₦airaland Forum

IgbereTV reports that Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mohammed Abubakar Adamu has deployed another operational a
surveillance helicopter (5N-LEH), to the Anambra State Police Command, at the request of Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra state.

A test flight was carried out today, Friday, 24th July, 2020, where the helicopter took off from DO field, Amawbia, flew over the premises and took off to embark on test surveillance.From within the cockpit, operators are able to send out digitally clear surveillance pictures and videos to a ground crew who process same for further action by the authorities if need be.

Speaking to reporters at the state police command headquarters, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Haruna Mohammed said that the helicopter was deployed by the Inspector General of Police on the request of Governor Obiano and the state commissioner of police, Mr. John Abang, pointing out that it will aid in accessing difficult terrain in the state, as well as aid in monitoring farmers'/herders' conflict.

Mr Mohammed stressed that the helicopter will complement the already existing security architecture in the state, noting that the surveillance has commenced with immediate effect as it will help crime detection and prevention.

Mr Mohammed praised Governor Obiano for his supportive role which has facilitated their duty, noting that the command has achieved alot within the shortest time.With the deployment of the helicopter, security of life and property of residents in the state have received a major boost.

In 2019, Anambra state government launched smart city policing, deploying smart cars and mobile surveillance cameras at strategic locations in the state to help the crime fighting efforts of the securty agencies.

Again, Fulani Herdsmen Attack Southern Kaduna Village, Kill Six People, Many Declared Missing

No less than six people have died after armed Fulani herdsmen attacked Doka Avong Village in Kaduna State.

This is the fourth attack in less than five days on predominantly Christian farming villages in Southern Kaduna area by armed Fulani herdsmen, which has claimed the lives of more than 100 people.

The attackers, who raided Agwala Magayaki area of Doka Avong Village overnight, used machetes to cut unarmed men, women and children to death while many others are reported missing at the time of this report.

Some of the survivors are currently in critical condition at the Idon General Hospital.

Many houses were also burnt in the attack.

IgbereTV reports that Enugu State Governor, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, has partnered with Utiva to introduce Enugu Technology Talent City to empower youths with requisite digital skills.

A statement made available to IgbereTV on Friday by Hon. Arinze Chilo-Offiah, Special Adviser, SME Development
Head, Enugu SME Center, reads:

"Enugu State Governor, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, through the ENUGU STATE SME Agency, has partnered with Utiva to introduce ENUGU TECHNOLOGY TALENT CITY to empower youths with requisite digital skills.

Register for this Programme and get Human Capital Development Loan to learn:

•Product design
•Programming

And pay back when you are given a job through the Programme.

For more enquiries, visit: enugutech.com"

Lady Invites A Native-Doctor To Fight Bank For Wrongly Debiting Her Account (Photo, Video)

IgbereTV captured the moment a lady allegedly invited her Native-Doctor to the bank to help her recover her money which the bank wrongly debited from her account.

According to eyewitnesses, the lady whose account was debited brought her Native-Doctor boyfriend to fight for her. But both of them were hindered from gaining entrance to the banking hall.

In the recorded video, both are seen standing outside the bank, waiting to be attended to.

See video below.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VrbxGiILz0Y

Elderly Woman Strips Unclad To Resist Arrest By Security Operatives (Photo, Video)

IgbereTV captured the moment an elderly woman stripped herself naked in order to resist arrest by security operatives who had come to her shop to arrest her.

The angry woman explained that she did nothing to warrant the officers arresting her, stripped herself naked and started destroying her properties.

See video below.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4go762nqaQ

IgbereTV reports that Nollywood has released a new movie titled ‘Entanglement',
barely two weeks after the entanglement’ saga between American star, Will Smith and his wife, Jada Pinkett. The Power couple, Will Smith and Jada Pinkett caused a stir on social media after they came together for a Red Table Talk on Friday, last week.

Will Smith had asked his wife, Jada to clear the air about recent relationship rumors with 27-year-old singer, August Alsina, and in her response, Jada described their relationship as an “Entanglement.”

As a result of her response, the internet became flooded with hilarious reactions to the “entanglement” title given to her relationship with the 27-year-old singer.

Nollywood made use of this opportunity to make money by producing a new movie which has been titled “Entanglement”

IgbereTV captured the moment a man fought an officer of the Federal Road Safety Corp (FRSC), along Sapele Road, in Benin.

