₦airaland Forum

Mr. Kalu Prince-Iroha former Special Assistant to Abia State governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu has expressed satisfaction with the level of infrastructure in his Abia North district, saying their ancestors are happy with it.

In a chat with ABN TV on Saturday, he attributed it to the efforts of Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu, senator representing the district in the Senate.

The Former Director, Abia State Grassroots Sports Development Initiatives (ABGRASOD), an Abia State Ministry of Sports PPP Sports Development Initiatives stated that his Abia community in Ohafia LGA made efforts to raise N5 million to make their road passable, a project he said was difficult.

According to him, their burden was lifted when Sen. Kalu, Chief Whip of the Nigerian Senate intervened and graded the road for them.

He said the area is wearing a new look, expressing gratitude to the former Abia governor.

He also used the opportunity to announce his defection to the APC.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/our-ancestors-happy-with-sen-kalus-achievements-ikpeazus-former-aide-iroha-defects-to-apc/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

Abia State Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu has stated that his administration is determined to continue to empower youths of the State by engaging them in the growth and development plans for Abia.

The Governor stated this on his official Twitter handle on Friday. According to him, the fresh graduates will be engaged to fix the challenges of road maintenance in all the 17 LGAs of the state, getting empowered in the process by equipping them "with the necessary tools including asphalt cutters, rollers, duty trucks, and power packs to support night operations". Ikpeazu also stated that the fresh graduates whom he praised for their "ingenuity and commitment" will be trained by engineers at the State Ministry of works. He, therefore, called on qualified Abians to apply for the openings till 30th of November.

The Governor's tweets are reproduced below:

"In Abia, we since recognised the need to tackle the twin problems of youth empowerment and sustainable road maintenance anchored on the ingenuity and commitment of Abia youths across the 17 LGAs. In the first phase, we're recruiting a team of fresh civil engineering graduates to head the various LG Road Maintenance Agencies. Each team will undergo tutelage under the engineers of our state ministry of works and will be equipped with the necessary tools including asphalt cutters, rollers, duty trucks, and power packs to support night operations.

I hereby call on qualified Abia youths: engineers, surveyors, and those in other related disciplines, to apply for the openings through the ministry of works between now and the 30th of November! Umu Abia, let's do it ourselves!!!"

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/ikpeazu-to-engage-fresh-abia-engineering-graduates-on-road-maintenance/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

The immediate past commissioner of finance in Abia State, Mr. Obinna Oriaku has resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Oriaku in a letter he personally signed and submitted to the PDP chairman, Mbutu Ukwu Ward 3, Isiala Ngwa South, Owerrinta, said that he is consulting widely on his next political moves.

The ex-commissioner in the letter titled: Resignation of My membership of the PDP said that he decided to leave the PDP because PDP in Abia State, as presently constituted, covertly and overtly, lacks the basic structural integrity to deliver the much talked about good governance as dividends of democracy to Abians.

Oriaku who was Finance Commissioner between 2015 – 2019 in his words said “My political odyssey in recent times has been enriched by the most historic events as well as challenging experiences.

“I must give credit to my boss, Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, who found me worthy to serve in his administration, first as his Economic Adviser in the Transitional Government of 2015, then as substantive Commissioner Of Finance for the entire first tenure of his administration.

“Recall that when his cabinet was dissolved, I was one of the very few he allowed to hold sway in the Executive Council prior to his inauguration for a second term in office.

“In my four years stint as the Honorable Commissioner of Finance, I learned, “I taught” and I unlearned.

“I was both a beneficiary of Ikpeazu’s school of political sagacity and his humaneness. Of course, I also had my challenges in the hands of a few, whose agenda differ remarkably from the noble agenda of the administration from inception.

“However, the circumstances surrounding my activities in and outside the Government have interestingly reinforced my political convictions… that I must be consistent in advancing policies and programs that would positively affect the greater majority of the populace than be a party to, a crop of, men who do not wish Abia well.

“I have deeply reminisced on the political trajectory of Abia State thus far, and I have come to the conclusion that the PDP in Abia State, as presently constituted, covertly and overtly, lacks the basic structural integrity to deliver the much talked about good governance as dividends of democracy to Abians.

“My basic knowledge of Building Engineering tells me that when a building fails an integrity test few interventions could subsist: reinforce or demolish.

“But in the case of Abia PDP, the acclaimed owners would not allow for a reinforcement, let alone demolition.

“So, the wisest choice by a discerning occupant is to move out of the building!

“On that note I, Obinna Oriaku, after due consultations with my family, friends, and political associates, have taken the option of packing out of the precarious Abia PDP house.

“I am still consulting widely on my next political moves, which will be made known to Ndi Abia in due course.”

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/abia-ex-finance-commissioner-oriaku-dumps-pdp-heads-to-apc/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

Senator representing Abia North district, Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu has insisted that this party will reject results that do not reflect the people's will in the upcoming local government election.

The Senate Chief Whip and former Abia governor told ABN TV on Friday that times are gone when local government election results are written even before the actual contest.

He called on the Prof. Mkpa Agu Mkpa-led Abia State Independent Electoral Commission (ABSIEC) to avoid being used to truncate the will of the people.

He called on the candidates who by their nomination assume they have been elected to have a rethink, adding that there must be a proper contest.

The lawmaker maintains that his party, the APC, and Abians will authenticate documents used for the election.

He called on ABSIEC to take a cue from INEC in line with visions of President Muhammadu for Edo, Ondo, and other elections across the country and be fair.

