₦airaland Forum

Tragedy struck yesterday when six delegates from the Isiala Ngwa Diocese of the Anglican Communion Abia State were kidnapped in Kogi State while traveling to Abuja for the Divine Commonwealth Conference Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) annual conference, ABN TV reports.

This unfortunate incident has marred the conference, which was scheduled to take place from November 10 to 15, 2024, at the National Christian Centre Abuja.

The delegates, along with their driver, were abducted while on their way to the conference.

Their vehicle, a Sienna Car, was also taken. As of the time of filing this report, there has been no communication from the kidnappers to the families or the church.

This disturbing event raises concerns about the safety and security of travelers in Nigeria, particularly those on religious pilgrimages. The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has been vocal about the nation's challenges, with the Primate, His Grace, The Most Revd Dr. Henry C. Ndukuba, recently lamenting that Nigeria is under economic, spiritual, and security siege.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/six-anglican-delegates-from-abia-kidnapped-in-kogi-while-en-route-to-conference-in-abuja/

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A shocking case of car theft has been reported in Umuahia, Abia State, leaving Barr Mary Ahudiya Megwara, Director of the Mediation Department at the Ministry of Justice, distraught.

ABN TV gathered that her Jeep Toyota RAV4 2000 model, green in color, with plate number Lagos JJJ-458BS, engine number 35-6970970, and chassis number JT3 HP 10 V6 x 7129804, was stolen on Sunday while she attended service at His Glory Methodist Church on Palm Lane Extension road Umuahia.

According to Barr Mary, she parked her car at 9 am and discovered it was missing when she came out at 12 noon. In a surprising twist, someone spotted the car along Ubakala road later that day, initially thinking it was her brother driving. Unbeknownst to them, the theft had just occurred.

Barr Mary has already reported the incident at the Central Police Station (CPS) in Umuahia, and the police have commenced their investigation. The authorities are urging anyone with information about the stolen vehicle to come forward and assist in recovering the car.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/car-theft-rocks-abia-as-thieves-steal-womans-jeep-from-church-parking-lot/

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The Department of State Service (DSS) has finally granted the legal team of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), access to him, ending weeks of the blockage that has been described as "unlawful".

This follows the intervention of the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia federal constituency.

The DSS had said following the recusal of Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court Abuja from the case, Nnamdi was no more under trial and would not be allowed to interface with visitors.

Speaking with ABN TV on Monday, Special and Lead council to the IPOB leader, Aloy Ejimakor said there was a subsisting court order allowing visits to Nnamdi Kanu at least three times in a week and ought not to be suspended.

According to him, it was in the course of enforcing the order that he came across the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia federal constituency where Nnamdi Kanu hails from, Hon. Obi Aguocha who intervened.

His intervention led to a meeting between the DG DSS, Mr Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, and the Speaker House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas.

He expressed gratitude that days after the meeting, the legal team received a call from the DSS to submit a letter of visitation.

On Monday, he met with the IPOB leader, having met him last September 25 during a court appearance.

One of those who visited Nnamdi Kanu on Monday according to Ejimakor was Mazi Ndidi Awoh who cheered him up.

He expressed hope that the door opened by Hon. Obi Aguocha will translate into something bigger.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/dss-grants-nnamdi-kanus-lawyers-access-after-hon-aguochas-intervention/

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A devastating accident occurred along the Aba-PH Express Highway, specifically before Solace Mortuary near Ntigha Junction, claiming two lives and leaving several others injured.

ABN TV gathered that the Church of Christ bus, fully loaded with passengers and cargo, was traveling from Umuahia to Aba when the incident happened.

Two people lost their lives instantly, while two others were injured and are receiving medical attention. Miraculously, one passenger escaped unscathed. The remaining passengers were rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Umuahia for treatment.

The cause of the accident is yet to be determined, but it serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for vigilance while driving.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/church-bus-involved-in-fatal-accident-multiple-lives-lost-on-aba-ph-express-highway/

Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti has vowed that his administration will track down those who killed three persons during a recent attack in Umuahia, ABN TV reports.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fC25YaN6b7I
The governor directed the Police and other security agencies to fish out the killers and bring them to book.

Otti gave the directive at Government House, Umuahia, during a media chat with journalists.

He lamented that one of the victims, a banker, Mr. Victor Udensi was his friend.

The governor assured the residents that his administration is doing everything to ensure the security of citizens through regular support to the various security agencies.

