₦airaland Forum

ALLEGED KILLING IN ETCHE SPARKS OUTRAGE, QUESTIONS OVER SILENCE AND POSSIBLE COVER-UP

Disturbing images circulating on social media since yesterday, Sunday 12th April 2026 have raised serious concerns over an alleged fatal shooting at a public event in Umuogodo Igbo Etche on Sunday.

The victim, identified as a member of OSPAC, is reportedly dead.

Eyewitness accounts and trending visuals online point accusing fingers at one Emma Nwobilor as the alleged culprit. While these claims continue to spread, there has been no official clarification or response from relevant authorities.

Even more troubling is the deafening silence of the Etche Local Government Chairman, particularly as the alleged suspect is said to be an appointee of the council.

This has fueled growing public suspicion of a possible cover-up, with many questioning whether justice is being compromised due to political ties and alleged involvement in controversial land-related activities.

Key concerns being raised:

√ Why has there been no official statement on such a serious incident?

√ Is there an attempt to shield the suspect because of political connections?

√ Will justice be served, or buried under influence?

The public, civil society, and the media are hereby called upon to demand transparency, accountability, and immediate investigation into this disturbing incident.

Silence in the face of injustice only deepens public distrust.

These boys and girls no go kill person with their tossing wahala.

ETCHE CRISIS: INTERROGATING THE SUSPENSION OF SAND MINING BY HON. CHIMA NJOKU AND THE QUESTION OF ACCOUNTABILITY: WHY IS OKECHUKWU ONYECHE STILL WALKING FREE?

A PETITION FOR URGENT INVESTIGATION, PUBLIC ACCOUNTABILITY, AND JUSTICE

What initially appeared to be a routine engagement within the sand mining sector in Etche has, upon closer scrutiny, revealed itself to be a deeply troubling narrative of manipulation, misinformation, and alleged abuse of entrusted authority. This situation has now snowballed into an avoidable crisis, one that has not only disrupted economic activities in Etche LGA but has also resulted in the tragic loss of life, with others currently battling for survival.

This petition, arising from careful observation, stakeholder accounts, and a journalistic interrogation of available facts, seeks to draw the urgent attention of government authorities, security agencies, civil society, and the general public to what increasingly appears to be a calculated orchestration of chaos by one individual: Mr. Okechukwu Onyeche, Chairman of the Etche Dredging Committee.

There is no disputing the fact that sand mining and tipper operations constitute a significant pillar of Etche’s local economy. These twin sectors have consistently contributed to internally generated revenue and provided livelihoods for countless families. In recognition of this importance, the Chairman of Etche LGA, Hon. Chima Njoku, engaged stakeholders on several occasions, in a bid to promote order and sustainability within the sector.

However, a major turning point appeared to have been the appointment of Mr. Okechukwu Onyeche as Chairman of the Dredging Committee, an appointment which, according to multiple accounts, introduced instability rather than structure.

Upon assuming office, Mr. Onyeche reportedly introduced a revenue framework that included:

√ A daily ticket payment of ₦3,000 per tipper, to be collected at strategic junctions such as Egwi, Umuanyagu, Chokocho, Umuechem, and Igbo. Of this amount, ₦2,000 was to be remitted to the council treasury, while ₦1,000 was to be retained by the union.

√ Additional loading fees of ₦2,000 per big tipper (Howo) and ₦1,000 per smaller tipper at selling points across dredging zones (fields) including Egwi, Umuanyagu/Okoroagu, Chokocho, Umuechem, and Igbo.

While compliance was initially high and revenue reportedly increased, concerns soon emerged over discrepancies in remittances. Stakeholders who raised questions regarding missing funds, including an alleged sum of about ₦9,000,000, were reportedly met with hostility from the said Chairman of the Dredging Committee.

And in what appeared to be a calculated move to consolidate control, Mr. Onyeche was alleged to have, in December, unilaterally selected a group of loyalists and presented them as executives of the Etche Sand Producers Association, without broad stakeholder consultation. These individuals were reportedly presented to the Council Chairman at his Mba residence for endorsement.

Subsequently, documents were allegedly forged to legitimize this structure, and the association was registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), with Mr. Onyeche listed as Treasurer. A bank account was then opened, with an agreed 50–50 revenue-sharing formula between the council and the union, while the council was to handle royalty payments to the Federal Government through the Federal Mines Officer in charge of Rivers State.

