The lawmaker representing Aba South Constituency, Emmanuel Emeruwa, has emerged as speaker of the Abia state House of Assembly.

Mr Emeruwa, a member of the Labour Party (LP), was elected speaker by 24 members of the House during the inauguration session of the eighth assembly on Wednesday.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ouS1q-9r7i4
The session was presided over by the Clerk of the House, Johnpedro Irokansi, at the assembly chamber in Umuahia, ABN TV reports.

Apart from the LP, the assembly has members from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Young Progressives Party (YPP).

The PDP is the majority with 11 members, while the LP has ten members, the YPP has two members, and APC has only one member.

Mr Emeruwa was elected speaker despite being a first-term lawmaker in the House and whose party is not the majority in the house.

He was nominated for the position by the member representing Aba Central Constituency, Stephen Ucheonye and Seconded by the member representing Umuahia South Constituency, Emeka Obioma- all LP members.

Mandela Obasi, the member representing Ohafia North Constituency and a member of the PDP, attempted to make another nomination but was ignored by the Clerk of the House, Mr Irokansi, who banged the gavel for the close of nomination.

Rowdy session: A crisis erupted during the deputy speaker’s election as the clerk ignored Solomon Akpulonu, another PDP lawmaker, who raised his hand to make a nomination.

Mr Akpulonu, the majority leader in the previous House, represents Obingwa East Constituency.

There was a rowdy session when the clerk and the member representing Ohafia North constituency, Mandela Obasi, engaged in an altercation for ignoring PDP members who wanted to make their nominations.

Mr Obasi, a member of the PDP, accused the clerk of bias, saying the clerk failed to conduct the election according to the rules by not allowing the PDP lawmakers to make nominations.

Another LP lawmaker, Uchenna Okoro, representing Arochukwu Constituency, would later nominate Augustine Mmerengi as the deputy speaker.

The ten lawmakers from the LP are all first-timers in the House, ABN TV gathered.

Of the 11 members from the PDP, the majority party in the House, four members were returning lawmakers, this newspaper further learnt.

The provision of the standing rule of the House with respect to the emergence of a first-timer as the speaker and deputy speaker is not clear for now.

But a source told ABN TV that the rule provides that only ranking members who have spent at least four years in the House can be elected as speaker and deputy speaker.

In attendance at the inauguration were Governor Alex Otti of Abia State and other state government officials.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/full-video-how-first-timer-lp-assembly-member-emerges-abia-speaker-despite-pdps-majority/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44, Seun, OAM4J

Arsenal legend and Nigeria's former international Kanu Nwankwo has congratulated the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, on his successful assumption of office.

ABN TV reports that the multiple award-winning footballer was at the Isialangwa country home of Dr. Otti on Sunday, where he presented the Abia Governor with a gift of customised football Jersey shirt and a giant-sized card bearing a goodwill message.

Kanu also wished the Governor well in his assignment as the new chief executive of the state.

The presence of the Super Eagles' former striker naturally attracted the attention of residents and visitors within the expansive home of the first citizen of Abia.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/kanu-nwankwo-visits-otti-wishes-him-successful-administration-photos/

The president of Neo-Black Movement Of Africa Worldwide (NBM) Olorogun Ese Kakor has been re-elected for a second term in office, ABN TV reports.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TMBE1xexKho
He was elected on Saturday at national convention which took place in Asaba, Delta state.

National President of The Of Africa Worldwide (NBM)

ABN TV reports that Mr Kakor polled 160 votes to win his main challenger, Ezennia Melvin Udo who scored 109 at the convention.

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Kakor thanked the delegates for renewing his mandate, promising to surpass the achievements of his first term in office.

Under his leadership, the group has been at the forefront in providing succour to under-served communities in the area of education, health care, security, and more through its corporate social responsibility.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/kakor-wins-re-election-as-nbm-of-africa-president-photos-video/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44, Seun, OAM4J

Concerned Northern, Southern Citizens Urge Tinubu To Back Orji Kalu For Senate Presidency

A non-governmental organization, Alliance for Concerned Northern and Southern Citizens for Nigerian Unity, ACNSCNU has adopted the Chief Whip of the 9th Assembly Distinguished Senator Orji Uzor Kalu for the 10 National Assembly top position, the President as a round peg in round hole.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jDRz3_eNEQ
This is coming four days to the inauguration of the 10th National Assembly.

According to the group, “the continuous sustainability of our nascent democracy will either be marred or made stronger in the history of our dear fatherland. A certain sage once said, “Those who deny freedom to others, deserve it not for themselves”.

“The express interpretation means that our dear country has come a long way through, thick and thorn and it is better written than said “That no Nigerian irrespective of political power, neither is there any region irrespective of natural resource endowment, that is more Nigerian than the other? We are Nigerians nursing our democracy to be full-blown, by the special grace of God (In-sha-Allah u)”.

In a state-wide press conference in Umuahia Friday, presided over by the Secretary of the group, Adamu Samaila, the group said after wide consultations and meetings with stakeholders they join other well-meaning groups and Nigerians to ask that “every person who was successful in the just concluded election should approach the court and await the Judicial pronouncement of their plea, and not take the law into their hands to disrupt the peace our nation has been enjoying” and urged that the tenets of the federal character commission be given a priority concern in this present administration.