“I am aware of the unfortunate incident of the attack on three persons. One of them, a banker, and actually a younger brother of very close friend of mine.

“I have given an instruction that the perpetrators of of that dastardly act be fished out. The Police is working round the clock to get the culprits fished out,” Otti said.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/governor-otti-vows-to-track-down-kllers-of-three-persons-in-umuahia-attack-video/

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A newborn baby of about one week has been found dead in a drainage in Umuahia, the capital of Abia State.

ABN TV reports that the lifeless body of the baby was found in the early hours of Thursday along Umuwaya Road, directly opposite the Young Shall Grow Motors premises.

The police command in the state has been notified of the ugly incident.

As of the time of filing this report, no one has come forward to claim ownership of the child, even as residents are gripped in surprise.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/newborn-baby-found-dead-in-abia-drainage-photo/

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The Abia State government has taken decisive action against pension fraud, arresting several civil servants involved in the scam, and will soon arraign them in court, ABN TV reports.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eg09QsAIvQ0?si=I_yCC6oXYACcFWBt

This is even as some of the identified pensions who are based abroad are to be repatriated to face prosecution at home.

ABN TV recalled last week one Mr. Success Nwabueze was arrested with some other civil servants by the DSS for questioning over an alleged pension scam in the state.

Governor Alex Otti stated this on Thursday evening at Government House Umuahia, while addressing the press during his monthly media chat with journalists.

Otti, who said that his administration had zero tolerance for corruption, disclosed that he authorized the suspects to be arraigned in court in the next few days, even as he lampooned those defending one of the arrested pension fraud suspects.

“My question is somebody stole and I arrested him and you went to the press to say I shouldn’t arrest a thief, that means you are a thief.

“They are about 10 or 11. From the report I got, some of them are outside the country. We are going to repatriate them to answer for their sins,” he said.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/abia-civil-servants-involved-in-multi-million-naira-pension-scam-gov-otti-reveals-video/

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Governor Alex Otti has indeed renamed Abia State Polytechnic in Aba after Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, the first executive governor of Abia state, ABN TV reports.

This gesture honors Dr. Onu's legacy and contributions to the state, particularly his role in establishing the polytechnic in 1992.

Dr. Onu was a highly respected statesman who laid a strong foundation for good governance and democratic principles in Abia State. His passing was met with an outpouring of condolences from various leaders, including Governor Otti, who prayed for eternal repose for Dr. Onu's soul and fortitude for his family to bear the loss.

The renaming of the polytechnic is a fitting tribute to Dr. Onu's enduring legacy in Abia State.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/abia-polytechnic-renamed-after-dr-ogbonnaya-onu/

Member representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State, Hon Amobi Godwin Ogah has rolled out a constituency empowerment worth five hundred million naira (N500,000,000), seeking to improve the livelihood of his constituents, ABN TV reports.

He is set to distribute Cars, Mini Buses, Mini Pick-up vans, tricycles, ladies' machines, grinding machines, sewing machines, bags of fertilizers, and numerous items on November 16th, 2024.

A release from office of the lawmaker noted that this initiative aims to boost businesses, support families, and cushion the effect of fuel subsidy removal on residents and supporters within the constituency and across Abia State.

"The empowerment program is scheduled to take place on November 16, 2024, in Onuaku Primary School, Uturu, Isuikwuato Local Government Area, Abia State. The time is 10am.

"This initiative is part of his effort to support his constituents and encourage economic growth", the statement says.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/rep-ogah-rolls-out-n500m-worth-of-empowerment-for-constituents/

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INTERPOL's Operation Synergia II has successfully dismantled over 22,000 malicious IP addresses and servers linked to phishing, ransomware, and information stealers, ABN TV reports.

The four-month operation, conducted between April 1 and August 31, 2024, brought together INTERPOL, private sector partners, and law enforcement agencies from 95 member countries.

"This operation demonstrates the power of global cooperation in combating cybercrime," said an INTERPOL official.

During Operation Synergia II, INTERPOL worked closely with its partners, Group-IB, Trend Micro, Kaspersky and Team Cymru, utilizing their expertise in tracking illegal cyber activities to identify thousands of malicious servers. INTERPOL shared this information with participating law enforcement agencies, which conducted preliminary investigations leading to a series of coordinated actions, including house searches, disruption of malicious cyber activities, and lawful seizures of servers and electronic devices. The following countries participated in the operation:

Hong Kong (China): Police supported the operation by taking offline more than 1,037 servers linked to malicious services.

