₦airaland Forum

The Deputy Registrar Gregory University Uturu, Sleek Ogbonnaya Ogwo has narrated how he and his wife survived the novel coronavirus.

Mr. Ogwo, a media practitioner had tested positive for the virus along with his wife following which they embarked on isolation for treatment.

While advocating sanctions for those who undermine protocols put in place by health authorities to curtail the spread of the disease, he said that those who doubt the existence of COVID-19 are speaking from the perspective of ignorance.

Speaking with ABN TV in Abia, the COVID-19 survivor said those who have not experienced it should not pray for it.

"The fact that you haven't seen heaven doesn't mean it does not exist. If you haven't experienced it, there are many tangible reasons for you to believe it is there.

"From the point of someone who has experienced it, COVID-19 is real and apart from being real, it is very dangerous. It's a virus one can not see with physical eyes. People tend to misunderstand the symptoms with very popular ailment that we have here, that is malaria" he said, pointing out that malaria and COVID-19 are not the same.

Mr. Ogwo who is the Head Media & Public Relations, Gregory University Uturu further revealed that before he went into Isolation in Amachara Umuahia, his body resisted all malaria treatment.

He further attributed the low-level knowledge about the disease especially in Abia to the modalities being deployed to disseminate the information.

While stating that Nigerians tend to be skeptical accepting information from government sources advocated for inclusion of private media practitioners in the process of educating the people about COVID-19.

"People are already biased with messaging coming from government's source and I'm thinking that that calls for a rejigging of the system.

"I have said for instance that it is possible for government to go be behind the scene and allow private organizations that have the buy-in of the people champion this course. Government can release funds to media houses that are not linked to government. When messages come from such media houses, the people believe it" he emphasized.

He adviced the government to reach out to trade unions through their leaders by training them on what the pandemic is all about for effective results.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/08/how-i-my-wife-survived-covid-19-in-abia-guu-deputy-registrar/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

The Senator representing Abia North, Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu was on Thursday sighted having an interaction with Abia Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon Ude Oko Chukwu.

Details of the discussion were however not clear to ABN TV.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fqfry-1Tdjc
Pundits believe this will further dispel insinuation of political crisis in Abia North where Sen. Kalu and the Deputy governor hail from.

Both figures are the highest political office holders in the district from the APC and PDP respectively.

Sen. Kalu, who is the Senate Chief Whip along with Ude Oko Chukwu, member representing Bende federal constituency, Benjamin Kalu, member representing Bende North constituency Abia state House of Assembly and other government officials had gathered at Mater Dei Cathedral Umuahia for the ordination of Michael Kalu Ukpong as the first Auxiliary Bishop of Umuahia Catholic Diocese.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/sen-kalu-sighted-in-a-discussion-with-abia-deputy-governor-photos-video/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

The member representing Arochukwu Constituency in Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Dr. Onyekwere Mike Ukoha has said when passed into law, Abians in Diaspora Commission Bill will bring development to the people.

Hon. Ukoha who is the House Minority Whip is the sponsor of the Bill.

The lawmaker who was a guest at FLO-FM 94.9, Umuahia further remarked that the Bill will help in bringing Abians in Diaspora to help in addressing the developmental needs of the state.

"The essence of the Bill is to invite Abians in Diaspora who are professionals in their chosen field, to invest in areas like Engineering, Medicine, ICT, Education and many more'' he said.

He expressed regret that despite the beautiful ideas Abians in Diaspora come home with, they have not been fully harnessed, a situation he attributed to lack of defined body to handle such.

He used the opportunity to congratulate Abians in Diaspora, on the celebration of National Diaspora Day which took place recently.

Hon. Ukoha assure them of his resolve for the speedy passage of Abians in Diaspora Bill, due to its numerous benefits.

He further stated that through a motion he raised on the floor of the House on the deplorable condition of Uburu-Ihechiowa-Arochukwu Link road, a resolution was made by the lawmakers, directing the NEWMAP to help bring Engineering solution on the Erosion challenges and ABROMA to inspect the road in a bid to doing a palliative work on it.

The Lawmaker expressed delight in the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and Abia State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) for providing huge relief materials worth millions of naira to Isu community on the 25th of June, 2020, for the displaced persons there, due to crises.

He stated that he is working in synergy with his colleague in Cross River State, to ensure there is a lasting Peace between Isu and their neighboring Utuma/Ukwa Clan.

Hon. Ukoha, thanked Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, for ensuring that there is peace in Isu community, Arochukwu L.G.A, and used the opportunity to assure the people of Isu of a lasting peace in the area soon.

He also thanked the State Commissioner for Culture/Tourism, on her dynamic and wonderful job she is already doing in the Ministry and promised to ensure that the House Committee on Culture/Tourism, will carry out their oversight functions, without interfering on her job and without compromising on their oversight functions.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/why-we-need-abians-in-diaspora-commission-now-lawmaker/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

Abia State governor, Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu has described Abia as the most peaceful and politically state in the country.