They requested that this present Administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the 10th National Assembly to, in the spirit of fairness, equity, inclusiveness and Justice concede the position of Senate President to the people of South East.

“We are appealing to all stakeholders of this Nation Nigeria to see the need to balance the equilibrium of power. It is on record that since 2015 of President Buhari’s Administration, the South East has benefited nothing in terms of political office holding. We therefore ask that this present Administration should right that wrong.

“The right equation for justice, fairness, equity, inclusiveness, and good governance is thus; South West – President, North East – Vice president and South East – Senate President.

“Having Xeroxed all these above, the Alliance for Concerned Northern and Southern Citizens for Nigerian Unity has profiled political individuals and has come up with the right personality, with a good charisma that cuts across all regions of the nation; a man that is a household name who has the capacity, boldness, and influence to run along with this present Administration.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/concerned-northern-southern-citizens-urge-tinubu-to-back-orji-kalu-for-senate-presidency-video/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44, Seun, OAM4J

A former federal and old Imo State contractor, Dr Ako Obioma has appealed to the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti to launch an investigation into the purported ownership of the state Government House by an individual, as well as probe to unravel who receives rentage on the said property.

In an open letter addressed to the Governor, Obioma who is the Chairman of Daman Group, said the property being described as a rented apartment (Government House) was owned by the former Eastern Region and was used by late Dr Michael Okpara and Col. Chukwuemeka Odimegwu Ojukwu as Governor's Lodge.

The said property was, according to him ceded to old Imo state and subsequently Abia State upon creation in 1991.

He expressed shock about the rumour being peddled that the property is now being owned by a certain individual seeking for immediate investigation.

“I was quite astonished to read your comments on the need to complete the new Government House because the present Government House is a RENTED property.

"Please I write to advice that you investigate thoroughly at what point our Abia Government House Umuahia became rented property and who is the owner.

“It may interest you to know that at the creation of Abia State in August 1991 and swearing-in of then Group Captain Frank Ajobena (retd) as first Military Administrator, I was privileged to have been introduced to him by powers that be then and as a major contractor in the federal and old Imo State. So, that relationship gave me the privilege as his closest Abia civilian and my company was first to be awarded contract by the regime", he stated.

Obioma said further, "After his swearing-in, Group Capt. Frank Ajobena (retd) remained in Douglas House Owerri for some days to allow for complete clean-up of the present Govt House Umuahia before resuming work at Umuahia.

"This present Government House was then a big two (2) bedroom duplex owned by the former Eastern Region which was used by late Dr Michael Okpara and Col. Chukwuemeka Odimegwu Ojukwu as Governor's Lodge, with Enugu as headquarters before it was ceded to Imo State and subsequently to Abia State upon its creation.

"Because it was the seat of power of the then Eastern region, all the land surrounding it was owed by Eastern Region government as government reserved area with the back as forestry without encroachment until the civilian regime of the late Chief Sam Mbakwe, when few lands were allocated to defunct NPP political cronies.

"on assumption of office, Ajobena ordered revocation of those lands allocated in the GRA, especially those within the Government House environment.

"Among those critical ones were the one allocated to the late Air Cmdr. Emeka Omeruah, where he built the uncompleted duplex which now serves as the Governor's Office. The second most critical were the land opposite Cmdr. Emeka Omeruah, which were allocated to Hon (Eze) Albert Uwanamodo, who represented Umuahia in the Imo State House of Assembly under the late Chief Sam Mbakwe, where he was constructing (4 nos) twin duplex which were at DPC levels.

"Due to the personalities involved which included his boss (Omeruah), Frank Ajobena ordered that the cost of these properties and structures on it be evaluated which was done and the owners were completely paid off.

"Frank Ajobena now awarded contracts for the reconstruction of the Governor's Lodge and Construction of the banquet Hall to Phomo Nig Ltd, which were completed as you have them today.

"He awarded contract for completion of the Emeka Omeruah building to serve as Governor's office, construction of (8 nos) duplexes on the Chief Uwanamodo structure to serve as Governor's Guest Houses and other structures which my companies were also beneficiaries too.

"While myself and another contractor gifted the building and furnishing of the Chapel to Government House.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/it-wasnt-rented-governor-otti-told-to-investigate-who-receives-rents-on-abia-govt-house/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44, Seun, OAM4J

The First Lady of Abia State, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, has assured that appropriate action is being taken to rehabilitate the inmates rescued from a baby factory located at Umunkpeyi, Nvosi, in Isialangwa South LGA.

Mrs. Otti gave the assurance Tuesday when she paid an unscheduled visit to the young girls at Madonna College of Health Technology, Olokoro, Umuahia, where they are being taken care of.

The wife of the Governor, who expressed sadness and disappointment over the incident, described the development as heartbreaking, adding, however, that government was providing care temporarily for the Baby factory victims.