According to the former governor, the principle of fairness and credibility must be observed, saying anyone who wins should be announced the winner.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/abia-lg-poll-well-resist-any-fraudulently-written-result-sen-kalu-vows/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

Senator representing Abia North district, Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu has appealed to governor Okezie Ikpeazu to intervene in major roads in Abia North to alleviate the sufferings of the people.

Sen. Kalu, former Abia governor in a chat with ABN TV on Friday said Izuakoli, Alayi, Igbere, Abiriba, Ohafia roads, and others are in bad shape, seeking the governor's immediate action.

The lawmaker who stated that he had earlier written to the governor regarding the state of the roads maintained that they are state roads and not federal roads as insinuated in some quarters.

According to the senator, from Umuahia to Ohafia is still in Abia, and therefore cannot be said to be a Federal road since it is not outside the state.

"While I was governor, I made sure that that road is being maintained very well. The roads need maintenance. Even overseas, roads are maintained. Why we are having challenges is because of resources. All our roads are supposed to be maintained after every two years. There should be a budgetary allocation for it," he said.

Sen. Kalu had attracted the construction of the road through the NDDC before he became a senator.

He expressed dissatisfaction that the people of the senatorial district are putting him under pressure to maintain the roads, not knowing they are state roads.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/sen-kalu-begs-gov-ikpeazu-to-intervene-in-umuahia-izuakoli-ohafia-road-others/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

The Abia State governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu has donated six unbranded Sienna patrol vehicles to the state police command for effective service delivery, ABN TV reports.

The governor on Thursday handed over the vehicles to the Commissioner of Police Abia State Command, CP Janet Agbede at Government House Umuahia.

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

The Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief ACB Agbazuere, while presenting the vehicles on behalf of the Governor said the gesture was borne out of the strong desire of the Executive Governor to ensure that Abia is safe, peaceful, and crime-free before, during, and after the Yuletide.

He stated that the vehicles are unbranded for covert crime-fighting, promising that the state government will also provide branded pick-up vans for intensive patrols in near future.

Taking delivery of the vehicles, the Commissioner of Police Abia State Command, CP Janet Agbede expressed gratitude Governor for the gesture, assuring that the vehicles will be judiciously used for the purpose they were given.

She also pledged the Command's readiness to provide adequate security for lives and property at all times.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/ikpeazu-donates-6-patrol-vehicles-to-abia-police-photos-video/

Gunmen have shot dead a police officer in a midnight attack at the Toru-Orua residence of former Governor of Bayelsa State, Seriake Dickson, in Sagbama Local Government Area of the state.

The bandits were said to have invaded Dickson’s compound through the Forcados River on Wednesday night.

The slain officer was among a team of police personnel guarding the former governor’s home.

He was said to have died on the spot.

Confirming the development, Bayelsa State Police Command in a statement made available to ABN TV on Thursday by SP Asinim Butswat, PPRO in the state said the Commissioner of Police, CP Mike Okoli has visited the scene of the incident.

While extolling the gallantry of the slain officer, an inspector, the Commissioner of Police condoled with his family.

The statement read in part, "On 19 November 2020, at about 0200 hours, unknown gunmen in three speedboats who came through the Forcados River attempted to invade the residence of Hon. Henry Seriake Dickson at the riverine community of Toru-Orua, Sagbama Local Government Area, but were repelled by Policemen on duty.

"An Inspector of Police who sustained gunshot injuries resulting from the fierce encounter with the gunmen later died and his corpse has been deposited at the mortuary.

"The Command condoles with the family and relatives of the Inspector of Police who fought gallantly with his team to prevent the gunmen from invading the residence.

"The Commissioner of Police, Bayelsa State Command, CP Mike Okoli fsi, have visited the scene and appeals to members of the community to remain calm as the command is working assiduously to arrest the perpetrators and bring them to book".

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/breaking-gunmen-kill-ex-governor-dicksons-aide/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

A sports enthusiast and former Abia governor, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu has finally revealed why he has chosen Arsenal as a choice football club to invest instead of Enyimba.

Senator Kalu, representing Abia North on Monday said the success his administration recorded in Enyimba between 2000-2007 has continued to increase his passion for football.

He also mulled to invest in Arsenal, adding that he will buy a 35 percent stake in the football club.

In a chat with ABN TV on Tuesday, the Senate Chief Whip said Enyimba is a government enterprise and not a commercial entity, maintaining that he would have invested in Enyimba if it was commercialized.

Kalu's administration reputedly revived the once-dormant Enyimba Football Club during his tenure as Abia governor.

He led the club to emerge as African champions twice, making them the first club in Nigeria to achieve the feat.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/why-i-shunned-enyimba-to-invest-in-arsenal-fc-sen-kalu-vows-to-win-champions-premier-league/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

African Pillar of Sports and Forbes rated Billionaire,  Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has indicated an interest in buying the English Premier League club, Arsenal Football Club with a bid of 35% stake.

In Kalu's Twitter handle @OUKtweets on Monday evening,  He wrote : 
"Our success with Enyimba FC btw 2000-2007 has continuously increased my passion for football. As the pillar of sports in Africa,I am considering an investment in football & I will buy 35 percent stake in Arsenal FC
@Arsenal Our target is to lift the Champions League & EPL..."

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/breaking-orji-kalu-to-buy-arsenal-fc-stakes-35/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

Nigerians seeking to join the Nigeria Police Force must possess a minimum of Ordinary National Diploma (OND) if a new law being planned to reposition the force and strengthen policing in the country sails through.

A security expert, Chikwe Udensi had recently in a chat with ABN TV advised the federal to scrap First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC) as the entry requirement for recruits into the Nigerian Police for effective performance.

Already, the bill, which will seek to repeal the law establishing the Police Service Commission and establish a new one, is being fine-tuned at several levels by the federal government.

