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The trial of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, resumed today at the Federal High Court in Abuja with heated exchanges between the prosecution and defense teams over the handling of critical documents, ABN TV reports.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29BYKYlqliQ

The proceedings, which began with Kanu’s arrival at the court under tight security, saw the prosecution, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Adegboyega Awomolo, calling its second witness to testify. The witness claimed that Kanu incited violence and established the Eastern Security Network (ESN), allegedly as an armed wing of IPOB.

However, under cross-examination, the witness admitted ignorance of several key facts, including that a previous court ruling had already struck out some of the charges against Kanu. Defense lawyers pressed the witness on whether he was aware that the allegations of terrorism and incitement to destroy public property had been dismissed—a claim he denied knowledge of.

The defense team, led by renowned lawyer and former Attorney General of the Federation, Kanu Agabi (SAN), objected to the prosecution’s attempt to tender new documents in court, citing a lack of prior service. Justice Omotosho firmly reminded the prosecution that all evidence and documents must be duly served to the defense before they can be admitted. He emphasized the importance of fair hearing and due process.

At one point, a letter allegedly from a former Attorney General of the Federation became a point of contention. The defense maintained they had never received the document, and even Justice Omotosho confirmed he had not seen it. Following this, the prosecution formally withdrew the letter from the court’s records.

Kanu’s legal team, comprising over a dozen lawyers, including Aloy Ejimakor, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, and Emeka Etiaba (SAN), further insisted on viewing all materials presented by the prosecution. Despite the prosecution's claims that they were prepared to serve the documents, the defense argued that the late submission was prejudicial to their case.

As proceedings became increasingly contentious, the prosecution requested an adjournment to allow for proper service of documents—a motion the court granted.

Justice Omotosho adjourned the trial to Tuesday, May 7, 2025, specifically for the continuation and examination of the prosecution’s witness. The court also noted that an application regarding the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s personal belongings is expected to be submitted.

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has condemned the proscription of its organization by the Nigerian government, describing it as “kangaroo justice” and a gross violation of constitutional and judicial processes.

In a press statement signed by its Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, IPOB accused the APC-led federal government of using “backdoor tactics” and corrupt means to criminalize its peaceful advocacy for self-determination.

Citing a 2017 ruling by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court, Abuja, IPOB said there was no legal basis for its designation as an unlawful group. “Justice Nyako unequivocally found no evidence—none whatsoever—to support the prosecution’s claim that IPOB is an unlawful or proscribed society,” the group noted, referencing Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CR/383/15.

Despite the subsisting nature of that ruling, IPOB alleged that the then-Buhari administration secured an ex parte proscription order from another judge, Justice Abdul Kafarati, without giving IPOB or its lawyers the opportunity to be heard — a move the group insists contravenes Section 36 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees the right to fair hearing.

“The government failed to achieve its goal through a fair legal process and instead chose to manipulate the judiciary in secrecy,” the statement added. IPOB described the proscription order as “null and void ab initio,” claiming it failed to meet legal requirements for such actions.

The group also criticized the Court of Appeal for upholding the proscription, arguing that no amount of affirmation could validate a ruling “built on an illegal foundation.”

Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful advocacy, IPOB called on the international community, human rights bodies, and civil society to scrutinize what it called a “travesty of justice” and to pressure the Nigerian government into reversing the proscription.

“We will not be silenced by illegal proscriptions or state-sponsored oppression,” the statement read. “The world is watching, and history will judge those who choose to trample on justice for political expediency.”

Governor Alex Otti says over 700,000 children across Abia State are now benefiting from the state’s free and compulsory basic education policy, which took effect on January 1, 2024, ABN TV reports.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hOic0K4K9ng

The Governor revealed this while addressing the public during his monthly media briefing, noting that the spike in school enrollment necessitated urgent recruitment of teachers.

“We first hired 5,000 teachers, but due to increasing enrollment, we have approved the recruitment of an additional 4,000,” Governor Otti said.

He added that the government is also investing in teacher capacity development, especially in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), to ensure students are future-ready.

“Our goal is to equip children to thrive in today’s tech-driven world—one of AI, robotics, and electric cars,” he emphasized.

Governor Alex Otti has issued a stern warning to criminal elements operating in Abia State, stating that his administration will not tolerate acts of kidnapping, banditry, or insecurity, ABN TV reports.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hOic0K4K9ng

Speaking during his April edition of “Governor Alex Otti Speaks to Abians, the Governor stressed that the government’s “Operation Crush” security initiative is operational across all 17 local government areas of the state.