He attributed this to the healthy working relationship between the state House of Assembly and the executive.

Welcoming members of the state Assembly which coincided with the signing of the reversed budget, Governor Ikpeazu expressed appreciation for the support he enjoys with the Assembly under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Chinedum Orji.

In a statement made available to ABN TV by his Chief Press Secretary, Onyebuchi Ememanka, Ikpeazu who assented to a 2020 revised Appropriation Bill of =N= 102, 660,432,904.00 (One Hundred and Two Billion, Six Hundred and Sixty Million, Four Hundred and Thirty-Two Thousand, Nine Hundred and Four) further thanked members of the House for judiciously passing the revised Budget in a record time which has put Abia on the list of states in the country that have met that global standard.

The Governor said that Abia today is like other states across the federation facing economic stress, adding that the present economic reality calls for all hands to be on deck in securing the socio-economic future of the state.

He added that the COVID-19 pandemic is a pointer that sickness is a universal Phenomenon, insisting that the virus is real and can be avoided if necessary safety measures are complied with.

Speaking earlier, the Speaker of Abia House of Assembly Rt Hon. Chinedum Orji thanked God for His divine healing on Governor Okezie Ikpeazu and prayed God to keep upholding the Governor in the years ahead.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/abia-most-peaceful-politically-stable-state-in-nigeria-ikpeazu/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

The people of Umuakali Naze, Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State have called on the government to come to their rescue over the bad road network bedevilling the area.

Speaking with ABN TV on Friday, a member of the community, Bernard Nnanna Nzerem said the government has for a long time neglected the community despite all appeal for intervention.

He further stated that Ogbosisi (Timber shade) road has for a long period remained a source of concern for the people, a situation that has made it difficult for vehicles to ply the road.

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

Mr. Nzerem further highlighted that the outbreak of COVID-19 has further worsened the situation, saying commercial activities in the community have been totally grounded as a result of the duo of the outbreak and bad road network.

He appealed to governor Hope Uzodimma to immediately come to the aid of the community and save them from further hardship.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/bad-road-we-cant-walk-let-alone-using-cars-imo-community-cries-out-photos-video/

Cc; lalasticlala. Mynd44

The Abia Police Command has confirmed the arrest by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), of four suspects in connection with the kidnapping of one Chekwas Daniel in Aba.

The suspects are Bright Chinonso, Eze Ernest, Chisom Godwin as well as Chinoyerem Chineye, who plotted and kidnapped the victim in his shop on Tuesday.

The state’s Police Commissioner, Janet Agbede confirmed the arrest in an interview with our correspondent in Umuahia on Friday.

“The investigations will be concluded today and the suspects will be charged to court. I think what they did was a deliberate action.

“The suspects saw the number of the man written on his shop door and then they called him while he was in church attending service.

“They told him they wanted to buy some 90 yards of a certain material which huge volume motivated the man to rush out before church service ended to attend to them.

“When he got to his shop, he did not see them so he called them back and they came and as he opened the shop, they grabbed him and put him in a vehicle.

“But as he was being moved into their vehicle, SARS men led by Johnbull Obioguru got tipped off and they chased them and arrested them at Ngwa road by Mosque street and rescued the victim,” she said.

Our reporter learnt that two of the suspects who were wielding the guns they came with dispersed people by shooting into the air while they escaped.

The SARS team also arrested Azuka Emmanuel Ojiegbe and Bethel Onyebuchi for kidnapping.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/police-confirm-arrest-of-4-kidnap-suspects-others-in-abia-photos/

Abia State governor, Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu has expressed the readiness of his administration to upgrade the existing health facilities in the state.

The Governor who was recently discharged after a successful Covid-19 treatment also said right from the initial outbreak of the pandemic, the government has done a lot of work to strengthen and support the existing facilities as well as ensure the upgrade of the very necessary ones.

In a live broadcast on Thursday monitored by ABN TV, Ikpeazu said his government will explore any avenue to put the deadly disease under control.

"On our part as Government, we will leave no stone unturned in this fight against Covid-19. I pledge the strong commitment of my administration to this fight. Right from the initial outbreak of this pandemic, we have done a lot of work to strengthen and support our existing facilities as well as ensure the upgrade of the very necessary ones.

"At the outbreak of Covid-19, Abia did not have a molecular laboratory anywhere in the state, and we had to take samples from our people to other states. Undertaking such excruciating journey at a time when life is on the line, made me take a decision to put an end to that cycle.

"Today, I am happy to inform you that the molecular laboratory we ordered from abroad had since arrived and has been running for some weeks now. With this facility in place, our people now have the opportunity to present themselves for the test. I urge everyone to take advantage of this window" he said.

While thanking the people of the State for their prayers and support during his period of health challenge, he reiterated that COVID-19 is real and has capacity to kill.

"If there is one message we all must take away from this, it is the fact that the reality of COVID-19 is beyond dispute.

