₦airaland Forum

Nsulu community in Abia State was filled with jubilation on Friday, March 28, as the state government commenced the clearing of the access road leading to the proposed Abia Airport runway, ABN TV reports.

The move marks a significant step in fulfilling Governor Alex Otti’s vision for improved infrastructure and economic development in the state.

The Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, who addressed the landowners and residents at the site, reaffirmed the government's commitment to the airport project, assuring that it would be completed in partnership with the federal government. He dismissed speculations that the Nsulu people were opposed to the project, citing their enthusiasm as proof of their support.

"This administration is built on sincerity and transparency. Governor Alex Otti has consistently fulfilled his promises, and this project is no different," Pastor Ajagba stated. "The excitement here today debunks any false claims that Nsulu people are against this airport. They fully support it and recognize its importance."

He lauded the host communities for their cooperation and urged the contractors to integrate local workers into the project. Pastor Ajagba also revealed that compensation payments to landowners had already begun, reinforcing the government’s commitment to fairness and due process.

Special Assistant to the Governor on Lands and Housing, and Project Coordinator for the Abia Airport, Pastor Okoro Aji, described the clearing of the access road as a crucial milestone. He explained that this step would facilitate soil testing and other essential preparations for the runway, which is approximately 853 kilometers from the main road. The clearing is expected to be completed within a week.

Rt. Hon. Uzor Azubuike, Chairman of the Memorandum of Agreement Committee for the project, praised Governor Otti for addressing community concerns by reducing the airport's land allocation from 1,800 hectares to 1,000 hectares.

"What you see today is the true joy of Nsulu people, who are proud to be the hosts of this major development project," Azubuike said.

Similarly, landowner Barr. Andrew Obinna Ijenri expressed gratitude for the government’s transparent approach to land acquisition and compensation.

"This administration has proven to be different from previous ones. The process of land acquisition has been fair, and payments have been made as promised," he noted.

Various community leaders, including Nsulu Youth President Prince Chisom Nwaogbe, Umuala Youth President Ifeanyi Nwachukwu, and Chairman of Community Relations for the Nsulu Airport Project Rev. Israel Ukoma, echoed the excitement and optimism of the people. They emphasized that the project would bring immense economic benefits to the region.

A fatal accident involving security operatives of "OPERATION CRUSH" occurred on Sunday evening at Ihie Ibeku along the Bende Road in Umuahia, Abia State, resulting in one confirmed death and several others sustaining injuries.


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

ABN TV reports that the vehicle transporting the operatives, which included personnel from the Nigerian Police Force, the Nigerian Army, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), veered off the road and plunged into a deep ditch. The challenging terrain and narrow nature of the road, which serves as a federal highway linking Bende to Ohafia and Arochukwu, may have contributed to the accident.

Inside the vehicle at the time of the accident were three policemen, five NSCDC officers, and one military personnel. Out of the ten operatives onboard, one officer from the NSCDC was confirmed dead, while eight others sustained serious injuries and were rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Umuahia for urgent medical attention. Notably, one operative had disembarked before the accident occurred and was initially declared missing but was later found alive.

Eyewitnesses confirmed that a prominent Ibeku community leader, popularly known as Akaraka, alongside other passersby, played a crucial role in the initial rescue efforts. They used his vehicle and other available means to transport the first six injured operatives to the hospital before further reinforcements arrived.

Despite the severity of the incident, road safety officials had yet to arrive at the scene at the time of reporting. Witnesses have called on the state government and relevant authorities to act swiftly, emphasizing the urgent need for better road safety measures and emergency response protocols to prevent further casualties.

Meanwhile, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, was present at FMC Umuahia alongside ABN TV correspondents to monitor the situation.
Additionally, the Abia State Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, visited FMC with his team tonight. He prayed for and encouraged the personnel, offering words of support during this difficult time.

The Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with the Armed Forces and other security agencies, has intensified security operations in Rivers State following the declaration of a state of emergency by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on March 18, 2025.

A statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi and made available to ABN TV, noted that the declaration was necessitated by the prolonged political crisis in the state, which has spanned over 22 months and posed a significant threat to public order and national security.