However, in a puzzling reversal, Mr. Onyeche, upon realizing the scale of daily revenue from these collections, reportedly abandoned this arrangement and instead resorted to direct personal collection of funds, raising serious concerns about accountability, transparency, and intent.

More troubling were reports that Mr. Onyeche, leveraging his position as Chairman of the Dredging Committee, began operating with security personnel, including officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the police. Their presence was allegedly used to intimidate sand miners and tipper drivers in a bid to assert total control over the sector. This reportedly became a routine pattern of enforcement.

Eyewitness accounts further indicated that on the day of the tragic incident, which resulted in the death of an NSCDC officer and left one Mr. Bright critically injured, these enforcement teams were moving from one dredging site to another, creating tension and fear among operators.

It was reliably gathered that the Council Chairman, Hon. Chima Njoku, had earlier concluded a stakeholder engagement at the Umuanyagu/Okoroagu dredging zone and had returned to his office. However, Mr. Onyeche allegedly continued field operations with security personnel and other actors, actions which reportedly escalated the situation. And the question was: to what end and under whose authority were these continued field operations being carried out?

One is left to ask these critical questions:

√ Why has Mr. Okechukwu Onyeche not been subjected to a thorough and transparent investigation despite being central to this chain of events?

√ Why is an individual accused by multiple stakeholders of financial misconduct and operational overreach still moving freely?

√ Who authorized the deployment of security personnel in a manner that allegedly escalated tensions rather than maintained peace?

√ Why are certain narratives being promoted in ways that may obscure the root causes and shield key actors from scrutiny?

It is, therefore, pertinent to note that this petition is a firm demand for accountability. A call on:

√ The Rivers State Government

√ Relevant federal authorities

√ Security agencies

√ The leadership of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)

√ Anti-corruption agencies, etc

To immediately without further delay

√ Launch an independent and transparent investigation into the activities of Mr. Okechukwu Onyeche.

√ Conduct a comprehensive audit of all revenues generated from the sand mining sector within the period under review.

√ Investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident and identify all responsible parties.

√ Ensure that innocent individuals are not scapegoated while alleged masterminds evade scrutiny.

√ Restore order, transparency, and stakeholder confidence within the sector.

The people of Etche deserve truth, not carefully constructed distortions. They deserve leadership, not manipulation. Above all, they deserve justice for lives lost and livelihoods disrupted.

This is a defining moment for institutions, leadership, the media, and the public.

Let the truth come to light.
Let the real culprits be unmasked.
And let justice prevail.

Chibuike Godspower Iroegbu

ETCHE ECONOMY UNDER SIEGE: WHO WILL SPEAK FOR THE PEOPLE?
An Open Letter to the Civil Society Organisations, Public Conscience Advocates, Human Rights Activists and the General Public

A DEMAND FOR ACCOUNTABILITY FROM MR. OKECHUKWU ONYECHE, COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN ON DREDGING, OVER ALLEGATIONS OF FINANCIAL MISCONDUCT, ABUSE OF OFFICE, AND RELATED MATTERS IN THE ETCHE SAND DREDGING SECTOR

This open letter seeks to awaken public consciousness, galvanize collective action, and inspire solidarity among civil society organisations and all advocates of justice. It underscores the urgent need to restore economic activities in the sand dredging sector in Etche and to demand accountability where it is due.

THE TRUTH IS SIMPLE:

The sand dredging industry in Etche is not a peripheral activity; it is a multi-billion naira economic ecosystem. From Egwi to Umuanyagu/Okoroagu, Chokocho, Umuechem, and Igbo communities, this sector sustains:

√ Tipper operations

√ Heavy-duty equipment investments

√ Formal and informal employment chains

√ Numerous ancillary businesses dependent on daily dredging activities

BUT SADLY:

The suspension of sand dredging on March 9, 2026, by the council chairman, Hon. Chima Njoku, has effectively paralysed this economic hub, with devastating ripple effects:

√ Idle equipment financed through bank loans, with interest still accruing

√ Loss of livelihoods for hundreds of families

√ Disruption of local commerce and supply chains

THIS RAISES A CRITICAL QUESTION:

How did the actions or inactions of a single officeholder contribute to the near-collapse of a thriving local economy?

Recent developments in the sand dredging sector in Etche have raised grave concerns that go far beyond administrative disagreements. They point to deeper issues of financial impropriety, abuse of office, unprovoked intimidations and possible complicity in events that have tragically resulted in violence and loss of life.