“Some people who tested our will didn’t find it easy,” the Governor said. “Security is everybody’s business, and I urge our people to report any suspicious activity.”

He reaffirmed his commitment to making Abia safe for businesses, investors, and residents, warning that “all the investments we’re making in infrastructure and healthcare would be meaningless if security is not guaranteed.”

The community of Elu Ohafia was engulfed in sorrow on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, as the remains of the late Kalu Uchendu, popularly known as "Anyunku," were laid to rest amidst tears and tributes.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3YBrQKDHu4
ABN TV reports that the 54-year-old cultural icon, known for his vibrant displays of the Ohafia War Dance, died suddenly on January 17, 2025. While initial reports suggested food poisoning, some sources also mentioned that he had been suffering from high blood pressure prior to his demise.

A large crowd of mourners gathered to pay their final respects, beginning with a wake keep on Monday, April 28, which lasted from 7:00 p.m. until dawn. The funeral proceedings continued Tuesday with the body leaving the Central Hospital Ohafia in a motorcade to his hometown, Elu Ohafia, where it was received by the Ndi Anya Compound.

An open-air funeral service followed at Achichi Ohafia by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and his body was interred shortly after.

Kalu Uchendu was widely admired for preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Ohafia people through traditional dance. His passing marks the end of an era and has left a deep void in the hearts of many who knew and loved him.

He is survived by family members including his children, grandchildren, and extended relatives.

A mild drama played out at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday when the wife of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s younger brother, Mrs. Favour Michael Kanu, had her mobile phone confiscated by the presiding judge for allegedly attempting to record a live video during court proceedings.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BoyT3ZsmXCw

Speaking with an ABN TV correspondent shortly after the incident, Mrs. Kanu explained that the court session had already ended and the matter had been adjourned to April 2nd before she began a live video on her phone.

“They have seized my phone! The judge seized my phone and threatened to charge me with contempt for recording,” she said in frustration, adding in a Facebook post, “Well, my phone is gone.”

Despite her explanation that she did not record during active court proceedings, the judge reportedly maintained that recording within the courtroom premises without permission remains a violation of court rules and decorum. A warning of possible contempt charges was also issued.

The session was part of the ongoing legal battle involving IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, whose case has drawn both national and international attention.

Tinubu's Minister In Trouble As Rep. Ogah Accuses Her Of Forging INEC Results


The lawmaker representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Amobi Godwin Ogah, has petitioned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), calling for the investigation and prosecution of the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, over alleged forgery of official election documents.

In his petition to INEC, titled “Forgery, Uttering, and Tendering of Allied Forged Polling Unit Result Sheets Arising Out of the 2023 General Elections in Respect of Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency,” Hon. Ogah alleged that Onyejeocha presented fake results from 63 polling units during the 2023 election tribunal proceedings.

The lawmaker claimed that the documents presented by Onyejeocha, which were relied upon by the tribunal in its ruling, differed significantly from the Certified True Copies (CTCs) issued by INEC offices in Umuahia and Abuja. According to him, INEC officials from both offices later disowned the results tendered by the Minister, reaffirming that the copies presented by Ogah were the authentic ones.

“It is obvious from my narrative above that these 63 polling unit results tendered by Hon. Onyejeocha were fake and a product of forgery,” Ogah stated. “There can only be one authentic result per polling unit, and INEC has confirmed that the ones I presented are genuine.”

Fresh facts emerging from the tribunal proceedings reveal that the allegedly forged documents were central to the judgment that favored Onyejeocha. Ogah is now demanding that INEC take urgent steps to investigate the matter and prosecute those involved, warning that such acts of electoral fraud undermine the nation’s democracy and judicial integrity.

Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), on Tuesday admitted in court to founding both IPOB and Radio Biafra, the online platform through which he addressed followers across the world, ABN TV reports.

Speaking during proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja, Kanu stated that he started the movement for the overall good of the Igbo people. According to him, all his broadcasts were public and available on Facebook, dismissing claims that IPOB operates as a secret organization.

When questioned by the Department of State Services (DSS) about individuals he was working with, Kanu maintained that he works alone and personally handles all broadcasts on Radio Biafra.

The presiding judge also ordered that a video recording of Kanu’s interrogation be played in court as part of the ongoing trial.