"My fellow Abians, COVID-19 is not only real but has the capacity to kill and destroy lives, if not properly managed and attended to. At the same time, we must understand that contracting this disease is not a death sentence. What is required us that all necessary steps be taken, ranging from early diagnosis and treatment? But at this time, the most important point to note is that all of us must take individual responsibility for our health and those of our family members, especially the vulnerable ones among us.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/after-covid-19-experience-ikpeazu-vows-to-upgrade-abia-health-facilities/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

The Chairman Technical management Committee, Association for the Advancement of Family Planning, Dr. Ejike Orji has cautioned that those who have ulcers and still take garlic as a measure to boost their immune system against COVID-19 are 'looking for trouble'.

He said there is no scientific proof that garlic or ginger boosts the immune system against COVID-19, adding that intake of garlic exacerbates ulcers.

Dr. Orji who is also the Focal Point for civil society organizations on family planning in Nigeria called on Nigerians to instead take a lot of vitamin C, including oranges to boost their immune system and make their body environment acidic for the virus to multiply wider.

He handed this advice on Wednesday in a chat with ABN TV.

He attributed the growing rate of self-medication in Nigeria to ignorance and poverty even as the novel coronavirus ravages.

According to the medical expert, when people do not have resources to consult medical doctors, they resort to self-medication. He further added that another cause for worry is those who have resources to consult medical professionals but still heavily engage in self-help.

"Self-meditation is a very dangerous thing and I will give you a typical example. If you go to see a doctor a complaint of any illness, the doctor will review and talk to you, find out about your past medical report and discover if there are drugs you are sensitive or react to.

"By the time he or she finishes talking to you, even by ordinarily talking to you, they might get that you have a problem with your kidney," he said.

Dr. Orji who earlier on Saturday featured in the Radio Nigeria's phone-in programme, Radio Link said a patient with a kidney problem is not supposed to take the same amount of drug milligrams with someone with a healthy kidney.

"Because your kidney is not functioning properly since it's not taking waste product as quickly as it can, or the lever breaking those things down as quickly as it can, for a drug you are supposed to take 500mg twice per day, the doctor will now decide to give you 250mg twice per day, that is a fifty percent reduction.

"If the doctor does not do that, it will become an overdose even though it's a normal those ordinarily. When this happens, it will cause further damage on the kidney and cause more problems for the patient. This is one thing self-medication does" he said.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/ulcer-patients-who-take-ginger-are-looking-for-trouble-doctor-warns/

Cc; lalasticlala @Mynd44

Following his prolong stay from office, the Abia state governor Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu on Tuesday evening made a surprise return to the State, ABN TV reports.

The Governor who earlier tested positive for COVID-19 was in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Chief John Okiyi Kalu announced to have tested negative after a successful treatment.

ABN TV gathered that the Governor upon arrival in Umuobiakwa his Obingwa local government hometown headed for a thanksgiving at Seventh Day Adventist Church in the community in the company of his wife.

Ikpeazu who had transmitted a letter to the State House of Assembly, notifying them of his ill health is expected to communicate to the lawmakers of his return.

ABN TV had reported that during his absence, the Deputy Governor, Ude Oko Chukwu stepped in as Governor on acting capacity.

It is however not clear when the governor will resume back his duty.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/breaking-okezie-ikpeazu-arrives-abia-amidst-cheers-set-to-resume-duty/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

An officer of the Nigerian Police Force, Ernest Utuh has narrated how a cash gift from Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu changed his life, ABN TV reports.

Mr. Utuh who was attached to the NYSC orientation camp in Igbere, Bende local government area of Abia state said he had a one-on-one encounter with the then governor, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu during a dinner organised for NYSC members in the state in 2007.

He further stated that the corps members narrated to the then governor how nice the police officers were to them, a development that interested the now Senate Chief Whip, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu.

In appreciation for a good job, Sen. Kalu offered him a cash gift which he said changed his life as a newly deployed police officer who was only squatting with friends.

"When I came into the state I didn't have a place to live. I was squatting with friends. With the governor's money, I paid for 3 years' rent. Most of the properties I bought then was with the money.

"I was full of excitement when I received the money because I haven’t seen that type of money before. I was pressed and felt like easing myself because of how happy I was.

"Ever since then, I have never come across that kind of gesture before even till now. I have been praying him since then.

"People like him need to be around members of the public. Since the kind gesture, I have not met him again. There is nowhere I go to that I don't tell people what he did for me.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/how-orji-kalus-cash-gift-in-2007-changed-my-life-policeman/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, on Monday flagged off the coronavirus (COVID-19) community surveillance and testing program which is aimed at breaking the chain of transmission in the state and stem community spread of the disease.

