₦airaland Forum

The Nigerian Army has distanced itself from an individual alleged to be involved in armed robbery in Abia State, describing him as a criminal impersonator falsely parading as a serving soldier.


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In a press release issued by the Headquarters, 14 Brigade Nigerian Army, Ohafia, the Army said its attention was drawn to reports circulating on social media claiming that one Lance Corporal Chukwu Ebuka Peter, purportedly attached to the Brigade, was involved in criminal activities.

However, the Army categorically denied the claim, stating that preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect is not a member of the Nigerian Army but an impostor using the identity of a soldier to perpetrate crimes.

According to the statement signed by the Assistant Director Army Public Relations, Captain Mazinho Attah, every genuine soldier of the Nigerian Army is duly identified with a unique service number, and no record of the suspect exists within the 14 Brigade or any of its units.

The Army further noted that during interrogation, the suspect could not be linked to any recognized unit under the Brigade, reinforcing the conclusion that he is an unscrupulous criminal impersonator.

The Nigerian Army strongly condemned the act of impersonation, reiterating its commitment to maintaining strict discipline, professionalism, and accountability among its personnel.

It emphasized that any serving soldier found guilty of criminal conduct would be subjected to due process in line with military laws and regulations.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stated that no state governor in Nigeria is currently struggling to borrow from banks to pay workers’ salaries, describing the development as a sign that the nation’s economy is gradually stabilizing.


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The President made the remark while addressing religious and traditional leaders during a gathering held to mark the coinciding fasting periods of Ramadan and Lent.

According to Tinubu, the economic reforms introduced by his administration have helped improve the financial standing of states, enabling governors to meet their obligations to workers without resorting to emergency borrowing.

“No governor in this country, in any of your states, is now running around the banks to borrow money to pay the salaries of their workers,” Tinubu said.

He noted that the situation was very challenging when his administration assumed office, but assured that significant progress had been made in stabilizing the nation’s economy.

The President said Nigeria had been saved from the brink of bankruptcy through tough but necessary economic decisions taken by the Federal Government.

“It was very daunting and very challenging when we took over, but today I can say with pride and joy that we are surviving and the economy has turned the corner,” he added.

Tinubu also revealed that pensioners are gradually receiving relief as the government continues to implement policies aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerians.

He reiterated that his administration remains committed to investing in critical sectors such as agriculture and education to ensure a better future for the next generation.

The President further assured Nigerians that despite security challenges, including terrorism and banditry, the Federal Government remains determined to restore peace and protect the country’s sovereignty.

The Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has successfully conducted its state congress, with the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu declared that the party is fully prepared to win the governorship election in the state in 2027.

The congress, held under a consensus arrangement, produced Hon. Chijioke Chukwu, a former Minority Leader of the Abia State House of Assembly, as the new State Chairman of the party. Chidi Avoaja emerged as State Secretary, while Uche Aguoru was elected Publicity Secretary. The former Publicity Secretary, Benedict Godson, was elected Assistant Secretary, among other members of the newly constituted state executive committee.

Speaking during the congress, Kalu described the peaceful conduct of the exercise as a sign of a new direction in political party administration in Abia State.

According to him, the consensus arrangement adopted for the congress, which allowed party leaders across different levels to nominate candidates, demonstrated that the APC had been returned to the people.

“With the congress concluded, the APC is now stronger in Abia State. The party is ready to break barriers and win elections,” Kalu said.

The Deputy Speaker also expressed confidence that the APC would deliver overwhelming support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

“Abia is ready for President Bola Tinubu and ready to give him the votes he deserves. We are not negotiating with anyone for the President to secure 25 percent of the votes in Abia. We have the capacity to deliver more than 80 percent for him in 2027,” he stated.

Kalu added that the party would soon organise a major APC rally in the state that would attract top leaders of the party, including the President and Vice President.

“What we have done today is not a rally. Abia should get ready because the APC rally is coming, where the President, his Vice, and other party leaders will be present,” he added.

