NUJ Honours Imoka, Ezeonu As Patrons; As Soludo Solicits Partnership

By Jessica Chinonyelum Edokobi, Awka

Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Anambra State Council has installed Hon. Azubike Demian Cosmas Imoka (Okwuoto Agulu)
CEO of ADC Imoka Farms and Agro Allied Industries Limited, makers of ADC Rice ; MD/CEO of Ozisigbago media limited, and
Dr Jane Nkolika Ezeonu, FWACP
Consultant Public Health Physician and Chairman Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Anambra State Branch as patrons of the union.

They were selected after nominations were made and screenings through rigorous processes.

Hon Azubuike Cosmas Imoka and Dr. Jane Ezeonu, thanked NUJ for the honour given to them to become part of the union. They promised to contribute their quotas to the growth and advancement of journalism in the state.

Chief Imoka promised to ensure he uses his good offices to mobilize support for NUJ at all times, adding that the honour is unique in all ramifications for him, while Dr Ezeonu insisted that more work awaits her for the union as a Patron. Ezeonu Jane is the wife of Prof Emeka Ezeonu of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka and former INEC REC ,Imo state.

This is coming as Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo has been urged to collaborate more with journalists for the coordination and management of information in the state.

The call was made by the chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Anambra State, Comrade Humphrey Emeka Nwafor, at the NUJ 2023 Veterans and Patrons' Day Ceremony, an event organized by NUJ to celebrate patrons and veteran journalists in the state.

Delivering his Chairman's opening remark at the event, Comrade Humphrey Nwafor said NUJ and state government's collaboration facilitates the growth and development of the state. He also said such collaboration enables the teeming population within and outside the state to be better informed about happenings in the state.

Comrade Nwafor said NUJ is known for its doggedness to see that society hears things as they are. He also stressed that it is the work of journalists that guides society into becoming what it wants.

In his words "NUJ is known for its They promised to contribute their quota to the growth and advancement of journalism in the state.doggedness to see that society hears things as they are and it is the work of journalists that guides society into becoming what it wants".

In his Keynote address titled: "Nigeria Union Of Journalists; The Essence And Roles Of Patrons And Patroness In The Upliftment Of The Union," Head of Mass Communication Department Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Professor Cornelius Ukwueze, said NUJ is populated by unsung heroes and heroines who made marks and impacted the society in their careers as journalists.

According to him, veterans deserve to be celebrated because they survived all the odds and hazards of practicing journalism in the country. He however challenged patrons whom he described as influential personalities in their respective areas of specialization to use their influence to protect journalists from suppression, oppression, and discrimination in the state.

Speaking further, Prof. Ukwueze urged veteran journalists to use their wealth of knowledge to nurture upcoming journalists for the growth and expansion of the profession. He also urged them to use their power and influence to better the working conditions of those still active in the service.

Commending NUJ for the initiative to celebrate its elders, the State Director, of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) Anambra State, Sir Joseph Uchendu urged journalists to see themselves as patrons of their union before anyone else. He urged them to always watch their brother's back irrespective of the situation and circumstances.

NUJ President Comrade Chris Isiguzo, represented by the Zonal President, Comrade Emmanuel Ifesinachi, commended NUJ Anambra leadership in the state for celebrating the veterans, sayingits the most honourable thing to do by active players. He urged the members to give the union the maximum support it needs to keep the union afloat in the state and at the national level.

Meanwhile, Anambra NUJ Chairman, Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, PhD who earlier described journalists as the salt of the nation and moral barometers of the society, said the event was to appreciate the veterans and elders for what they contributed to the profession and the society at large during their active days.

He said those celebrated were patrons, journalists who had retired from the profession, and those who are still practicing but have devoted their careers, for decades, to the journalism practice in the state, as well as leaders of the union in capacity of chairmen and Secretaries.

In their reactions, some of the veterans including Onowu Rex Okechukwu, the pioneer NUJ Secretary; Peter Nwagu, a former Director of films, Ministry of Information; and Mrs Joy Ileka of Vanguard newspaper ans later Anambra Ministry of Information encouraged practicing journalists not to relent in their drive to serve the society.

In her remarks, the Matriarch of Anambra NUJ, and Vice-Chancellor Academics, Paul University Awka, Prof Chinyere Stella Okunna encouraged journalists to be ethical in all their dealings, while commending the selection of Hon Imoka and Dr Ezeonu foe the Paton awards.

Gully Erosion Hits Nkpor Community; Sacks Schools, Residential Buildings

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

No fewer than 2 nursery and primary schools, as well as over 1,500 residents of Adegbe-Akuzor, Nkpor Agu, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, have been sacked by fresh gully erosion that hit the area.

The affected schools include Diamond Nursery/Primary School, as well as Achievers Corner Nursery/Primary School. Also affected are 13 residential buildings supposedly occupied by over 1,500 people.

Proprietor of the Achievers Corner Nursery/Primary School, Mr. Okwudili Ekpe, told our reporter that the gully, which he said, hit the area recently, destroyed his school building; making it very difficult for the pupils to resume classes.

He said, "I woke up recently to be confronted with the news of my school being destroyed by a gully that developed at Park-Off Lane, Akuzor-Nkpor Agu, Idemili North Local Government Area.

"The erosion put the school building in a state of disrepair; making it impossible for our pupils to resume classes. If not that the incident occured in a period that the pupils were not in classes, we would be mourning over 700 children in my school.

"We call on the Anambra State government, as well as relevant ecological agencies to come to the help of residents of this area; because, the devastation is already beyond the muscle of landlords and ordinary citizens living in this area."

A resident of the area, Mrs Nkechi Ozoforkansi, also told our reporter that her family now take shelter in another area because of the level of devastation caused by the erosion.

According to her, "The erosion is massive, and devastating. It pulled down many buildings, and destroyed some plots of land. Many buildings, about 13 of them, occupied by over 1,500 people were affected. Two primary schools were also affected.

"On my own part, I and my family members are presently taking refuge in a friend's residence because, my family house has been pulled into the gully. We were lucky that none of my family members died in the gully."

Also, Dr. Jerry Nwachukwu, the Senior Pastor of the Bible Base Miracle Assembly, a pentecostal church located along Ezendu Street, off Mercedes Avenue, Nkpor Agu, Idemili North Local Government Area of the state, also bemoan the development, calling on the Anambra State and federal governments to assist the affected people and schools.

Onitsha Bridge-Head Traders Threaten Lawsuit Over Alleged Caretaker Imposition

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

Traders in the popular Bridge Head Drug Market in Onitsha, Anambra State, has asked Governor Charles Soludo to permit them to elect their leaders as against the existing caretaker committee allegedly imposed by the state government on the market.

The traders, in a statement made available to newsmen in Onitsha, under the aegis of Concerned People of Ogbogu (CPO), on Wednesday, September 13, said that the management of drug markets in Nigeria is under the exclusive list of the federal government, and that the Onitsha drug market is not an exception.

The statement signed by Emmanuel Ozoemenam, as the National Coordinator of the group, with Osita Sopuluchukwu and Ozioma Okeke, representing Lines Secretaries and Chairmen respectively, said that the traders had, in May, 2023, written to Governor Charles Soludo, telling him of the concerns of the traders in the market; but that the governor gave them no reply.

The traders warned that if within a reasonable time frame the state government refused to permit them elect the market leadership themselves, they would be left with no option than to go to court to oust the existing caretaker leadership.

The statement added, "In 2020, during the regime of Governor Willie Obiano, the Bridge Head Drug Market obtained court judgement restraining the state government from appointing caretaker leadership in the market on the ground that the market should be controlled by the federal government through the federal Ministry of Health.

"The traders, by this statement, are also calling on Governor Charles Soludo, to allow traders in the market to organize election and elect their own leaders; because, the market is under the exclusive list, and Anambra state does not have the authority to appoint caretaker leadership in the market.

"Governor Soludo is, by this statement reminded that when he came to power, he appointed caretaker leadership in the Bridge Head Drug Market, and promised that election would be organized in the market within one year. One year has come and gone, but nothing happened.

"What we owe the state is the IGR accruing from the market, and we always remit same to the state coffers."

"Therefore, if within a reasonable time frame the Anambra government insisted in not allowing us organize election in our market, we'll be left with not option than to drag the state to count."

Efforts made to contact Governor Soludo through his Special Assistant on Markets, Everistus Uba, was not successful, as the governor's aide did not take his calls.

Anambra Holds Maiden Investment Summit; Signs MoUs With 13 Organizations

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

Thursday, September 7, 2023 will remain ever green in the annals of history of Anambra state, as the state hosted the world at its maiden investment summit.

The summit, which was held at Anambra International Convention Centre, Awka, had the theme: "Laying the Foundation for a Prosperous and Smart Mega City." It witnessed the signing of Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) between the state government led by Governor Charles Soludo, and 13 different organisations.

The organisations include: Universal Elysium Ltd for the development of Onitsha River Port; Birsa Water Ltd and Neni Development Union, for the development of Neni Water Scheme; OMAA Global Engineering and Tech, for the development of AUU Automative Industrial Park androi; as well as Nko Farms Ltd for the development of Nko Agro Park.

Other MoUs were signed with GVE Projects Ltd for the development of Green Village Electrification; Sundry Markets Ltd for the development of Awka Shopping Mall at the Old Ikenga Hotel, Awka; CPCs Transcommunication Ltd, for delivery of master plan for Anambra Intra-City Rail, connecting Awka, Ekwulọbịa, Nnewi and Onitsha; Mahendra Consulting Engineering Ltd for Ikenga Mixed-Use Industrial City and Afrexim Bank.

For the development of Anambra Pharmaceutical Hub at Ogboji, the state government signed MOUs with Nimet Pharmaceuticals, Dozzy Group, Green Life Pharmaceuticals and Association of Industrial Pharmacists of Nigeria.

Speaking at the occasion, Governor Charles Soludo pointed out that Anambra state is open for businesses, and is eager to attract investors from all over the world.

He highlighted the state's many advantages, including its strategic location, large population, and young and educated workforce; revealing that the state is on the move, and the journey, according to him, is on course with an economic size of 20 billion dollars.

He said that it is important that the world knows that Anambra state has the highest population density per square kilometer after Lagos.

"We have boundaries with Kogi, Delta, Enugu, Abia, and Imo states, and have the largest market in West Africa, as well as 15 major higher education institutions.

"Anambra is ranked first out of the 17 states in southern Nigeria on Ease of Doing Business, and 17th out of 36 states in the country.

"Security, law and order is improving. We are addressing our infrastructural deficiencies. We have signed an MoU to address power. We have gas pipelines being planted to enhance Anambra's electricity market. Our rail feasibility study and master plan is on course.