Speaking during the flag-off at the Umuahia South Local Government headquarters, Apumiri Ubakala, on the theme: "Breaking the Chain of Transmission of COVID-19 in Abia State through Community Surveillance and Testing", the Governor who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government and chairman of the inter-ministerial committee on COVID-19, Barr Chris Ezem, stated that the exercise which demands maximum support from the citizens should be taken seriously. He noted that Abia State is the first state in the South East to embark on such mass community testing against COVID-19.

The Governor noted that testing positive to the virus is not a death sentence as patients are being nursed back to health at the state’s isolation and treatment facilities while advising that those who test negative should continue to adhere strictly to the COVID-19 protocols already given which include: maintaining social/physical distance of a minimum 2 meters, use of nose mask, regular washing of hands under running water or use of hand sanitizers and avoiding crowded gatherings.

The State Chief Executive warned that failure to observe the laid down rules will result to enforcing a total ban on social gatherings in the State.

Earlier in his speech, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joe Osuji noted that the virus which broke out on the 31st of December, 2019 in Wuhan, China, has spread across the 36 states of Nigeria and FCT, hence the need for all states to take necessary measures to break the chain of transmission and flatten the curve as quickly as possible.

He commended the Governor for his efforts against the spread of the virus in the State while thanking the Chairman of Abia State COVID-19 task force, Barr. Chris Ezem for his coordinating efforts so far.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/abia-flags-off-community-surveillance-and-testing-for-covid-19-photos/

The Abia state police command has launched a manhunt against 9 suspects who allegedly fled a lawful custody on Saturday, ABN TV reports.

About 29 suspects escaped from the Central Police Station in Umuahia, the state state capital, out of which about 20 have been re-arrested.

Speaking with ABN TV on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, Geoffrey Ogbonna said the incident which took place at about 8pm on Saturday occurred when the suspects requested from the cell guard water to ease themselves.

According to Ogbonna, the cell guard innocently opened the cell to hand the water to the suspects.

It was at this point that the inmates pushed the cell door against the guard, overpowered him and fled.

The police PRO further stated that the prisons have been reluctant to accept inmates as a result of outbreak of COVID-19, a situation that caused the courts to order the remand of some of the suspects in the police custody.

He called on members of the public to be on the lookout for the fleeing inmates and report to the nearest police station.

Ogbonna further urged Abians to be weary of those who may be masquerading as mentally ill at this point, warning that this could be a ploy for the fleeing suspects to escape.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/breaking-police-in-manhunt-for-inmates-after-abia-jailbreak/

Cc: Mynd44, OAM4J

The Chairman Technical management Committee, Association for the Advancement of Family Planning, Dr. Ejike Orji has warned Nigerians against self medication in the treatment of COVID-19 or related cases.

He handed this advice on Saturday in a chat with ABN TV.

Dr. Orji who is also the Focal Point for civil society organizations on family planning in Nigeria attributed the growing rate of self medication in Nigeria to ignorance and poverty even as the novel coronavirus ravages.

According to the medical expert, when people do not have resources to consult medical doctors, they resort to self medication. He further added that another cause for worry is those who have resources to consult medical professionals but still heavily engage in self help.

"Self meditation is a very dangerous thing and I will give you a typical example. If you go to see a doctor a complain of any illness, the doctor will review and talk to you, find out about your past medical report and discover if there are drugs you are sensitive or react to.

"By the time he or she finishes talking to you, even by ordinarily talking to you, they might get that you have a problem with your kidney" he said.

Dr. Orji who earlier on Saturday featured in the Radio Nigeria's phone-in programme, Radio Link said a patient with a kidney problem is not supposed to take the same amount of drug milligrams with someone with a healthy kidney.

"Because your kidney is not functioning properly, since it's not taking waste product as quickly as it can, or the lever breaking those things down as quickly as it can, for a drug you are supposed to take 500mg twice per day, the doctor will now decide to give you 250mg twice per day, that is a fifty percent reduction.

"If the doctor does not do that, it will become an overdose even though it's a normal those ordinarily. When this happens, it will cause further damage on the kidney and cause more problem for the patient. This is one thing self medication does" he said.

He further stated that those who engage in self medication tend to spend a lot of resources treating the wrong ailment in the system than they ought to have spent if they had consulted a medical expert for assistance.

Citing the incident of how his intervention saved a patient who had walked into a patent medicine store and was dispensed drugs that have tendency to worsen a stomach ailment she complained about, Dr Orji said such incident is a recurrent decimal across Nigeria.

He further warned against the taking of various sorts of herbal concoctions in the name of boosting their immunity against coronavirus.

While warning that there is no scientific proof that ginger, garlic or other herbal mixtures boost the immunity against COVID-19, he revealed that viruses do not have cure but fought by the body system till they eventually die.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/covid-19-self-medication-extremely-dangerous-medical-professional-warns/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

A Customary Court in Arochukwu local government area of Abia state still bears Imo on its signboard 29 years after Abia was created, ABN TV's finding reveals.

The military junta under Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida had in 1991 created Abia from Imo State.