Mongolia: Investigations included 21 house searches, the seizure of a server and the identification of 93 individuals with links to illegal cyber activities.

Macau (China): Police took 291 servers offline.

Madagascar: Authorities identified 11 individuals with links to malicious servers and seized 11 electronic devices for further investigation.

Estonia: Police seized more than 80GB of server data and authorities are now working with INTERPOL to conduct further analysis of data linked to phishing and banking malware.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/interpol-cyber-operation-takes-down-22000-malicious-ip-addresses/

ABN TV reports that top stakeholders in Nigeria's security structure are participating in the ongoing Interpol General Assembly in Glasgow, United Kingdom.

Leading the delegation is the country's Minister of Police Affairs, Sen. Dr. Ibrahim Gaidam, who is accompanied by the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Vice President of Interpol, AIG Umar Baba Rtd., Interpol NCB Abuja CP Olu Adegbite and the renowned Interpol Systems Consultant, Sir Chikwe Udensi.

They joined Heads of Police Agencies and Police Chiefs from the 196 INTERPOL member countries to attend the 92nd INTERPOL General Assembly in the United Kingdom.

The event which kicked off Nov. 4 will come to an end on Thursday 7th November 2024.

The gathering has also given the Nigerian delegation the opportunity to hold bilateral meetings with Europol members and delegates of other countries represented to discuss security issues related to global partnerships, governance, data processing, general policing capabilities, and organized global crimes.

The Nigerian police community hopes to leverage on the positive outcome of the meeting to further strengthen the capacity of the Nigeria Police Force and the West African Police Chiefs Committee (WAPCCO) in his capacity as chairman, in its quest to curb organized crimes across the country and West African subregion.

The IGP reiterates the commitment of the force through its INTERPOL unit to continuously collaborate with other Police institutions to ensure collaborative investigation of international crimes and thereby reduce the potential for such crimes within our borders.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/minister-of-police-affairs-igp-egbetokun-chikwe-udensi-others-in-uk-for-interpol-general-assembly-photos/

More photos

The people of Umuawa Alaocha in Umuahia North LGA of Abia State have accused the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) of attempts to forcefully grab their ancestral land which they said is their only means of livelihood, ABN TV reports.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LfLl0aknZ80
Community members who staged a peaceful protest on Wednesday said they are not prepared to give out their communal land.

The protesters comprising women, youths, and other leaders, displayed different placards, some of which warned of hunger if their lands are taken away from them.

Addressing Journalists during the protest, the immediate past President General of Umuawa, Chukwuma Abraham and the President of Umuezerola community, Nduka Ogwumike made it clear that the members of the communities have not been notified of any plans to acquire their community lands.

They said that there were strong rumours that a few powerful individuals from the community have been settled to surrender community lands, even without their knowledge and consent.

According to the members of the community, the lands in question belong to different autonomous communities that make up Umuawa Alaocha and also some private individuals who bought lands in the areas.

The community members expressed surprise that announcements on radio stations in Abia State are claiming that the members of the community have been briefed about the acquisition plans, even when no such briefing happened.

While they said that they are not against government's development programs, they called for transparent engagement and proper sensitization of the indigenes.

Efforts made by ABN TV to hear from the traditional ruler of Opara Na Nkaru Awa autonomous community, HRH Eze Abel Ogbonna Ezechukwu was not successful as his palace was locked from behind.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/abia-community-stages-protest-alleges-plot-by-fha-to-forcefully-grab-ancestral-land-photos-video/

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Chairman of Senate Committee on Privatization and former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu has commiserated with the President, Bola Tinubu, and Nigerian Armed Forces over the passing of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Abiodun Lagbaja, ABN TV reports.

Describing the deceased as a gallant and patriotic officer, Kalu stressed that the late General Lagbaja demonstrated a high level of professionalism in various capacities in the Nigerian army.

Kalu conveyed his condolences to the government and people of Osun state while praying to God to comfort the deceased's wife and children.

In a statement on Wednesday, the former Governor urged the Nigerian army to sustain the remarkable and worthy deeds of the late General Lagbaja.

He said, "I received with sadness the news of the demise of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Abiodun Lagbaja.

"The late General Lagbaja served the country meritoriously in various positions in the Armed Forces.