She regretted that such an unfortunate act was being carried out in the State and assured that government would partner charity homes, churches, and other stakeholders to provide necessary assistance to care for young girls and children in the State, who are being taken advantage of.

Speaking earlier, while receiving the wife of the Governor to the college, the Provost, Madonna College of Health Technology, Olokoro, Rev. Fr. Christian Anokwuru narrated that the Girls were brought to the facility following their rescue by the State government few days ago.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/abia-first-lady-priscilla-otti-promises-adequate-care-for-rescued-baby-factory-inmates/

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court 40 sitting in Bwari, Abuja, has sacked Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa Jr. as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

In his judgement delivered Tuesday afternoon, Justice Mohammed Madugu nullified all actions taken by Chief Victor Ikechukwu Oye since the Supreme Court, in a March 24, 2023, judgement, deleted his name from the annals of APGA history.

The apex court has also replaced Chief Oye’s name with that of Chief Edozie Njoku, who it affirmed as the authentic National Chairman of APGA.

The court ordered that all actions of Oye are unlawful, hence null and avoid.

Justice Madugu further ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognize Chief Njoku as the National Chairman of APGA in line with the Supreme Court judgement of March 24.

Meanwhile, following this judgement, a chieftain of APGA in Abia, Sir Chikwe Udensi, the new chairman of APGA Chief Edozie Njoku and other stalwarts of the party have welcomed the judgement voiding actions taken by Oye in the last election.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/court-sacks-ezeokenwa-as-apga-chairman-voids-victor-oyes-actions-udensi-edozie-njoku-others-jubilate/

The governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti has barred payment of state revenues from unauthorized channels, ABN TV reports.

This is in an effort to ensure accountability and reporting, a release by Kazie Uko, chief press Secretary to the Governor said on Tuesday.

The governor, therefore, directed that all payments should be made through designated Bank Branches.


"Additional approved online and offline channels will be communicated by the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Internally Generated Revenue and Digital Transformation.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/gov-otti-stops-payment-of-revenues-from-unauthorised-channels/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44, Seun, OAM4J

Abia State governor, Dr. Alex Otti has announced the termination of appointment of all revenue enforcement officers in the state with immediate effect.

The governor in a statement by his chief press Secretary, Kazie Uko made available to ABN TV, says this is part of the measures to sanitise activities around the transport sector and markets in the State.

The affected appointees are urged return government properties in their possession.

"This takes immediate effect.

"Consequently, affected persons are to return all Government property in their possession to the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Internally Generated Revenue and Digital Transformation, immediately.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/governor-otti-sacks-all-revenue-enforcement-officers/

Source: lalasticlala, Mynd44, Seun, OAM4J

The people of Ebem Ohafia Ancient kingdom, Ohafia local government area of Abia State have denied the dethronement of their Paramount Ruler, HRH Ezie Ukoha Kalu Ukoha (JP) who is also the Ezieogo of Ebem Ohafia.

The community in a statement on Sunday by the representatives of Ezieogo Ebem Ohafia in Council, the Ebem Ohafia Kingmakers, The Central Executive Committee of Ebem Ohafia Development Union, Inyom Ebem Home and Abroad, the Ebem Youths Association, and the board of trustees of Ebem Ohafia Development Union incorporated was reacting to a radio announcement by a body called UMUEZIABA who claimed to have dethroned the traditional ruler.

The community urged all sons and daughters of Ebem to ignore to rumour, stating that HRH Ezie Ukoha Kalu Ukoha (JP) is the Ezieogo of Ebem Ohafia and has not been removed by any person or group of persons.

The release said, "The radio announcement of the purported dethronement of Ezie Ukoha Kalu Ukoha as Ezieogo of Ebem Ohafia is illegal, not supported by Ebem Ohafia customs and traditions with respect to the Eziogo Ebem stool and the mere wishful thinking of the persons who do not know or appreciate the customs and traditions of Ebem Ohafia Community.

"The stool of Ezieogo Ebem is neither appointive nor elective in nature, the occupant of the stool holds the office for life and no other person can occupy the stool during the lifetime of any reigning Ezieogo.

"HRH Ezie Ukoha Kalu Ukoha is not guilty of the fabricated, baseless and unfounded allegations leveled against him in the radio announcements. We hereby reiterate and pledge our implicit and unalloyed support for the reign of Ezie Ukoha Kalu (JP) as the Ezieogo of Ebem Ohafia."

The community while urging Abians to ignore the purported removal of the Paramount Ruler said there is an inbuilt customary conflict resolution mechanism in the community which every aggrieved person is expected to explore if there is any issue with the institutions of governance in Ebem Ohafia and not indulging in acts capable of creating crisis.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/eze-ukoha-kalu-ukoha-still-the-ezieogo-of-ebem-ohafia-not-dethroned/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44, Seun, OAM4J

Abia State government has released the official portrait of the state Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, ABN TV reports.

The picture is expected to be hung conspicuously in all public and corporate buildings and offices across the state, a statement by the Governor's Chief Press Secretary, Kazie Uko said.