Since the creation of the state however, no major renovation has taken place in the court, leaving it dilapidated state even as the court continues to sit despite challenges.

A member of the community, Ogbonnaya Ikokwu told ABN TV that the roof of the court is collapsed, causing it to leak uncontrollably when it rains.

He further added that the colonial building does not have pews and tables apart from the ones inherited from old Imo State.

"The panel of the customary Court sit under this hash environment to hear cases without electricity, fan nor air conditioner.

"The few benches and tables inside the court were those The floor of the Court Hall and other offices are still just cemented floor with cracks all over.

"The accused and witness boxes inside the court hall looked like cages found in poultry farms. It's not funny at all" he said.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/arochukwu-customary-court-bears-imo-29-years-after-creation-of-abia-photos/

Stakeholders in agricultural sector in Abia State have called on the state governor, Okezie Ikpeazu to carry out a detailed audit in the state Fadama III project, alleging corruption.

This is even as his Ebonyi State counterpart, Dave Umahi on Wednesday relieved the state co-ordinator of Fadama III project, Cletus Nwakpu of his appointment over allegation of corruption.

A rice farmer in Abia, Uwakwe Adiele in a chat with our correspondent on Wednesday alleged that the level of impunity and flouting of the laid down rules in the Fadama III project in the state is unbelievable.

Another farmer, Wilson Onyemaechi while showing anger over the laxity of Abia government to act on the corruption going on at the state's Fadama project threatened to reveal more evidence of infractions in coming days.

Others who pleaded anonymity said this is an opportunity for governor Ikpeazu to show that he is intolerant to corruption, insisting on the sack of Fadama managers.

They alleged that what is going on in Abia is nothing compared to the reason for which Ebonyi governor sacked the project co-ordinator.

"The government should put in motion measures to sanitize the Project in the state. This has helped in other South East states of Anambra and Enugu" he said.

Mr Nwakpu’s suspension was announced during a virtual state executive council meeting presided over by the governor who recently tested positive for COVID-19.

Mr Umahi said the sanction followed a report presented by the state Fiscal Responsibility Commission, which indicted Mr Nwakpu of misappropriation of funds and other acts against his oath of office.

He directed the Secretary to the State government, Kenneth Ugbala, to take over the office in an acting capacity.

He also ordered the state Head of Service, Chamberlain Nwele, to discipline Mr Nwakpu as a civil servant through civil service rules.

The governor further gave the Fiscal Responsibility Commission seven days to recover all the monies from Mr Nwakpu.

He charged the Commission to petition the EFCC to take over the matter; and also prosecute Mr Nwakpu if he fails to remit the embezzled funds within the seven days.

The report which was read at the meeting read: “Dr Cletus Nwakpu, directed the opening of an account with the name of Ebonyi State FADAMA Production Cluster with Polaris Bank PLC, formerly called Skye Bank PLC, and the project account has signatories and which money contributed by the farmers as captured in 2007 FADAMA Projects were deposited contrary to the financial regulation guiding the implementation of FADAMA project.

“That Dr Cletus Nwakpu did not release to the farmers the complete Agricultural inputs which they paid for and has failed to refund the payment so made.

“That Dr Cletus Nwakpu directed some parts of FADAMA office to collect about ninety million naira (#90,000,000) being for the beneficiary contribution levy made by the farmers in cash contrary to the requirement that every beneficiary contributes into individual farmers’ production group account.

“The total sum of twelve million six hundred and ten thousand only (#12,610,000.00), two million six hundred and ten thousand naira only(#2,610,000.00) paid by farmers for advisory services of the 2017 FADAMA Project was not compiled for the designated purpose.

“That the total sum of thirteen million six hundred and fifty thousand naira only(N13,650,000.00) approved by Dr Cletus Nwakpu for the payment to the two resourced persons for capacity building for the farmers was not actually spent for the purpose and there was no capacity building as claimed.

“That the regulation and guideline for the procurement of Agricultural inputs, selection of service provider, particularly for advisory service and capacity building for 2017-2019 FADAMA Project/Program were not compiled by Dr Cletus Nwakpu.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/stakeholders-seek-investigation-of-abia-fadama-project-as-umahi-sacks-ebonyi-co-ordinator/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

More Photos

The construction and rehabilitation of major roads around Abia North by Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu has commenced as part of efforts to fulfill his campaign promises.

The road projects when completed will ease the transportation challenges of the people as well as enhance their living standards.

Some areas captured in the ongoing construction project includes Isiugwu Ohafia LGA and Obi Chima in Isuikwuato LGA.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_6u3XDQVAw
Also included as the Abia North senator's Constituency project are the rehabilitation of Okafia, Umuisi and Onuibina erosion sites in Bende and Ohafia LGA

ABN TV gathered that these projects are included in this year's budget and contractors mobilised.