He further noted that the southern political bloc remains firmly behind President Tinubu and urged party members to mobilise support for his re-election.

Also speaking, the National Organising Secretary of the APC, Donatus Nwamkpa, commended party leaders including Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, for their efforts in ensuring the success of the congress.

Nwamkpa expressed optimism that with such leadership, the APC would produce the next governor of Abia State in 2027.

Similarly, the Chairman of the National Committee for the Abia Congress, Emmanuel Go’ar, praised the Local Organising Committee led by Chief Marc Wabara for successfully coordinating the congress.

Several party stakeholders who spoke at the event also commended the leadership of the party for reconciling previously aggrieved factions and pledged their support for the newly elected state executive.

In his acceptance speech, the newly elected State Chairman, Hon. Chijioke Chukwu, thanked party members for the confidence reposed in him and other members of the executive.

He pledged to lead the party with humility and dedication, assuring that the APC would work tirelessly to ensure that Abia becomes an APC-controlled state in 2027.

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has strongly defended the impact of his administration’s reforms, insisting that the results of governance in the state are visible and can be felt by residents in their daily lives.

The exchange occurred during the February edition of “Governor Alex Otti Speaks to Abians”, when a journalist, Chika Nwabueze of Don Media Group, asked the governor to provide measurable and transparent data showing how his policies have improved the economic and living conditions of ordinary Abians beyond infrastructure projects.

The journalist noted that while the administration had received praise for visible road construction and reforms, critics believe more verifiable evidence is needed to demonstrate inclusive governance and measurable economic impact.

Responding, Governor Otti questioned the foundation of the inquiry and challenged the journalist directly.

“You have not said anything. Do you live in Abia?” the governor asked.

He went further to cite practical examples of changes residents experience daily.

“The road you use, is it tarred? Do your children pay school fees? But you see, children that don’t pay school fees, right?”

Otti insisted that the monthly media engagement is a serious forum and should not be used for what he described as poorly framed questions.

“This media chat is a serious media chat. We are not here to massage your opposition,” he said.

“When we throw this open for people to ask questions, it doesn’t mean people should be stupid.”

The governor maintained that governance outcomes should be assessed through observable changes rather than abstract demands for statistics from the executive.

“If you can’t feel what is happening in this state where you live, then I’m sorry, I can’t help you,” he said.

“That’s not my business. My business is to deliver on my promises.”

Listing areas he believes demonstrate measurable progress, Otti referenced improved road infrastructure, reduced accidents and travel time, the introduction of free electric buses, and expanded access to healthcare services.

“Because roads have been done, accidents have reduced, travel time has reduced, and there are electric buses all over the place that are free of charge,” he stated.

“There are 200 primary health care centres that were not here before.”

He added: “If you want the governor to sit and tell you the economic impact, then something is wrong.”

Concluding the exchange, Governor Otti advised journalists to come better prepared for future sessions.

“Next time, when you are coming to ask a question, prepare very well,” he said.

Despite the tense moment, the governor reiterated that his administration remains focused on delivering on campaign promises and believes that government performance should be evaluated based on visible outcomes and practical improvements that residents can independently verify.

Pastor Prof. Ursula Ngozi Akanwa has been officially appointed as the 7th Vice Chancellor of the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU).

With her appointment, she makes history as the first female Vice Chancellor of the institution, ABN TV reports.

The appointment was announced to the Press by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University, Comrade Fidelis Chukwunweike Edeh, shortly after the 95th Meeting of the Council considered the report of the Selection Panel.

Prof. Akanwa, who serves currently as Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research and Development in the University, will take over from the 6th Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, on March 1, 2026.

Prof. Akanwa is a professor of Educational Measurement and Evaluation. She joined the services of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike in 20101 as an Associate Professor from Abia State University, Uturu, and rose to the rank of full professor in 2014.

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu has congratulated the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, on his 61st birthday, applauding his leadership and commitment to the transformation of the state.