"An image of a confident, humane, and bold Dr. Otti is captured in the picture beaming with smiles as he looks to shoulder the task of governance and deliver dividends of quality leadership to the people of Abia State.

"The full colour headshot is the handwork of versatile photographer Inyama Iheanyi Iroham of Ebony Photo Kingdom.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/abia-government-releases-governor-ottis-official-portrait-photo/

The umbrella body of journalists in the country, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) on Saturday said it would withdraw its services if the Federal Government fails to reverse its decision to stop fuel subsidy.

A statement by the union’s National Secretary, Shuaibu Leman, made this known after an emergency Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting held virtually on Saturday.

The statement said, “After presentations by the national president, Chris Isiguzo, and the national treasurer Bamidele Atunbi on the position taken by the NLC on the matter, members unanimously adopted the position of the NLC on the issue.

“CWC reiterates the argument that although the removal of fuel subsidy will free allocations which can be channelled to the provisions of infrastructure and creation of additional jobs, the sudden removal could, however, lead to social unrests and protests as people may perceive government as being insensitive to their plight.”

The NUJ stated that the removal of fuel subsidy and its attendant effect on petrol price and inflation has seen the purchasing power of the citizenry diminish significantly.

“CWC also notes that already there is an astronomical increase in the prices of petroleum products and high inflation which have drastically reduced the purchasing power of citizens.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/journalists-threaten-withdrawal-of-service-over-fuel-subsidy-removal/

A new Public Relations Officer (PRO) has been assigned by Abia State Police Command following the approval of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, ABN TV reports.

Chinaka Chioma Maureen, a graduate of Law from Police Academy Kano, is an associate member of Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (ANIPR), the outgoing PRO CSP Geoffrey Ogbonna announced in a statement.

Before her posting, she was the 2nd-in-command to CSP Ogbonna who has been redeployed for other professional policing duties in the command sequel.

This follows his promotion recently by the police authorities to the rank of a Chief Superintendent of Police.
.
The release added, "ASP Chinaka Chioma Maureen is a member of course 2 regular intake and graduate of law from the Nigeria Police Academy, Kano, an Associate Nigerian Institute of Public Relation, and she is currently pursuing a post-graduate degree in mass communication. She is married and hails from Imo State.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/abia-state-police-command-gets-new-pro/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44, Seun, OAM4J

The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti has described the Permanent Secretaries in the State's civil service as the engine room of government, urging them to adopt transparency in the conduct of government businesses.

ABN TV reports that Governor Otti, while holding his first meeting as governor with the permanent secretaries in Umuahia on Tuesday urged them to take charge until a new set of commissioners are appointed by the new government.

At the meeting which took place at Michael Okpara Auditorium, Library Road, Umuahia, Governor Otti congratulated Abia civil servants for their continued service to the state but warned them against undermining the new government, a release by the governor's chief press secretary, Kazie Uko stated.

The statement quoted him as saying, "I want to congratulate all of us for the transitioning to a new administration. Every four years election happen and winners get sworn in. In most places, those who lost become opposition. So, being that we're all winners, I believe that we won't have opposition. But just in case there's opposition, it is also part of governance and democracy.

"We welcome opposition. Constructive engagement is also welcome. Disagreeing with us is part of the business. You can never know it all. If you have an opinion feel free to express it.

"I must tell you that you're the engine room of the government and that's why I thought that the first meeting that I will hold will be with all of you.

"I do know that a lot of you would have different political persuasions and alliances and allegiance, that is not a problem. But what will be the problem is if you begin to undermine the government that you serve and when we notice that, we will not waste time to act because this is a government that must work and anything that stands in the way, we will get it out.

"We will not witch-hunt people and we will not deal with people because of their persuasions, whether it is ethnic, religious and all that. At the end of the day, it is the interest of the state that is paramount."

Dr. Otti, consequently, directed the permanent secretaries to begin to perform the functions of commissioners pending when a new set is appointed by the state governor.

"You will begin to function as commissioners until new commissioners are appointed. I'm sure you understand what I'm saying, that is, that government is a continuum. So ensure you take over and begin to run your different ministries and by the time new commissioners come, you will handover to them.

"I believe some of you were there yesterday when I made my inauguration speech. Everything that I said there, I mean them from A-Z. So things will begin to change.

"This is a familiarisation meeting, where I will listen to you and get to understand what you do; get to understand how you do it and any help or support you require," he declared.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/gov-otti-tasks-abia-perm-secs-on-transparency-cautions-against-undermining-govt/

The Governor of Abia state, Dr. Alex Otti has made his first appointments barely 24 hours after his assumption of office.

The offices announced so far include the Secretary to the State Government, Chief of Staff to the Governor, and Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.

This is contained in a statement on Tuesday signed Ferdinand Ekeoma, the Governor's Special Adviser on Media and Publicity.