"We are installing a 2000-kilometer fiber optic duct to give people access to cheap internet. We are breaking the decade-old jinx about the availability of rural and pipe-borne water schemes. We are building industrial parks and cities, export emporium, and agricultural regeneration projects, and others," the governor said.

He reeled out other efforts of Anambra government to transform the state economy, such as turning importers into producers and exporters; the sports economy, leisure, entertainment, the Solution Fun City and Entertainment Leisure City, among others.

"We are intentional and deliberate about the sports economy, leisure, and entertainment in Anambra. At the next summit, we will take you round the Solution Fun City and Entertainment Leisure City.

"Our goal is to turn Anambra from a departure lounge to a destination. In a few years to come, any visitor who has not been to Anambra will be assumed not to have been to Nigeria.

"We are prioritizing our human capital. Our greatest resource is human capital. In Anambra today, a Certificate of Occupancy can now be obtained within 3-5 days.

"Our biggest existential threat is the environment. We are planning towards a green, clean, and sustainable environment, and having organized markets.

"We are the world's capital of gully erosion, and we are putting in a few billions to fix them. We have come with a comprehensive agenda and laws for the environment, and we are waiting for the State House of Assembly to rescue our environment," the governor noted.

He made it clear to potential investors that Anambra is firing on all cylinders, and that the summit is unlike any other.

"We have acquired 106 hectares of land in Ukpo and Ukwulu, to create an export free trade zone. We are encouraging the emergence of MSMEs in the state, from project development to execution. We are investing in project development, taking it to the point of bankability.

"We have also acquired 7000 hectares of land, which will be developed into a complete industrial city. A master plan for it is being developed.

"A pharmaceutical industrial hub and an automotive industrial park are also on the way. We are forging productive partnerships with investors, financial institutions, and the federal government.

"We will have ANSIPPA enlarge its scope and to establish a financial arm, if necessary, to help propel our aim; if we are not getting the kind of partnerships we are expecting.

"The EEDC Metering company in Oraifite is ready for commissioning. We have a long list of industries to commission, so long as they are made in Anambra," Soludo said.

The governor noted that out of dozens of MoUs to be signed, he has symbolically chosen a few.

"We are deliberately creating a land bank for industrialization and investment. We will provide gas and power there.

"We will do everything to encourage our investors to help their businesses prosper and to de-risk their investments in Anambra," he stressed.

Governor Soludo further appreciated his predecessor, who conceptualized and built the international convention center, and assured that he will complete the airport which his predecessor started.

"Though I have not discussed it with him, we will rename this magnificent edifice to be the Willie Obiano International Convention Centre, if he accepts.

"And we will celebrate several of our prominent ndi Anambra, who deserve it. We will be deliberate in celebrating our best. We will honor those who invest in Anambra to create jobs. The young ones will see that hard work, enterprise, and those who make contributions to society are rewarded," he remarked.

In a keynote address, Dr. Benedict Oramah, the President of the African Export-Import Bank, who was represented by the Executive Vice President of the bank, Kanayo Awani, commended Governor Soludo for setting the stage for Anambra's transformational journey.

According to him, the vision of a smart megacity is not only about infrastructure, but also about creating an ecosystem that uplifts and fosters prosperity using financial and non-financial capacities.

"Our bank has identified the emergence of industrial parks and free trade economic zones because, they will provide employment and drive economic scale. We are ready to support Anambra as we are doing in Ogun and Abia states. Peace and security is gradually returning to the state," he noted.

The summit, which was attended by a wide range of potential investors as well as government representatives, the private sector, and the civil society, had participants discuss the opportunities for investment in Anambra, and the challenges that need to be addressed.

Deputy Governor of Anambra state, Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim; Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze; members of the diplomatic corps, captains of industries, the Resident Coordinator of United Nations in Nigeria, Mr. Mathias Schmale; World Bank Country Director, Shubham Chaudhuri; Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. CUI Jianchun; Minister of Women Affairs, Barr. Uju Kennedy Ohanenye; Chairperson, Manufacturing Association of Nigeria, Anambra, Enugu and Ebonyi Chapter, Lady Ada Chukwudozie; Members of Anambra Executive Council, Transition Committee Chairmen, Traditional Rulers, among others attended the summit.

APGA Candidate Reacts As Tribunal Orders Re-Run In 8 Polling Units In Nnewi North

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

House of Representatives candidate of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) for Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo federal constituency in the February 25, 2023, Hon. Uchenna Elodimuo, has said he would likely appeal the judgement of the national assembly elections petitions tribunal that ordered a re-run in eight polling units in Nnewi North local government area of Anambra state.

Hon. Elodimuo, while speaking to newsmen recently in Ozubulu, Ekwusigo LGA of the state, during a maiden edition of his medical outreach, said that the mandate was handed over to him willingly by his, and therefore, cannot be stollen in whatever guise.

The national assembly elections petitions tribunals sitting in Awka, the Anambra state capital, in its recent rulling in a petition brought before it by candidate of the Young Progressive Party (YPP), Amb. Peter Uzokwe, ordered a re-run in 8 polling units in Nnewi North LGA. But the APGA candidate, in his reaction, he is still studying the judgement, and will possibly appeal the rulling.

He said, "I am aware of the tribunal judgement on our mandate, and the call for a re-run in 8 polling units in Nnewi North LGA. But there is no course for alarm. We're studying the judgement, and will possibly appeal the rulling within the stipulated time."

On his reason for embarking on the free medical mission, he said it is part of activities lined up to mark his 100 days in the House of Representatives; as well as to enable people of his constituency benefit from his campaign promises.

He enumerated categories of health issues handled at the health outreach to include minor surgeries, eye clinic, and diagnosis, etc; adding that medical professionals were drawn from different health institutions to attend to patients.

Leader of the medical team, Dr. Okoyedike Olisa, said that the outreach will last for nine days, and will cover communities in Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo local government areas.

Some patients, who benefited from the free medical outreach, lauded the initiative and good gesture of Hon. Elodimuo in helping members of his constituency to handle their health issues at no cost.

Jubilation As 10,000 Persons Benefit From Hon. Eleodumuo Free Medical Outreach

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

There was wild jubilation in Ozubulu, Ekwusigo local government area of Anambra state, as over 5,000 persons, including women, children and elderly men benefited from free medical outreach organized and sponsored by the member representing Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo federal constituency, Hon. Uche Eleodumuo.

Speaking during the event, the benefactor, Hon. Elodimuo, said the free medical mission was part of activities lined up to mark his 100 days in the House of Representatives; as well as to enable people of his constituency benefit from his campaign promises.

He enumerated categories of health issues handled at the health outreach to include minor surgeries, eye clinic, and diagnosis, etc; adding that medical professionals were drawn from different health institutions to attend to patients.

Leader of the medical team, Dr. Okoyedike Olisa, said that the outreach will last for nine days, and will cover communities in Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo local government areas.

Some patients, who benefited from the free medical outreach, lauded the initiative and good gesture of Hon. Eleodumuo in helping members of his constituency to handle their health issues at no cost.

Governor Soludo Charged To Sack LG Commissioner Over Crisis In Communities

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

In recent times, communal crises bothering on Igweship and town union leadership tussles have been rocking various communities in Anambra state.

Some of these included, Ifite-Dunu, Nawfia, Ideani, Azia, Abacha, Oba, Ojoto and many others.

The most notorious is the alleged persistent recognition of and public fraternity by some notable officials of the State government led by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftancy Affairs, Mr Tony Collins Nwabunwanne with the court dethroned traditional ruler of Alor community, Idemili South Council of the State, -Chief Mac-Anthony Elibe Okonkwo.

This is currently rocking the peace and cohesion in the area.

Consequently, Gov Chukwuma Soludo has been called by citizens to investigate and probe the Commissioner as he was accused of having a hand in most of these crises.

He was also alleged to being key participant in their instigating, dating back to when he was an aide to former Gov. Willie Obiano on Chieftaincy and Community Affairs. Hence was presently seen as working at variance with the progress of the State and against the public interest.

The immediate past President General of Alor People's Convention, Chief Uzoma Igbonwa while responding to a question from journalists on the tense atmosphere in the hitherto peaceful Alor community pointed out that Mac Anthony Okonkwo was formally dethroned vide an Anambra High court judgment of Feb 17, 2022. His motion for stay of execution was declined by the High Court, but surprisingly, he has continued to parade himself/passing off as, dressing as and presenting himself as a traditional ruler of Alor both in private and in public. He refused to heed to the subsisting court judgment that dethroned him and the State Attorney-General’s recent advice and legal opinion notwithstanding. However, it was doubtful if the initial certificate of Recognition issued to him has been formally withdrawn, little wonder he was going around town parading as a monarch.

It would be recalled that Alor is the country home of the former governor of the State and immediate past Minister of Labour/Employment, Senator Chris Ngige.

This unwholesome situations, Igbonwa stated, "has elicited tension, confusion, agitations, and restiveness in the community, especially among the youths.

According to the February 17, 2022 court judgment, Okonkwo was ordered to desist thenceforth from parading or presenting himself as a traditional ruler anywhere at all.

It was on the strength of this court verdict and the absence of any other impediment that the community had in 2022 elected and enthroned HRM Igwe Collins Ebelechukwu Chukwumesili as Ezediohamma 111of Alor, Igbonwa added.

Instructively, he pointed out that, "Igwe Chukwumesili was chosen from Uruezeana village in Ifite Section, the rightful and appropriate area whose turn it was to present the new Igwe, as was copiously outlined in the operational Constitution of Alor and consistent with the judgment of the High Court."

Chief Mac-Anthony Okonkwo's surprising illegitimate and unfortunate emergence had remained tenuous and troubled because he hail from the last and youngest Umuokwu Village of Ifite Section of Alor. It was actually a journey to nowhere which had brought nothing apart from darkness, gloom and crises to Alor since he bulldozed his way and fouled the Chieftancy selection arena, when he knows that his Umuokwu village was not in reckoning as far as the Alor Igweship stool was concerned presently, until it gets to her turn in many generations to come.

When contacted, one of the old and experienced Ichies, Ichie Ifeanyi Obiazi (Ichie Idee 111 of Alor) bemoaned "the ugly situation Okonkwo had brought upon a once sure-footed progressive Alor community."

Referring our Correspondent to copy of the verdict of court that removed him, Ichie Obiazi expressed shock that he was still clinging to his traditional rulership claim and illusion.

Throwing more light to the conundrum, Ichie Obiazi rhetorically asked, have you ever seen it anywhere in global history where anyone mounted the throne while his father is alive. Would he be breaking kola nut for and or in the presence of his own father, as the traditional ruler? That will be opprobrious.

Mac Anthony Okonkwo's father is very much alive and strong. It's even under his father's roof that his son, Mac-Anthony, is still living and carrying on as "Igwe" while the folly lasted.