In a goodwill message dated February 18, Kalu commended Governor Otti’s dedication to improving governance and delivering development-driven policies aimed at enhancing the welfare of Abia residents.

The Deputy Speaker noted that while citizens continue to demand more progress from the government, such expectations are necessary for growth and should not diminish the achievements already recorded under Otti’s administration.

Acknowledging the complexities associated with leadership, Kalu expressed optimism that sustained collaboration among political leaders, stakeholders, and the people would further accelerate positive change across the state.

He reaffirmed his readiness to partner with the governor in advancing Abia’s development agenda and prayed for long life, sound health, and continued impactful service.

“We are committed to partnering with you to build a brighter future for our State. I wish you many more years in good health. Happy Birthday, Your Excellency,” Kalu stated.

All is now set for a historic Valentine’s Day empowerment programme as the Member representing Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency, Hon. Ginger Obinna Onwusibe, prepares to roll out a massive support initiative worth over ₦1 billion for his constituents on Saturday, February 14, 2026.


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The large-scale intervention, designed to boost small businesses, create employment opportunities, and improve household livelihoods across the constituency, will see the distribution of a wide range of income-generating tools and equipment to beneficiaries.

Items scheduled for distribution include 50 electric motorcycles, 30 Keke NAPEP tricycles, and 70 tricycle pickup vans, alongside 100 manual sewing machines and 200 industrial sewing machines to support tailoring and fashion enterprises.

Other equipment to be handed over are 80 washing machines, 30 car-washing machines, 550 gasoline generating sets, 200 grinding machines, and 40 vulcanizing machines, all targeted at strengthening micro and small-scale businesses within the constituency.

In addition, beneficiaries will receive 20 solar power generators, 10 cutting machines for tillers, and two electric transformers to enhance energy access and productivity in selected communities.

Beyond equipment distribution, Hon. Onwusibe will also disburse ₦50 million in financial support directly to constituents as part of efforts to stimulate grassroots economic growth and cushion prevailing economic challenges.

The Valentine’s Day empowerment programme is widely regarded as one of the largest single-day constituency support initiatives in Abia State, reflecting the lawmaker’s commitment to practical representation and inclusive development.

Residents and stakeholders across Isiala Ngwa North and South have expressed anticipation that the intervention will significantly expand business opportunities, reduce unemployment, and strengthen local economic activity.

Mayor Lucky Igbokwe (Don Lulu), Chairman of Don Media Group and Abia State Director of the City Boy Movement, has congratulated the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, on his emergence as the Leadership Newspapers 2025 Legislator of the Year.

In a statement issued on February 12, 2026, Igbokwe described the honour as a well-deserved recognition of disciplined legislative service, constructive national leadership, and commitment to strengthening democratic institutions in Nigeria.

He noted that Kalu, through effective lawmaking, engagement in constitutional reform processes, and promotion of cross-regional collaboration, continues to play a strategic role in shaping legislative direction at the national level. According to him, sustainable national development depends on leaders who prioritise competence, stability, and the broader national interest.

The media entrepreneur further stated that recognitions of this nature reinforce accountability within public institutions and encourage a governance culture where performance, responsibility, and service delivery are highly valued.

Mayor Igbokwe also prayed for continued wisdom, strength, and clarity of purpose for the Deputy Speaker as he continues to serve the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The congratulatory message was signed by Mayor Lucky Igbokwe in his dual capacity as Chairman of Don Media Group and Abia State Director of the City Boy Movement.

The Abia State Director of the City Boy Movement (CBM), Mayor Lucky Igbokwe, popularly known as Don Lulu, has appointed Mr. Gberemakor Okechukwu as the State Coordinator of the Movement in Abia State.

Okechukwu, a seasoned public service professional with extensive experience in finance, administration, and governance, is expected to strengthen grassroots mobilisation and drive support for the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda across the state.

The appointment forms part of ongoing efforts to reposition the City Boy Movement’s structure and expand its operational reach within Abia State. Further details on his inauguration are expected soon.