"He was known for his patriotism, doggedness, professionalism, and integrity.

"The deceased left behind a good legacy for his family and loved ones to uphold".

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/sen-kalu-commiserates-with-tinubu-armed-forces-over-demise-of-chief-of-army-staff/

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The NANS JCC Inter-Campus Unity Cup kicked off amidst excitement on Tuesday at Abia State Polytechnic Field in Aba. Businessman, politician, and philanthropist Mayor Lucky Igbokwe, Founder of the Don Lulu Foundation, led the opening ceremony with a ceremonial kickoff.

Advising the students, Mayor Igbokwe shared advice on navigating today’s economic challenges, urging them to embrace practical skills to their academic learning.

He said, “In today’s world, it’s essential to develop skills beyond the classroom,” he said. “Cultivate your God-given talents and focus on skills that can bring financial independence for you and your families.”

Organized by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Council of Abia State, the event aims to unite students from different campuses through sports and community-building.

Mayor Igbokwe’s team, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, celebrated a victory in the opening match, securing a win by one goal against their opponent.

His presence at the event was further amplified by special guests including Emmanuel Okenini (E Bello) of Latinos Lounge in Umuahia, community leader Orlando Okparaocha, and Abia Polytechnic Rector, Engr. Dr. C.K Okoro.

Mayor Igbokwe also donated generously to the event, highlighting his commitment to youth empowerment and sports development in Abia State.

He also encouraged students to get involved in local and national politics and to avoid drugs.

“Focus on activities that foster unity, harmony, and mutual respect,” he advised.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/at-nans-inter-campus-unity-cup-kick-off-in-aba-mayor-lucky-igbokwe-tasks-students-on-skills-photos/

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All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) leadership has rejected the outcome of the November 2nd local government elections in Abia, alleging irregularities, ABN TV reports.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C53tL_g7HVI
Addressing newsmen in Umuahia on Tuesday, the acting state chairman of APGA in the state, Hon. Onuouha Egbe Benon said the election result released by Abia State Independent Electoral Commission (ABSIEC) does not represent what transpired at the polls.

The party said it has studied what took place at the polls and will proceed to challenge the outcome in the court, saying it has evidence that APGA won.

He said, "Having gone through what took place and the feedback that came out of the elections, we have decided to seek redress in the law court, because we have more than a handful of evidence that convinced us that the election wasn't free and fair, as claimed by the organizers of the elections, ABSIEC.

"We want to seek redress, which is a normal thing after elections. That is the position of our party, we are going to court to reclaim our mandate, because we have clear evidence of winnings, both the LGA chairmanship and councillorship", the party said.

It claimed that while collation was still taking place, ABSIEC went and announced the result, insisting that it won.

APGA which claimed that its agents were shut out from the collation centres and number of votes under-declared against its party expressed hope that it will get justice in the court.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/apga-rejects-abia-lg-polls-heads-to-court-to-reclaim-mandate-video/

more photos

Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti has sworn-in the newly elected Mayors and Deputy Mayors of the 17 LGAs in the State, with a charge on them to address the various developmental challenges confronting their LGAs.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9umWgKx6H8

Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony held at the Banquet of the Government House Umuahia on Monday, Governor Alex Otti said that though the Mayors emerged from different political platforms, the whole agenda remains the same which is putting Abia first, government house rakes said.

It added, "We must do our best to bring a permanent closure to certain challenges that have held our communities for ages.

"There are a few challenges that we must effectively tackle in short and medium terms including access to portable water, quality basic education, electricity for homes and businesses, affordable transportation, quality road networks including safe and secure neighbourhood".

Governor Otti, who said that the new Council functionaries are expected to take full responsibility in the development of their areas warned that they should not fail Abians as there should be no excuse for low performance.

"We have to embrace the fact that we are in leadership to solve problems, uplift people and use the privilege of government to give everyone a chance to live".

The State Chief Executive stressed the need for them to reach out to various stakeholders in their Councils as well as work together with those that contested with them as long as they have good ideas that would bring development to the state.

"One thing I will encourage you who will take over the executive seats across the 17 LGAs is to begin to reach out to our friends who did not make it".

"Bring everyone together and make it known to them that you are willing to listen to their developmental ideas and work with that." Gov. Otti advised.

Governor Otti congratulated them on their emergence and appreciated ABSIEC for conducting a free and fair election as well as thanked other contestants for their spirit of sportsmanship.