In all these community crises, our investigations disclosed that it's people of Nwabunwanne's ilk that provided the offensive manure that nourishes such festering malady all over the state.

However, apparently reacting to the legal counsel of the State's Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Okonkwo, through one Emeka Ikegwuogu as his spokesman, at a press conference in Awka at the weekend insisted that he "remains the authentic traditional ruler of Alor".

More so, in a letter to the immediate past President General of Alor(Igbonwa), dated August 22,2023, the State's Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice had cautioned Okonkwo and those prodding him on to be guided by the court verdict in Suit HID/354/2019, save and until contrary is established. "In the interim, Mac-Anthony Chinedu Elibe Okonkwo is not the Igwe of Alor, and he must stop disturbing the peace of Alor community with his childish behaviour. No reasonable Alor man or woman pays Mac-Anthony any attention. For him, Alor Igweship stool is a business venture and he must not rule Alor people by force".

The State's Chief law officer also pointed out that, "Having been satisfied that the judgment and orders delivered in the suit are the extant and subsisting orders of the court between the parties and on the same subject matter, save and until the contrary is established, Mr Mac Anthony Chinedu Okonkwo should not conduct or superintendent over the new yam festival scheduled on Saturday, August 5, 2023 in the purported capacity of traditional ruler of Alor town is unlawful and against the public peace of the town, therefore he is restrained from doing so to avoid total breakdown of law and order in the community."

It needs highlighting here too that Alor community cannot in anyway be seen as inconsequential, having produced a State Governor, Senator, Ministers, incumbent Clerk of the Senate, Senior Advocates of Nigeria, Judges, Magistrates, and top business moguls in different areas of discipline, members of the State Assembly and different top government appointees at the Federal and State levels.

Prof. Elo Onyeka, a respectable indigene of Alor, wondered why none of the distinguished well-read citizens was in the motley crowd of Okonkwo's praise singing press conference.

While blaming these communal crises on Nwabunwanne who was alleged to be sitting on most official letters concerning these communities and Chieftancy issues, Chief Max Oruche from Ifite-Dunu community accused Mr. Nwabunwanne of being too young, inexperienced and immature for the office he occupies, and evidently not sound in the general customs and tradition of most communities in the State and/or working against Gov. Soludo's vision for democracy to thrive in Anambra communities.

Nwabunwanne in reaction to the leadership/rulership crises ravaging the State, especially as he was accused of instigating some blamed those who never liked his rising profile and face. But vowed to overcome all their antics and come out without any blemish.

Records revealed that while trying to paper the heavily cracked walls of the traditional rulership/community leadership mess he allegedly actively participated in during the immediate past administration of Chief Willie Obiano, -Nwabunwanne was visibly attacking Soludo's efforts and the hope for reelection later 2024, as he is creating enemies for Gov. Soludo.

This should be a wake up call for the governor to x-ray Nwabunwanne's activities and some other officials who have become heavy baggage to the administration.

Don't Set Nigeria On Fire, Notable Pastor Tells Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

The Senior Pastor of the Bible Base Miracle Assembly, Nkpor Agu, Anambra state, Rev. (Dr) Jerry Nwachukwu, has warned that if the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal (PEPT) wanted to save Nigeria from a revolution that will shake its foundation, it must act right by passing a judgement that will reflect the aspirations of citizens that voted during the February 25, 2023 presidential election. He added that the future of Nigeria shall be determined largely by the outcome of the tribunal judgement.

The cleric who spoke recently during a service at the headquarters of the church located at No. 19 Ezendu Street, off Mercedes Avenue, Nkpor Agu, Anambra state, said that in the spirit realm, he saw burn fire in major cities of Nigeria, which he said, consumed "negative" political actors.

He said, "In the spirit realm, I saw burn fire in major cities of Nigeria which finally consumed negative political actors in the country. In this vision, there was no opportunity for the PEPT judges to escape the people's judgement. The burn fire could not be quenched until it consumed the negative political actors in the country.

"PEPT and other tribunals for different states and national assembly elections are warned that every judgement that does not reflect the people's wishes will consume the judges that pass them. As far as Nigeria is concerned, time of passing judgement based on inducement and bribery has expired."

Rev. Nwachukwu suggested that members of the presidential election petitions tribunal should do something novel by reading their individual judgements so that Nigerians will know the "spoilers" existing in the country's judiciary, so, when the fire comes, it will go direct to those that ignite it.

He continued, "Election malpractice was responsible for military takeover in Gabon.. More are coming.. But as for Nigeria, if the PEPT failed in their assignment of delivering fair judgement, revolution will hit the country - such that has never been witnessed in Africa.

"When the revolution comes, it will consume the national assembly and the national executive council. It will consume the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). It will hit state capitals, and other negative political forces.

"My prayer, as a priest, is that God will give the presidential election petitions tribunal judges new heart and spirit to call a spade a spade..Very soon, 180 days will expire, and the tribunals must give their judgements. The judges must, therefore, not base their judgements on technicalities, or be influenced by any form of inducement.

"As a clergyman, my knees are on the floor, asking God that truth shall prevail; not only in the judgement of the presidential election petitions tribunal, but also at the states and national assembly elections petitions tribunals. I also call on other religious bodies to join in the prayers, so that Nigeria will be preserved. Like the flood, Nigeria's problem has come to the neck. If not well managed, it will come to the mouth and nose, and the country will be drowned."

Community Leader, Chief Nwagbala, Advocates For Respect For Igbo Culture, Tradition

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

A prominent community leader in Okpuno-Ebenator Uruagu community, Nnewi North local government area of Anambra state, Chief Oliver Nwagbala, has called on the Igbo people to develop deeper love and respect for their culture and traditions.

He made the call on Sunday, August 27, during the 2023 edition of the Okpuno-Ebenator Uruagu Nnewi New Yam Festival, held at the palace of Obi of Okpuno-Ebenator, Obi Afam Iloka.

Chief Nwagbala regretted that with the way Igbo people perceive their cultural practices as being fetish, time would come when the people's culture would lose its essence; thus, losing its value and beauty.

Nwagbala, who is the sponsor of the 2023 edition of the Okpuno-Ebenator ceremony, also described New Yam Festival as an event that brings Igbo people together under one cultural umbrella. He called on the people to embrace their culture and traditions.

The 2023 Okpuno-Ebenator, Uruagu Nnewi New Yam Festival will go down in the annals of history of the community as it featured outstanding events and activities, and was graced by many illustrious sons and daughters of the community, including a prominent son of the soil, Chief Cletus Ibeto (Omekannaya).

The event also featured display of different masquerades, dance bands and groups, entertainments and other side attractions.

The Obi of Okpuno-Ebenator, Uruagu, Nnewi, Obi Afam Iloka, who performed the ritual of cutting the 2023 New Yam, thanked God for keeping himself and his subjects alive to witness the 2023 edition of the event. He also thanked Chief Cletus Ibeto, who he said was instrumental to the reconstruction and beautification of the palace; as well as Chief Oliver Nwagbala, who he praised for sponsoring the 2023 edition of the festival.

The Obi described New Yam Festival as a period of thanksgiving to nature for blessing man with bountiful harvest, and said that apart from good harvest, God also blessed his kingdom with good health.

He finally called on Igbo people to embrace good cultural practices, and not to allow them go into extinction.

The patron of the community, Chief Cletus Ibeto, commended Obi Afam Iloka for his good leadership qualities, which he said, endeared him (Ibeto) to the community. Ibeto also said that he attended Okpuno-Ebenator New Yam Festival every year because of his love for the people's culture.

An Illustrious son of the community, Chief Mbazulike Iloka, aka Mba Mba, who is the organizing committee chairman of the ceremony, expressed gratitude to Chief Cletus Ibeto, Obi Afam Iloka, Chief Oliver Nwagbala, and others who made the ceremony a huge success, and prayed for greater harvest for next year.

Umuoba-Anam Confers Chieftaincy Titles On Umueri President-General, Wife

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

It was a display and portrayal of the rich cultural heritage and ancestral symbol of the Igbo nation at the 2023 New Yam festival of Umuoba-Anam in Anambra-East council area where the significance of yam as the king of all crops was reaffirmed.

The atmosphere was tranquil and convivial as indigenes of Umuoba-Anam home and abroad, visitors and lovers of the community converged on the Igwe's palace to express profound gratitude to God for a bountiful harvest and commencement of another planting season.

Esoteric cum acrobatic performances by masquerades, various cultural dances as well as native music from Ogene groups rend the air as the traditional ruler His Royal Highness Igwe George Obalim Ekwealor did the symbolic cutting of the new yam. People from all walks of life graced the epic occasion.

Aside the expression of heartfelt gratitude and thanksgiving to God for the celebration of the new yam, the occasion also provided veritable platform for recognition and conferment of deserving chieftaincy titles to individuals whose antecedents and pedigrees have no blemishes.

Some of such individuals who merited the traditional titles were the President-General of Umueri community Chief Amb. Dr. John Chukwudi Metchie and his amiable lovely wife Chief Mrs. Linda Metchie. While Metchie was conferred "Ife Omambala" traditional title, his wife was crowned with the title of " Ezi Ogoli Nwanyi" amidst a cheering crowd.

Speaking on why Umueri President-General and his wife were accorded such recognitions, Igwe George Obalim Ekwealor said beside every successful man, there is an intelligent woman who supported her husband with prayers and supplications to God.

Igwe Ekwealor who noted that the role of a good woman in the life of her husband can not be overemphasized, said the title of " Ezi Ogoli Nwanyi" conferred on Chief Mrs. Linda Metchie meant that the success of her husband in all his endeavours are not unconnected with her supportive nature and encouragements as her husband extended philanthropy to humanity.

Ekwealor also explained that" Ife Omambala ' title bestowed on Chief Johnny Metchie is as a result of his personal resolution and commitment to using his resources for the development and upliftment of humanity, adding that the chieftancy title meant that Chief Johnny Metchie has brought Omambala region to limelight.

Reacting to the recognition accorded him and his wife by the traditional ruler of Umuoba-Anam, Chief Metchie maintained that to whom much is given, much is expected. He therefore pledged to do more for the Omambala region from the little resources God has blessed him with.

He equally thanked Igwe Ekwealor and the entire Umuoba-Anam community for finding them worthy of the chieftaincy titles.

Traditionalist Warns Against Use Of Witchcraft Power Against Innocent People

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Nnewi

Notable traditionalist in Anambra State, Ogbuefi Augustine Okadigbo (Nwankwo Abanafo) has cautioned his contemporaries across the state against using witchcraft powers to destroy people and their destinies; saying that such practices have dire consequences on the perpetrators and their descendants.

Ogbuefi Okadigbo who hails from Uruebo Village, Nkwelle-Ezunaka,Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State told our correspondent during his "imekwu festival"(new yam festival) at his residence during the weekend that all powers belong to God who loves humanity and such powers should not be applied recklessly to destroy other people and their destinies.