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has declared that there is no legal provision mandating a sitting governor to operate exclusively from the Government House, insisting that the Constitution does not prescribe a specific place of residence or official duty post for a state chief executive.


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Governor Otti made the assertion while responding to questions during a media parley in Umuahia, amid criticisms and threats of legal action by some of his predecessors and their loyalists over his decision to temporarily operate from his private residence in Nvosi.

The governor said he was unfazed by the threats and challenged those behind them to proceed to court without delay, adding that his legal team was fully prepared to defend his position.

“I am waiting to be sued. My lawyers are ready. I have looked at the Constitution, and there is nowhere it says I must live in a particular place,” Otti stated.

Otti explained that his decision was informed by the poor state of facilities at the Government House, which he said had been left in a deplorable condition by previous administrations.

According to him, the Governor’s Lodge and a new office complex within the Government House are currently undergoing reconstruction to restore the facility to a befitting standard.

“The state in which they left the Government House speaks for itself. I don’t owe anybody an explanation,” he added.

The controversy follows recent statements attributed to former Abia State governors, including Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, Senator Theodore Orji, and Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, and their supporters, who reportedly threatened to initiate legal action to compel Otti to relocate fully to the Government House in Umuahia.

The Abia media and creative community has been thrown into mourning following the death of popular broadcast journalist and actor, Macarthy Uzoma, whose passing was discovered days after he died in his residence in Umuahia, Abia State.

Mr. Uzoma, fondly known in media circles as ClergyMan, reportedly passed on quietly in his home at Umuifeze Amizi Olokoro, Umuahia South Local Government Area. His death went unnoticed until several days later, when concerned neighbours and acquaintances raised alarm, leading to the sad discovery.

The late journalist and actor, aged 52, was well known for his contributions to broadcast media and the creative industry in Abia State, where he earned respect for his calm disposition, professionalism, and passion for storytelling and public communication.

In a statement announcing his burial arrangements, the family said they received his passing with “a heart of heaviness but total submission to the will of Almighty God,” describing him as a beloved father, son, brother, uncle, and friend whose impact will be long remembered.

According to the burial programme, a Christian wake-keep and praise night will be held on Tuesday, January 21, 2026, at Umuifeze Square, Olokoro, starting at 10:00 p.m.

On Wednesday, January 22, 2026, his remains will depart City Gate Mortuary, Old Aba Road, Umuahia, for his village home at Mr. Ochonma’s Compound, Umuifeze Amizi Olokoro, where a requiem mass will be held, followed shortly by interment.

Family members, colleagues, friends, and admirers have continued to pour in tributes, remembering Mr. Uzoma as a dedicated media professional and creative talent whose voice and presence will be deeply missed in Abia’s broadcast and entertainment space.

He is survived by family members and loved ones, who have appealed for prayers and support as preparations are made to lay him to rest in his hometown in Umuahia, Abia State.

All will fondly remember him.

The Chairman of DON Media Group, Lucky Igbokwe, popularly known as Don Lulu, has expressed deep appreciation to Nigerians from all walks of life for the overwhelming support shown to his family during the burial of his late mother, Dame Peace Onyekwulechi Igbokwe.

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In a statement issued after the burial ceremonies, Mayor Igbokwe thanked family members, friends, associates, and well-wishers who travelled from far and near, sent condolence messages, offered prayers, and stood by the family throughout the period of mourning.

He specially appreciated the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, for his solidarity and encouragement, as well as the Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, for personally attending the burial and offering words of comfort.

Mayor Igbokwe also acknowledged the support of the Deputy Governor of Abia State and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Caleb Ajagba, alongside the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, Obi Aguocha, and the National Secretary of the Labour Party, Darlington Nwokocha.

He further thanked representatives of the son of the President, Seyi Tinubu, as well as other prominent personalities, including former Abia State House of Assembly Speaker Chinedum Orji, Lagos State Special Adviser on Tourism Idris Aregbe, Director-General of the City Boy Movement Francis Tosin Shoga, and former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah.