The following are the appointed officials of the state government;

1. Prof. Kenneth Kalu -Secretary to the State Government.

2. Pastor Caleb Ajagba, PhD (Chief of Staff to the Governor).

3. Dr. Ngozi Okoronkwo (Special Adviser Health Care Delivery Services)

4. Ferdinand Ekeoma (Special Adviser Media and Publicity)

5. Mr. Kazie Uko (Chief Press Secretary to the Governor)

6. Mrs. Njum Onyemenam, Accountant General

7. Mr. Ogbonnia Okereke ( Head, Special Taskfore on Emergency Cleanup of Aba & Umuahia).

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/abia-governor-otti-appoints-ssg-chief-of-staff-cps-others-see-full-list/

The Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, has ordered the immediate freezing of all accounts of the Abia State Government and those of its agencies domiciled in every bank and financial institution across the State and the Federation.

The Governor in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma said all banks and other financial institutions in the country are by the notice directed to immediately seize from honouring any cheque, document, instrument or directive of any kind not expressly approved by or emanating from him.

The statement added, "Similarly, Governor Otti has directed the immediate dissolution of all boards of the Abia State Government agencies and parastatals and subsequently ordered the chief executives of these organisations to hand over to those next in line to them."

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/alex-otti-freezes-all-govt-accounts-sacks-boards-of-agencies-parastatals/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44, Seun, OAM4J

The Commissioner of Police Abia State Command, CP Mustapha Mohammed Bala has assured residents of the state of a hitch-free inauguration ceremony slated for 29th May 2023, ABN TV reports.

The incumbent Governor Okezie Ikpeazu is expected to handover the mantle of leadership to Dr. Alex Otti winner of the March 18 governorship election in the state.

The Police and other Security agencies have been massively deployed to fortify venues of the Inauguration ceremony in the State before, during, and after, the CP said in a statement on Sunday signed by the Public Relations Officer of the Command, CSP Geoffrey Ogbonna.

He, therefore, urges all Abians and visitors to adhere to the rules and regulations as regards the Inauguration. He also reminds all to report any suspicious activity or persons to the Police or other relevant Security agencies, he stated.

The release added, "The CP warns all non-state actors, groups or individuals with the intention of causing or creating any form of chaos before, during, and after the celebration to steer clear off the venues as the law enforcement agencies will not hesitate to subdue any confrontational or act of insecurity.

"Furthermore, the CP has ordered constant 'CONVOY PATROL/ SHOW OF FORCE’ across the metros and urges all residents not to panic with the increased presence of security operatives patrol within their areas as the Command is committed to ensuring a safe and secure Abia before, during and after the period.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/may-29-inauguration-nothing-to-worry-about-cp-bala-assures-abians/

Abia State House of Assembly says it has lifted the suspension imposed on some of its members, ABN TV reports.

This is contained in a release signed by the Speaker, Rt Hon Chinedum Orji, and 15 other members of the Assembly late Wednesday.

The Assembly however said Hon. Ifeanyi Uchendu remains impeached as the Deputy Speaker despite his recall while Rt Hon Egwuronu Mandela Obasi remains the Deputy Speaker.

The Assembly said, "Whereas on the 2nd Day of May, 2023, some members of Abia State House of Assembly purportedly gathered at a government facility namely Emeka Omeruah Guest House, Umuahia, and claimed to have impeached the Speaker of the 7th Abia State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji FNSE.

"2. And whereas, the House of Assembly in its duly convened plenary session on the same 2nd May, 2023, impeached the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Ifeanyi Uchendu who presided over the said illegal session outside the legislative chambers and also suspended some members of the House whose pictures appeared in that illegal sitting

"And whereas the above actions and inactions created crisis in the Assembly.

IT IS HEREBY PEACEFULLY RESOLVED AS FOLLOWS:

"1. That the suspension of some Honourable Members of the House of Assembly is hereby lifted and voided via legislative actions.

"2. That Rt Hon Egwuronu Mandela Obasi remains the Deputy Speaker of the 7th Abia State House of Assembly.

"3. That the House shall reconvene in an extra-ordinary session on the 26th Day of May, 2023 for the presentation and consideration of End-of-Tenure reports from the following committees.

"a. Committee report on Public Accounts and MDG’s

"b. Committee Report on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs

"c. Committee report on Works and projects implementation

"d. Committee Report on Health Institutions

"e. Ad-hoc Committee Report on Joint Projects

"f. Ad-hoc Committee report on completion of JAAC Building

"g. Consideration of Appropriate Date for Valedictory Session of the 7th Assembly."

Members who signed the release include,
2. Rt Hon Egwuronu Obasi
Deputy speaker.

3. Hon Solomon Akpulonu
Majority Leader.

4. Hon Chijioke Chukwu
Minority leader.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/abia-assembly-recalls-suspended-members-says-ifeanyi-uchendu-remains-impeached/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44, Seun, OAM4J

More photos

The paramount ruler (Ezie Ogo) of Ebem ancient Kingdom, HRH Eze Ukoha Kalu Ukoha (JP) along with his wife Ugoeze Ukoha on Monday paid a visit to the Director ABN TV, Mr. Ifeanyi Okali.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aZCIM_8v97g
The traditional ruler was in Okali's home in Umuahia to felicitate with him and his wife on the arrival of their first baby Miss Precious Ifeanyi Okali eleven years after their marriage.