He revealed that many families are in disarray today with  health afflictions and other catastrophic challenges due to abandonment of their cultural and traditional inheritance.

Ogbuefi Okadigbo added that even pastors, religious leaders and other influencial men and women come to him for solution to their problems.

He maintained that traditional religion was the basis of other religions which should not be jettisoned as that was the foundation of most families who first settled in their present aboard.

The popular diviner who maintained a civilised approach in his traditional practice warned against pastors and other religious leaders who consult him for powers inorder to prosper in their religious practices, stressing that he doesn't get involved in that as it was against his principles for obvious reasons.

"Many pastors and other religious leaders come to me for powers to set up their ministries for teeming population and miracles.l always tell them to go as l don't get involved in such practice."

"Well if your church or ministry is not moving as expected it means that you have abandoned the things of your ancestors and natural inheritance which should have helped your endeavours and embraced whiteman's religion and way of life".

Nwankwo Abanafo  explained that Christianity and traditional religion were the same as they both worship God and liberate man  from obstacles.He regretted that it was the practitioners that create division in order to manipulate vulnerable people and exploit them financially.

We're Complimenting Police, Others To Flush Out Bandits - NHFSS boss

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

The Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Service (NHFSS) has said that its complimentary role is helping the Police, Army and other security agencies in the victories being recorded in the fight against bandits, terrorists, kidnappers and other crimes and criminalities in the country.

Commandant General of the NHFSS Amb. Dr. Joshua Wale Osatimehi, who stated this in Onitsha during a working visit to the zonal office of the organisation in Anambra state comprising all the five states in the Southeast, said NHFSS is doing a lot to stamp out criminalities in the country by obtaining and sharing intelligence with the various security agencies in the country.

He said that apart from intelligence gathering, officers and me of the service are also involved in flushing out criminals, either working on other own and at other times, collaborating with Police and others, especially crimes within and around bushes and forests.

Osatimehi who paid homage to some royal fathers in the state, in company of the Deputy Commander General in charge of Technical Services, Ambassador John Metchie and other top officers of NHFSS, maintained that hunters have proved their gallantry and bravery in the war against criminal elements as well as rescued kidnap victims and recovered stolen items kept in the forest by miscreants.

He said they were in Anambra state to synergise with constituted authorities and to intimate them with their modus operandi, adding that the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Service has been in existence over the years working in collaboration with constituted authorities across the country to flush out crimes and criminalities in the forest as stipulated in the bill establishing the outfit.

The Commandant General who equally disclosed that the bill establishing the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Service has received the blessings and endorsements of the National Assembly and awaiting presidential assent, stressed that they were in the zone to further educate officers and men of the organisation on the need to be disciplined and more professional in their mode of operation.

According to the NHFSS boss, hunters are the real owners of the forest and not criminal gangs. He however announced that hunters have recorded series of tremendous success across Nigeria even as he appealed for logistic supports like operational vehicles and motorcycles to chase criminals in the forest.

Another very pertinent issue the NHFSS helmsman raised was the legal framework of the organization. He said if the NHFSS was endorsed by Mr. President, it would boost their morale and also afford them more leverage to work with other constituted authorities.

He therefore reiterated that the bill establishing the organization is seeking enactment of the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Service under the Federal Government. That the bill has scaled through the first, second and third readings in the National Assembly and according to him, the bill has been transmitted to Mr. President; that before long the legal framework for the organization would be intact.

Meanwhile the traditional ruler of Umuoba-Anam community in Anambra-East council area of the state, His Royal Highness Igwe George Ekwealor, who was one of the royal fathers visited, eulogised the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Service, recalling that hunters were veritable security apparatus in the preliterate era.

Ekwealor who urged officers and men of the NHFSS across the country not to relent in securing the forest from criminals, also appealed to state, federal and local councils, public spirited individuals and corporate organisations to support the hunters in their quest to reclaim the forest from unknown gunmen, kidnappers, armed robbers and other social misfits.

In his remarks, Amb John Metchie hailed the gallantry of the hunters, saying that they have helped tremendously to improve and enhance local security and vigilance.

Metchie however maintained that rather than sabotage the efforts of the hunters, it is of paramount importance that Nigerian hunters should be supported with working tools and other relevant materials to enable them compliment the efforts of other security agencies.

Other officers that accompanied the Commander General on the visits include Deputy Commandant General (Admin) Barr. Lawrence Okonkwo, Deputy Commandant General (Training and Development), the Southeast Zonal Coordinator, State Commanders of the five southeast states as well as other senior officers of the organisation during the visit.

Dr Metchie, Hails Soludo For Reappointing Onuorah As Anambra-East Chairman


From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka


The African Director, International Association of World
Peace Advocates, IAWPA, Ambassador John Chukwudi Metchie, has expressed profound gratitude to Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo for the reappointment of Dr. Anslem Onuorah as Chairman of Anambra-East Local Government Area.

Metchie who took cognisance of the fact that Governor Soludo is empowering young people with leadership positions in his government, maintained that the emergence of Dr. Onuorah as the Transition Committee Chairman has indeed transformed communities in Anambra-East.

He said the efforts of the local government boss in transforming the council area with infrastructures in the last one year is not unrecognised, adding that the LG Chairman's passion and penchant for rural development is evident in the plethora of projects he has executed in the area.

Metchie said, " It has been one solid year of localising the Solution Agenda in Anambra-East local government area. I am from Umueri in Anambra-East and I can boldly testify to what the council chairman has done and still doing in my community.

Other communities like Aguleri, Umuoba-Anam, Enugwu-Otu, Aguleri-Otu, Mkpunando, Nando, Nsugbe,Otuocha and a host of others all have projects in tandem with their felt needs. These are efforts geared towards giving those at the grassroots new lease of life.

As far as am concerned, his reappointment meant more democracy dividends for Anambra-East because the young man is really trying and should be encouraged to do more for the people of Anambra-East."

The UN Peace Ambassador who noted that the reward for hard work is more work and that to whom much is given, much is expected, urged Dr. Anslem Onuorah to redouble his efforts this time in the execution of more community projects to address human and infrastructural development.

He therefore charged the council chairman to beam his searchlights on health facilities, security, education and other sectors and also ensure that all the communities in Anambra-East feel the impact of his reappointment.

Metchie who reemphasized his support for the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the state, maintained that Governor Soludo is indeed harnessing young talents for the future as envisioned in his disruptive change mantra.

He said, " Soludo is really empowering our youths with leadership positions. Virtually all the TC chairmen are young guys with vigor and vitality; armed with technical and administrative skills in implementing the Solution Agenda in their respective local government areas."

Anambra Airport Management Lauds Umueri PG Over Facility Identification Signage

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

The management of the Anambra International Cargo and Passenger Airport Umueri has commended the President-General of Umueri community His Excellency Amb. Chief Dr. Johnny Metchie for providing the identification signage of the airport.

The commendations of the airport management which is contained in a letter of appreciation sent to Amb. Johnny Metchie, has it that the management of the facility recognised and appreciated the community development strides of the President-General and also anticipates more partnerships.

The appreciation letter signed by the Managing Director Mr. Martin Nwafor reads," We write to express our appreciation for the exceptional support towards the financing of the airport identification signage which you graciously singlehandedly undertook for Anambra International Cargo and Passenger Airport Umueri. This is no doubt a practical demonstration of your love and care for our organization and facility.

We have been receiving positive feedbacks from the flying public and other users of our facility especially from the indigenes of our host community Umueri for the beautiful work and we are happy to share this joy with you.

We look forward to further partnering with you and other stakeholders in making our facility safe, secure and comfortable in line with Governor's Soludo's plans and programmes of making Anambra a liveable homeland."

Responding Johnny Metchie said he was humbly overwhelmed to receive a letter of appreciation and commendation from the Management of Anambra International Cargo and Passenger Airport, over the signage he installed at the Airport.

He said the gesture was one of the little contributions he is making towards the building of a livable and prosperous homeland, in line with the vision of the working Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo and his call for all hands to be on deck to develop Anambra state.

Metchie said, "I therefore want to appreciate the Managing Director of the Airport, Mr. Martins Nwafor and his team for recognising my little contributions.

The project is dedicated to the entire people of Umueri for their support and words of encouragement since I assumed duty as the President General of the community.

My special thanks to my dear wife, Lolo Princess Linda Metchie who has been a source of encouragement and a pilar of support.

I pray God to give us the strength, wisdom and means to do more for Anambra state, Nigeria and humanity at large."

Anambra East TC Chairman Radiates Soludo's Solution Agenda With Infrastructure

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

Anambra-East Council Chairman Dr. Anslem Onuorah says he is replicating the Solution Agenda in the council area following his rescue mission to redeem Umueri, Aguleri and other communities from developmental backwardness.

Onuorah who said that his administration has touched all the communities in the council area, noted that his rescue mission ranges from provision of infrastructure, renovation of facilities as well as training and empowerment of the locals.

Our correspondent who toured some of the projects in the council area, found out that the council chairman has taken strategic decisions to save lives and also save houses from collapsing into deep gullies resulting from landslides.

One of the project sites visited was Patrick Metchie Street at Ezi-Umueri where the council chairman is constructing the said road with drainages on both sides.

Further investigations on the road revealed that Patrick Metchie Street which is a major road in the area has been abandoned for more than 10 years coupled with its attendant erosion devastation that has caused the people untold hardship and agony.

Locals living along Patrick Metchie Street told our correspondent that they heaved a sigh of relief when the local government authority intervened and ended their many years of sufferings because the road according to them was completely impassable and has claimed a lot of lives and houses.

One of the locals who identified himself as Ochiabuto, a native of Uvume Umueri said the road has been abandoned for 10 years and completely devoid of vehicular and motorcycle movements except for pedestrians who narrowly used the erosion-infested road. He said they were grateful to the council chairman for the intervention on Patrick Metchie Street.

The contractor handling the road project on Patrick Metchie Street, Engr. Vitalis Chinonso said the road has been condemned for many years and houses in the area were threatened. He said the road when completed will help improve the living conditions of the people and also alleviate their sufferings.

Another critical area of intervention was at the Ngene-Okwuazu bridge Umueri, where the council chairman rescued the entire bridge from total collapse over erosion menace.

Again some locals who were interviewed on the spot at the bridge, said if not for the timely response of the local government boss, Ngene-Okwuazu bridge would have been a complete catastrophe.

Mr. Chekwubechukwu Innocent Onwuegbusina who hails from Umudiana Ikenga Umueri, said prior to the intervention, Ngene-Okwuazu bridge was devastated by erosion such that only one lane of the bridge was motorable.