The DON Media Group chairman also acknowledged the presence of traditional rulers and community leaders, including Royal High Chief Dr. Charles Onwuneme, the Traditional Prime Minister of Ohuhu Clan, as well as friends and associates such as Aham Uko, Mascot Uzor Kalu, and Nollywood actress Doris Ogala.

Mayor Igbokwe described the massive turnout and expressions of love witnessed during the burial as humbling and comforting, noting that the support reaffirmed the family’s belief in unity, friendship, and shared humanity.

He prayed that God would bless and reward all who stood with the family and grant eternal rest to the soul of the late Dame Peace Onyekwulechi Igbokwe.

The people of Ebem Ohafia in Ohafia LGA of Abia State have announced a comprehensive set of security reforms aimed at strengthening public safety, curbing criminal activities, and preserving social order within the community.


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The resolutions were reached through a joint decision of Ebem Ohafia youths, the Central Executive Council of the Ebem Ohafia Development Union (EODU), and the Ebem Council of Chiefs and Elders, following growing concerns over security challenges. The measures took immediate effect on Monday, January 13, 2026.

Under the new directives, the sale, use, and trafficking of hard drugs and illicit substances have been completely banned within Ebem Ohafia. Community authorities stressed that anyone found engaging in such activities will face stiff fines and disciplinary sanctions, irrespective of social status.

The community also condemned the rise in cult-related activities, issuing a final ultimatum to individuals involved to renounce such practices or face severe community sanctions and possible prosecution in accordance with the law.

In a bid to prevent Ebem Ohafia from becoming a refuge for criminal elements, individuals who have committed crimes in other communities and relocated to Ebem as hideouts have been ordered to vacate the community immediately. Any indigene found harbouring or providing accommodation for such persons will be held accountable.

Additionally, the use of weapons, brandishing or firing of firearms, and violent confrontations have been outlawed. Offenders will be handed over to security agencies and subjected to heavy community penalties. The community further resolved that Ndi Ikwu will bear responsibility for defaulters within their jurisdiction, including possible suspension from hosting ceremonies and communal activities.

The reforms also extend to commercial activities. Traders along the Ebem Police Station/Court Road and within the Ebem Ohafia Daily Market were warned against obstructing gutters, walkways, and designated free zones. Any goods found in violation will be impounded without notice.

Speaking on the development, the Publicity Secretary of the Ebem Ohafia Development Union, Mr. Ifeanyi Okali, said the measures reflect the community’s collective resolve to protect lives, property, and the long-standing values of Ebem Ohafia. He urged residents and visitors to comply fully, noting that enforcement would be strict and uncompromising.

The Ebem Ohafia Community reaffirmed its commitment to peace, security, and sustainable development, calling on all stakeholders to support the new security framework in the interest of a safer and more orderly society.

A coalition of former Abia State governors, legislators, and political appointees who served between 1999 and 2023 has announced plans to institute legal action against Governor Alex Otti over his continued operation from a private residence in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, ABN TV reports.


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The decision was reached at the group’s second meeting held at the residence of former Abia State governor, Theodore Orji, where members resolved to compel the governor to relocate official activities to the Government House in Umuahia.

Among those listed as members of the group are former governors Orji Uzor Kalu, Theodore Orji, and Okezie Ikpeazu, alongside other past political office holders.

In a communique issued after the meeting on Friday, the group stated that the planned lawsuit is aimed at enforcing what it described as the proper use of official government facilities.

“A lawsuit should be instituted compelling Governor Alex Otti to operate from the Government House, Umuahia,” the communique read.

The communique, which was read by a former media aide in the Abia State Government, Victor Ike Oye, expressed strong dismay that Governor Otti is still conducting state business from his personal residence rather than the officially designated Government House.

Beyond the legal threat, the group also declared its readiness to mobilize politically for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu. It further expressed gratitude to the President for nominating one of its members, former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, for an ambassadorial appointment.

The development adds a new dimension to the political discourse in Abia State, as the controversy over the governor’s operating base now appears headed for the courts.