The man was penalized by two FRSC Officers on duty, for allegedly committing an offence. The man got angry, frustrated, stripped naked and fought one the officers. This attracted the attention of passers-by who tried to separate the fight, as the man received repeated beatings on his head from the two officers, while he adamantly refused to leave the bonnet of the FRSC vehicle.

See video below.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUAJ3BewSuY

“Fr. Joachim Cabanyes of Opus Dei died [of] COVID in Enugu, Nigeria. He was from Madrid. On Wed, he was rushed to isolation center as he needed oxygen. He was anointed. On Thurs, he seemed better but all of a sudden at 9:00am, things changed dramatically & by 10:15am, he had died,” the post read.

Buhari Appoints APGA National Chairman As A Member of Nigeria Development Committee (Photo)

IgbereTV reports that President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) has appointed the National Chairman of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Ọzọnkpu Dr. Victor Ike Oye, as a member of the Steering Committee for the Preparation of Medium Term National Development Plan (2021-2025) and Nigeria Agenda 2050.

The news was made available to IgbereTV by the National Publicity Secretary of APGA, Tex Okechukwu. ESQ.

The 2 plans will replace Nigeria Vision 20:2020 and Economic Recovery and Growth Plan, both ending by December 2020.

Membership of the Steering Committee is drawn from the public and private sector, as well as opinion leaders among others; who will play key roles in providing oversight, guidance and direction for the preparation of the 2 Plans aimed at accelerated coordinated national economic growth, lifting millions of Nigerians out of poverty and improving the general well-being of Nigerians.The committee will be inaugurated by the President soon.

A statement made available to IgbereTV by the APGA National Publicity Secretary, Tex Okechukwu reads in part:

"Ọzọnkpu's presidential appointment is well deserved and a profound testament to his leadership acumen and sagacity, as well as his demonstrated capacity in people oriented endeavours and nation building."

"As the Party felicitates with and congratulates our National Chairman on this enormous national assignment, we implore the Almighty God to continue to bestow our National Chairman with more wisdom and grace for his tremendous services to APGA in particular and Nigeria in general."

Lady Eats With Bare Hand In A Restaurant After Fork And Knife 'Failed' Her (Video)

IgbereTV captured the moment a lady decided to use her bare hand to eat in a foreign restaurant after making several failed attempts to use fork and knife.

See video below.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OnMEhVUBZPg

Vice-Chairman of the National Campaign Council on Communications and Publicity for the Edo governorship election, Obahiagbon has accused Governor Godwin Obaseki of intimidating APC members, IgbereTV reports.

He said the governor is harassing members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) serving in elected offices over their refusal to join him in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

He disclosed this in Benin when he addressed journalist on what he described as the intolerance of the governor.

He said that the governor's action is unacceptable and urged people with a democratic mindset to condemn 'this anti-democratic acts oozing from the seat of government, in the strongest of terms.'

IgbereTV reports that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo state, has denied reports that an attack on Mallam Gani Audu, the running mate to the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, was sponsored by the party.

Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, July 15, the party's spokesman, Chris Nehikhare said the poor performance of Audu as a local government chairman is hunting him. Mallam Audu during one of the APC campaigns in Edo state.

He said: “It is an established fact that Audu performed abysmally as a local government chairman, among other allegations levelled against him by his kinsmen.

“The youth of Agbede must be commended for the courage they displayed in expressing their discontent over Audu’s failings.”

IgbereTV reports that the Nigeria’s House of Representatives has ordered the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mohammed Adamu, to quickly arrest and probe the Acting Managing Director (MD) of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Professor Kemebradikumo Daniel Pondei, for what it described as ‘contempt of the legislature’

The House Committee on NDDC has summoned the Interim Management Committee (IMC) of the NDDC to make a presentation at the ongoing investigative hearing into the financial recklessness at the Commission.

It was established from the previous sitting that the IMC recklessly spent N81.5bn from the coffers of the Commission from February to May 2020 without due process.

But the Acting MD, when called upon to clear the allegation, rather, questioned the credibility of the House Committee.

According to him, he had no confidence in the Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo-led House Committee on NDDC, adding that he would not speak before the panel.

Though various members of the committee tried to make him see reasons why he could not dictate to the National Assembly how to run its oversight functions; Prof. Pondei rather walked out on the committee.