Other projects attracted by Sen. Kalu who is the Senate Chief Whip include, construction of 2km road with asphalt and drainage at ARC town Arochukwu, construction of 1km rural road with drainage and asphalt from Amaoku Amaku in Alayi Bende LGA

Construction of 2km road with drainage and asphalt from Umuobasi Amankalu to Abiriba Ohafia road and construction of 2km with drainage and asphalt from Arochukwu road to Atani were also captured.

During the inspection tour, Sen. Kalu who was represented by his aides, Barr. Victor Etie and Barr. Mbila, his legislative aide, and assistant legislative aide respectively expressed satisfaction with the quality of work ongoing at the sites.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/massive-road-projects-attracted-by-sen-kalu-commences-in-abia-amidst-cheers-photos-video/

While the family of David Bankole was still basking in the joy of receiving a baby girl after 16 years of marriage, the wife again conceived and gave birth to a set of twins three weeks apart.

Explaining how the babies came three weeks apart, Mr. Bankole said he and his wife got married in 2003 and waited for sixteen years before God blessed them with their first child, a female in February 2019.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tuNFlBdKZpg
According to him, his wife quickly conceived afterward and on June 19, 2020, she gave birth to their second baby for which they had a naming ceremony.

"To the glory of God, this union is almost 18 years now. After we got wedded in 2003, we waited for sixteen good years before God answered us and gave us our first daughter in February 2019. We were overjoyed. Before we knew it, she conceived and gave birth to another baby on the 19th of June 2020. We were so grateful to God. We had the naming ceremony" Bankole who was flanked by his wife explained.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/couple-who-welcomed-baby-after-16-years-in-marriage-again-welcome-set-of-twins-three-weeks-apart-video/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

As 2023 draws nearer, groups and political parties have started making moves to back candidates of their choice for various elective and appointive positions.

The latest is coming from the National President of Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), Alhaji Shettima Yerima, who has pleaded with the northern power brokers to consider supporting Igbo Presidency for fairness, inclusion, and equity.

The youth leader further declared support for former Governor of Abia state, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu as the North’s most preferred presidential candidate, revealing that International Community and many Consultative forums in the north are also rooting for Kalu.

Recall that Yerima is a member of the coalition that gave Ndigbo in the North a quit notice in 2017.

He is also a member of the coalition that established Operation Shege Ka Fasa, a regional security outfit in the North.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/2023-arewa-youths-drum-support-for-igbo-presidency/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

Following weighty corruption allegations against the suspended acting chairman of EFCC, Ibrahim Magu, the Senate has mulled a bill to bar police officers from head EFCC and other anti-graft agencies.

A prominent senator from the north revealed that the government is embarrassed by the level of allegations against the acting Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) which led to his suspension by President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday.

To curtail the use of force in the economic and financial crimes fight, both the ruling and opposition parties of All Progressives Congress (APC) and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have jointly agreed to propose a bill that would prevent police officers from heading any anti-corruption agency in Nigeria.

The two bills, one drafted by APC senators and the other, PDP senators share some common ground: both call for reform on the appointment of the chairman of anti-corruption agencies, professional investigations on allegations before raids, more training for law enforcement officials and incentives for law enforcement officers to wear body cameras. The bills would also make media trial a crime.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/exclusive-senate-moves-to-pass-bill-preventing-police-officers-from-heading-efcc/

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Church Of Satan Founder Involved In Police Station Burning In Abia – Command

The Founder of the Church of Satan Ebem Ohafia in Ohafia LGA, Abia State, Ifekwe Udo a.k.a FadaFada is being tried for his alleged involvement in the burning of the Ohafia Police Station on Saturday, April 19, 2020, by some youths in the community.

The state Commissioner of Police, Jane Agbede, on Wednesday, confirmed that Udo and others were facing trial over the incident and the destruction of the Divisional Police Officer’s quarters as well as high and magistrates’ courts.

ABN TV had reported that a middle-aged man identified as Friday Ifeanyi Arunsi shot dead by a trigger happy policeman in Ebem, Ohafia local government area of the state.

Sources said following Udo’s arrest by police personnel from the Force Headquarters, Abuja, youths from Ohafia took the opportunity to go to the Nmuri stream location of the church along the Abam-Ohafia Road, Ebem Ohafia, and destroyed it.

“The Assemblies of Light Bearer Greater Church of Lucifer, popularly known as the Church of Satan, in Ohafia, founded by Mr. Ifekwe Udo, has been knocked down and vandalised by youths of the community for the evil it has initiated,” one of the sources stated.

Udo, also known as Lucifer or Fada-Fada, the source pointed out, had a questionable root regarding his Ohafia ancestry.

The source stated, “He became popular in the past quarter of a decade for his visible efforts in providing employment opportunities for the jobless youths of the community. He gave the jobless youth motorcycles on hire purchase.

“He later opened a brothel also in Ohafia, which allowed same-sex relationship. The people of Ohafia knew his evil practices, but nobody could confront him because of his connections.