Prior to the presidential directive, the Nigeria Police had been monitoring the situation, gathering intelligence, and coordinating efforts with other security agencies to mitigate potential risks. The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has now directed the immediate deployment of additional personnel and resources to Rivers State to bolster security, safeguard lives and property, and protect critical infrastructure.

The police emphasized the importance of maintaining law and order, urging residents to go about their daily activities without fear. However, they warned that any attempt to exploit the situation through unlawful gatherings, protests, or activities aimed at disrupting public peace would be met with the full force of the law.

Furthermore, the police reaffirmed that individuals with grievances have the legal right to seek redress through appropriate judicial channels. Citizens have also been encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that may compromise public safety.

Security agencies have issued a strong warning to individuals or groups with criminal intentions, stressing that decisive action will be taken against any threat to peace and stability in Rivers State.

The Abia State Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, has disbanded the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit and the Command’s Special Squad (CSS), replacing them with a newly trained and highly professional unit known as the Scorpion Squad, ABN TV reports.

According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, on March 20, 2025, the restructuring aims to enhance law enforcement operations in the state while ensuring professionalism and strict adherence to the rule of law. The new squad will be led by SP Ibe Daniel as Commander, with DSP Eze Augustine serving as the second-in-command.

CP Danladi Isa, while addressing members of the newly formed Scorpion Squad, emphasized the need for professionalism, discipline, and compliance with the rules of engagement. He directed that all operations must be intelligence-driven, with officers maintaining proper operational dress codes for easy identification and accountability. The CP also warned that any misconduct tarnishing the image of the force would attract strict sanctions.

The Scorpion Squad has been mandated to combat violent crimes across Abia State, ensuring that criminal activities are decisively addressed and reduced to the barest minimum.

An 80-year-old woman, Mrs. Fidelia Nnabuenyi, has been found in Aba, Abia State, and is currently in the custody of the Osisioma Police Division.

ABN TV reports that Mrs. Nnabuenyi, who hails from Umuezike, Ihiala in Anambra State, was found on March 16, 2025, and was brought to the Osisioma Police Station the following day, March 17, 2025, by Chinyere Benjamin Amefula of Arongwa Village, Osisioma. Despite her age, she was able to provide basic information about herself to the police.

Authorities are now calling on the public to help locate her family members so she can be safely reunited with them. Anyone with useful information about her relatives is urged to contact Osisioma Police Division in Aba, Abia State, or call 08067356983 or 07035038167.

Residents are encouraged to share this information widely to assist in reuniting the elderly woman with her loved ones.

One of the four kidnapped victims rescued by the Abia State Police Command has shared a chilling account of their harrowing experience in captivity and the dramatic rescue operation that brought them to safety, ABN TV reports.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NbpKjSi0bIs

Narrating his ordeal, the victim revealed that he and his friends were on their way to drop off a companion when they were ambushed by kidnappers along New Umuahia Road, Obingwa. Unknown to them, the assailants had already abducted another victim nearby and seized his car.

"They had already kidnapped my friend in front of his house and taken his car. They drove around for over two hours before forcing us into the vehicle and taking us to an unknown destination," the victim recalled.

For five agonizing days—from Sunday to Friday—the captives were held in a small, cramped room, deprived of basic necessities. The kidnappers confiscated their phones and forced some of them to transfer money while also contacting their families to demand ransom.

"There was nothing to eat, nothing at all. They took our phones and reached out to our families for ransom," he narrated.

However, hope was restored on Friday afternoon when the victims heard gunshots—signaling the arrival of police operatives.

"We had prayed for help, and suddenly, we heard gunfire. The kidnappers started shooting, but by the special grace of God, the Nigerian Police intervened. The officers engaged them in a gun battle and broke into the room where we were kept. That was how we were saved," the victim recounted with relief.

The victim also disclosed that while in captivity, they heard voices, including those of children, suggesting that the kidnappers may have been operating within a residential area.