He said the local government chairman responded proactively and ameliorated the situation. That the council chairman carried out remedial works on the bridge and now the bridge is back in shape with human and vehicular movements uninterrupted and unhindered.

Also Nwakamma Obiorah Gabriel, a native of Umudiana village Umueri, who spoke about Ngene-Okwuazu bridge, said the local government chairman should be celebrated for the intervention on the bridge.

Nwakamma who stressed the need for young people to be at the helm of affairs judging from the transformative works of the Anambra-East council boss, also thanked Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo for giving Dr. Anslem Onuorah the opportunity to serve as council chairman in the area.

Also the President-General of Umueri community Amb. Chief Johnny Metchie thanked the council chairman very much and appealed to Governor Soludo to promote him for higher responsibilities considering his achievements in the council area.

Meanwhile Dr. Onuorah opined that he has extended interventions to Enugwu-Otu, Aguleri-Otu, Mkpunando, Nando, Nsugbe, Igbariam, Otuocha and other communities in Anambra-East Local Government Area.

Eulogies As Prominent Anambra Community Leader Sponsors Free Breast Cancer Surgery

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

The Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU) has rained eulogies and encomiums on the President-General of Umueri community, Amb. Chief Dr. Johnny Metchie for singlehandedly sponsoring breast cancer surgery of one Mrs. Amaechi Ilona, a mother of three children.

Mrs.Ilona who is the daughter of Mr. Daniel Nnoruka of Uhualor village Ihembosi Ekwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State, has been battling with the said ailment for far too long due to lack of money to seek medical care.

ASATU however came to her rescue when it got knowledge of her predicament and implored the association's Prime Minister Amb. Johnny Metchie to save the young mother of three children from untimely death.

The breast cancer surgery which cost over N1 Million has gone through the first and second stages with Mrs. Amaechi Ilona responding to treatments and the family grateful for the kind gesture from Johnny Metchie.

The special appreciation letter signed by the National President of ASATU Chief Barr. Titus Nnabuike Akpudo to Umueri President-General reads, " I find it so worthwhile for myself, and on behalf of the entire members of Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU) to send to you cheerful regards and appreciation for and on behalf of the family of Mr. Daniel Nnoruka of Uhualor Ihembosi Ekwusigo LGA of Anambra state for singlehandedly sponsoring the first and second surgeries of their daughter Mrs. Amaechi Ilona, a mother of three in her late twenties, who was unfortunately diagnosed of breast cancer, at a huge cost nearly a million naira; a health care that was equally brought to my kind attention.

You have indeed fulfilled the biblical phrase that says, ' for I was hungry and you gave me food. I was thirsty and you gave me drink. I was a stranger and you welcomed me; I was naked and you clothed me; I was sick and you visited me; I was in prison and you came to me."

You have really done the services of God and humanity, and human appreciation will not be enough to thank you, but divine.

Your act of benevolence in using your resources to touch, save and transform lives as seen in the areas of empowerments/human capital development, scholarship, health, security and otherwise can not be overemphasized as it transcends beyond human race. You are a true ambassador of ASATU.

You are indeed a rare gem for which every society should welcome and appreciate.

May Heavenly Father continue to reward you handsomely for the helps you rendered both in secret and in the open."

2023 Presidential Election: Anambra Speaker Transmits Message To EU

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

Speaker of Anambra House of Assembly has taken delivery of letter of Commendation and Solidarity for the European Union, Election Observer Mission 2023 -EU EOM, Nigeria for their unbiased dispassionate report on the election.

Leading a group of representatives under the aegis of the Nigeria Patriots For Credible Elections and Good Governance, its President, Hon Christopher Okpala, and Comrade Emeka Obiora told journalists that they were very impressed with the reports of the EU mission on the Nigeria's February 25, 2023.

The Group made up of representatives from various walks of life and professional backgrounds, according to Okpala "expresses and declares our solidarity and commendation to the EU- EOM for its untainted report.

They also urged EU "to disregard the comments from Bola Tinubu's administration, goons and officials, because they are products of the terribly flawed elections, adjudged same by other local and international election observer teams.

While Patriots for Credible Election and Good Governance expresses and declares our SOLIDARITY to EU EOM for the untainted report,also ask her to disregard the rantings of Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration,goons and officials,who majority of Nigerians see as illegitimate,because they are products of the terribly flawed elections, adjudged same by other local and international election observation teams.

In its thirteen paragraph letter addressed to the EU's election Chief Observer for Nigeria 2023, Barry Andrews, the group noted that,"...Since every right thinking individual values the place of peace, harmony, mutual and healthy inter-relationship, which makes the world a better living place, every of such individuals in positions and helms of affairs across the nations of the earth have always embraced,also enlisted their countries, voluntarily and willingly and signed membership into these Watch Dog- institutions;accepting reports and suggestions from such institutions and applying them when and where necessary to aid the growth and improvement of the areas and sectors of their nation or economy where such reports were directed.

"The European Union Election Observer Mission EU EOM,with other credible institutions like UNESCO, UNDP, UNIDO have not reneged on their duties in offering suggestions,and most times also offering huge financial and material assistance,also intangible resources to many countries over the years, including Nigeria.

"These interventions are no doubt commendable and should be appreciated by all right thinking persons and institutions;and while appreciating such gifts, beneficiaries should also accept and bulid-in advisories from such institutions into their nation's building and development.

"Nigeria Patriots for Credible Elections and Good Governance, a non governmental organization,having taken time to peruse the report of the European Union Election Observer Mission on the 2023 General Elections in Nigeria, joins many Nigerians in commending the comprehensive report presented by the institution,which is aimed at improving our democratic process.

"Nigeria Patriots for Credible Elections and Good Governance uses this opportunity to call on the Federal government of Nigeria to accept the report as a working document, in other to improve on our future democratic process".

The group further pointed out that " its most unfortunate that the Federal Government under Bola Ahmed Tinubu's presidency, imposed on Nigerians by the heist, which the report of EU EOM punctured and rightly discredited, have written off the report seen by many to be a true reflection of the 2023 general elections, yet, the same illegitimate government prides itself as peopled by 'democrats and progressives'. A case of blowing hot and cold at same time, and speaking from both sides of the mouth.

"We, therefore, use this medium to condemn in its entirety the shamefully sponsored protest against the report by a certain group, who were at EU Headquarters, Abuja penultimate week, and calls on other patriotic Nigerians to condemn the sponsored protest; during which they insinuated that the impeccable report by the EU EOM will 'set fire' on Nigeria, which indeed makes one conclude that the group represents nothing and can only rightly be regarded as street urchins. Because any random simple survey so far shows that Nigerians globally are excited by the report, and cannot wait to see the election subverts, manipulators and rouges thrown out.

The Nigeria Patriots For Credible Elections and Good Governance wondered about "the yard stick used by any sane group who carried out such a protest at the UN Headquarters and sought to discredit the impeccable report that succinctly portrayed the sham elections the same way greater percentage of Nigerians also describe the February 25th 'glitched' presidential and national assembly elections and March 18th governorship and state houses of assembly rouge manipulations. But, hearing the so called protesters threatening to set the country ablaze goes a long way to suggest, and we repeat that they were actually sponsored by the same APC government that inter-alia condemned the report;hence, we urge you not dignify them and their sponsor- politicians with any reply.

The group, while hugely commending the EU for remaining impeccable in its affairs and views, urged the Anambra State Assembly Speaker, Mr Somtochukwu Udenze to stand on the right side of the nation's political history and formally convey their well-thought out letter to the European Union Headquarters in Abuja on behalf of all the masses, true democrats and progressives.

Metchie's Community Development Strides Excite Umueri Stakeholders

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

Stakeholders of Umueri community in Anambra-East Local Government Area of Anambra State have extolled the community development strides of the President-General Amb. Chief John Chukwudi Metchie, whom they said fostered true peace and peaceful co-existence in the area.

The stakeholders under the auspices of Umueri Elders Council, Umueri Liberation Forum and some other bodies in the community jointly endorsed the efforts of the President-General, saying that he is indeed a blessing to humanity having extended his philanthropy to Umueri community through the provision of social amenities.

The stakeholders agreed without equivocation that Amb. Johnny Metchie as the President-General is fondly called, has revolutionalised community leadership in the way and manner he is piloting the affairs of the community through Umueri General Assembly (U.G.A).

They said considering the PG's human capital development, empowerments and benevolent gestures to Umueri community, the PG deserves praises and not curses to enable him to do more for his people and humanity in general while commending his support and loyalty to the government of Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo as the PG never hesitated to take cognisance of state government presence in the community.

Speaking on the transformational leadership of Johnny Metchie in Umueri community, a prominent indigene in the area, Chief Okolo Ibeegbunam said Johnny Metchie is the only President-General that brought true peace in Umueri and also engendered peaceful co-existence between Umueri, Aguleri, Umuoba-Anam and other neighbouring communities.

Chief Okolo also noted that it was unprecedented in the history of Umueri General Assembly that a President-General bought security and surveillance vehicles for not only Umueri community vigilante service but also for neighbouring villages to ensure harmonious working relationship between security operatives in the area.

He said the President-General also equipped health facilities, constructed ultramodern market with 600 units of lockup shops, provided solar powered street lights, installed industrial boreholes,built modern toilet facilities, procured fire fighting equipment as well as access roads with drainages amongst other outstanding achievements of the Amb. Johnny Metchie led town union.

He pointed out also that over 150 households in Umueri community including IDP camps enjoy solar powered electricity supply and has provided scholarships, skill acquisition trainings and donation of equipment to hundreds of women and youths of Umueri community.

Chief Okolo who recalled how the President-General ensured that those who were affected by the 2022 flood devastations were properly taken care of and catered for, said it is only God who can reward Amb. Johnny Metchie for his good deeds to Umueri community and humanity in general.

Chidoka Presents Cash Support To Petty Traders In Idemili

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

Most communities in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State were thrown into jubilation at the weekend when the former Minister of Aviation, Chief Osita Chidoka commenced direct cash support to small businesses within the Council area.

Over one hundred visibly excited petty traders, especially women, benefited from the business grant which was presented by wife of the former minister, Barr. Chidinma Chidoka.

The gesture was in realisation of an earlier promise by Chief Chidoka to set up a business support fund in memory of his late mother- late Deaconess Victoria Nneka Chidoka, to assist petty women traders.

Chidoka who has never hidden his concern for the welfare of rural folks had before his mother's burial in May 2023 organized a free Cervical Cancer screening and medical care tagged Nneka Chidoka Outreach Program in Ozubulu, Ekwusigo Local Goverment Area and Obosi in Idemili North Local Goverment Area.

Above one thousand patients received treatment for various illnesses including malaria, diabetes and prescription glasses were also given to over three hundred patients.

Some beneficiaries who spoke with journalists thanked the former Minister, who was also the former Corps Marshall of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) for his uncommon philanthropic gesture.