“He was arrested this month by the federal authority for violating the lockdown order and also for child trafficking and terrorising the community.”

According to another source, men are stationed in the brothel for sex-starved women and men to go and find comfort.

The alleged atrocities, sources said, made the youth of the community to destroy the satanic images outside the church.

Eze Ujurueze confirmed the report and stated that the police from Abuja arrested Udo on the grounds that he was involved in the recent burning down of the Ohafia Divisional Police Station and other government institutions, including courts.

The monarch stated that already, the Ebem community and the entire Ohafia clan had banished him.

He told ABN TV that Udo was first taken to Abuja, interrogated, and returned to Umuahia, where he is currently facing trial.

When asked for details of the trial, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Geoffrey Ogbonna, said the case was no longer under the command and he could not comment on it.

On Saturday, April 18, 2020, a 19-year-old school leaver, Friday Ifeanyi, of the Eni Njoku Road, Ebem Ohafia, was shot dead by a policeman.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/church-of-satan-founder-involved-in-police-station-burning-in-abia-command/

There apprehension in Aba the commercial city of Abia State on Wednesday following gunshots on officials of the state revenue service taskforce team by a police officer attached to Crunchies, fast food in the city, ABN TV reports.

Our correspondent learnt that a member of the taskforce identified as Ifeanyi Kalu was killed instantly while another person was seriously injured making others scamper for safety.

Speaking with our correspondent, an eyewitness who pleaded anonymity said trouble started when a driver of the fast-food restaurant notified the policemen that their bus has been driven away by the taskforce.

"When the Policemen came with AK-47, they started shooting sporadically and killed one of the members of the taskforce."

"And another person was seriously injured. Both of them have been taken to the hospital. Many people are running for safety and the Crunchies office has been shut down".

"One of the Policemen said he is happy that he killed someone. There is pandemonium here now" he said.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/breaking-tension-as-policeman-reportedly-shots-abia-revenue-officials-kills-one-graphic-photos/

The Senate Chief Whip, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu has expressed sympathy over the damage of broadcast equipment belonging to ABN TV, saying it is a collective loss.

Senator Kalu in a chat with newsmen on Sunday said he was sad when the news of the development broke.

The Senator representing Abia North while underlining that the damage is not personal to the management and staff of ABN TV but a collective one to the media industry in the country applauded the professionalism of the media company in dissemination of information.

Sen. Kalu, a former Abia State governor hailed ABN TV for their unbiased and objective news reportage, calling on other organisations to take a cue from ABN TV.

He further promised to offer assistance in replacing the damaged equipment to help the organisation regain its stamina in serving the people of Nigeria.

In his response, the Director ABN, Mr. Ifeanyi Okali expressed gratitude to the lawmaker for sharing in his organisation's burden especially at this time when the world is confronted with economic difficulties imposed by the COVID-19 outbreak.

Mr. Okali assured that ABN will be at the forefront of promoting responsible journalism in national interest.

Recall that the company had on the night of June 29, 2020, lost equipment worth over 4 million Naira to a heavy downpour at its corporate headquarters in Umuahia.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/im-sorry-over-your-loss-sen-kalu-tells-abn-tv-boss/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

Chief Whip of the Nigerian Senate, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu has felicitated with his mum, Eunice Uzor Kalu, popularly known as Odi Uko Na Mba as she marks her birthday.

The senator representing Abia North in a chat with ABN TV on Sunday expressed gratitude to God for keeping his mother alive to see the children she raised become prominent in the society.

Describing her as a strong woman both in the service and in politics, Kalu said his mother Eunice Uzor Kalu is a source of inspiration to many.

The federal lawmaker observed that his mother devotes all she has to the service of community and humanity at large.

"We give thanks to God. Let Him alone be praised. To the people praying for our family, those praying for our Senatorial District, those praying for our state and those who are praying for our country, we are most grateful" he said.

Kalu underlined that Abia state, Ndigbo and the country in general needs love to develop, decrying what he called too much hatred in the system.

He further prayed God to remove some of the knowledge He gave to Nigerians and replace it with love.

"The hatred in the system is so much. The greed is so much. The corruption is so much. People should use this my mother's birthday to reflect love. They should love one another. This is what I was taught in the primary, secondary, and tertiary institution" he emphasized.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/sen-kalu-celebrates-mums-birthday-preaches-love/

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No fewer than two persons were arrested by men of vigilante group in Umuosu Autonomous Community, Ubakala in Umuahia South Local Government Area of Abia state.

Pistol, live bullets, as well as other light weapons, were recovered from the suspects.

In a release on Friday, one of the community leaders, Kessy Onuoha said the mission of the suspects were not known.

According to him, one of the suspects was overhead making suspicious phone calls while men of the vigilante were on duty, a situation that arose their apprehension and let to their arrest.

"It was disclosed the Umuosu Vigilante group were on duty when they overheard one of the suspects making suspicious calls and immediately, they swang into action and got them arrested and pistol as well as live bullets recovered from them.