Under the proposal, which ABN TV sighted last night, the requirement for ordinary national diploma would apply to both those seeking to join the NPF as constables and others seeking to enlist in the Nigeria Police Academy as cadets.

Similarly, the proposed legislation also seeks to expand the membership of the Police Service Commission to accommodate representatives from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), the National Human Rights Commission NHRC) and Civil Society Organisation (CSO).

Additionally, the impending law stipulates that the PSC board must accommodate a Nigerian youth, not below the age of 35, a woman with an interest in sexual harassment and gender-based violence and a retired police officer not below the rank of a police commissioner.

The bill also stipulates that unlike the existing law, the chairman of the PSC should be a serving police officer not above the age of 55 at the time of appointment and not a card-carrying member of any political party while the board should also include a retired judge of either the Supreme Court or the Court of Appeal.

But the proposal makes an elaborate plan to curtail the excesses of police officers and men by stating that all erring officers and men of the NPF must be promptly investigated and punished over reported cases of brutality and abuses against Nigerians.

ABN TV gathered that unlike the current PSC law, which gives no timeframe for investigating and concluding complaints lodged by Nigerians against offending police officers, the new planned legislation stipulates a maximum period of six months to probe and sanction all erring police officers and men.

But to successfully investigate and punish all erring police officers and men, the new law demands that adequate steps must be taken to document the names, ranks, number of erring police officers and the police stations, dates and times where the offending policemen and officers committed the offences.

The new legislation also plans to make the salaries and emoluments of police officers and men to be very attractive so as to attract the best hands into the force and eliminate indolent and criminally-minded elements from the system so as to improve policing in the country.

It was gathered last night that a multi-level stakeholders conversation that would include officials from the three tiers of the government would take place this week to consider the proposed legislation, which is being spearheaded by one of the arms of the federal government to reposition the police in the wake of the recent nationwide #EndSARS protests.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/fg-listens-to-udensi-raises-entry-requirement-into-nigeria-police/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

Members of the National and State Assembly from Abia elected under the platform of APC have cautioned the state governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu against malpractices in the upcoming local government election in the state.

The lawmakers said if the election does not witness a free, credible, and transparent process, it will give rise to another wave of #EndSARS protest.

The APC through the lawmakers also cautioned Abia State Independent Electoral Commission (ABSIEC) against truncating the will of the people.

The Abia APC lawmakers were drawn from the Senate and  House of Representatives.

They advised the governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu to emulate President Muhammadu Buhari who kept his word by ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful election in Edo State.

The Abia lawmakers emphasised that though the ruling party lost the election the result was accepted and it was adjudged peaceful and credible.

Rising from a crucial meeting in Abuja which had the presence of the Chief Whip of the Senate; Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, Hon. Nkeiru Onyejeocha, Deputy Minority Leader Abia House of Assembly, Hon. Chukwu Chijioke and Hon Emeka Okoroafor, the lawmakers disclosed to reporters that the APC in the state were ready and willing to participate in the election.

Speaking on the outcome of the meeting, Hon. Benjamin disclosed that the NASS APC met to strategise and to also ascertain the position of the Senate Chief Whip, Senator Kalu being the leader of the party in the state if the party would be participating in the election.

In his words: "We believe that we have a leadership structure in Abia State as the election for Local Government for councillors and Chairmanship is fast approaching. We decided that it is proper that we come and discuss with the Chief Whip to know his position whether or not the party will be fully participating in the election.

He continued "It is normal for people to start electioneering campaign at the grassroots but you needed the nod of the leader for us to hit harder and today we have gotten that. We have deliberated on our concerns we have also strategised going forward.

"This is not the end of the meeting, we are going to meet severally and Abia people are going to feel our impact because the engine room of the party in the state is actually within this area and the people you are seeing here today. We going to make sure that we galvanize and network. We going to make sure that our voice is heard in the coming election.

On her part Hon Onyejeocha harped on the urgent need for the state Governor and the  ABSIEC to ensure that the polls were free and fair; she expressed that electorates are now better informed stating that people would not tolerate any form of electoral malpractice.

She said; "The issue is not just about trust but simply about the people who have to elect those that will represent them.  All of us have gone through elections and we know when an election is free, fair, and credible. That is,  what the APC is saying is that if the State Government wants to conduct local government elections.

"I don't care what has been happening before. It will shock you that we have credible information that the Governor said he is going to conduct a free, fair, and credible election and that is why they are going through primaries.

"So for me, it's not an issue of trust we have to have faith in the system and show our readiness that we are going to have this election. We are pushing and also supporting them to do the right thing, no matter who wins; if someone from PDP wins we shall support the person, and if someone from APC wins we shall also support the person.

"We are not going to allow them from conducting this election in previous ways, it's no longer game as usual. Things are changing and of course, if you can see what had happened early this month when the youths protested. These are people that you initially took for granted that they were not going to speak out; so everyone is speaking out and I believe that the Government should know that this is not a time to do things the same way and so Abia people are believing that their leader here will push for free, fair credible election and I know that things are changing and I am sure that the Government will do the needful. 

Senator Kalu in his remark charged the State Governor to emulate President Buhari's commitment in the conduct of Edo election; though APC being the ruling party lost the election it was adjudged free and fair.

The Chief Whip emphasised that though the state has enjoyed peace under the state Governor, the people may react by dealing with electoral officers involved in malpractices.