The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, on Tuesday 29th April 2025, arrived at the Federal High Court in Abuja amid tight security.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BoyT3ZsmXCw
His appearance marks another chapter in his ongoing legal battle as he seeks to challenge what he describes as injustice meted out against him and his group. Supporters gathered outside the court premises, chanting solidarity songs as proceedings commenced.

A young student has narrowly escaped death after being involved in a ghastly tricycle (Keke) accident in Umuahia, Abia State, shortly after writing the 2025 JAMB examination, ABN TV reports.

The father of the student, Mr. Emenike Okorie, shared the news on his Facebook page, thanking God for sparing his son's life.

According to Mr. Okorie, his son was returning home after the exam when the accident occurred. While his son survived, the Keke operator was not so fortunate, as he died while being rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Umuahia.

Mr. Okorie revealed that his son, who initially lost consciousness, has regained it and is currently receiving treatment at the Abia State Specialist Hospital, Amachara Annex. He sustained head injuries, but tests confirmed that his brain and central nervous system were not affected.

Expressing gratitude, Mr. Okorie wrote: "The devil came to steal, kill and destroy, but the Lord Jesus Christ came that we may have life and have it more abundantly. It can only be God! Lord, I'm grateful."

Leaders from the Ukwa-Ngwa bloc in Abia State have urged the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, to contest the 2027 governorship election.

During a courtesy visit to Kalu on Thursday in Umuahia, the leaders, representing the old Aba political division, endorsed him citing his outstanding legislative performance and commitment to empowering Abians.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Elder Godwin Nna, a former Commissioner and ex-Chairman of Obingwa Local Government Area, said the All Progressives Congress (APC) is determined to take over Abia State in 2027 and needs strong candidates like Kalu to achieve that goal.

“We all from Aba division, Ukwa la Ngwa, have come here today to tell you that we want to take over Abia State. With capable people like you, APC must govern the state this time,” Nna stated.

Other notable figures, including former Deputy Speaker of Abia House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Uzo Azubuike, and former Information Commissioner, Sir Don Ubani, also endorsed Kalu, praising his legislative achievements and support for Abia indigenes.

Azubuike described Kalu’s performance in the National Assembly as “excellent,” assuring that the Ukwa-Ngwa bloc would rally solidly behind him. Ubani, on his part, expressed gratitude for Kalu’s empowerment initiatives and urged him to "do more."

In his response, Deputy Speaker Kalu appreciated the leaders' support and called for unity, stressing that with collective effort, APC would secure victory in the state.

“We must work together. With your support, we will fight and we will win for the good of Abia State,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Uwaoma Support Group, led by Hon. Abraham Obah, also pledged their loyalty to Kalu during a separate visit, promising to deliver Aba North and Aba South to the APC in 2027.

Kalu, who has strong ties to Aba, pledged full support to the group’s efforts to strengthen the party’s base, adding, “When the time comes, we will shut down Aba.”

The National Vice Chairman of the Labour Party (South East), Honourable Ceekay Igara, has commended the administration of Governor Alex Otti for its infrastructural development in Abia State, describing the progress as visible and commendable.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E5JCOc2B8_4

Speaking during an exclusive interview on Political Perspective, a current affairs programme on ABN TV, Hon. Igara stated that while he might not be fully informed about the internal dynamics of the projects, his opinion is based on visible results.

"In terms of infrastructure, I think he's doing well. I may not understand the full implications or how the projects are being executed, but from what I see, Abia has moved from where it was to a better position under the Labour Party-led government," he said.

The Labour Party chieftain, however, declined to make conclusive remarks on other governance sectors such as education, pensions, and gratuities. He stressed that he can only speak authoritatively on issues he is directly familiar with or has personal experience in.

"When it comes to sectors like pensions and education, people make allegations, but unless I have the facts or have interacted with those affected, I can't speak on it. Those directly involved are better positioned to testify about their experiences," he added.

Hon. Igara emphasized that his role is primarily within the Labour Party's structure, noting that his jurisdiction lies in party affairs, not in day-to-day governance.

Former Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has strongly denied making any statement accusing his successor, Governor Alex Otti, of claiming credit for projects initiated under his administration.

The rebuttal, contained in a statement signed by his media aide, Sir Onyebuchi Ememanka made available to ABN TV, described viral social media reports with headlines such as “Alex Otti is Stealing My Projects to Take My Glory – Ikpeazu” as false, misleading, and maliciously crafted to stir confusion and gain cheap online traffic.