Responding on behalf of his colleagues, the Mayor of Isuikwuato Local Government Area, Mr. Chinedu Ekeke described their emergence as a rare honour to serve the people of the State.

He said that they are mindful of the enormous task ahead of them but assured that they would perform accordingly as they are going to follow the template of Governor Alex Otti.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/gov-otti-inaugurates-new-lg-chairmen-challenges-them-on-developmental-issues-photos-video/

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State has elected Elder Amah Abraham as its new State Chairman, ABN TV reports.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bVbjsoFI9E

In a race of six contestants, involving James Okpara, Amb. Godwin Okoro, Barr Kingsley Imaga, Barr Olugu Kalu Ogba and Chief Ukwu Rocks Emma.

Abraham secured 1,264 votes, outpacing his closest rival, Barr. Olugu Kalu Ugba garnered 395 votes.

The Congress which was held at the Sacramento event centre, Umuahia, had delegates across the 17 Local Government Areas of the State, casting their votes for their choice of candidate.

Chief Eric Ikwuagwu emerge as the party's Publicity Secretary.

In other key positions, Onwuka won the Vice Chairman Abia Central with 711 votes, while Gabriel Elendu secured the Vice Chairman North with 557 votes.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/amah-abraham-wins-abia-pdp-chairmanship-with-landslide-victory-photos-video/

The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Okamu Ward, Ohafia L.G.A of Abia State, Hon. Igwe Akuma Akwu has been declared winner of the counselorship position in Saturday’s local government elections in the state.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=205QRsXyI7U

He was among the opposition candidates that won in the election in which the governing Labour Party lost its grip on the local government, with the relatively unknown Zenith Labour Party winning 15 out of the 17 Chairmanship positions in the local government structure of Abia.

Addressing his supporters at the ward headquarters in Okon Aku Ohafia where the result was announced by ABSIEC supervisor, Mr. Kalu Ifegwu Uka, Hon. Akwu expressed gratitude to the people of the ward for their support and belief in him, which has made his Divine Mandate mantra a reality.

Arising from the crisis that his the national leadership of the Labour Party, it was later factionalised in Abia, with the preferred candidates of the governor not getting the support of Julius Abure-led NEC to contest in the election.

Zenith Labour Party became the beautiful bride for loyalists of the governor to contest the election.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/abia-lg-polls-pdp-wins-okamu-ward-councillorship-in-ohafia-video/

A popular radio station in Abia, Enyimba 94.3fm, and its sister stations, Legend 98.3fm, and Rose 101.9fm Aba have shut down operations following attack by arsonists on Saturday, ABN TV reports.

The management in a statement on Sunday said the stations were targeted for fire attacks.

It said the staff members were unhurt arising from the incident which happened the same day local government elections were held across the 17 local government areas in Abia.

"As a way of exercising caution, we have made the difficult decision to temporarily shut down operations across all three stations.

"This will enable us to assess the damage, and carry out precautionary measures in order to emerge stronger and better", the management said in a statement.

The management of Emyimba TV and Radio Ltd also expressed gratitude for the swift response and assistance from its community, which it said helped bring the fire under control.

"We will keep you updated on our progress and look forward to returning to the airwaves soon", it stated

.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/fire-raze-down-three-radio-stations-in-abia-photos/

A 75-year-old man Identified as Chief Stephen Irobunda of Umuodum Ohokobe Ndume Umuahia in Abia State has been arrested for allegedly shooting and killing one Bright Odizuru Martins, 45 of the same address, ABN TV reports.

The victim along with other youths of the community were said to have been playing football near the resident of the suspect when he came out with a dane gun and fired into the air, leaving the amateur footballers scamper for safety.

Sources told ABN TV that the youths regrouped and stormed the residence of the accused person to challenge him on why he scared them away with a gun.

In the ensuing argument, he was said to have fired at the victim in the stomach.

The victim was immediately rushed to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.

A mob attack was launched on the suspect who was stripped and beaten to a pulp.

Police source in the state command confirmed the incident, saying the septuagenarian was rescued from the mob and taken into custody.

He is currently being investigated by CID in Umuahia, the state capital.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/75-year-old-man-shots-amateur-footballer-to-death-for-playing-near-his-premises-in-abia-photos-video/

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The ruling Labour Party in Abia State has lost control of the local government areas to the relatively unknown Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), ABN TV reports,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Id_TyU1JBkE
The ZLP swept an impressive 15 out of 17 Local Government Areas in the November 2nd council poll, while the Young Progressives Party (YPP) clinched the remaining two LGAs - Ugwunagbo and Osisioma Ngwa.