Disturbed by the show of disrespect to the lower chamber, Spokesman of the House, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, moved a motion, invoking section 89 of the 1999 constitution (as amended), to issue a warrant of arrest.

The motion was seconded and passed.

The committee also passed a vote of confidence on the Chairman of the Committee, Rep. Tunji-Ojo, saying his integrity and those of other members of the committee was not in question. However, the committe's investigative hearing continues.

Anambra Govt Congratulates Dr. Egbu - First Black Vice Chancellor of A British University (Photo)

IgbereTV reports that the Anambra State government has congratulated Professor Charles Egbu on his emergence as the first black Vice Chancellor of a British university.

Dr Egbu, Professor of Quantity Surveying, will on November 1 assume duties as the Vice Chancellor of Leeds Trinity University in England.

He is currently the Pro- Vice Chancellor (Education & Experience) at the University of East London, having served as the Dean of the School of the Built Environment and Architecture of the London South Bank University and a senior academic at the University College, London.

Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State in a statement which was made available to journalists in Awka, the Anambra State capital, this morning stated: “This is a great moment for not only the government and people of Anambra State but also all Nigerians and indeed, Africans and Blacks across the globe."

“Professor Egbu’s emergence is a game changer in the history of higher education in a conservative society like the United Kingdom where only last January the Universities Minister, The Honourable Chris Skidmore, decried the fact that the number of Blacks holding senior academic positions in Britain is officially zero”, continued Obiano.

“Professor Egbu reminds all Africans of when Professor Kenneth Onwuka Dike, another worthy indigene of Anambra State, became the first African and Black Principal of the University College, Ibadan, and later emerged its first African and Black Vice Chancellor of the university, which was established in 1948.

“Professor Dike, who graduated First Class in the United Kingdom, just like Professor Egbu, made the University of Ibadan become synonymous with excellence in scholarship and administration throughout the world.

“A farsighted leader, Professor Dike discovered early enough the great promise of such young scholars as Dr Jacob Ade Ajayi, and went out of his way to ensure their rapid rise, despite protests from certain quarters.

“The records which these scholars made in various disciplines and endeavours vindicated Professor Dike’s actions, as he went on to become a distinguished professor at Harvard University until he was called upon, once again, to return home and serve his fatherland”.

Governor Obiano said that he is in no doubt that Professor Egbu, who hails from Abatete in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, “will excell in his new role and consequently market our dear state to the world in a most uncanny way.

“I have no doubt in my mind that he will not for a moment forget his roots and how he can contribute to our development”.

Noting that Professor Egbu’s appointment as the first Black Vice Chancellor of a UK university is purely based on merit rather than any primordial considerations, the Anambra State governor stated “with pride that it came when Anambra people in the state, in different parts of the country and all over the world are demonstrating, more than ever before, great competitiveness in education”.

Miss Agnes Ego Maduafokwa from Ihiala scored a bull’s eye in Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) history by getting 365 marks out of a maximum 400 in the 2020 examination while David Nwobi from Nawfia in Njikoka Local Government Area made the second best result in the country.

Two weeks ago, Dr Chidubem Obi from Ifite Dunu in Dunukofia Local Government Area became the first African to emerge the overall best student in Russia’s oldest and most prestigious medical university while Patrick Okigbo III, a member of the Anambra State Vision 2070 Committee set up by Governor Obiano to draw up a strategic plan to make the state fully developed like Dubai within 50 years, was one of the 12 persons across the globe appointed Senior Fellows at John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard.

“These are really good times for the people and government of Anambra State”, according to Governor Obiano who will next week honour in Awka the two candidates with the best results in the 2020 JAMB examination”.

IgbereTV captured a Keke Napep in Enugu with the inscription:

I AM DANGEROUS TO DANGER

GOD PUNISH COVID-19.

See below.

• It’ll be unfair to blame them alone, says YCE
• We need restructuring, not presidency – Okorounmu
• Next president should be Igbo, Aka Ikenga insists

National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the party’s pioneer chairman, Chief Bisi Akande, and the Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, have been warned that they would be blamed if Southwest fails to clinch the presidential ticket of the party in 2023.

The Afenifere Renewal Group (ARG) gave the warning on Saturday while addressing journalists in Ado Ekiti, the capital of Ekiti State.

The ARG’s warning has since drawn reactions from individuals and groups.
To prevent the loss of the presidential ticket, the ARG has also advised Tinubu, Fayemi and Akande to unite Southwest.