Ememanka dismissed the publications as the handiwork of “merchants of evil and lazy bloggers,” stressing that Dr. Ikpeazu has not issued any statement, directly or indirectly, regarding the current administration in Abia State since leaving office.

“Dr. Ikpeazu has since moved on to matters of personal interest and has maintained a dignified silence,” the statement read. “The only occasions he has authorized publications were to clarify officially raised matters by the current government — and even that has not occurred in a long while.”

The former Governor warned that legal actions are being initiated against individuals and blog operators responsible for the fabricated stories. He also cautioned social media users against sharing unverified information, reminding the public that both the creation and dissemination of falsehoods are punishable under the law.

Efforts are reportedly underway in collaboration with security agencies to uncover those behind the fake news.

“Discerning people who want to verify if any statement came from Dr. Ikpeazu know the proper channels. Those enabling falsehood on their platforms should be ready to face the consequences,” the statement concluded.

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has approved the establishment of a 10-megawatt Independent Power Plant at Abia State University, Uturu (ABSU), aimed at solving electricity challenges in the university and surrounding Uturu community.

The governor announced during a civic reception in his honour at Isuikwuato High School, Otankpa, hosted by the people of Isuikwuato LGA. He said the project is backed by the newly signed Abia State Electricity Law, which empowers the state to execute independent power initiatives without federal clearance.

“This initiative will enhance academic productivity at ABSU and improve power supply in Uturu,” Otti stated. He also revealed that key roads, including the Amibo–Acha and Eziama–Ndundu roads, have been included in the state’s rehabilitation plans and will soon receive attention.

The event turned into a political rallying point as top political figures including Hon. Amobi Ogah and Speaker Emmanuel Emeruwa endorsed Otti for a second term, describing him as a transformational leader.

Hon. Lucky Johnson officially joined the Labour Party at the event in a major political shift, declaring that all political structures in Isuikwuato now support the party and the Governor.

Other dignitaries present—Attorney General Barr. Ikechukwu Uwanna, Mayor of Isuikwuato Hon. Chinedu Ekeke, and Hon. Uche Maduako—commended Otti’s strides in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and workers’ welfare and expressed confidence in his re-election bid.

Prominent figures from Isuikwuato and Uturu, including Dr. Onyinyechi Rufus-Obi, Mr. Ken Ahia (SAN), Dr. Chidi Mba, and Chief Chidiebere Uguru, also praised the Governor’s performance and pledged continued support.

The event also witnessed a mass defection of PDP, APGA, and AA members to the Labour Party, further strengthening Labour’s dominance in Isuikwuato.

A 32-year-old man identified as Andrew Chukwuka Chidozie Nwosu has reportedly taken his own life by hanging along Olokoro-Umudike Road in Umuahia, Abia State, ABN TV reports.

The deceased, a native of Itaja Obuohia Olokoro in Umuahia South Local Government Area, was said to have parked his vehicle by the roadside on the morning of Thursday, April 17, 2025, before allegedly using his belt to hang himself on a nearby fence.

Eyewitnesses told ABN TV that his lifeless body was discovered hanging, prompting shock among residents and passersby who quickly alerted the authorities.

Confirming the incident in a chat with ABN TV, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Abia State Police Command, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said: “Yes, the incident happened. One Andrew Chukwuka Nwosu from Itaja Obuohia Olokoro in Umuahia South LGA was found hanging on a fence along Olokoro-Umudike Road.”

According to her, detectives from Ubakala Division promptly visited the scene, and the body has since been deposited at Madonna Mortuary for preservation and autopsy.

“There was no sign of violence on the body. Photographs were taken at the scene, and a preliminary investigation is ongoing,” DSP Chinaka added.

A tragic incident has occurred in Aba, Abia State, resulting in the death of two persons following a heated argument over unpaid salaries of staff of the Abia State Water and Sewerage Corporation (Water Board).

ABN TV gathered that the sad incident happened on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Ukaonu Street by NEPA in Aba South Local Government Area of Abia State.

The deceased, identified as Uche Onyekaba, a staff of the Abia Water Board from Igbere in Bende Local Government Area, was among over 20 staff members whose salaries were suspended by the Abia State Ministry of Power and Public Utilities since last year.

Sources told ABN TV that the late Uche, who had reportedly lost two of his children due to inability to afford medical care as a result of the unpaid salaries, got into a heated argument with another man over the lingering salary crisis affecting workers of the agency.