Prof. Chima George, Chairman of the Abia State Independent Electoral Commission, announced the results on Saturday night at the ABSIEC headquarters in Umuahia.

Despite the challenges, he expressed pride in the commission's ability to conduct a peaceful election.

"The election was generally peaceful, although voter apathy was a concern," George noted. "We have fulfilled the duty we were inaugurated on 5th September to carry out. It wasn’t an easy task, but we went beyond and above to raise awareness about the election across the state."

This development comes as a surprise, especially considering Governor Alex Otti's recent affirmation by the Supreme Court.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/gov-ottis-lp-suffers-defeat-as-zlp-sweeps-abia-lg-election/

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Ms. Chinyelu Chinelo Okolie, a recent National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) finisher, visited Evangelist Ebuka Obi to express heartfelt thanks for sponsoring her university education, ABN TV reports.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcBD5GoN25U
Chinelo, overcome with emotion, praised Evangelist Obi for his selfless support, citing his sponsorship as pivotal in her academic journey. She presented her NYSC certificate, her one-year salary from the federal government (popularly known as "Alawi", and a ram as tokens of appreciation.

However, in a remarkable display of humility, Evangelist Obi thanked Chinelo for the gesture but asked her to take back the Alawi money, accepting only the ram. This selfless act underscored his philanthropic spirit.

Evangelist Obi recounted their journey, sharing that Chinelo's father had passed away, and her mother, from Imo State, struggled to support her education. He encouraged Chinelo to pursue her dreams, sponsoring her studies at Abia State University.

Obi revealed that he currently supports over 60 students across Nigerian universities, emphasizing the rarity of gratitude like Chinelo's. He praised her kindness, intelligence and determination, recommending her to prospective suitors.

"This is a rare display of gratitude," Evangelist Obi said. "Many I've sponsored are now working, some abroad, yet none have shown appreciation like Chinelo."

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/tears-of-joy-as-corps-member-expresses-gratitude-to-evang-ebuka-obi-for-sponsoring-education-photos-video/

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At least three persons were on Tuesday shot dead in Umuahia, Abia State capital by heavily armed men numbering about three, operating in motorcycles.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WX3xxhXr1uI
One of the victims, a banker with Zenith Bank identified as Mr. Victor Udensi was shot near his home in the Ishi Court area of Umuahia, near Olokoro.

ABN TV gathered that the gunmen had accosted him at around 8pm after the close of the day's work, attempted to bundle him inside his car, and zoomed off.

In the process, Mr. Udensi escaped and as he was running, they fired shots at his back, leaving him on a pool of his blood.

While they unsuccessfully tried to start his car and move away, another unsuspecting road with a Camry car was accosted.

As they attempted to forcefully collect his car key, he resisted the armed men. They however did not take this lightly as they shot at him, killing him instantly.

The gunmen in a bid to escape from the Ubakala axis also shot and killed a Keke driver said to have blocked the road.

Passersby had rushed the banker to the hospital but he could not make it, as he was pronounced dead shortly after treatment started.

While parading some suspects on Thursday at the police headquarters in Umuahia, the Commissioner of Police in Abia State, CP Danladi Isa confirmed the incident to ABN TV, assuring that the perpetrators will soon be brought to book.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/suspected-kidnappers-kill-zenith-bank-staff-two-other-in-abia-video/

The Nigeria Police Force says investigation into the alleged assault against a member of the Nigerian House of Representatives, Alex Ikwechegh has been concluded.

ABN TV recalls that the lawmaker, representing Aba North/South Federal Constituency of Abia State had come under severe criticism following an altercation between him and a cab driver identified as, Stephen Abuwatseya who had come to deliver a parcel to him.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eybxBwE055k
He was seen in a viral video assaulting Abuwatseya while also threatening his life.

He was later arrested and arraigned on Wednesday in an Abuja court.

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun in response to the development said the rule of law must prevail in the case involving the lawmaker.

In a statement on Wednesday signed by Olumuyiwa Adejobi, spokesman of the Nigeria Police, the Inspector General of Police said Ikwechegh had been arraigned on the charges of “Abuse of Office, Criminal Intimidation and Criminal Force and Assault Contrary to Sections 397(b) and 265 of the Penal Code Act at the Kuje Magistrate Court."