In his words; "My own advice to the state Governor and professor Mpka is for them to do the right thing so that we shall continue to live in peace in our state. I am appealing to them and I would appeal to the commissioner of police, the director of State Security Service, and other security agencies in the state to make sure that they put adequate security in place on the 18th of December. My only appeal to the ABSIEC chairman and the Governor is to provide all the required materials so it will be authenticated by all parties and nothing less than that will be done. They know Nigeria is not the same and it's not going to be the same as usual.

"They saw what President Buhari did in Edo State, he allowed a free and fair election to go on, they defeated our party and we accepted the defeat. So I want to appeal to them, if it means that I lead a peaceful March to go and appeal to the Governor in the state and the Chairman of ABSIEC to do the right thing by conducting a free, fair, and credible election, I will do so.

"We just want the right thing to be done, it is not a warning, it is an appeal. In five years of Governor Okezie's tenure, the state has been peaceful and there has been no bloodshed, we should continue living in peace and it's a good example of democratic process, the beauty of democracy is that somebody must lose.

"If we as a party in the APC loses we shall congratulate them, but we must lose by due process. The materials would be an issue and I want to warn their electoral and returning officers to follow due process because the boys might pursue them to their houses if they don't do the right thing which we don't want to happen. We want them to do the right thing with the cooperation of security agencies, everybody will be satisfied." said Kalu 

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/lg-polls-nass-abia-apc-lawmakers-advise-ikpeazu-to-emulate-buhari-conduct-credible-election/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

Abia State Government has hinted that work will commence at the Osisioma junction to Alaoji portion of Enugu-Port Harcourt expressway as well as the Abia portion of the Aba-Ikot Ekpene highway.

This follows a meeting of key stakeholders which include the Federal Controller of Works in Abia State, Engr. Obioha, and a representative of Arab Contractors with the state governor, Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu on Friday.

An agreement was reached that work will commence in the affected portions on 23rd of this month and must be completed by the 5th of December 2020.

The Governor in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Onyebuchi Ememanka vowed to mobilize a contractor to fix that portion and save the people of Abia State the hellish experience if after two weeks the federal government does not act.

The statement read, "There is good news for the people of Aba, especially those who use the portion of the Enugu-Port Harcourt highway.

"Following consistent pressure mounted by Governor Okezie Ikpeazu on the Federal Ministry of Works and the contractor handling the project, Messrs Arab Contractors Limited, an agreement has been reached for the company to commence work on the portion of the highway from Osisioma Junction to Alaoji where the Spare Parts Market is located.

"At a meeting this evening at the Governor's Lodge, Government House Umuahia, between Governor Okezie Ikpeazu and the Federal Controller of Works in Abia State, Engr. Obioha, and a representative of Arab Contractors, it was agreed that work shall commence on that portion effectively from the 23rd of this month and must be completed by the 5th of December 2020.

"Governor Okezie Ikpeazu had made it clear that if the Federal Ministry of Works failed to order the contractor to that portion in two weeks, he would mobilize a contractor to fix that portion and save the people of Abia State the hellish experience they go through on that portion of the Federal highway.

"The Governor stated that trade and commerce which are the key foundations of the Abia economy have come under an imminent threat of total collapse owing to the fact that the Ariaria International Market has become difficult to access, especially by business people from Port Harcourt. Also, Abia businessmen who do their businesses in Port Harcourt can no longer travel to do their businesses.

"The Governor said he would no longer stand and watch this ugly situation to continue. He also said that work will commence immediately on the portion of Aba- Ikot Ekpene highway that covers Abia State to open up that corridor for our people.

"According to the Governor, if not for the wisdom of his administration to do the Umuaro-Ekwereazu Ngwa - Nto Edino road which creates an alternative route into Akwa Ibom State, every element of trade along that corridor would have been lost.

"The Federal Controller of Works, Engr Obioha assured the Governor that due to his personal intervention, the contractor had been mandated to temporarily suspend work on other parts of the road and move into that area immediately. He said that they will mobilize into that area from next week and commence work there from the 23rd. He assured the Governor that the portion will be completed expeditiously within two weeks ending on December 5th, 2020.

"Also speaking, the Commissioner for Works, Barrister Bob Chiedozie Ogu told the Governor that all was set for the commencement of an emergency intervention work on the Aba Ikot Ekpene highway by the State Government, while we wait for the Federal Government to start theirs.

"According to the Commissioner, the Governor gave his Ministry marching orders to enter that portion of the Federal road and fix it to enable free movement of goods and persons along that axis.

"Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General of the State, Uche Ihediwa Esq, his Information counterpart, Chief John Okiyi Kalu and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr. ACB Agbazuere were at the meeting."

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/abia-work-commences-at-osisioma-junction-aba-ikot-ekpene-nov-23/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

As the December local government election in Abia draws closer, the ruling party the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has elected candidates for 17 local government areas in the state.

In a statement made available to ABN TV, signed by Rt. Hon. Allwell Asiforo Okere, the Chairman of PDP in the state, their emergence follows a successful primary election conducted on Thursday, 12th November, 2020.