"The suspects had already been handed over to the Police for further investigations," he said.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/vigilante-group-nabs-suspected-gunmen-in-abia-community-recovers-pistol-live-bullets-photos/

Okezie Ikpeazu, governor of Abia State, has tested negative for COVID-19

It will be recalled that the governor who tested positive for the virus penultimate week has been in self-isolation where he has equally been receiving treatment.

However, a repeat test of the virus on his samples carried out by the officials of the National Centre for Disease Control, NCDC Friday night has returned negative.

John Kalu, Commissioner for Information in the state, made the disclosure in a statement on Saturday.

The statement reads, "To the glory of God, repeat COVID-19 test conducted by Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) on samples submitted by Governor Okezie Ikpeazu on Thursday, 2nd July, 2020, returned negative result on Friday, 3rd July, 2020.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/abia-governor-ikpeazu-tests-negative-for-covid-19/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44

The Police in Enugu have arrested a 24-year-old mother of 3, Mrs Ifeoma Ozougwu, alongside her husband, Mr Jude Ozougwu (40) for inflicting severe body harm on her 10-year-old female relative, Nneoma Nnadi.

Preliminary investigation by the Police indicates that Mrs. Ozougwu, a resident of Akomaeze Street, Thinker’s Corner, Enugu, was in the habit of brutalizing the girl with pressing iron, iron rods, nails and had also inserted pepper into her private part on several occasions

In a statement on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer in Enugu, Mr. Daniel Ndukwe, said the arrest was due to an alarm raised by other residents of the area who could not stomach the incessant abuse of the girl.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/woman-24-arrested-for-inflicting-fatal-injury-on-house-maid-graphic-photos/

Abia State Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, has sworn-in 13 new Permanent Secretaries into the Abia State civil service with a charge that they adhere strictly to their Oaths of Office.

Speaking after administering the Oath of Office and Allegiance on them by the Solicitor- General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Barr. Uzoamaka Ikonne, at the Government House, Umuahia, the Governor charged them to be dutiful and committed in the discharge of their responsibilities to the State. He reminded them of the need to support the Government to achieve its policy thrust, stressing that success of the administration depends on their services and actions.

Governor Ikpeazu who was represented by his Deputy, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, emphasised that government expects them to work in strict compliance to the Public Service Rules, reminded them that they have got to the climax of their career as a result of their commitment in the service and also by God's grace. He congratulated them and expressed hope that they would put in their best.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/ikpeazu-inaugurates-new-permanent-secretaries-charges-them-to-be-dutiful-photos/

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An Abia pig farmer, Mr. Akobundu Steven Agomoh is currently counting his losses following a deadly disease that struck his farm, killing over 438 pigs.

Mr. Agomoh who is the CEO of Akonauche Farms located in Agbommiri Ndoro Oboro in Ikwuano local government area of Abia state in a chat with ABN TV on Friday said the swine flu defied all cures by his veterinary doctors.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hy9zcilClCs
According to Mr. Agomoh, all known medication was administered on the pigs but no result was achieved as they continued dying helplessly.

The farmer described the disease as an outbreak that broke out in Lagos, moved to Ogun, and later Umuahia, Abia State.

He said it was brought into the state by people who went to buy the younger pigs known as winners.

The disease which he said can be spread to humans witnessed a spike in Umuahia when owners of infected pigs started an aggressive sale to meat sellers.

He said it was transferred into his farm by meat sellers who had contact with infected pigs and later visited his farm in Oboro, Ikwuano.

The disease since the outbreak in June this year has caused fatal losses to farmers, he said.

In the third week of June, Agomoh's farm was struck, leading to the death of 438 pigs, estimated at 11 million Naira.

"They died in tens hourly. The first sign I noticed was the loss of appetite and cold. Anyone that dies will have a semblance of blood on the nose.

"They also had red spots. Within 40 minutes after death, the spots change to black" he said.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/fears-as-deadly-pig-disease-hits-abia-farmer-loses-millions-in-4-days-photos-video/

Residents of Road D at the World Bank Housing Estate Umuahia, Abia state were thrown in fear and apprehension as one of the occupants woke up on Thursday morning to discover a fetish sacrifice in front of his gate.

The man whose name is yet to be ascertained at the time of this report, lives with his family of four children and wife and is said to have lived in the street for close to a decade now and has not been troublesome, nor members of his family.

The sacrifice which has a small coffin with two eggs and a red clothing material was placed a couple of inches away from the gate of the house while a white powered substance was sprayed all over the area the coffin was placed and onto the street.

Eyewitness account revealed that the family, as well as residents of the street who discovered the fetish sacrifice, were thrown into a panic while efforts were made to reach family members who were yet to open their gate for the day to alert them of the strange fetish things at their gate.

Source: https://abntv.ng/2020/07/juju-scare-in-umuahia-as-residents-wake-up-to-mini-coffin-others-photos/