The ARG’s Publicity Secretary in Ekiti State, Prince Michael Ogungbemi, who spoke on behalf of the group, said the Southwest had the prospect of producing the President after President Muhammadu Buhari’s two terms in office.

He said, “About 2023, ARG had met and we have concluded that the Yoruba nation is ready to lead Nigeria. We have a blueprint that we can present to any presidential candidate that can bring better democratic governance to all Nigerians.

“The South-West is ready to take over. We have human and material resources.

The political leaders must go on consultations. We have six geopolitical zones, Southwest is just a block. Tinubu must lead this block. Also, luckily, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, who is the NGF chairman, is from the Southwest.

“They must move for a united family to clamour for presidency for the South-West and produce a unified front. If they can speak with one voice, we will actually clinch this ticket, because it is our turn.”

He added, “We can’t go into that race with a divided house. Tinubu, Fayemi, Akande, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, Gen. Alani Akinrinade, Prof Banji Akintoye, Senator Femi Okurounmu, Senator Ayo Fasanmi, Chief Afe Babalola (SAN) and others must convene a meeting of progressive politicians in the zone so that we can be united. If we have a candidate that is acceptable to both the North and the South, we will surely win.

“But Yoruba nation will blame Tinubu, Fayemi and Akande, if the South-West fails to clinch the ticket,” he stated.

The ARG chief stressed the need for restructuring, saying it remained the panacea for peace and unity among diverse Nigerian citizens.

“Nigeria needs to be restructured, but what we need is classical restructuring, it might not be holistic for now. With restructuring, governance at the state will be healthier and more benefiting, the running of the states will be healthier .

“Governance under presidential system is very powerful and costly, but with power residing in the states and local governments, things will be better. We must have a roundtable referendum to achieve this. It is not to satisfy certain groups, it will bring geometric progressive order, because we have not been moving at the right pace.”

The National Chairman of ARhG, Mr. Wale Oshun, stressed the need for Southwest to pick the presidency in 2023, citing the non-constitutional arrangement that the leadership of Nigeria should be rotated.

He said, “The North will finish its eight-year tenure in 2023 and based on that, the presidency should return to South-West because former President Goodluck Jonathan is from the South-East block and he also spent six years, apparently eight if the one he spent along with the late President Umaru Yar’Adua is added.”

Some leaders in the region, however, expressed different opinions on the position of the ARG.

The Secretary-General, Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE), Dr. Kunle Olajide, agreed that the Yoruba should produce next President on the grounds that the ruling APC controlled five out of the six states in Southwest. He also agreed that if the party would produce a Yoruba presidential candidate, the leaders mentioned had critical and crucial roles to play.

He said it would be unfair to leave the fate of Yoruba presidency in the hands of Tinubu, Akande and Fayemi alone.

“Other governors, like Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Gboyega Oyetola (Osun), Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, former governor of Ogun State, Segun Osoba, are also involved.”

He, however, observed that with the political situation the country, “it is very difficult to say that APC would retain the presidency in 2023 looking at the enormity of crises within the party. It is only when the two major political parties APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) decide to field a southern candidate that the south could produce the President.”

A chieftain of Afenifere, Senator Femi Okurounmu, however, said the Yoruba race was not interested in the presidency until Nigeria was appropriately restructured to reflect true federalism.

He said, “Nigeria cannot continue the way it is without restructure.”

Efforts to reach Tinubu for his reaction failed. His spokesman, Tunde Rahman, did not pick his calls.

In a similar manner, Osoba refused to comment on the matter.

Senior Special Assistant to Fayemi on Public Communication, Mr. Segun Dipe, said power would not be served ala carte.

“You don’t just sit down and covet it. We must earn it. The South-South and Southeast also want the power. They all want power to come to them; but at the end of the day, the best person will emerge. Yes, we want it in Southwest, but we can’t legislate it. These leaders are national figures; they can’t just be pushing for the Southwest; that will be selfish. There is more to power than just sitting down and imagining it.

“Power involves networking and bridge-building. Southwest cannot carry gun to get it; it is a game of number. For us to get it, other zones must be willing to concede it without coercion. So, for power to return to Southwest in 2023, others must see the need. Tunubu, Akande and Fayemi are taking the right steps in the right direction. They are our leaders and they are of good standing. However, the concern of the ARG must not be ignored. Nobody is working against the interest of the South-West. The right thing will be done at the right time.”