He said, "Following the successful primary elections conducted by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Thursday, 12th November, 2020, to democratically decide the candidates of the party for the forthcoming December LGA Chairmanship election, candidates of the party have emerged as follows:

1. Aba North-Prince Chimehilaura Ikonne

2. Aba South- Honorable Clinton Ebere

3. Arochukwu- Prince Dan Kalu

4. Bende-Emmanuel O. N. Onwuchekwa

5. Ikwuano-Mpamugo Stephen Abochi

6. Isiala Ngwa North-Ochulor Chinwendu Victor

7. Isiala Ngwa South-Ikechi Anyatonwu

8. Isuikwuato-Agbeze Chimaobi

9. Obingwa-Michael Ibe Nwoke

10. Ohafia-Dr Ukiwe Okoroafor

11. Osisioma-Christian Kamalu N.

12. Ugwunagbo-Mrs Nnata Chinasaokwu Joy

13. Ukwa East-Hon. Chuks Wabara

14. Ukwa West-Chief Okechukwu Kanu

15. Umuahia North-Njikonye Joseph Ukochukwu

16. Umuahia South-Humphrey Chukwudi Benson

17. Umunneochi-Ifeanyi Madu

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/abia-lg-polls-pdp-chairmanship-candidates-emerge-in-17-local-governments-full-list/

The Nigeria Police Force, Zone 9 Umuahia has denied AIG Baba Tijjani's involvement in the emergence of Dr. Collins Ugochukwu Obi as the chairman Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) of the Zone.

The force while reacting to a newspaper publication described the allegation as baseless and unfounded.

The Force in a statement signed by the Zonal PPRO, SP. Egwu Chukwu Janet maintains that AIG Tijjani was not in the Zone during the election Dr. Obi as PCRC chairman.

The Force says AIG Wilson Inalegwu (rtd) handed who was in the Zone when the said election was conducted handed over to Tijjani.

It also says the tenure of Dr. Collins Obi has not expired in line with extant laws.

"The attention of the Nigeria Police Zone 9 Headquarters Umuahia has been drawn to media publications of the Nations NewsPaper and others of 4/11/2020 to mislead members of the public concerning the leadership of Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) of Zone 9 and wish to keep the record straight thus:-

"The above body decided that the tenure of past Executives expired and scheduled election on 28th February 2018, announcing posts to be contested by interested candidates. Election forms were obtained and election scheduled up to twice which were not visible till 6th December, 2018 when all the four component States comprising Abia, Anambra, Enugu, and Imo delegates conducted peaceful election and Dr. Sir Collins Ugochukwu Obi emerged as chairman along with thirteen (13) others as Executive members. They were duly sworn in for four years tenure which will expire in 2022.

"The allegation that he- Dr. Obi has served for ten (10) years is false. His first tenure started from 2014 and expired in 2018. During 2018 election, Dr. Obi was re-elected for second tenure which will expire in 2022. PCRC Constitution in Article 20 (1) and (2) is relevant.

"The falsehood that AIG Baba Tijjani imposed Dr. Obi on Zone 9 PCRC is baseless and unfounded in the sense that the AIG has not been transferred to Zone 9 Police Command Headquarters in 2018 when election was conducted. The present PCRC Executives led by Dr. Sir Collins Obi was handed over to him by his predecessor- AIG Wilson Inalegwu now retired.

"However, it is pertinent to note that this is the third (3rd) time caretaker committee is set up since 2019, from the onset, sir James Uzoma was appointed as caretaker chairman in a letter dated 30th March, 2019.

"The second was appointment of chief(Hon.) Egenti Raymond Ezenwata (KSM) as chairman of a seven (7) man committee to function for three months in a letter dated June 30th , 2020.

"Surprisingly, the third (3rd) letter for the caretaker committee appointing Chima Chukwunyere as chairman in a letter dated 2nd October, 2020 was sent.

"In view of the above series of caretaker committee set up by National body, it is a clear manifestation of unconstitutional conduct.

"In conclusion, Zone 9 Command Headquarters, hereby affirm that Dr. Sir Collins Ugochukwu Obi and his elected members remain Zone 9 PCRC recognized Executives and comfortable with same," She said.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/aig-tijjani-never-imposed-collins-obi-on-zone-9-pcrc-as-chairman-police/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

Students in Abia state under the aegis of Abia Joint Students Leaders have appealed to the state governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu to reverse the decision to offer them the sum of N30,000 bursary to mitigate the effects of COVID-19.

The students urged the governor to instead covert the sum to their fees and deduct from source, saying this will be more impactful to them.

In a statement made available to ABN TV, signed by the leaders of various student union bodies, they also called on the governor to consider offering students from other institutions such us Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State Polytechnic, Aba, Abia State College of Education (Technical) Arochukwu, Abia State College of Health sciences and management technology, Aba, Abia State teaching hospital, Aba, Abia State school of nursing, federal medical centre, Umuahia, Abia State school of nursing, Amachara and school of midwifery, Amachara, Umuahia, saying there are also Abia students' in all these institutions and not just ASUU students alone.

"That instead of the Bursary Allocation of thirty thousand naira (N30,000,00) to each Abia students, we kindly appeal for the school fees to be reduced and hence deducted directly as it will also give more credence and hope to Abia students in various Institutions in Abia State," they said.

The students also expressed concern over the prolonged ASUU strike that has deprived them opportunity to go back to school, mourning their colleague, Anthony Ikechukwu who was killed during the #EndSARS protest in Lagos.

"We are saddened and concerned over ASUU Strike which has kept most of us at home and thereby depriving us of our Fundamental right of studying as Nigerian students and we also urge the Federal Government to swiftly respond positively as the future of our students is at stake which is totally unacceptable, as your leaders, we shall continue to engage the relevant authorities critically and otherwise to ensure that the needful is done.

"With a heart filled with pain and regrets, we commiserate with the family of Late Anthony Ikechukwu, one of us, a student of Micheal Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike who was a victim of the Lekki toll gate massacre as a result of the #ENDSARS Protest and pray for his soul to find rest in the bossom of the lord.

"However, the state of Campuses in all the tertiary institutions in Abia State has been a major concern to us as it is our topmost priority to ensure that your comfort and emancipation are accurately achieved.