The argument, which turned physical, saw Uche allegedly hitting the other man with a stone, leading to his death.

Eyewitnesses said the tragic scene turned worse when an angry mob descended on Uche and beat him to death before security operatives arrived.

Confirming the incident to ABN TV, the spokesperson of Abia State Police Command, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said command operatives, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of the area, moved swiftly to the scene and recovered the two bodies.

"It happened at Ukaonu Street by NEPA in Aba South Local Government, Abia State. Officers of the Command, led by the DPO, recovered two dead bodies. Investigation revealed that the two individuals were quarrelling, which led to the death of one, and an angry mob killed the other," she said.

DSP Chinaka said the corpses had been evacuated to a morgue while investigation is ongoing.

The Abia State Government has debunked reports circulating on social media claiming that Governor Alex Otti has approved the engagement of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), a security arm of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to combat criminal activities and protect farmers in the state.

The government described the report, credited to a faceless blogger, as false, malicious, and a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and create unnecessary tension in the state.

In a statement issued on Sunday, April 6, 2025, by Ferdinand Ekeoma, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, and made available to ABN TV, the government expressed concern over the resurgence of the fake report, noting that the same falsehood had earlier been circulated but was ignored.

“For the records, the government of Abia State under the leadership of Dr. Alex Otti could not have contemplated embracing the services of non-state actors to fight criminals and insecurity of any kind in any part of the state,” the statement read.

Ekeoma emphasized that Governor Otti's administration has continued to rely on conventional security agencies to tackle crime in the state, citing the establishment of a joint security taskforce code-named "Operation Crush" as a testament to the government's commitment to security.

He noted that "Operation Crush" has recorded significant successes in combating crime across the state, despite isolated cases of armed robbery and kidnapping which are being addressed.

The government warned those behind the fake news campaign to desist from actions capable of inciting fear and violence in the state, warning that such actions will attract severe consequences when perpetrators are identified.

Abia residents were urged to disregard the false report and remain confident in the government's efforts to ensure their safety.

The Coalition of Abia Health Unions (CAHU) has issued a 15-day ultimatum to the Abia State Government, warning of an impending withdrawal of services if their demands for the implementation of a reviewed salary structure are not met.

In a letter addressed to Governor Alex Otti and obtained by ABN TV, the coalition, comprising the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), and the Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP), expressed frustration over the government’s failure to act on their financial review of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS).

The health workers had earlier issued a 21-day ultimatum, which expired on March 26, 2025, without any response from the state government. According to the letter, the coalition stated that despite submitting the financial breakdown of the reviewed salary structure for both state and local government health workers, the government has remained silent on its implementation.

"This undue delay has thrown our members into a state of financial hardship, which is not just unacceptable but undermines the well-being and motivation of health workers who are essential to the delivery of quality healthcare services in Abia State,"[/b ]the unions stated.

[b]As a result, the coalition is invoking Section 41 of the Trade Dispute Act Cap T8, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, to enforce a 15-day notice of service withdrawal if their demands are not addressed. The unions have also directed their members to begin sensitization and mobilization across the state in preparation for potential industrial action.

The coalition further criticized the state government for its lack of engagement, stating, "It is also worthy to note that no government official has formally engaged this coalition in addressing our concerns."

The health unions are demanding the immediate commencement of payment under the reviewed CONHESS salary structure, which was last updated in July 2024.

The Abia State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has commenced the oral interview phase for the ongoing teachers’ recruitment exercise, ABN TV reports.

The interview, which began on March 31, is taking place at the Ministry of Women Affairs in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, and will run until April 4, 2025.

Qualified candidates who have been shortlisted for this stage of the recruitment process are required to appear with specific documents in both original and photocopy versions.

The required documents include:

Birth Certificate or Age Declaration Affidavit

Local Government Area (LGA) of Origin Certificate

Three (3) Passport Photographs with White Background

Evidence of all Academic Qualifications, including FSLC, WAEC, NCE, Degree Certificate, Postgraduate Diplomas, Master's Degrees, and Ph.D.

Certificate of Membership of the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN)

NYSC Discharge or Exemption Certificate

Bank Verification Number (BVN) Printout

National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Card or Certificate

Score Printout

ABN TV had reported that the Abia State teachers' recruitment exams took place on March 18th and 19th, with the official cutoff mark set at 45%.