The police spokesman added, "The IGP hereby reaffirms the Force's commitment to upholding the rule of law, reassuring members of the public that the Force remains dedicated towards ensuring all fundamental steps are taken towards assuring justice always as no one is above the law."

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/alex-ikwechegh-rule-of-law-must-prevail-police-vow/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44, Seun, OAM4J

Abia State Government has denied sending a Bill to the state House of Assembly demanding the ceding of 90% of local government funds to it, leaving LGs with just 10%.

This is in response to a letter sent to the state House of Assembly by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Abia State in which it urged the Speaker to reject the purported Bill by the Executive and not allow the governor the "mislead" him.

Angered by this, the state government through the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma took a swipe at the leadership of NLC in the state for acting on hearsay without getting the fact of the matter.

Ekeoma in a state denied the existence of such Bill from the Executive before the State Assembly, wondering why NLC did not seek and obtain the right information.

"That at no time did the Executive arm of Government led by Governor Alex Otti send any Bill to the House of Assembly seeking to get 90% of LGA allocation ceded to the state. We challenge the NLC leadership who obviously fell prey to the mischievous and unsubstantiated fake news being circulated by some opposition elements in the state, to provide any documentary evidence to back up its claim", the statement reads in part.

The state government accused the leadership of NLC in the state of exhibiting unprovoked hostile disposition and acting maliciously and irrationally based on misinformation from rumour mongers to the point of distorting or challenging government's noble policies and programmes geared towards advancing the welfare of all Abians.

Explaining what transpired, Ekeoma noted, "Before the NLC wrote its letter, the Deputy Speaker of the House who also doubles as the House Committee Chairman on Information, Rt. Hon. Austin Okezie Meregini had while addressing the press on Thursday, October 24, clarified this, following speculations that the House passed a law to tamper with local government funds. The Deputy Speaker emphatically explained that the rumour is false and went on to explain that the bill, brought by the governor, is designed to benefit local governments without usurping their funds or violating Supreme Court ruling on local government autonomy.

According to him "The bill is for the establishment of the Abia State Rural Access Road Agency, which is part of the World Bank’s Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), and noted that similar bills have already been passed in states like Ebonyi, Kwara, and Sokoto, with RAAMP receiving funding from the World Bank, the International Finance Agency (IFA), and the French Agency for Development (AFD).

"The Deputy Speaker further explained that both state and local governments are expected to contribute counterpart funding for road construction, but assured that this does not mean the state will control local government funds. He also dismissed the false claim that some members of the House staged a walkout, and made it clear that there was no walkout, as all members, including the opposition, were present during the session."

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/abia-govt-blasts-nlc-denies-demanding-90-of-lg-funds-warns-against-fake-news/

The member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia federal constituency of Abia State, Hon. Obi Aguocha has paid a visit to one of his constituents, and the embattled leader of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, ABN TV reports.

The lawmaker visited Nnamdi Kanu in the custody of the Department of States Services (DSS) where he has been detained since 2021.

The visit came after reports emerged that Nnamdi Kanu had been secluded from his lawyers, raising concern on his true state of health.

However, after writing to the leadership of the House and DSS, the lawmaker was eventually allowed to see Kanu, and a resolution was also reached on granting his lawyers access to him.

In a statement on Friday by his media team, Aguocha said he met with Kanu in the company of the IPOB leader's immediate family member on Thursday, 24th of October 202.

The media team said, "Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is keeping well and looks strong. Hon. Aguocha appreciates the commendable efforts of the new leadership of the DSS in ensuring that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu's healthcare needs are met, including the approval of his request for access and attention to private medical care and to a doctor of his choice, to which Hon. Obi Aguocha is pleased to confirm that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has received private medical attention as recent as the 3rd of October, 2024."

It added, "Furthermore, a resolution was reached regarding the lack of access to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu by his legal team, who hereby are granted the requisite access to their client."

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/obi-aguocha-meets-nnamdi-kanu-in-custody-resolves-access-restriction-to-his-lawyer-photos/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44, Seun, OAM4J

ABN TV reports that Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara reaffirmed his administration's commitment to supporting the Nigeria Police Force during a meeting with the newly appointed Rivers State Police Commissioner CP Mustapha Bala at Government House in Port Harcourt.