But the APC Southwest zonal Publicity Secretary, Mr. Dapo Karounwi, said Ogbungbemi must have made the comment based on the level of his understanding of political mechanism in the country.

He said, “There is nothing the South can do to have the presidency in 2023 under the present arrangements if the north did not willingly concede it. The issue has nothing to do with Fayemi, Tinubu, Akande or anybody. If the PDP eventually gives its presidential ticket to a northerner, be assured that the APC will do same, and the 2015 presidential election scenario will replay in Nigeria.”

Meanwhile, a former president of Aka Ikenga, an association of Igbo professionals, Chief Goddy Uwazurike, has said the only zone in the South that has not produced a president was the Southeast.

He said, “The Igbo have paid the price and they are qualified in every aspect of human endeavour to rule Nigeria. If equity, justice and fairness must be adhered to, an Igbo man should be elected as president in 2023.”

IgbereTV reports that Hassan Nasimot Amoke, a 77-year-old grandmother popular known as Mama Arsenal, who trended a few days ago for showing her support and passion for Arsenal Football club has been recognized for her passion.

She will travel to the United Kingdom soon, for a tour of the Emirates Stadium.

She is now officially Authentic Nigerian Football Supporters Club member and she got a cash gift today as well.

At the end of the press briefing, a cheque of N250,000 was presented to her by the Authentic Nigeria Football Supporters Club President, courtesy of Hon. Rotimi Ajanaku.

See photos below.

A social media user posted a meme of Kanayo O. Kanayo, the veteran Nollywood actor who is famous for perfectly interpreting the role of a blood money ritualist (killing people and sacrificing them in order to get wealthy) in Nollywood movies.

Words on the meme read: This Month, Do Not Be Afraid To Make Sacrifices.

What do you think about this meme of Kanayo O. Kanayo?

Is it motivational?

See meme below.

#TMS Media

Anambra Ministry Rescues Mentally-Challenged Nursing Mother And Her Infant From The Streets (Photos)

IgbereTV reports that Anambra State Ministry Of Women and Children Affairs, on Friday, 10th July, 2020, at Umunze, Orumba South, LGA, Anambra State, rescued a mentally-challenged nursing mother and her infant daughter from the streets.

The Honourable Commissioner for Women and Children Affairs, Lady Ndidi Mezue, dispatched a team of social workers to effect the rescue of the middle aged woman following a call placed by Lady Mezue's colleague in the Ministry of Housing, Architect Michael M. Okonkwo, who had pityed the woman whose condition was already attracting public sympathy.

The Honourable Commissioner said, "As a mother, I felt pity when I got a call from my colleague in the ministry of housing, I have to immediately dispatch my team to rescue the woman and her innocent daughter, they have now been cleaned up and relocated to a government owned facility for proper care and rehabilitation."

See photos below.

IgbereTV reports that Gal Pissetzky, lawyer to Nigerian suspected international fraudster, Ramon Olorunwa Abbas, popularly known as Ray Hushpuppi, has said that his client was kidnapped by the FBI from Dubai and taken to the US.

Hushpuppi and another cyber-heist suspect, Olalekan Jacob Ponle, also known as Mr Woodberry were arrested in Dubai, where they lived, in June. They were later taken to the US where they appeared in a Chicago court on 3 July.

The US and UAE have no existing extradition treaty but Dubai police said the two suspected fraudsters were extradited to the US.

The BBC quoted a spokesman for the US Department of Justice as saying that Hushpuppi was expelled from Dubai and was not extradited.

Speaking with the BBC, Hushpuppi’s lawyer Pissetzky, said, “In my opinion, the FBI and the government here acted illegally when they kidnapped him from Dubai without any legal process to do so.

“There was no extradition, there were no legal steps taken, there were no court documents filed, it was simply a call to the FBI. He is not a citizen of the United States, the US had absolutely no authority to take him.”

Gal Pissetzky had earlier told Forbes that Hushpuppi is not a fraudster but deals on real estate, according to Forbes.

Not until he returned to Nigeria from the United States of America (USA) in 2007, many of the people , who never had contact with Hon. Mascot Uzor Kalu, former Chief of Staff, Abia state government, didn't know of his extra-ordinary pedigree especially his humility, generosity, benevolence, selflessness and robust credentials.