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has ordered the complete demolition of a bungalow in Osokwa, Osisioma Local Government Area, where four kidnapped victims were rescued following a fierce gun battle between tactical officers of the Abia State Police Command and the kidnappers, ABN TV reports.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pNVe8piZfM

Governor Otti made the announcement on Saturday during a world press conference at the Banquet Hall of the Abia State Government House. Speaking alongside the Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, the Governor declared that his administration would not tolerate buildings or individuals linked to criminal activities in the state.

“I instructed earlier today that the bungalow in Osokwa, Osisioma Local Government Area, be completely demolished. We will also identify and prosecute the owner of the building,” Governor Otti stated.

He further directed the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Uzor Nwachukwu, to engage the Traditional Ruler of Osokwa Community to explain how such a criminal operation could take place within his domain without his knowledge.

Commending the Abia State Police Command for its swift and decisive action, Governor Otti praised CP Danladi Isa and his tactical team for their bravery in rescuing the victims and neutralizing six kidnappers.

“We have made it clear that no part of Abia will be ceded to criminals. On behalf of the Abia State Government, I thank you,” the Governor said.

He also hinted at a financial reward for the officers involved in the operation, revealing, “I have already whispered to the CP that a financial reward awaits you.”

Providing details of the operation, CP Danladi Isa explained that the incident began on March 9, when four men were kidnapped along Umuahia New Road in Obingwa by unknown gunmen.

“Our tactical team immediately swung into action, utilizing our technology to track the kidnappers’ location in Osisioma,” CP Isa stated.

“Yesterday, we moved in and encountered them in a fierce gun battle. Despite being under intense fire, our tactical team successfully rescued the victims and neutralized six of the kidnappers.”

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has announced that 222 primary and secondary schools across the state are currently undergoing renovation as part of his administration’s commitment to improving
education infrastructure.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hbVdO4jjXzI


Governor Otti made this known on Friday during his monthly media chat (March Edition) with journalists at Government House, Umuahia, tagged "Governor Alex Otti Speaks to Abians."

According to the Governor, the renovation effort prioritizes the most critical schools, with plans to extend the initiative until all communities benefit from upgraded learning environments.

"We have started with the most critical ones and will continue until we achieve clear outcomes in terms of school infrastructure in all the communities," he assured.

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North Senatorial District, has confirmed a friendly visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The former Abia State governor shared the update on his official Facebook page, stating:

"Tonight, I paid a friendly visit to the working President, H.E. Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu, GCFR."

While details of their discussion were not disclosed, the meeting has sparked political conversations, given Kalu's influential role in national politics and his history of close ties with the president.

Political analysts suggest that such visits often serve as platforms for key consultations on national issues, party affairs, and regional development. As a senior member of the Senate and a key figure in the ruling party, Kalu's engagement with President Tinubu may have touched on pressing political and economic matters, including governance strategies, security challenges, and infrastructural development in the Southeast.

However, when an ABN TV correspondent reached out to Senator Orji Uzor Kalu via phone to inquire about the visit, he reaffirmed that it was purely a friendly courtesy call and nothing more.

"It was just a friendly visit, nothing more," Kalu clarified.

Senator Kalu, known for his strong advocacy for national unity and economic reforms, has consistently engaged with top government officials on issues concerning his constituents and the nation at large. His latest visit to the president is expected to further strengthen ties between the executive and legislative arms of government.

A heartbreaking case of child defilement has surfaced in Amaogudu Abiriba, Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State, as a woman, Mrs. Ugo Enyinnaya, has raised alarm over the alleged assault of her 4-year-old daughter, Miss Chidera, by a man identified as Pastor Uche Arua, ABN TV reports.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_bv7g5zQRTM

Speaking on the podcast show "Talk Make I Talk" with Fakzy on Thursday 6th March 2024, Mrs. Enyinnaya recounted how the accused, a teacher at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, allegedly lured her daughter to his house and violated her on October 24, 2024.

According to her, the suspect had claimed to be a relative from Ebem Ohafia before taking the child under the pretext of showing her his house.

"Chidera later told me what he did to her, how he silenced her, and gave her snacks," Mrs. Enyinnaya revealed.

Following the incident, she immediately reported the matter to the police. However, the suspect initially evaded arrest. Days later, he was seen entering the church where he teaches, but instead of turning himself in, he attempted to escape responsibility. It was the intervention of local youths that led to his eventual capture and subsequent handover to the police at Abiriba before being transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Umuahia.