A beneficiary, Mrs Alice Mbara who spoke amid tears of joy thanked Chief Chidoka for his intervention.

Mrs Mbara who hawks watermelon and orange in Obosi noted that she makes little or no profit from the business to afford one good meal for her children daily, a situation that forced her to engaged her 12 years old son in the orange hawking business all in a bid to feed.

Adding that the business grant will enable her pay for a stand in the market, expand her business and stop her teenage son from hawking.

UTME: Why Innoson Should Restore Joy Mmesoma's Scholarship - Nwachukwu

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

The Senior Pastor of the Bible Base Miracle Assembly, Nkpor Agu, Idemili North local government area of Anambra state, Pastor Jerry Nwachukwu, has called on the chairman of Inosson Vehicle Manufacturing Company (IVM), to restore the N3 million scholarship he gave to the JAMB candidate, Ejikeme Joy Mmesoma, which he later withdrew because of controversies surrounding her UTME marks.

The proprietor of Innoson motors, Dr Innocent Chukwuma, withdrew N3m scholarship he gave to Ejikeme Mmesoma, when she admitted that she tampered with JAMB portal to change her UTME marks from 249 to 362 to emerge the highest scorer in UTME, 2023, which JAMB authorities discovered.

Speaking on Sunday, July 16, during a sermon at the headquarters of his church in Nkpor Agu, Anambra state, the cleric said he saw something great in the controversial JAMB candidate, which must be harnessed and developed.

He said, "I see Ejikeme Mmesoma becoming ICT giant if her talent is harnessed and developed. If at her age she could manipulate JAMB portal to affect changes in her UTME marks, Nigerian government should bring her closer, and try to refocus her mind in doing something great.

"We're in a country where if one confessed his sins, he will be severely punished and brought down to the ground; but those who do greater evil and hide their sins are allowed to thrive. Mmesoma should not be allowed to remain on the ground. Government should help her to rediscover herself, and use her talent for something positive.

"The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) should, on its part, lift the 3-year suspension slammed on her. As a preacher, I will advise that whoever confesses his sins and repent of them should be forgiven. They should see something great and useful in her which must be developed. If it were in the Western countries, Mmesoma would have been taken to a place of rehabilitation, so that she would be a great asset.

"If the Nigerian government, through JAMB and the Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC) cannot allow her to secure admission using her real score, Nigerians of goodwill should send her to a foreign university to study a course in ICT or IT. What she needs is to be re-awakened, re-branded, reformed, and re-focussed. What she needs is to understand that her talent could be used in a positive way. She is a great asset, and Nigeria will look for her one day."

MACBAN's Demand to Set-Up Vigilante in Nigeria Must Be Rejected - Nwachukwu

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

Founder and Senior Pastor of the Bible Base Miracle Assembly, Nkpor Agu, Idemili North local government area of Anambra state, Pastor Jerry Nwachukwu, has called on Nigerians to reject recent demand by Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) to set-up vigilante outfit in 36 states of the Nigerian federation.

The MACBAN, in a recent broadcast, came up with the opinion of setting up vigilante outfits in various states as a way of cooperating with security agencies to flush out criminals attacking herdsmen in the bush.

The request come barely a month after the group had announced sudden disappearance of its National Vice President, Engr Munnir Atuku Lamido, who they said, left his Kastina residence on June 23, 2023, and has not returned.

But in a sermon in his church headquarters in Nkpor Agu, Anambra state, on Sunday, July 16, Pastor Nwachukwu called on Nigerians to rise up against such move, saying that the demand is a subtle way of re-introducing the Rural Grazing Areas (RUGA) Bill rejected under President Mohammadu Buhari.

He said, Alllowing Fulani herdsmen in the name of MACBAN to form vigilante in Nigeria's rural communities is unacceptable. It is another way of re-introducing the previously rejected RUGA Bill. They want to re-introduce RUGA systematically.

"In the Southwest, they have Amotekun; in the Southeast, they have Ebube-Agu as their respective security outfits. So, others should have security outfits peculiar to them. For me, Fulani should have their own security outfit where they have their own lands and cattle."

Nwachukwu further warned Southeast stakeholders, especially traditional rulers, town union leaders and the political leadership against allowing Fulani herdsmen to set-up security outfits in their domains. He also asked Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to stand against it, and alao urged the National Assembly to reject the move.

The cleric, who claimed that the demand might be another move to Islamize the entire Nigeria, contended that if the move for the herders to introduce vigilante in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), what is currently happening in Benue and Plateau States, in terms of herders/farmers clash will spread all over the country.

"Nigeria belongs to all of us - it is our common patrimony. Fulani is just part of over 200 ethnic nationalities. So, they must not be allowed to trample on our sensibilities as a people," he concluded.

Anambra: Umueri Community Accuses President General Of Anti Soludo Stance


... As PG Debunks Allegations


From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

Umueri community in Anambra-East Local Government Area of Anambra State has accused the President-General Mr. John Chukwudi Metchie of anti-Soludo activities in the area, saying that the PG has boasted that not even Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo can stop him from doing anything in the community.

Johnny Metchie as the PG is fondly called was seen in a viral video in the social media where he was addressing some people saying that he is more powerful than the governor and that the governor can not stop him because he must fulfill his ambition of creating an autonomous kingdom in Umueri where he plans to become the King, having set up a coronation committee already.

Johnny Metchie whose executive members of Umueri General Assembly have unanimously passed a vote of no confidence on together with his Deputy Mr. John Udenze, following display of alleged executive rascality and autocratic leadership style, has equally been accused of arbitrary use of power as the President-General of the town union to balkanize the community instead of uniting it, following his interpersonal relations with Labour party opposition elements.

The said video trending in the social media captured Mr. Johnny Metchie claiming that he is superior and above the Anambra State Governor Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo. Metchie in the same video mocked and defamed the Royal Father of Umueri community, boasting that he would be Nigeria's next president after Mr. Peter Obi.

Apart from his romance with Labour party elements in Anambra-East Local Government Area, Johnny Metchie has also gone ahead to felicitate with the APGA Anambra-North chairman of the Edozie Njoku faction.

His congratulatory message on his official Facebook page reads: "This morning in Umueri, I paid a courtesy visit to my brother Hon. Hilary Udanoh, the current chairman of APGA Anambra-North. ( comprises of 7 LGAs in Anambra state) on his appointment and their victory in the court which saw Hon. Edozie Njoku as the new APGA chairman.

"I made this visit to share in his joy because his position in APGA is not only for the good of APGA and Anambra people, but also for the good of his people in Umueri.

"Glory be to God for the victory and peace at last."

Reacting to the allegations, the President-General of Umueri community Mr. Johnny Metchie told our correspondent that sponsored elements of Umueri General Assembly were hell-bent on destroying his hard-earned reputation and tarnishing his public image.

Metchie explained that the video in question was a harmless meeting in his humble abode where critical issues concerning Umueri was being discussed because he is President-General for all and sundry and not a section of the community.

He said he was not anti-Soludo in anyway instead he has supported Soludo's government through donation of security gadgets which he equally replicated in Umueri community coupled with other sterling achievements.

He said by virtue of his position as the President-General of Umueri community, he is expected to fraternise with all regardless of political party affiliations.

Umueri Community Passes Vote Of No Confidence On President-General, Deputy

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

Umueri General Assembly in Anambra-East Local Government Area of Anambra State has insisted that it is not going back on the resolution of vote of no confidence it had earlier passed on the President-General Mr. John Chukwudi Metchie and his Deputy Mr. John Udenze, following the duo's gross misconduct in office.

Executives of the town union in an elaborate resolution highlighted varying degrees of offences and allegations bordering on financial improprieties, high-handedness in office coupled with autocratic cum unilateral decisions capable of plunging the entire Umueri in unending crisis.

Umueri General Assembly jointly agreed in a resolution signed by 9 out of the 14 members of the town union executives and outlined very weighty allegations and offences committed by the PG and his Deputy which they addressed to Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo through the office of the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Town Union Matters, the office of the Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU) and copied the Police, DSS and others just to save Umueri from imminent jeopardy.

The vote of no confidence signed by UGA executives reads, " We the Executive members of Umueri General Assembly hereby pass a vote of no confidence on Johny Metchie and his Deputy Mr. John Udenze. This action is based on the number illegal, unconstitutional and undemocratic activities of the President-General and his Deputy capable of plunging Umueri into serious crisis.

The President-General Mr. Johny Metchie is hell-bent on towing the part of ignominy, recklessness and autocratic in the discharge of our collective responsibility.

He singlehandedly and without consultations, set up a committee that mismanaged the leadership crisis in Ikenga Umueri and today, the once very peaceful Ikenga Umueri is now in court.

He singlehandedly without consulting his executives, started giving official recognition to the so-called " Ndi-Igwes" in Umueri within the same Umueri that has no autonomous communities.

He singlehandedly without consultations with his executives set up a coronation committee for yet another traditional ruler in Umueri. He singlehandedly without notifying his executives, obtained and expended various monies donated by Umueri sons in diaspora.

He received a donation of N400,000.00 from Umueri sons in South Africa and spent the money without the knowledge of his executives and till date he has not deemed it necessary to inform us.

He received another donation from Umueri sons in America; an undisclosed amount and till date he has not also declared the sum. He has also spent the money.

He received another two million naira with the name of UGA from an anonymous person and went ahead to personally spend the money without consulting his executives. He has made several withdrawals running into millions of naira from our UGA Account domiciled with First Bank Otuocha Branch in cohort with his financial secretary. All these were done without official consultations with his executives.

Within six months interval, he has withdrawn several hundreds of thousands ( N100,000.00, N650,00.00, N300,000.00, N200,000.00, N150, 000.00) and many other withdrawals too numerous to mention from UGA Account without the knowledge of his executives. This can be seen in our bank statement of account.

He is the only one that has access to the CCTV cameras mounted at different locations of our community. He has refused all advice to redistribute the surveillance cameras through expanded monitoring personnel.

On assumption of office as President-General Umueri community, he sold two of Umueri security vehicles plus motorbikes and has not accounted for the money till date.

Sir, it is for these reasons and many others too numerous to mention, we hereby pass a vote of no confidence on Mr. Johnny Metchie the President-General of Umueri community and his Deputy Mr. John Udenze and therefore plead your urgent action before things degenerate any further. " Signatories to the resolution of vote of no confidence on the PG and his Deputy include Mr. Achnike Ivekwu-General Secretary, Mr. Ifeanyi Offorkansi-Public Relations Officer, Mr. Ofoma Nwakonuche-Provost iv, Chief Obiora Ajide-VPG, Mr. Ojadi Kenneth-Auditor 1, Tochukwu Chidebelu-Treasurer, Comrade Nzedigwe Kachi-Asst. Secretary, Mr. Timothy Anidumaka-Provost 1 and Evang. Ikechukwu Amutaigwe-Welfare Officer.