After pursuing his primary and secondary education in Lagos, Nigeria, MUK as his fondly called by his fans and admirers, bagged an Associate's degree in Business Administration from Spartanburg Methodist College, USA. Thereafter, he gained admission into the University of South Carolina, where he graduated with a bachelor's degree in Economics and Finance. MUK has also attended several professional courses across the globe in high ranking institutions globally.

Upon completion of his educational pursuits in the USA,  MUK worked with top- rated entities including Vanguard Voyager Services, Vanguard High Network and Vanguard Participant Services. For his outstanding performance on the job, these organizations rewarded MUK with various awards including, "Vanguard Participant Service Star Award", " Vanguard Voyage Service First Thing First Award", "Vanguard Excellence Award" and the "Vanguard Merit Award". 

After gaining the much needed experience and corporate exposure in various sectors of the US economy, MUK set up his business empire in the USA under the name: EUZOR Investment Company, a private conglomerate with interests in Food, Night life, Entertainment, Properties, Logistics and Trading. Red Lion Tavern Restaurants, Zey Motors Company, Zey Trucking and Charlotte First Properties, these entities operated under the parent/holding company: EUZOR Investment Company. Having recorded huge volumes of business transactions , in June 2007, the City of Charlotte North Carolina recognised and honoured MUK as one of the Most Powerful Urban Businessmen of the year. 

Shortly after his remarkable feat abroad, MUK returned to Nigeria after much pressure from his peers and friends to serve as Chief of Staff under the administration of Chief T. A Orji as Abia state Governor. Like he did in the USA, MUK was the man to beat in Abia state as he brought his professional experience and intellectual acumen to bear while serving Abia state. He worked closely with the Governor and members of the State Executive Council to achieve the blue print of the government. His unbiased advise and guidance on policies and programmes were usually cherished and appreciated by the government and the governed. MUK was indeed a shinning light as anyone who came in contact with him couldn't resist  his selflessness, simplicity, intellectual capacity, benevolence, generosity,  composure and spirit of sportsmanship. He ran the office of the CoS professionally while managing relationships with civil servants, political office holders, politicians and other stakeholders.

In 2010, when he resigned as CoS, MUK whose business acumen is legendary, founded Sharlotte Group, comprising Sharlotte Oil and Gas Investments, Sharlotte First Properties and Charlotte Roofs Ltd, Sharlotte Construction. These businesses with the headquarters of their parent body in Abuja, have created employment opportunities and wealth for the people. MUK also sits on the Board of many local and international organisations.

Despite his rich profile in the business and public spheres of life, the unassuming MUK is known to be a silent but great achiever, whose milk of kindness knows no bounds. Under the Mascot Uzor Kalu Foundation, a non-profit organization registered in the USA and Nigeria, large numbers of youths and women have benefited from many initiatives/programmes of the foundation. Since its over 15 years of existence, the entity has annually offered free scholarship schemes to undergraduates from Abia state. Other routine programmes of the foundation include: donation of free long lasting inside mosquito nets, zero interest loan, vocational training for youths, mentorship programme, donation of sewing machines, grinding machines, hair dressing equipments to the target audience.

MUK despite his busy schedule as a businessman and politician, finds time to socialise with family, friends, associates and the youth regardless of their political, social and economic status. He is a mentor to many Nigerians and non-Nigerians alike, most of whom he has counseled and supported morally and financially in achieving their professional/business pursuits. MUK has also presented papers and delivered lectures on youth empowerment, gender balance, leadership, mentorship, corporate governance, philanthropy and other topical issues at various fora.

No doubt, MUK, remains a role model for the younger generation.


Ifeanyi Uche writes from Umuahia, Abia state

IgbereTV reports that the Oyo state government has said that its SS3 students will sit for WAEC Exams. It stated that the FG's directive on 2020 WAEC should be for unity schools.

The state commissioner of education, Olasunkanmi Olaleye, said the SS3 students in the state are in schools preparing for WAEC. The minister of education, Adamu Adamu, had on Wednesday, July 8, suspended the 2020 WAEC indefinitely, stating that the secondary school students preparing for their final examinations would not be able to return to school any time soon because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Speaking with journalists in his office, on Thursday, July 9, on the latest federal government’s position, Olaleye said that the state was also watching out for the reaction of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to the development. While acknowledging that WASSCE was a critical part of education for all students in the state, Olaleye pointed out that the state would make its position known based on its assessment of the prevailing situation. While stating that the federal government’s directive was specifically for its schools, Olaleye said the state’s schools remained open in compliance with COVID-19 protocols.