Following painstaking investigations and the emergence of fresh facts and evidence, it has become both necessary and urgent that Mr. Okechukwu Onyeche, Committee Chairman on Dredging, an appointee of the Council Chairman, be formally called upon to answer critical questions.

Notably, The said Okechukwu Onyeche had initially, publicly indicated his intention to respond to concerns raised in a widely circulated publication titled:
“ETCHE CRISIS: INTERROGATING THE SUSPENSION OF SAND MINING BY HON. CHIMA NJOKU AND THE QUESTION OF ACCOUNTABILITY: WHY IS OKECHUKWU ONYECHE STILL WALKING FREE.”

That publication, which went viral around March 19, 2026, drew significant public attention and reportedly prompted a promise from Mr. Onyeche to respond. But to date, that response has not materialised.

THIS SILENCE RAISES TROUBLING QUESTIONS:

Is Mr. Onyeche assembling facts for presentation before anti-graft agencies, or is there an assumption that this matter will fade without accountability?

ISSUES OF INTEREST:

Mr. Okechukwu Onyeche is expected to provide clear and verifiable answers to the following:

√ Whether he is listed as Treasurer in the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration documents of the Etche Sand Producers Association

√ Whether he is a signatory to the association’s bank account

√ The circumstances under which official lodgements into the association’s account were allegedly discontinued under his watch

√ Allegations of diversion of revenues into personal accounts

√ Reports of unaccounted funds running into millions of naira

√ The alleged failure to remit due federal government royalties

√ Persistent and suspicious changes in union leadership within a short period

√ The alleged imposition of loyalists, including their presentation to the Council Chairman during a December meeting at his Mba Etche residence

√ The legality and justification of levies imposed on operators, including a ₦3,000 daily ticket per tipper, alongside additional fees of ₦2,000 and ₦1,000

√ The rationale behind the increased deployment of security personnel, including NSCDC operatives, allegedly used to harass and intimidate sand miners and tipper drivers

√ The true nature of his dispute or fallout with the sand miners’ union

√ At what point environmental concerns became a priority under his watch

√ The reasons behind his reported suspension by the Council Chairman

The issues raised herein are not mere allegations cast into the wind. They are serious concerns that demand urgent institutional scrutiny.

THIS AGITATES THE MIND:

Was the Council Chairman, Hon. Chima Njoku, misled by his appointee?

Was this a case of conflict of interest?

Or are we witnessing a broader pattern of systemic abuse of office for personal gain, culminating in avoidable tragedy?

The fatal incident of March 9 stands as a painful reminder that when governance fails, the consequences are not abstract: they are human, immediate, and irreversible.

Given the weight of these allegations and their far-reaching implications, the EFCC, ICPC, and the Nigeria Police Force will be formally petitioned to:

√ Invite and investigate Mr. Okechukwu Onyeche and all relevant parties without delay

√ Conduct a forensic audit of all financial activities related to the Etche Sand Producers Association

√ Examine possible abuse of office and regulatory breaches

√ Investigate any links between administrative decisions and the events of March 9, 2026

√ Ensure that justice is served transparently and without prejudice

This matter must not be allowed to fade into silence. Too much is at stake: public trust, economic survival, and the sanctity of human life.

History will not be kind to inaction where accountability is demanded.

Chibuike Godspower Iroegbu

MR CHAIRMAN, HON. CHIMA NJOKU: I BEG YOUR PARDON: EVERY LIFE MATTERS

March 9, 2026, will not be forgotten in a hurry in Etche.

It was not just another day of routine engagement between the council and sand dredgers/tipper drivers; it was a day marked by blood, pain, and unanswered questions.

One life was lost, an officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, ASC 2 Kalu Samuel Ali.

Another life hangs in the balance, Bright Kabari, critically shot and battling for survival. And even if he survives, the damage done may permanently alter the course of his life. His manhood may be irreparably affected.

Two men. Two victims. One tragic day.
Both are breadwinners.
Both have families.
Both matter

So, Mr Chairman, why does it seem like only one life counts?

Since this unfortunate incident, your voice has been heard, but only on one side of the story. Public concern, official sympathy, and institutional attention appear tilted in favour of the deceased NSCDC officer.

But what about the man still lying in the hospital?
What about Bright Kabari?
Does his life not deserve acknowledgment?