"We, therefore appreciate the Executive Governor of Abia State, Okezie Victor Ikpeazu PhD for his quick response in scrapping of the Pandemic prevention fee of fifteen thousand naira only ( N15,000,00) Imposed on Abia State University, Uturu Students as well as his pronouncement for bursary allocation of thirty thousand naira only (N30,000,00) for each ABSU Students," they added.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/we-dont-need-n30000-cash-dispensary-abia-students-tell-ikpeazu/

More photos

An undisclosed number of persons are now battling to save their lives following multiple accident along Ikot Ekpene express road by BCA road, Umuahia Abia state.

ABN TV gathered that trouble started when the driver of an articulated vehicle, popularly known as trailer with registration number DUK 584 XA made effort to maneuver his way in the ever-busy road.

He was said to have hit a woman and her child in a KEKE NAPEP, leaving them with varying degrees of injuries.

While he made way to park in an apparent effort to assess the situation, he suddenly zoomed off, ignoring a signal from a traffic warden in the area.

In an attempt to escape, he also hit another KEKE NAPEP as well as a Corolla vehicle that attempted to block him from escaping, leaving them beyond repair.

This however angered youths of the area who engaged him in hot pursuit and later apprehended him at Bende road by Amaeke Ibeku.

The berserk driver whose identity could not be ascertained however jumped off the vehicle, leaving his assistant to his fate.

He was handed over to the police pending the return of the driver.

Apostle Christian Ulonnam, the youth leader of Nkata Ancient Kingdom Ibeku Umuahia in a chat with ABN TV disclosed that the presence of police personnel saved the situation from escalating to jungle justice.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/many-critically-injured-in-multiple-accident-as-driver-escapes-lynching-in-umuahia-photos/

The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has approved the immediate removal of Mazi Emmanuel Ukwu Obasi Kanu, Transition Committee Chairman, Arochukwu Local Government Area, ABN TV reports.

Mazi Kanu is also directed to immediately hand over property and affairs of the Council to the Deputy Transition Chairman of the Council.

No reason was however given for his removal.

A release signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Chris Ezem also says that the Governor has approved the recall of the suspended Transition Committee Chairmen of Aba North and South Local Government Areas, Chief Victor Ubani, and Hon. Cherechi Nwogu respectively.

He said this instruction is with immediate effect.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/ikpeazu-sacks-arochukwu-local-govt-tc-chairman/

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Former Commissioner for Land in Imo State, Chief Uche Nwosu has called on youths to do away with attitudes that are inimical to the growth and development of the country.

He gave this advise in a chat with ABN TV in Abuja recently.

Nwosu, a former Chief of Staff to Rochas Okorocha, a former Imo governor while backing the youths on the #EndSARS protests warned that if negative attitudes in the youths are not ended, the country may face a more dangerous SARS in the future.

He said the orgy of looting that has characterised the campaign where some youths raided hospitals, NYSC orientation camps, private businesses, and torched public facilities including BRT buses in Lagos and police stations are not in the interest of the country.

"I feel sad with what is happening today especially with this issue of #ENDSARS. It has turned into another but it's good we are ending SARS. We the younger ones must ask ourselves, have we ended the ignorance in ourselves? If you are ending SARS what about yourself.

"I saw on the social media where somebody was carrying tractor and I saw some carrying hospital beds. These are things we need to end in ourselves" he advised.

While cautioning against indecent dressing among youths, he maintained that proper packaging of inner and outer self is vital to every individual.

He urged them to be firm and believe in what they do for effective productivity.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/as-were-ending-sars-we-must-end-our-bad-habits-uche-nwosu-advises-youths/

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A teenage Jehovah's Witness must have a blood transfusion to save her life despite her religious objections, a senior judge ruled today.

The High Court heard doctors must go ahead with the procedure because, although the 15-year-old is intelligent and able to make her own decisions, she should not be allowed to die.

But Sir James Munby said his ruling had been made in great haste because of the girl's condition and that she may be able to refuse transfusions in the future.

He called for judges to reconsider legal precedents set down nearly 30 years ago which says that children should have no say in whether they accept medical treatment they do not want.

The case mirrors the dilemmas faced by the family court judge played by Emma Thompson in 2017's The Children Act.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/you-must-accept-blood-transfusion-court-tells-jehovahs-witness/

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The Interpol Systems Consultant and the CEO Sheiks and Bishops Ltd, Sir Chikwe Udensi has attributed the ineffective policing system in the country to poor welfare package of men and officers of the force.

Speaking with ABN TV Abuja, Sir Udensi while maintaining that the Nigerian police are poorly remunerated among their counterparts across the world said the state of barracks depicts what is wrong with the country's police welfare.

While likening the services of a frustrated policeman to decision taken in anger that can produce no positive result, Udensi said their salaries are not livable wage.

He said till the welfare of police officers are given adequate attention, corruption and gratification will continue to ravage the Force which he said constitute 80 percent of their income.

According to the security expert, civil servants are also confronted with poor welfare which he said affects productivity.

"The country has enough resources to afford a livable wage. All we need to do is to plug the leakages. There is enough for our needs. The challenge we have is that we don't have enough for our greed. Greed is more than need.

"Those waiting to steal are more than those already stealing now. Some Nigerians are willing to steal, not because they were born bad but because the system has not offered them opportunity to live out of decent means of livelihood.

"These are underlying ill health of the Nigerian police. We are also confronted with the issue of tools. Every profession has its tools. As a cardiologist, irrespective of how many years you have spent on the job, if there are not tools, you cannot perform" he stated.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/10/police-welfare-frustrated-servant-cant-offer-acceptable-service-says-sir-udensi/

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Trump Fans Holds Riffles Outside Election Centres

Donald Trump fans sporting MAGA hats and holding semi-automatic rifles protested outside election centers Monday while the president added TV networks to his growing list of those to blame for his defeat.