Eze Ukoha who was full of gratitude to God praised the family for their patience with each other while waiting on God for the right time to come.

According to the traditional ruler, he was unaware that the family was yet to have a biological child despite his closeness to Mr. Okali, saying he goes about his business cheerfully without letting challenges around him weigh him down.

Eze Ukoha also prayed God to bless the family and provide the resources for the adequate care of the baby.

He also blessed the baby and prayed that she becomes a blessing to her community and the society in general.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/popular-ohafia-king-visits-abn-tv-boss-ifeanyi-okali-lauds-familys-patience-before-arrival-of-baby-photos-video/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44, Seun, OAM4J

A heavy presence of security officials, especially members of the Nigerian Police Force was on Sunday sighted at the entrance of Abia State House of Assembly as lawmakers resume plenary this week, ABN TV reports.

Our correspondent upon visit at the Assembly complex on Sunday evening noticed several armored personnel carrier (APC) and stern-looking security officials were mounted in unusual numbers.

When contacted by ABN TV on what led to the heavy security presence, the PPRO of Abia State Command, CSP Geoffrey Ogbonna said he was not aware of the security drafting.

Recall that the Assembly had been embroiled in a leadership crisis in recent times following the purported impeachment of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Chinedum Orji on Tuesday 2nd May 2023.

The Speaker in reaction announced the suspension and removal from office of his Deputy, Rt Hon Ifeanyi Uchendu, and 8 other lawmakers who had a hand in the purported impeachment.

Both the Speaker and his deputy have insisted that they remain in office.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/heavy-security-presence-as-abia-assembly-resumes-plenary-this-week/

Abia Governor-elect, Dr Alex Otti has accused Abia State Government, and the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, of masterminding, and sponsoring the misinformation over his purported sack by a Federal High Court sitting in Kano, ABN TV reports.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQqcSJ1BRUc

Otti who said he was not joined in the suit that gave rise to the purported ruling, accused the ruling party and the State Government of instigating the (judicial coup) to possibly distract him.

The Governor-elect who addressed a press conference Friday in Umuahia through his Media Adviser, Ferdinand Ekeoma, however, said he was not perturbed by the antics of his detractors.

He said, "The report being sponsored and widely circulated by the PDP and Abia State Government alleging that a Kano High Court has sacked the Abia Governor-elect, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, is baseless, unfounded and misleading, and thus should be ignored.

“For the records, though the perpetrators targeted the Abia Governor-elect and the people of Abia for that legal coup, they were not courageous enough to confront him in the open, hence he was never joined as a party for fear that his eminently qualified lawyers would take the perpetrators to the cleaners.

“To put the records straight and reassure our teeming supporters and millions of Abians who are still celebrating the liberation of Abia, we wish to emphatically state that the Federal High Court in Kano did not issue any order on Abia Labour Party candidates nor the Governor-Elect, Dr. Alex Otti because, unlike those who brought the suit to steal the Abia peoples’ mandate, the court was conscious of its powers and careful not not to fall into the booby trap set for it by the PDP and Abia state government.”

Otti explained that those who went in search of the black market judgement lacked the locus to even institute such a matter against him since they were never members of the Labour Party.

Otti also said that a Federal High Court sitting in Abia had dismissed a similar suit earlier instituted by the PDP against some LP House of Representatives candidates.

”The Federal High Court in Abia had entertained similar cases as Pre-election matters involving some PDP candidates vs LP Candidates, and the matters were adjudicated up to the Supreme Court. In all the cases, Labour Party won at the Federal High Court, Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court respectively.”

Otti further argued that the suit was dead on arrival, being a pre-election matter.

“The case brought by the petitioners is a pre-election matter and under Section 285(14)(a) of the Electoral Act, the petitioners have no locus standi as they were not aspirants in LP.

Section 285 (9), requires that it must be filed within 14 days of the occurrence of the event. In other words, the suit should have been filed before the end of June last year. On the contrary, this suit was filed on May 11, 2023 and a week later, the very “efficient” Judge delivered judgement.

“Like earlier stated, the FHC in Kano does not have jurisdiction over Abia State, therefore it is impossible for any decision emanating from the court to have effect on Dr. Alex Otti who was not a party to the suit in Kano. It therefore exposes PDP’s gullibility to have expected the court to make an order against Dr. Otti, an action that would have incurred the wrath of the NJC.

”For purposes of further elucidation, Dr. Alex Otti became the Governorship Candidate of Labour Party on 09 June 2022, then any pre-election litigation questioning his candidacy must have been commenced not later than 14 days from 09 June 2022— meaning the case must be filed not later than 23 June 2022.

“Any case filed not later than 23 June 2022 must be determined not later than 180 days from the date of filing.

Again, assuming it was filed on 23 June of 2022, the 180-day timeline terminated on 20 December, 2022.”

Otti vowed to protect his mandate against being snatched from the backdoor by enemies of the people.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/abia-pdp-responsible-for-misinformation-on-my-purported-sack-alex-otti-video/

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Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chinedum Orji on Thursday visited the Director ABN TV, Mr. Ifeanyi Okali at his residence in Umuahia.