Olaleye said, “I listened to the federal minister of education and he was emphatic about FG schools. We have resumed in Oyo state and you must have seen the level of compliance to COVID-19 protocols by our schools."

“If you go to our schools, you will see that our senior students are still learning and the preparation for WAEC is ongoing. The examination is part of educational development. So the state government will assess the situation especially because of the fact that WAEC is an integral part of educational development hence it cannot be ignored. “WAEC is a regional examination that involves five countries so we are waiting for the reaction of WAEC. The state government will then assess the situation."

IgbereTV reports that the Enugu State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure has announced suspension of the ongoing fixing of potholes in the state for now.

The decision was contained in a statement by the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. (Sir) Greg Nnaji.

Nnaji explained that the action was “as a result frequent rainfalls during the asphalt paving operations and preparatory works which include cutting, removal of unsuitable materials, filling and compaction with stone base as well as priming with bitumen”.

The commissioner disclosed that the stability of the pavement “can be hindered by pockets of rain water when trapped in the base course”.

He therefore, appealed to the good people of Enugu State, motorists and the general public “to exercise patience as works on repairs of potholes will recommence as soon as the rains recede and enable the MOW&I carry out necessary pavement evaluations on sections already completed".

IgbereTV reports that the Enugu State Government has introduced the Enugu SME Hackathon. Enugu SME Hackathon is the largest gathering of tech-inspired and non tech-inspired thinkers trying to reincline, redesign & redefine the future of work in Enugu state and enforce a global change.

Join and win up to US$3,500 as a business support grant through our partners.

Note: applicatants' ideas

•Must be a smart solution for sustainable business operations

• Innovative

• Cost-effective

• Sustainable

Register here: www.enugusmehackathon.com

#Gburugburuissme #Enugusme
#hackathon

"*STORY TIME* It was a September evening in 2016 that I attended a Kanye West concert in DC with some friends. After the concert, we went to a local speakeasy to debrief our experience and catch up. After...several...cocktails, my homegirl calls an #Uber to take us to one of our fave late night spots in the city.

The Uber pulls up, she hops in the back with her friend at the time, so I hop in the front. A few minutes into the ride, I look over at the driver and...my.word., I was just.... So with my liquid courage SKRONGLY intact, your girl shoots.her.shot. I ask?” to which he responds, “no ma’am”. Now as a city girl, I was like “no ma’am?!?” but that didn’t stop me from proceeding to ask “ He flashes a handsome grin, laughing a bit at my audacity, we chat about music and such and he drops me and my friends off. Some areas of that convo are a bit blurry but I’d apparently given him my number before leaving.

A week later, he texts me and “Collus” appears on my phone. I had no idea who he was Soooo, I ask for a photo and when he sent it, I of course immediately remembered who he was.

Fast forward a year, we moved in together. Another year later, we were engaged. 6 months later, married, 4 months after that, pregnant and in a little over a week, we’re making a huge move for our family’s future.

Today, we celebrate the bEARTHday of the love of my life, the man of my intentions, my baby daddy and my very best friend ❣️✨"

IgbereTV reports that the Akwa-Ibom State government has approved holiday for tax-payers in the state in order to cushion the effects of COVID-19 pandemic.

The Ministry of Finance has been directed to work out modalities for its immediate implementation.

This was part of resolutions reached at the State Executive Council (SEC) meeting presided over by Governor Udom Emmanuel at Government House, Uyo. Briefing journalists after the meeting, Commissioner for Information, Charles Udoh, said the decision was in line with the World Bank requirements for giving grants and support to state governments as well as a decision taken at the Governors Forum for grants to cushion the effect of the pandemic on states.

He said that the council also considered a report on leadership training for senior civil servants and commissioning of blocks of flats under the second phase of Barracks Rehabilitation Initiative for the Nigerian Army at the Wellington Bassey Barracks, Six Amphibious Battalion, Ibagwa, saying the project would be due for inauguration within two weeks.

Chairman of the state COVID-19 Management Committee and Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem, at the weekend issued a seven-day ultimatum to ExxonMobil to comply with COVID-19 guidelines or risk closure of its isolation centres.