Governor Fubara emphasized the importance of professionalism and collaboration between the state government and the police, stating, "We have our differences, but we're partners in ensuring security".

He praised Rivers State's peaceful status and urged police officers to uphold their conscience and resist undue influence.

Fubara highlighted community policing's crucial role in reducing crime rates. "People know who's behind the crime; let's work with them to bring peace," he said. The governor assured CP Bala of his administration's full support, advocating for a "fresh start" prioritizing Rivers' interests. "If Rivers is safe, everyone's safe," he emphasized.

In his second week as commissioner, CP Bala expressed gratitude for the governor's support and pledged to maintain peace in Rivers State through collaborative efforts with the Fubara administration.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/rivers-governor-fubara-reaffirms-support-for-police-as-new-cp-bala-resumes/

Pensioners in Abia State under the aegis of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP), Abia Council, have accused the government of betraying their trust with regard to payment of pension arrears, ABN TV reports.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BCGOTme0BTg

Briefing newsmen in Umuahia on Thursday, the union expressed dissatisfaction over Governor Alex Otti's failure to clear outstanding pensions and gratuities despite promises during his election campaign.

"If the Governor His Excellency Dr Alex Otti (OFR) has decided to renege on his campaign promises in clearing all arrears of pensions he met on assumption to office, he should declare it to Abians”, the Union said.

A committee which has as members Prof. Kenneth Kalu, Mazi Michael Akpara, and Dr. Betty Emeka Obasi, was formed to address pension issues in the state.

However, a Memorandum of Understanding reached through the committee is now a subject of dispute.

The union alleges the agreement falsely claims pensioners waived outstanding entitlements.

Chairman Elder Chukwuemeka Irondi stated that Dr. Obasi demanded an NUP letterhead with false information. The state secretary signed the document without proper review.

“Abia pensioners in their state council meeting held on 11th January 2024, decided to waive their outstanding entitlements including pensions and gratuity, and coerced the representatives of the state NUP to endorse such falsehood”, Irondi said.

The chairman urged Governor Otti to openly declare any intention to renege on campaign promises, emphasizing transparency.

This development follows historical protests by Abia pensioners over unpaid pensions and gratuities, with 32 months of arrears reported in 2019.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/gov-otti-failing-in-campaign-promises-abia-pensioners-lament-video/

Ahead of the November 2 local government elections in Abia, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Hon. Ferdinand Ekeoma says his principal will support candidates outside of his party, the Labour Party.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QfHswyM8hyo

This comes on the heels of a report that the governor is courting with the Zenith Labour Party as the crisis in Labour Party continues.

Ekeoma, while speaking on ABN TV's Political Perspective admitted that the Labour Party in Abia State is embroiled in crisis but stated that irrespective of the political alignment of those who will be supported by the governor in the elections, they will emerge victorious.

This comes few weeks after the governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara of PDP held a local government election in which a majority of winners emerged from outside his party.

Analysts have said such amounts to anti-party activities, a path which the Abia governor is equally toeing.

Ekeoma clarified that primaries are intra-party activities governed by electoral laws, requiring party members to participate or challenge outcomes.

He highlighted the Labour Party's focus on consensus-building and stakeholder engagement, emphasizing transparency and merit-based candidate selection.

Ekeoma responded to allegations of unfair primary processes, citing instances where stakeholders resolved issues through dialogue.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/video-governor-otti-will-support-candidates-outside-lp-in-nov-lg-poll-aide/

Member representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State, Hon. Amobi Ogah has rejected his appointment as the Chairman of Campaign Council for the Chairmanship candidate of Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) in the forthcoming local government election in Abia.

He was appointed by Chinedu Ekeke, the candidate for Isuikwuato local, and his running mate, Ifeanyi Njoko. Both are members of the Zenith Labour Party.

Amobi Ogah, a member of the Labour Party, rejected the appointment, saying it would amount to anti-party activity and would not be part of it.

In a release on Wednesday made available to ABN TV, he appreciated the Zenith Labour Party candidate's confidence in him but said he would not function in that capacity.

Reeling out his reasons, he said, "I am holding the mandate of the people of Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency under Labour Party.

"The State Government under the leadership of His Excellency, Dr Alex Chioma Otti OFR has not officially directed support for Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).

"Accept my withdrawal in good faith and best of luck to your aspirations."

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/im-a-labour-party-member-hon-amobi-ogah-declines-appointment-as-zlp-campaign-council-chairman/