The Speaker who came in company of his aides had visited to rejoice with Okali and his wife who last week welcomed their first baby after their 11 years of marital union.

He congratulated Okali and his wife for their patience and belief in God in the eleven years without a child.

Describing Okali as a rare breed, the Speaker said he was unaware of the family's situation before now, praising the couple for not allowing the long years without a child to steal their joy.

According to him, Okali is usually in a joyful mood, going about his business without any issues with anyone.

The Speaker also applauded him for maintaining objectivity and not being biased in his reportage, urging other media practitioners, especially online publishers to emulate him.

He prayed for physical and spiritual growth of the baby, praying that she becomes a shining star in society.

Okali in response thanked the Speaker for the visit and for identifying with the family during their period of joy.

He extolled the Speaker for being an embodiment of humility, praying for God's blessings upon him.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/abia-speaker-visits-journalist-whose-wife-delivered-first-child-after-11-years-in-marriage-photos/

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Indications have emerged that the NNPP presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso may function as the Minister of Agriculture or Education in the administration of Bola Tinubu expected to be inaugurated May 29, ABN TV reports.

This was the outcome of the meeting which took place in France between the duo on Tuesday.

Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State had won only his state in the presidential election and refused the challenge the outcome of the poll which saw Tinubu emerge the winner.

ABN TV had earlier reported that Tinubu met with Kwankwaso during which he extended a hand of friendship with a view to working together after he takes over from President Muhammadu Buhari on May 29.

The choice of incorporating Kwankwaso into the administration is not unconnected with the large followership of his Kwankwasiyya group in Kano and other parts of the North.

A credible source told our reporter that apart from the meeting between Tinubu and Kwankwaso in Paris, another one was held between the president-elect and Sanusi and then another one between Kwankwaso and the former emir. 

“The three separate meetings were meant to strengthen ties. The president-elect seriously needs the support of the two leading personalities from Kano,” one of our sources said. 

“While Kwankwaso is a politician in his own right who has a large followership not only in Kano but across the North, the former emir is a technocrat who knows the economy very well as evident in how he handled the Central Bank of Nigeria,” another source said. 

According to sources, Tinubu and Kwankwaso met for hours in Paris, the capital of France. 

The former Lagos governor reportedly told Kwankwaso to reach out to his political associates on the need to work together. 

The incoming president and his guest were said to have agreed to hold subsequent meetings. 

But beyond that, it was gathered that the president-elect had offered a ministerial position to Kwankwaso. 

“He told the NNPP leader to choose between the Ministry of Agriculture and that of Education,” one of our sources said. 

It is not clear whether Kwankwaso will accept to serve as a minister in the event they sealed the partnership or he will give the slot to one of his loyalists.

“The meeting was attended by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila. Kwankwaso was accompanied to the meeting by member-elect from Kano, Hon Abdulmumin Jibrin,” the source said.

“Sen Oluremi Tinubu was also there to receive Kwankwaso’s wife, Hajia Salamatu who came with her husband. Discussions were centered around their long-term friendship since their days in the National Assembly in 1992, national unity and development, priorities for the new government, National Assembly contests, and the plan by the president-elect for a government of national unity, which Kwankwaso has in principle accepted to join.” 

The source said Tinubu also hinted at reconciling Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano and Kwankwaso. Ganduje had succeeded Kwankwaso in 2015, but the duo fell apart shortly after. 

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/nnpp-presidential-candidate-kwankwaso-may-become-tinubus-agric-or-education-minister/

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Chinwendu Samuel Mark, a 26-year-old man, has died of electrocution while reportedly trying to illegally reconnect electricity disconnected by operatives of Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) Plc in Umuahia, Abia State, ABN TV reports.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15C5RlnxvVI

Chinwendu Mark, popularly known as Oku Na Wire Mark died on Saturday at Warri Street in Umuahia while performing the task.

ABN TV gathered that the victim is not an official of EEDC and is likely not qualified to perform the task.

A sympathizer was heard shouting "he has been doing this thing before na, what happened".

ABN TV learnt that the 26-year-old was rescued from the pole where the impact of the electrocution suspended him and rushed to the FMC Umuahia and later Madonna where he was pronounced dead.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/man-electrocuted-while-reconnecting-electricity-in-abia-photos-video/

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The Director of ABN TV, Mr. Ifeanyi Okali is still regaling in the joy of the arrival of his baby girl, who was born on Wednesday at Federal Medical Centre Umuahia, 11 years after his marriage.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=un4L8RORa8s
Dressed in complete school uniform, he visited Our Lady Of Mercy Nursery/ Primary School at Mater Dei Catholic Church Umuahia, Abia State on Thursday to thank the management and pupils of the school.

He was in the school during his birthday in June last year when the students engaged in divine intercession for him, praying God to grant him his heart desires.

Less than one year later, his family welcomed a baby for the first time since his marriage in 2012, a development he believes is worth celebrating with the pupils of the school.

At his last visit, Okali also awarded scholarships to nine pupils, a pledge he has since redeemed.