Heavily armed 'Stop the steal' demonstrators gathered for another day Monday outside the Maricopa County Tabulation and Election Center in Phoenix, Arizona, in response to the president's baseless claims of widespread voter fraud across several swing states.

A small group also gathered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the place where votes pushed Joe Biden to victory Saturday and where the Trump campaign filed yet another lawsuit to throw out votes Monday.

Social media giants have pushed back against the 'Stop the steal' protests, with Facebook banning the 'group from its platform citing 'worrying calls for violence from some members, as more than 48 hours after the election was called Trump continues to refuse to concede to Joe Biden.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/trump-fans-holds-riffles-outside-election-centres-photos/

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A member of Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Chijioke Chukwu has threatened that the opposition in the state will stop all Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) assistance due to Abia State University, Uturu.

Chukwu who represents Bende North state constituency in the Assembly said if the management of the state-owned university fails to account for previous intervention funds, he as an opposition member will write a formal petition to TETFUND national office to investigate the funds so far released to the university.

Speaking with ABN TV on Monday, the Abia Assembly Deputy Minority leader called on the media, professionals, civil society organizations, and concerned Abians to demand accountability from the university over funds it has received from the federal government in the past four years.

Chukwu alleged that ABSU received the sum of N800 million in 2016.

He added that the same amount was released to the school in 2017 and 2018 respectively and in 2019, the sum of N3 billion was released for the completion of projects in the school which he said was not utilized.

He expressed dissatisfaction that the institution has not demonstrated readiness to show accountability in the management of public funds, warning that this contravenes the spirit of transparency.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/well-stop-fg-from-releasing-more-intervention-funds-to-absu-if-abia-lawmaker-threatens/

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Abia State Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, has assured that leaders of the southeast region of the country, will continue to work for the safety of Ndi Igbo and all Nigerians wherever they are.

The Governor stated this in Port Harcourt on Sunday at a meeting between leaders of the region and Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, and other leaders of Rivers State following recent security situation in the State.

In his series of tweets, Ikpeazu described the meeting as successful, saying that his River State counterpart had assured the southeast delegation of the security and safety of Igbo businesses, lives, and property in Rivers State.

The Governor further admonished Ndi Igbo in Rivers State and every other place to "stick to our age-long tradition of hard work, industry and the penchant for contributing meaningfully to the development of our host communities", promising the people that "we will continue to pursue the protection of their lives and property wherever they are through constant consultations and dialogues with relevant authorities".

Below are details of the Governor's tweets:

"The meeting between leaders of the South East and the Governor and leaders of Rivers State in Port Harcourt yesterday was quite successful. We are satisfied with the assurances of Governor Nyesom Wike that Ndi Igbo and their investments in Rivers State are safe. According to Ikpeazu, Wike urged Ndi Igbo to remain law-abiding and go about their businesses without fear or anxiety.

"This, therefore, becomes an auspicious moment to remind our people of our socio-cultural and economic affiliations with our brothers from Rivers State. Ndi Igbo must stick to our age-long tradition of hardwork, industry, and penchant for contributing meaningfully to the development of our host communities.

"It is not in our character to malign and disrupt the peace around the place where we strive for our livelihood! Respect for laws of the land and constituted authority should remain our watchword!

"On our part as leaders of the region, we assure our people that we will continue to pursue the protection of their lives and property wherever they are through constant consultations and dialogues with relevant authorities".

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/we-will-ensure-safety-of-ndi-igbo-and-nigerians-everywhere-gov-ikpeazu/

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The member representing Bende North constituency in Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Chijioke Chukwu has called in the state governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu to jettison plans to pay each student of ABSU the sum of N30,000.

He said instead of the said payment which the state government had announced as a measure to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the returning students and their families, the government should rather channel if to reduction in school fees for Indigenous and non-Indigenous students.

Speaking with newsmen, the Abia Assembly Deputy Minority leader expressed fear that if the state government goes ahead to disburse the sum of N30,000 to students if ABSU, the list will be dominated by fictitious names.

While further stating that this could as well pass as a ploy to siphon the resources of the state, Chukwu further alleged that a section and local governments of the state will dominate the list of beneficiaries to the detriment of the rest.

"The planned disbursement of N30,000 to students should be channeled to reduction in school fees as done in Ebonyi, and other committed and caring state governments like Ekiti.

"This will cushion the economic effects of COVID-19 on parents. Our fears on the disbursement of funds is that the list of benefitting students will be filled with fictitious names.

"The list will equally take care of a particular section or local government of Abia state without consideration to every other local government in the state.

"It will be more justifiable for the governor to do a reduction in school fees of N20,000 across board for each student of Abia origin and N10,000 reduction for non-indigenes," he said.

Hon. Chukwu also described as ridiculous and callous the earlier announcement by the ABSU authority instructing students to pay N15,000 COVID-19 pandemic prevention fee.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/absu-instead-of-giving-students-30k-reduce-their-fees-abia-lawmaker-advises-ikpeazu/

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A 42-year-old caretaker, Matthew Ahiwe is currently cooling off in the police net in Umuahia, Abia State capital after allegedly stabbing a mechanic, Chigozie Eluwa of Eziama Ubakala to death in the early hours of Saturday.

A colleague of the deceased mechanic who gave his name as Chigozie Obinna told ABN TV that the late Eluwa lived in Umuosu community where he was allegedly killed.

Narrating further to ABN TV, Mr. Obinna stated that the suspect, Matthew Ahiwe had for a long time engaged in an argument with his late colleague, Eluwa, a situation that led him to issue the deceased a quit notice.