Furthermore, Umueri General Assembly (UGA) opined that rather than respond or address the weighty allegations highlighted by none others than his co-executives as contained in the resolution of vote of no confidence on the PG and his Deputy aforestated, Mr Johny Metchie went and gathered few unidentified and identifiable funny characters who are not elected members of UGA to respond on his behalf.

UGA executives also noted that in one of the letters dated 30th June 2023, written and signed by elected members of Umueri General Assembly, they had called the attention of the governor through the office of the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Town Union Matters to seriously caution Mr. Johny Metchie before he throws Umueri into crisis.

But Mr Johny Metchie in his usual obstinacy has therefore by self prompt helped UGA in identifying those in cohorts with him in destabilizing Umueri as seen in the recent letter addressed to the governor.

UGA Executives in another counter resolution maintained that the purported letter of vote of confidence written by the few identifiable characters is not only self serving but a misplaced priority. They said that the characters behind the letters does not have the mandate to interfer in the matters of UGA Executives because they are not elected members.

That while the characters in question were in a haste to pass a vote of confidence on Mr Johny Metchie, they failed to address the points raised by the UGA elected Executive members. In fact, Mr. Johny Metchie through them, did not deny any of those allegations raised by the executives as contained in that letter.

That in a bid to masturbate the over bloated ego of Mr. Johny Metchie, they embarked on lies and outright falsehood about the achievements of Mr. Johny Metchie as President General of Umueri. The lies according to the UGA executives are, " The claim that Mr. Johny Metchie has improved security in Umueri is a total falsehood and media propaganda. Only recently, Ivite Umueri Community Secondary School was vandalized and all government's property carted away. This has become a recurring event in that school.

The Government Technical College, Umueri is constantly under attack and at the mercies of vandals with no help in sight, same thing goes with the Migrant Famers School Umudiana to mention but a few, all these are government institutions that can be verified through the principals of the schools.

The wokie talkies and CCTV cameras mentioned by these characters were all donated by individuals from Umueri both home and abroad.

The claim that Mr. Johny Metchie constructed the Ikenga New Ultramodern Market is a bareface lie and very insulting. For the records, the Ikenga Umueri Ultramodern Market is being built by individuals who were allotted land space to build and develop. Neither the UGA nor Mr. Johny Metchie contributed a dime in the building of that market which is still under construction.

The claim that under Mr. Johny Metchie as Umueri PG, that lots of roads have been constructed across Umueri is yet another lie. Infact, the money (millions of Naira) given to Johny Metchie by one of our illustrious daughters to do some palliatives on our road has not been accounted for till date.

In summary, we wish to appeal to your office to set-up a fact finding committee to investigate these false claims made by these characters. I am sure you will be marveled at the results you will get.

The worst is the recent distribution of palm and coconut seedlings allotted to town union, Mr Johnny Metchie asked us the executive to do collection of names but to our surprise we never knew when he collected the seedlings and diverted it to his private farm.

The Executive Members of Umueri General Assembly emphasized without equivocation that Johny Metchie is plunging Umueri community into crisis by inauguration of a coronation committee, without consulting his executives and that the said Committee will coronate him Igwe in the community. Although UGA executives said they are aware that Anambra State Traditional Rulers' Law supersceded Umueri constitution and that currently there is no provision for autonomous community or a parrarel Igwe in the state law. Hence they are not ignorant of the provisions in the state government law and will not stay idle and watch Umueri community thrown into crisis because of the ambition of one man.

UGA still posited that the president general intentionally plunged Ikenga Umueri quarter into her current crisis thereby creating a vacuum in the governing body as they have passed through stages of fighting one another; shedding the blood of their youths in the village square coupled with police random arrest as well as litigations at Otuocha High Court pending when the court will give its judgement. That the PG contracted a senior advocate (SAN) who is presently championing his coronation. That Nneyi village from where the PG hails from is not exempted from the crisis as they have been fighting the battle of supremacy over who will control a segment of the village youth leadership which has culminated into shootings recently in the area while some youths ran for their lives.

That the PG's leadership style of destruction and destabilisation of Umueri community through creation of chaotic atmosphere to achieve his motive has been shifted to Ivite Umueri where he seemed to have created a committee of men of questionable characters who are desperate and if not checkmated will plunge Umueri into perpetual problem the entire community will live to regret. That the Anambra State Government should call Mr. Johny Metchie to order because Umueri can never be a tale of one kingdom with many monarchs especially as the PG has boasted that no one can stop him from becoming an Igwe in a community where there is no vacancy in the traditional stool.

When contacted as at 12:44 pm on Friday for him to respond to allegations levelled against him and his Deputy by the Executives of Umueri General Assembly, the President-General Mr. Johny Metchie did not respond to phone calls from our correspondent.

Chief Okonkwo Hails Soludo for Revamping Secretariat, Water Supply In Nzam

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

The Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo has been commended for restoring activities and life to the Anambra West Council Secretariat once again after years of desertion, abandonment and total inactivity.

A visibly elated party/community leader noted that before now the Local Government secretariat was deserted by the staff and overgrown with weeds; and taken over by reptiles and rodents. But that with the intervention of the Governor the Secretariat has come alive again, to give citizens and indigenes of Anambra West LGA a sense of belonging.

Chief Okonkwo was full of kind words for the Governor so "for eventually providing clean drinking water to Umuoba Aboegbu-Anam community in Anambra West council area of the State."

He expressed delight for the Governor's gesture in providing them the newly commissioned water borehole in the community.

This, he noted, was coming after decades of nonavailability of clean hygienic drinking water for their domestic needs and other uses.

He said the borehole will immensely help his people as they had before now perennially been submerged by flood. Such that they were cooking with and drinking all manner of water from unhygienic places and sources. The unwholesome situation made them susceptible to multiple water-borne diseases, including diarrhea, cholera and worm infestation.

Okonkwo also gave kudos to the Anambra West Council chairman, Hon Felix Okechi for attracting the lifesaving project along with others. He described the council boss as "very focussed, who actually has been learning closely from Gov Soludo's giant developmental strides. Keep it up," he added.

The community cum party leader, Chief Okonkwo pointed out other ongoing lifesaving programs of the Governor in the area, including the Mmiata Anam-Nzam Road Project, upgrading of some Primary Healthcare centres, the approval for electrification of more communities in the area, etc. Other massive projects of the governor, Chief Okonkwo highlighted include the employment of five thousand teachers, employment of healthcare personnel, the systematic tackling of insecurity in the state, as well as the mass ongoing construction of community roads all over the state.

He assured the governor and the APGA family of the unflinching support and backing of people of the Council area as well as the entire Anambra North Senatorial zone for his administration and development programs.

Chief Okonkwo Hails Soludo for Revamping Secretariat, Water Supply In Nzam

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

The Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo has been commended for restoring activities and life to the Anambra West Council Secretariat once again after years of desertion, abandonment and total inactivity.

A visibly elated party/community leader noted that before now the Local Government secretariat was deserted by the staff and overgrown with weeds; and taken over by reptiles and rodents. But that with the intervention of the Governor the Secretariat has come alive again, to give citizens and indigenes of Anambra West LGA a sense of belonging.

Chief Okonkwo was full of kind words for the Governor so "for eventually providing clean drinking water to Umuoba Aboegbu-Anam community in Anambra West council area of the State."

He expressed delight for the Governor's gesture in providing them the newly commissioned water borehole in the community.

This, he noted, was coming after decades of nonavailability of clean hygienic drinking water for their domestic needs and other uses.

He said the borehole will immensely help his people as they had before now perennially been submerged by flood. Such that they were cooking with and drinking all manner of water from unhygienic places and sources. The unwholesome situation made them susceptible to multiple water-borne diseases, including diarrhea, cholera and worm infestation.

Okonkwo also gave kudos to the Anambra West Council chairman, Hon Felix Okechi for attracting the lifesaving project along with others. He described the council boss as "very focussed, who actually has been learning closely from Gov Soludo's giant developmental strides. Keep it up," he added.

The community cum party leader, Chief Okonkwo pointed out other ongoing lifesaving programs of the Governor in the area, including the Mmiata Anam-Nzam Road Project, upgrading of some Primary Healthcare centres, the approval for electrification of more communities in the area, etc. Other massive projects of the governor, Chief Okonkwo highlighted include the employment of five thousand teachers, employment of healthcare personnel, the systematic tackling of insecurity in the state, as well as the mass ongoing construction of community roads all over the state.

He assured the governor and the APGA family of the unflinching support and backing of people of the Council area as well as the entire Anambra North Senatorial zone for his administration and development programs.

Dr. Chinedu Umeadi Foundation Praised For Huge Investments In Science Education

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka

Vice Chancellor of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Prof. Charles Esimone, has commended Dr. Chinedu Umeadi Foundation (DCUF), and its Founder, Dr Chinedu Umeadi, for their giant efforts in helping secondary students in Anambra State to acquire sound science education through annual quiz competitions and other things.

The Vice Chancellor, who chaired the 4th edition and grand finale of the 2023 edition of the DCUF annual quiz competition held on Wednesday, July 5, at the Prof..Dora Akunyili Women Development Center, Awka, said that what students represent for the society today is a future that is bright.

He noted that when the mind is nurtured at the early stage, it tends to produce reproductive and effective people, who will in return enhance development. This, he said, is the magic behind developed countries where they use science and technology to improve the society.

He said, "If you want to talk about tomorrow, we can not play with our young people in the school. They represent the lofty idea, and worthy status we aspire as a people. So, we have to invest in our young people in the school. We will not stop thanking Dr Umeadi for instituting this quiz competition."

Also speaking, the Director, Science and Technology, PPSSC, Awka, Mr Anereobi Ephraim Jekwu, noted that Dr Umeadi’s dynamic and visionary ideas have completely changed the face of science education in the state. He thanked the Foundation for its creative and charismatic method of using advance program software and Computer Based Test (CBT) for this year’s competition, which he said, helped to elevate the students' intelligent quotient in ICT globally.

In her speech, the Chairman of Post Primary Schools Service Commission (PPSC), Professor Nkechi Ikediugwu, also commended the Foundation, and said that education is the greatest gift every child wants, and explained that efforts of Governor Chukwuma Soludo to revamp and uplift education sector needs collaborative efforts and investments from private spirited individuals, as exemplified by High Chief Dr Chinedu Umeadi.

The Special Guest of Honour, and Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev Paulinus Ezeokafor, noted that while students study science and technology in the school, they should know that they are humans created in the image of God, and therefore, must be disciplined in morals. He encourage parents and teachers to ensure that good morals are imbibed in the young ones. He also commended Dr Chinedu Umeadi Foundation for its efforts.