Speaking during the visit, Mr Okali said "Last year I felt an urge to celebrate my birthday with children, sit with them and play with them, that led to our Lady of Mercy Nursery/primary school being selected.

"There was a prayer by the pupils last year that motivated me and I think the prayer worked a child in this school (Honor Chimaobi Patrick) prayed, calling me uncle, daddy, and today as a result of that prayers I am now a dad, yesterday the 10th of May 2023 my wife delivered a bouncing baby girl after 11 years of waiting."

He advised those waiting on God to "be faithful, believe in God everything will be over".

He further encouraged everyone to tap from his blessings and also see it as an evidence of God's unchanging grace.

He appreciated the school with some gift items and an undisclosed amount of money.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/abn-tv-boss-ifeanyi-okali-goes-back-to-school-to-celebrate-arrival-of-his-baby-after-11-years-marriage-photos-video/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44, Seun, OAM4J

A House of Assembly member-elect, Abia State House of Assembly, Obingwa West State Constituency, Erondu Uchenna Erondu Jr has denied involvement in the crisis rocking the state legislative House, saying he has no hand in it.

He said he is not yet a member of the Assembly and couldn't have instigated the crisis.

In a statement on Thursday, Erondu said the allegation that he provided finances to effect leadership change is unfounded, urging Abians to ignore such.

Some members of the Assembly on Tuesday announced the impeachment of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Chinedum Orji, accusing him of pocketing the Assembly for years.

The deputy speaker, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Uchendu who has been suspended and removed from office accused the Speaker of eating his (Uchendu) entitlement for 12 months.

He said, "It is self-evident that I am not yet a member of the Abia State House of Assembly.I am therefore at a loss as to how I would have galvanised the 16 members who participated in the May 2, 2023 Sitting of the House when I am not yet their colleague.

"At no point did I give any Legislator of the present 7th Assembly any money to effect the change of speakership of the Abia House of Assembly.

"At no point did I engage anyone to obtain on my behalf the buy-in of members of the 7th Assembly which i am not a member, for the speakership position of the 8th Assembly as these rumours seem to suggest."

The incoming Assembly member expressed shock that his name is being associated with the internal wrangling in the House, stating that he is not in any way connected to the day-to-day activities of the House and cannot possibly be a beneficiary of the outcome of the crisis in whatever way

He said his trauders are the ones peddling such malicious accusations against him in a desperate effort to soil his hard-earned image.

"It is clear that these malicious allegations cum rumour are part of a surreptitious strategy being orchestrated by my traducers who are intent on soiling my good image and by implication that of this government which I have served creditably. I, therefore, wish to plead that these unfounded and malicious allegations should stop forthwith as it will not serve any useful purpose.

"I advise the idle minds manufacturing these lies and rumours and seeking to drag my name down to look for a meaningful venture to engage their brains rather than this reckless path of character assassination which CAN NEVER BE THE EXCLUSIVE PRESERVE OF ANY PERSON OR GROUP OF PERSONS," he concluded.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/count-me-out-of-abia-assembly-crisis-says-hon-erondu-jr/

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Students in Abia State under the aegis of the National Association of Abia State Students (NAASS) have visited the former INEC Returning Officer (Abia State) in the just concluded 2023 Governorship Election, Prof. Nnenna Oti and conferred on her award of excellence, ABN TV reports.

The students led by the Senate President, Mba Chukwuemeka Freeman paid an appreciation visit to Prof. Oti, the Vice Chancellor of Federal University of Technology Owerri, in appreciation her excellent service during the governorship election in Abia state.

The students eulogized her firmness in making sure the will of Abians stand during the poll.

The vice chancellor while welcoming the students promised to always uphold the truth and stand on the right side of history irrespective of the situation.

She admonished the students to live truthfully and sincerely in all they do.

Those in the delegation include, NAASS Chapter President and Members of NAASS FUTO Chapter, all NAASS Chapter Presidents in Imo State and the Senate leadership of National of Imo State Students led by Sen. Jecinta, NAIS Senate President.,

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/abia-state-students-honour-prof-nnenna-oti-with-award-of-excellence-photos/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44, Seun, OAM4J

The Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji said he decided to be quiet in the state as a result of the respect he has for the Governor, Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu.

Speaking at the floor of the House of Assembly during plenary held on Tuesday, the Speaker said his quietness was not as a result of losing his voice but because he doesn’t want to be seen as a stumbling block to the administration of Governor Okezie Victor Ikpeazu

“That I’ve been quiet in this State does not mean that I have lost my voice. I respect that Office (Governor) so much that it has made me to be quiet because I do not want to be judged harshly as being a stumbling block to the running of the state by the incumbent Governor”

He said he has endured humiliation from those around the governor but going forward, enough would be enough.

“I have endured a lot of humiliations, insults, not necessarily from the Governor but from those that now feel that they are either the Governor or the assistant governor of this state. And I now say that from today, enough has to be enough!” he said.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/ive-been-quiet-because-of-respect-i-have-for-gov-ikpeazu-abia-assembly-speaker-breaks-silence/

Cc; lalasticlala, Mynd44, Seun, OAM4J