He said in operating its quarantine centres, the company had not followed laid down protocols of the Akwa Ibom State Government, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) for the effective running of isolation centres.

“The breaches observed at ExxonMobil’s quarantine centres, in the estimation of the COVID-19 Management Committee, are capable of endangering the lives of not only the employees of ExxonMobil, but also the lives of Akwa Ibom people,” he said. Ekuwem maintained that the state government could not overlook the breaches, as they could jeopardise efforts to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested 121 violators of compulsory use of facemasks in public places in the state.The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Nudam Fredrick, made this known in a statement, saying the action was aimed at containing the spread of COVID-19 pandemic, in line with provisions of the Quarantine and Restriction of Movement Regulations 2020.

He said the arrested offenders would be arraigned in the special courts established in the three senatorial districts to serve as a deterrent to others and urged the people to always use their facemasks in public places.

After resigning from office, Ifedayo Abegunde the immediate past Secretary to the Ondo State Government, has alleged that Governor Rotimi Akeredolu didn't win the 2016 governorship election as was acclaimed, IgbereTV reports.

Abegunde who on Monday morning resigned after a silent war between him and Governor Akeredolu has opened up on his resignation and issues between him and the governor in on a programme on Crest 87.7 Fm, which was monitored by our correspondent in Akure.

He said some "moneybags" in the All Progressives Congress including himself rigged Akeredolu into power in 2016 by manipulating the election result in his favour.

He said Akeredolu lost the 2016 governorship poll to the then Peoples Democratic Party candidate, Eyitayo Jegede, who he claimed was the winner of the election.

He said, "It was through the powers from me and other APC pillars that made INEC declare Akeredolu as governor after he had lost the election.

"So, Akeredolu didn’t win the Ondo governorship election in 2016 but we made it possible for him to become governor.

"We were the pillars behind him and we will not support him again. He will lose this time around.”

On his reason he resigned his position, the former Ondo SSG said he decided to quit the administration due to the way Akeredolu was running the government.

While stressing that he had worked with three different governors in the state, Abegunde described the government of Akeredolu as the worst in the history of the state.

He said, “Akeredolu has reduced the government to the property of his wife, son and in-laws and all government contracts goes to these same set of people from Imo State."

Abegunde further said he was unable to cater for the needs of those who joined him to support the government because funds were not allocated to his office.

He denied that the sum of N5m was being allocated to his office on monthly basis and accused the governor of telling lies.

He said, "Where on earth did the governor give me such funds or let him come forward with the evidence.

"Recently, I reported him to Governor Fayemi of Ekiti State and he promised to invite both of us to Abuja for settlement.

"I remember that I told Fayemi that I was going to spit on the face of Akeredolu if he repeated the lies that he was giving me N5m monthly.

"And I will then return to Akure to resign and as well inform the public of his looting spree.”

Presidency Visits Aro Long Juju Tourist Site In Abia In Preparation For Nigeria At 60 (Photos)

IgbereTV reports that a presidential delegation yesterday visited the ancient town of Arochukwu in Arochukwu LGA of Abia State. The tour was facilitated by Abia State Government.

The delegation led by President Muhammadu Buhari's photographer, Mr. Bayo Omoboriowo and his team landed on a chopper at ASCETA field and was received by the Transition Committee Chairman, Mazi Jideofor Kanu, who represented Abia State government.

Mr. Bayo was on the trip to take record of relics and artifacts especially in the Arochukwu caves.

He acknowledged that Arochukwu Ancient Kingdom is a historic place with the Ibini Ukpabi (Long Juju as a tourist attraction) which is recognized Nationally and internationally adding that he hopes to explore the nature and wonders of the caves.

The team first paid homage to the Eze Aro's Palace and then visited the Ibini Ukpabi caves (Long Juju).

The documentation will be compiled and published as a book in honour of Nigeria at 60 to be launched on the 1st of October 2020 by the president.

In his welcome speech, the host and Transition Committee Chairman, Arochukwu LGA, Mazi Emmanuel Jideofor Kanu commended the team for the visit to Arochukwu and assured that ibini ukpabi information will enrich the documentation, adding that the ancient town of Arochukwu as the cradle of igbo civilization had a number of tourist locations that are waiting to be harnessed. He called on the Presidency and the ministry of Tourism to develop these sites as they will help boost the economy of the Nation.

He led the visitors and others to a long and adventurous trek into the gully to the admiration of the team.