex-parte application filed by Chams Plc lawyer, Mr Kemi Pinheiro SAN asking the court for the restraining order. Joined as defendants with the Singaporean firm in the suit with number FHC/L/CS/1440/2019, are its Nigerian subsidiary Mastercard Services Sub-Sahara Ltd, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Mr Ajay Banga, Daniel Monehin, and Omokehinde Ojomuyide.

The court also listed the names of the banks on which the orders should be served.

In a 41-paragraph statement of claim filed before the court, the plaintiffs averred that sometime in 2006, they were invited by the Federal Government of Nigeria to bid for the Nigeria National Identity Card project. As a result of the invitation, the plaintiff went into research and originated a smart card technical design that could serve as a national identity card as well as a means of general financial payment and banking transaction. “The smartcard design is as a result of extensive financial, human, and intellectual investment in research and development and same has never been executed in any part of Africa”, the plaintiffs averred.

The national identity card, although designed primarily as an ID card, also has other functions that include the... FOR DETAILS, VISIT; https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/11/19/court-restrains-nigerian-banks-from-honouring-national-id-produced-by-mastercard/

A chieftain of the APC in Edo, Gen. Charles Airhavbere, explained on Sunday that a faction of the APC is at loggerheads with Gov. Godwin Obaseki because the governor has “refused to listen to voice of reason.’’

Speaking in an interview with the Nigeria News Agency in Benin, Airhavbere, a former soldier turned politician, said that Obaseki lacked interpersonal skills needed to make the difference in the exalted office.

The party chieftain said that the governor had resorted to use of raw power in dealing with his political associates, a development, he said, had alienated many APC stalwarts in the state.

Edo State is billed for governorship polls next August, in a high-stakes election, expected to be characterized by back-stabbing, violence and betrayals.

Airhavbere, who contested for the plum job with Obaseki in 2016, said the APC would never know peace in Edo with the way the governor was relating with other members of the party.

He said that contrary to what Obaseki wanted people to believe, agitations in the state were not because of... for details, visit; https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/11/17/why-were-at-war-with-obaseki-apc-chieftain/

Governor Seriake Dickson has called for outright cancellation of the elections in Nembe Local Government Area where 20 people were reportedly killed by gunmen at a PDP campaign rally.

Dickson made the statement while speaking with newsmen shortly after casting his vote at Oruerewari, Polling Unit 005, Toru Orua in Sagbama Local Government Area on Saturday.

He called on the Chairman of INEC to issue an order canceling the process in all the affected units, wards, local government areas, where election materials had been stolen or hijacked.

He also urged INEC to cancel the electoral process in areas “where officials have been kidnapped and held hostage to enable the APC cook up non-existing figures”.

Dickson, who is serving his second term on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) platform and the party’s candidate, Sen. Douye Diri, also lamented about electoral fraud and widespread violence.

In Yenagoa, a voter, Ebikeme Doubra, described the process as “peaceful except for isolated cases of attempts to snatch ballot box which was thwarted by security agents”.

“Some thugs attempted to disrupt the process and they were contained by security agencies in Ekeki and Opolo areas of Yenagoa, but other places were peaceful.

“The election was smooth and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should be commended for the smooth conduct of this election. We expect them to ensure that our votes count,” Doubra said.

However, Voting has ended and voters now await the announcement of results across Bayelsa in respect of Saturday’s Governorship elections.
For More News Updates, visit; https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/11/16/bayelsa-election-gov-dickson-calls-for-cancellation-of-election/

It is only a person that does not reside in Anambra State who may not know that the state is actually going down. With myriads of insensitive policies, programs and inability to initiate good ideas, every mistake is one more nail in the coffin of the ruling party.

From failed promises to lack of infrastructure and evident inability to provide security or even basic needs of society, it is safe to declare that a change of system has become more imperative this time than ever (makana Anambra nwelu mmadu, adi acho mmadu acho).

In considering a change of system therefore, the real owners of society (the masses) must identify individuals who have not only excelled in their various fields of endeavour, but people who have also demonstrated ability to advance the course of our democracy through diverse exploits in the face of compelling challenges.

Fundamentally, the right step to fixing a broken ware is by engaging the services of a specialist whose qualification for the job must be evidence of completed tasks in similar situations and assignments, but most of all the additional trait of selflessness and passion to take actions that address the needs of society.

A typical example of befitting leadership in this context is the proven commitment of High Chief Obiora Okonkwo Ph.D (Dikeora Idemili) in the sensitive area of human resource development. Reason is that people need to survive first to enjoy basic amenities and critical infrastructure.

Dr Obiora Okonkwo has so far distinguished himself in both humanitarian and credibility standing among other go-getters who rose to prominence via hard work and bridge building in business, academics and politics.

Many families accross Anambra communities whose children have benefited from Dr Okonkwo’s employment, scholarship and skill acquisition schemes would gladly give you accounts of the leverages they now enjoy as a result of life changing experiences and opportunities provided to their wards by Dikeora without having to pass through rigorous application processes.

Dikeora youths are globalized resource persons. Are you a Dikeora youth or parent?

*©Dikeora Media Office*
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None of the over 50 lawyers, among them Senior Advocates of Nigeria, who represented defeated PDP candidate Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, was present at the Supreme Court on Friday as the court gave an elaborate ruling on Atiku’s appeal challenging the re-election of President Muhammadu Buhari.