Despite the arrest, the case has been fraught with delays and frustrations. Mrs. Enyinnaya disclosed that a first court hearing was held on December 18, 2024, but she was not informed on time due to financial and distance constraints.

During the second hearing on February 21, 2025, at Magistrate Court 11, Umuahia, the case suffered another setback as the assigned police inspector failed to appear.

"I want justice for my daughter," Mrs. Enyinnaya pleaded. "But the barrister handling the case has told us that if we don’t provide a certain amount of money, he will not push the case further. He even suggested that we let the man go since we cannot afford it."

She expressed fear that the case might be abandoned without public intervention, allowing the suspect to walk free.

As she continues to seek justice, Mrs. Enyinnaya is calling on authorities, human rights organizations, and well-meaning Nigerians to support her in ensuring that the perpetrator is held accountable.

"Little Chidera wants justice! Say no to rape! If justice is not served, this could happen to another innocent child!" she cried out.

During the heated plenary session that led to the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North Senatorial District, made a case for empathy towards her aides, urging the Senate to amend a recommendation that called for the withholding of their salaries and wages, ABN TV reports.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwkDTv2QH4Q

The Ethics and Public Petitions Committee had recommended that, along with Senator Natasha’s six-month suspension, all financial entitlements, including salaries and allowances, be withheld—not just for the senator but also for her aides.

However, Senator Kalu took a stand against this, emphasizing that the affected aides were innocent and should not be punished for an offence they did not commit.

"We cannot punish the aides of Senator Natasha for an offence they did not commit," Kalu stated on the Senate floor. "They are staff of the National Assembly, and they have no other farm or means of livelihood apart from the salaries they earn from the Senate. As such, it will be wrong for us as a Senate to deny them and their families their salaries."

The former Abia State governor, now a distinguished senator, passionately moved for an amendment to the recommendation, urging his colleagues to allow the affected staff to continue receiving their salaries despite their principal's suspension.

While the Senate upheld the suspension of Senator Natasha, deliberations on Kalu’s plea gained attention, sparking discussions on the fairness of extending punitive measures to legislative aides who played no direct role in the senator’s alleged infractions.

The final decision on the proposed amendment remains pending, but Kalu’s intervention has drawn reactions from various quarters, with some commending his stance on protecting the welfare of National Assembly staff.

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has fulfilled his promise to members of the Abia State House of Assembly by presenting them with 24 brand-new Roxettes Utility Pick-Up Vans to enhance their legislative and oversight functions, ABN TV reports.

During the official handover ceremony, Governor Otti presented the keys to the Speaker of the 8th Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, emphasizing that the gesture was aimed at improving the mobility and effectiveness of the lawmakers.

"I promised that I was going to make available a truck for each of you for your oversight functions," the governor stated.

Governor Otti reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting local businesses, noting that the vans were locally assembled in Abia State by Roxettes. He highlighted his policy of prioritizing indigenous manufacturers as a way of fostering local industrial growth and improving product quality.

"This vehicle was assembled in Abia State by Roxettes, with a workshop already in place in Ohia, Umuahia, while the factory is in Ukwa. This is all geared towards supporting local manufacturing and adding value to our economy," he said.

He further disclosed that the manufacturer, an indigene of Abia from Umunneochi LGA, is on the verge of completing his factory in Obuaku, Ukwa West LGA, with road construction to the site nearing completion.

Governor Otti emphasized that his government is focused on upscaling the quality of indigenous products to boost confidence in locally made goods and position them for export. He revealed that efforts are ongoing to establish an export growth lab in the state in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

"I'm sure you have read that we are trying to establish an export growth lab, and UNDP has promised to support us," he stated. "Our people are fantastic. There is nothing they can't produce with their hands; they only need a little support."

He also encouraged Aba-based manufacturers to boldly brand their products instead of using foreign labels.

"We see a lot of people improving on their products, particularly in Aba. What we are doing now is to encourage them to be bold enough to write their names instead of writing Prada, Gucci, or Fendi," Governor Otti noted.