According to him, the deceased had concluded plans to get another apartment before he was gruesomely murdered by the caretaker at the weekend.

He further stated that their disagreement had led to the disconnection of power supply to the late Eluwa's apartment, a situation he had for long-lived with.

Confirming the incident, the PPRO Abia State Command, ASP Godfrey Ogbonna said the case has been handed over to the State CID for further investigation.

He said that the command will after investigation charge the suspect to court.

The deceased has since been deposited at the morgue.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/abia-caretaker-stabs-mechanic-to-death-over-electricity-bill/

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The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Abia state chapter has expressed sadness over the arrest and arraignment of a student of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike Stanley Divine Iheanyichukwu.

The student body in a statement signed by Rt. Comr. Okereke Johnson Ryder, the Deputy Chairman NANS Abia State Axis wondered why Iheanyichukwu with the Registration number: MOUAU/INTED/18/102582 was arrested and arraigned at the Magistrate court Yaba, Lagos state, for participating in #EndSARS protest.

While appealing to the Attorney General of Lagos State, Barr. Moyosore Onigbanjo (SAN) to ensure that the student does not suffer unjustly, Rt. Comr. Ryder insisted that the arrested undergraduate is a responsible student with unquestionable character, dedicated to duty, and law-abiding.

He said, "Divine Stanley Iheanyichukwu has never been involved in any violent exercise within and outside the school.

"The charges raised against Divine Stanley Iheanyichukwu defies the principle of good conscience as he has never exhibited any attribute of violence or arson.

"As law abiding citizens and responsible Nigerian students, we stand boldly to say that Divine Stanley Iheanyichukwu is innocent and that there is a misconception about his personality that calls for urgent reconsideration," he said.

He added, "I plead with Barr. Moyosore Onigbanjo (SAN) The Attorney General Of Lagos State, as our father and the face of justice in Lagos State, we appeal that you ensure that the basic principle of law which states that "It is better for a guilty party to be acquitted than for an innocent to be convicted" and grant immediate exclusion of our member from the case.

"We strongly condemn every resemblance of crime, however, the innocent must not be allowed to suffer unjustly.

"Injury to one is an injury to all".

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/endsars-nans-decries-arrest-arraignment-of-mouau-student-begs-lagos-govt-intervention/

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More Tweet From Abia Governor

Abia State Government has said all students of the state-owned university, Abia State University (ABSU) are now to be paid the sum of N30,000 each to help mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on them and families.

The state government also reversed an earlier circular instructing student to pay the sum of N15,000 pandemic prevention fee.

In a statement personally issued by the state governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, he said this decision was reached after a careful review of the agreement reached with students' leaders in a meeting on Thursday.

"Yesterday, I had a Town Hall meeting with students & management of Abia State University where a fee of N25,000 per student was proposed as medical fee but slashed to N15,000 to help ABSU put in place adequate measures to protect the soon to resume students from COVID-19 pandemic. in that same meeting, I approved immediate bursary payment to students of Abia origin in ABSU, to alleviate impact of COVID-19 on them & enable them meet the medical fee obligations with ease.

READ ALSo: Anger As ABSU Mandates Students To Pay ₦15,000 “Pandemic Prevention Fee”

"However, after a deep review of the agreement & its likely effect on all the students & their parents, I’ve directed the immediate scrapping of the “pandemic prevention fee” by school management. Our government will now go ahead to pay N30,000 to each Abia student in the institution as further support to them, their parents, and guardians in this very difficult moment of economic downturn caused by the global health crisis.

"Let me also add that we are proud of the progress made by the institution in the past 5 years and will continue to support them," Ikpeazu said.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/abia-govt-to-pay-students-30k-each-scraps-absu-15k-pandemic-prevention-fee/

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The remains of a former chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, late Engr. Okey Nwubani, is set for burial, tody, at his hometown, Umunteke, in the Ukwa West local government area of Abia State.

ABN TV report, Engr. Nwubani, died July 31, 2020 at Abuja, was a one-time Commissioner on the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission, (NDDC) and also Chairman of the Abia State Infrastructural Development Fund Board.

In a statement, Chief Ogunka Adiele John, the Chairman of the burial Committee which was inaugurated by the leader of the Ukwa APC Federal Constituency, Chief Sir Marc Inyanagbo Wabara, described the late Nwubani as an illustrious son of Ukwa land and a committed APC member, who deserved to be given a befitting burial.

According to Chief John, who is also the Abia State Deputy Chairman of the APC, " when it was heard that Engr Nwubani had died, the whole of Ukwa was enveloped by gloom and disbelief. We all felt it should not be true, but unfortunately it turned out to be a very sad reality.
"As a political party, we decided to put up a burial committee to facilitate giving him a memorable farewell".

He commended the members of the APC in the Ukwa Federal Constituency for their financial contributions and show of love towards making the burial a huge success.

John expressed confidence in the might of the almighty God to provide for the family of the deceased, adding that the late Nwubani would be greatly missed by the party.

The late Engr Nwubani was popularly known as "Oji uzo eme oji", (the one who presents road construction as kolanut) by his kinsmen in recognition of his achievements when he held sway at the NDDC.

Members of the burial committee included Comr Ben Godson, the Abia State APC Publicity Secretary, co-chairman, Chief Allwell Enwereji, Hon. Ernest Sunday, Barr. Levi Isiguzo, Chidi Nwankpa and ThankGod Ntaku, who served as Secretary.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/2020/11/former-apc-chieftain-late-engr-nwubani-to-be-buried-today/

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