In contrast, lawyers to Buhari, the winner of the poll, the All Progressives Congress and the Independent National Electoral Commission were present ahead of the proceedings.

The Atiku lawyers did not send any apology to the court, but it is believed they kept away because of the position of their principal, Atiku Abubakar, who made the unproven allegation that the court was under the influence of a ‘dictatorial cabal’.

Dr. Livy Uzoukwu SAN, headed the long list of lawyers that represented the defeated candidate, now living in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

A seven-man panel of the court headed by Chief Justice Tanko Muhammad had in its judgment on October 30, 2019, dismissed the appeal and announced that it would give the reasons for its decision on a date to be later announced.

Justice John Okoro is reading the elaborate judgment today.

The apex court on Wednesday notified lawyers to parties in the appeal to come for the reasons behind its verdict.

The notice signed by Ibrahim Gold, a Registrar at the Supreme Court reads; FOR MORE INFO, VISIT;https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/11/15/just-in-atikus-lawyers-absent-at-supreme-court/

The Senate on Thursday swore-in Senator Biodun Olujimi as the Senator representing Ekiti South Senatorial District at the National Assembly.

Olujimi, garbed in a coffee-brown attire, was sworn-in by the upper chamber, following an oath administered by the Clerk of Senate, Nelson Ayewoh, at exactly 10:40 immediately after the commencement of plenary.

ALSO READ: [url]Senate Re-introduces Bill To Establish South East Dev. Commission[/url]

The lawmaker, who was the Minority Leader in the Eighth Senate, was last week declared winner of the 2019 Senatorial election by the Kaduna Division of the Court of Appeal.

The Court which nullified the election of Spokesman of the Senate, Dayo Adeyeye, upheld the tribunal judgment which declared Olujimi and the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party as winner at the 2019 National Assembly elections to represent Ekiti South.

The President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, after the lawmaker was sworn-in, called for unity among all members of the upper chamber.

He added that Olujimi’s victory brings the number of Female Senators to eight in the upper chamber.

“Let me congratulate the Minority leader in the eighth Senate. With this, we now have eight very solid female Senators.

“We pray that this addition will bring additional productivity and stability to the Senate.

“I call for unity and of course, we should remain focus and do those things that will make our country great”, Lawan said.
FOR MORE NEWS UPDATES, VISIT;[url] www.newsportfolio.com.ng[/url]

The Bishop of Zaria, Rt Rev Abiodun Ogunyemi has denounced the Archbishop of Kaduna and the general secretary of the Anglican Consultative Council for paying a “humiliating visit” to Governor Nasir El-Rufai to apologise for criticising him over a plan to demolish the St George’s Cathedral in the university town.

Ogunyemi said the apology was all an attempt to make the governor look good in preparation for a possible presidential ambition in 2023.

But to Ogunyemi, the apology boiled to nought, according to a statement he published on the church’s website, zariadiocese.org.ng

“The governor should know that he will never be president of Nigeria. I speak prophetically as a servant of the living God,” the Bishop of Zaria said. Zaria is the hometown of El-Rufai.

“Let fake Christians and religious spies placed in our church by a particular religion be aware of the consequences of their actions because heaven is watching. May the Lord expose these spies in our midst on Jesus Name. In fact their actions now show very clearly that they are working for an interest against the church. The Lord in His mercies will raise help to deliver His church from fake Christians, fake converts and novices,” the bishop said.

The bishops that drew the ire of Ogunyomi are the Most Rev. Ali Buba Lamido, Archbishop of Kaduna Province and the Bishop of Wusasa, and the former Archbishop of Kaduna and current ACC leader, Dr. Josiah Idowu-Fearon and the general secretary of the Anglican Consultative Council.

Ogunyemi said the Anglican leaders have placed placed loyalty to Muslim politicians over...FOR DETAILS, VISIT; https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/11/14/2023-presidency-el-rufai-will-never-be-president-of-nigeria-bishop-of-zaria/

Gov. Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa has urged the people of Bayelsa to keep faith with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as they go to the polls on Nov. 16 to elect his successor.

Dickson, who made the call in a radio broadcast, on Sunday night, monitored by Nigeria News Agency in Yenagoa, noted that voting against the PDP would amount to betrayal of trust to PDP faithful nationwide.

He said that the faithful of the party who supported former President Goodluck Jonathan to become President would be disappointed if the people of Bayelsa dumped PDP for the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC).

He advised the people to make informed choices between Sen. Douye Diri of the PDP and Chief David Lyon of the APC haven heard the candidates sell their plans as they canvassed for votes in a peaceful atmosphere.

“I advise Bayelsa people in their own interest to keep faith with PDP; the followers of PDP across the country who made sacrifices and supported one of our own to become President will feel disappointed if we abandon PDP.

“It is on record that some of them were attacked for supporting former President Goodluck Jonathan and so it is only reasonable that we remain with PDP,” Dickson said.

On the purported rift with Jonathan over the choice of the PDP governorship candidate, Dickson blamed ‘political jobbers’ for making misleading comments and misrepresenting his actions.

Dickson said that those who claimed to be working for Jonathan did not mean well for the former President.

https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/11/11/bayelsa-election-do-not-abandon-pdp-gov-dickson-begs-bayelsans/