Member Representing Njikoka II Constituency at the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon Jude Akpua, also applauded the Foundation for its giant efforts in science education. He noted that the quiz competition is in line with Governor Charles Soludo administration's efforts in bringing academic excellence to Anambra State.

Sir Ikem Onwuadi, the Coordinator, Dr Chinedu Umeadi Foundation, disclosed that the programme was aimed towards emancipating students through education, adding that 217 public schools participated, but at the end, winners emerged from the zonal levels.

Earlier, the Founder/Chief Executive Officer of the Foundation, Dr Chinedu Umeadi, noted that the annual quiz competition is meant to support the educational foundations of the young people.

He said, "Education offers you greater opportunity to be celebrated. We are here to celebrate your academic excellence, and prepare you for greater celebrations ahead. Kindly use education to rediscover yourself, your natural abilities and skills. These will reposition you to uplift society tomorrow. Keep on soaring higher because, you are future of tomorrow we have today."

Umeadi also pledged to give out scholarships to 5 students from the bishop of Awka diocese, and 2 best students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, under the Vice Chancellor awards.

The 4th edition of the annual quiz competition was organized by DCUF in collaboration with Post Primary Schools Service Commission (PPSSC), Awka, and Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB).

The winning schools are Maria Regina Model Comprehensive Secondary School, Nnewi, which produced best students, best principal and best quiz master for Junior Secondary School (JSS) category; while Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS) produced same at Senior Secondary School (SSS) category.

The foundation presented prizes and monetary gifts to winners, and also admitted them into the Ambassadorial Cadet of the Foundation.

Estate Developer, Ezeayom Chinazor, Warns Newsmen Against Smear Journalism

From Eche Nwobasi, Onitsha

Chief Ezeayom Chinazor an Anambra state based real estate developer has lamented lack of professionalism anchored on fair hearing and balanced reportage among most journalists especially bloggers in social media in the country noting that it is high time stake holders in the profession rise up to the problem and stop it so that it won’t undermine the image of the profession among the people.

Making this observation while reacting to a recent publication in some newsblogs site in social media and some local newspapers accusing him of been a land grabber, Ezeayom who described such publications as wicked and deliberate attempt to smear his good image built for years said he had never in his life engaged in land grabbing as all his real estate investments are strictly done according to laws and specifications.

Commenting on the said land located at Otigba Estate opposite Holy Ghost Estate gate Enuovuve layout along Onitsha Otuocha Road Nkwelle Ezunaka Oyi LGA which laid to the said publication titled “Anambra residents raises alarm over illegal structures”, he stated that every transaction in respect of the land was done in accordance to relevant laws and customs governing purchase of lands in Anambra state stressing that the owners of the said land Akpukwu family and ASUDEB were settled and payment of necessary fees done adding that the land was not on erosion prone area as wickedly alleged in the sponsored publication.

Investigating this, newsmen contacted the authorities of ASUDEB, the agency in charge of land transaction in the state, chairman and vice chairman of Akpukwu family, the bonafide owner of the land chief Okwuchukwu Ugokwe, chairman of Otigba landlords and tenants association who spoke on behalf of the association all confirmed that Ezeayom is the real owner of the disputed land as he was the one who bought the land from real owners Akpukwu family of Nkwelle Ezunaka on October 2016 and has perfected all stipulated condition required by the owners and the state government which led him to start developing the said land.

On the allegation that the said land is an erosion prone area which is not good for erection of any property, they stated that the area is safe with no treat of erosion as confirmed by material testing standard of all the relevant approval authorities.

When asked on the contention of a claimant of the said land that the portion of the land was a buffer zone created by the contractor who initially developed the estate, they describe such claim as mischievous stressing that the area in question is the property of Akpukwu family who sold the area to chief Ezeayom Chinazor.

On his part when newsmen contacted him, chief Ifeanyi Akaeme the person laying claim to the land who was alleged to be the sponsor of the said publication, told newsmen that he is the rightful owner of the said portion of land as he had earlier bought the land from the contractor chief Bonaventure Mokwe who developed the estate insisting that the contractor left that portion as a buffer zone which by implication belongs to him adding that the same portion is not the property of Akpukwu family as they have earlier ceded it to the contractor who sold it to him.

United Nations Peace Award winner Tasks Nigerians On Importance Of Peace


Eche Nwaobasi, Nnewi


Eng. Emmanuel Chiderah Obi an Asaba based Civil Engineer who last week bagged a prestigious Peace Award “Ambassador for World Peace” from UN PEPOLAC one of the Subsidiary Organization of the United Nations has tasked Nigerians both political, traditional leaders and all Nigerians including those in diaspora on importance of pursuing anything that will ensure peace and tranquility in the country noting that all Nigerian problem will vanish if everybody will maintain peace and come together in unity.

Making this observation to newsmen immediately after receiving the award with Senator Dr. Victor Umeh the Senator representing Anambra Central in the Nigeria Senate among others at Hilton Leisure Resort and Hotels, Awka Anambra State last weekend, Obi a native of Umunze in Orumba South Local Government Area who the United Nation Organization body said was honoured on account of his fruitful peace moves in his community, state and work place which has resulted in enthronement of harmony, tranquility and peace in Nigeria stated that he is worried that there are a lot of killings, destructions, robberies specially violent ones, poverty, corruption in governance etc in Nigeria.

While attributing these vices as well as other ills in the country to lack of peace and love among Nigerian, the Civil Engineer called Nigerians to learn to be patriotic, tolerant, love of each other and fear of God stressing that if these factors are strictly abided to that the country will overcome whatever obstacle it is currently facing.

Earlier in an address before the bestowment of the award to the awardees, the International Coordinator of UN PEPOLAC for Anambra State, Rev. Ozioma Ozoemena and the Director Crisis, Conflicts and Dispute Resolution of the organization in the state, Bishop Dr. Mike Chukwudum has admonished the awardee to be good ambassador of United Nations by ensuring that they continue promoting peace wherever they find themselves.

Prof. Mmadubuko's Maiden Edition of Beach Football Tournament Kicks-off in Nnewi

From Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka


Beach football tournament, first of its kind in the Southeast, Nigeria, has kicked-off at the popular Moonshine Residence, a hospitality home in Nnewi, Nnewi North local government area of Anambra state.

The championship, organized by a versity Don, top notch businessman, and human resources consultant, Prof. Victor Mmadubuko, kicked-off on Sunday, May 21, at the beach court built in the premises of Moonshine Residence, situated at Uru-Umudim, behind Ezeudoka Eatery, Madubuko Street, Nnewi, Anambra state.

Eight teams are participating in the tournament, including Innoson, Gabros, Chicason Afro-Asia, Moniepoint, OTC, Moonshine, Cutix plc and Tummy Tummy.

Speaking during the opening ceremony of the tournament, the Project Director of Moonshine Residence, Mr. Ralph Emeka, explained that each of the 8 teams will play 3 games before proceeding to the final stages. According to him, the winning team will go home with a trophy, and one hundred thousand naira; while others will get consolation prizes of different categories.

He said that there will be awards for the highest goal scorer, most behaved team, most valuable player, among other prizes.

Explaining the nature of beach football, Emeka, an ex-Rangers International footballer, said, "It is a type of football played at the beach, where they have much sand, but Moonshine brings the beach in the residence at a very high cost to serve its customers, and the neighborhood. The tournament is a fusion of beach and regular football.

"Three persons play per time in each side. The rule of the game is different, as there is no penalty, no throw-in, no corner-kick, and so on."

The Operations Manager of Moonshine Residence, Mrs Offodile Chidimma, explained that the tournament would last for one month, and will be played Saturdays and Sundays. She added that the beach is brought to the residence to serve as recreational facility for customers who patronize the facility; as well as people who live within the neighborhood.

A former Commissioner for Sports in Anambra state, Dr. Emmanuel Nsoedo, said that the beach football facility will add to the quality of life of people using it; as well as people living in Nnewi and its environs.

Crown Prince of Nnewi kingdom, Prince Obi Orizu, said that the sports facility is the first of its kind in the area, adding that it will serve as tourist attraction to the industrial city.

He said, "This innovation is first of its kind in Nnewi. It will go along way to improve sports in Nnewi and beyond. It will help in solving societal problems associated with idleness and inactivity."

Former Deputy Speaker of the Anambra state House of Assembly, Hon. Chukwudi Orizu, commended Prof. Mmadubuko for coming up with the initiative of introducing beach football in Nnewi.

Orizu, also a former chairman of Nnewi North local government area, expressed hope that the initiative will encourage other business owners to repatriate part of their businesses home. He also urged government at all levels to show maximum interest in sports.

The opening match played between Innoson and Chicason Afro-Asia teams ended 7:3 in favour of Innoson; while the second match played later in the day between OTC and Moniepoint teams ended 14:4 in favour of OTC. Next leg of the game will come up on Saturday, May 27.

Popular Pastor Hails USA Over Visa Ban On INEC Chairman, Others, Gives Reasons

My Mokwugwo Solomon, Awka


A notable Nigerian cleric, Pastor Jerry Nwachukwu, has hailed the United States of America (USA) for imposing visa ban on Nigerians accused of undermining democratic processes during the 2023 general elections in the country.

The USA slammed visa ban on the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu; Governor Yeso Wike of Rivers state, MC Oluomo, among others.

The US, through its Secretary of State, Antony Binken, announced on Monday, May 15 that those affected by the visa ban are Nigerians who intimidated voters through threats and physical violence, as well as those that manipulated voter results and other activities that undermined democratic processes in the country.

In an exclusive chat with our correspondent on Tuesday, May 16, Pastor Nwachukwu, who is the Senior Pastor of the Bible Base Miracle Assembly, Nkpor Agu, Idemili North local government area of Anambra state, hailed the United States, describing the move as timely, adding that it will serve as deterrent to other corrupt politicians.

He said, "I wholeheartedly support the move by the United States to sanction corrupt Nigerians, who undermined the 2023 general elections. It is heartwarming that the United States recognized that the process was far from being credible, free and fair, and far from the expectation of the Nigerian people.

"If the US, who are humans will realize the enormity of injustice meted on the Nigerian people by some politicians during the 2023 general elections, how much more then would God, the hater of injustice, punish such politicians in this life, and in the life to come?

"The United States should ensure that it walks its talk by even going beyond the visa ban. It will not end there - in the life to come, God will also invoke His wrath on them in the hell fire. The enormity of injustice meted on Nigerian masses as far as the 2023 election is concerned is much. It is heartbreaking! Every punishment humanly possible should be meted on them to serve as deterrent to others who may contemplate such evil in the future."

The notable pastor also urged the US and the international community to stand solidly behind the Nigerian people, in order to ensure that the Presidential Election Tribunal and the Supreme Court do the right thing by restoring the popular mandate, especially as it concerns presidential election.