Silence, in moments like this, is not neutral. Silence can be interpreted as bias, and that is where the concern deepens.

There are growing fears that a deliberate narrative is being constructed: one that paints all sand dredgers as illegal operators, while conveniently ignoring the truth that many are duly registered, government-approved, and compliant with royalties and cadastral regulations.

Mr Chairman, Nigerians are asking:
Are all dredgers truly illegal, or is this a blanket narrative to justify selective action?

Why is there an apparent one-sided communication from the council?

As the Chief Security Officer of Etche, are you protecting all citizens equally, or pursuing a different agenda?

Have you demanded accountability from your Committee Chairman on Dredging, Okechukwu Onyeche, regarding the handling of royalties?

Or is the focus simply on controlling the narrative while the truth slips away?

Because let’s be clear: both incidents happened on the same day. Both involved gunshots. Both deserve equal attention, equal outrage, and equal justice.

Anything short of that raises serious questions.

This is not about undermining the loss of an NSCDC officer. His death is tragic and must be thoroughly investigated.

But justice is not selective.
Compassion is not selective.
Leadership must never be selective.

If one life is amplified while another is ignored, then what we have is not leadership. It is bias dressed as authority.

The people of Etche are watching. They are thinking.
And they are asking questions.

We must reject any attempt to twist the narrative.
We must reject any attempt to shield the truth.
We must reject any system that decides which life is worthy of public sympathy.

Mr Chairman, this is your moment, not to defend a narrative, but to stand for justice in its entirety.

Because, at the end of the day:

Every life matters.

Chibuike Godspower Iroegbu (Nwachineke Chibuike)

CHIEF (HON.) ALLWELL HEACHO ONYESO (JP): THE TOAST OF THE MOMENT

Suffice it to say that Chief (Hon.) Allwell Heacho Onyesoh, like the Biblical David, is divinely bedecked to conquer. A painstaking dissection of Chief Allwell Onyesho's existence would leave you with a conclusion of his (Allwell) Messianic inclination. At every endeavour, Chief Onyesoh has always lived selflessly, touching mostly the very needy. For instance, as the Executive Chairman of Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board, for the first time in the long history of the state, Chief Allwell Onyesoh, as the proponent, ensured the employment of 13,151 graduate teachers in the State. And this did not only save the public schools from extinction but also ensured that deserving graduates were taken off the unemployment market and put food on their tables.

The tall handsome astute politician is a well respected personality whose political wayfare revolves around the landmarks of variegated history of the state. There will be no gainsaying that a literature of politics in Rivers State would be underdone without proper reference of Allwell's political activism.

Chief Allwell Onyesoh's sapient political permutations have always driven him to victory-laden political associations. As a pan Rivers politician of Etche extraction, and a founding member of PDP at its inception in 1998, Allwell understands the gains of fidelity-in-friendship. For instance, Chief Onyesoh was one of the two longest commissioners that served in the daministration of Sir Dr Peter Odili as Commissioner for Education, and later Sports in a consecution of four years each. This, according to analysts, was a reward for loyalty and fidelity-in-friendship. And this, His Excellency Chief Bar Nyesom Wike spotted and consequent supported his nomination and eventual emergence as the Rivers East Senatorial flagbearer.

Indeed, true to his first name, ALLWELL, his senatorial candidacy has been very well received by all. His acceptance across party lines underscores the reciprocation and testimony of the people towards his benevolence and passion for quality is representation. No wonder he is fondly called the great OCTOPUS.

For the people of Etche nation, the name Chief Bar Nyesom Wike will be engraved in the Etche political lexicon not only for Etche political emancipation and inclusivity in political equation obut also the choice of Chief (Hon.) Allwell Heacho Onyesoh as the toast of the moment. For indeed, it has been the desire and wish of an average Etche man, and incidentally, this is the indubitable translation of his middle name, HEACHO: meaning ones strong desire or appetency. In other words, the Etche people's wish of their fair share at the Red Chambers is coming to reality.

Unarguably, Chief Allwell Heacho Onyeso is a round peg for a round hole, or better still, a square peg for a square hole. He is a man combinedly endowed with resplendent brilliance, magnificent wit and imposing intelligence.

Interestingly, in response to the the question, ONYESOH, which means who is for me or who is following me? The good people of Rivers East Senatorial distict: Emohua, Obio/Apko, Port Harcourt City, Ikwerre, Okrika, Ogu/gbolo, Etche and Omuma) have unanimously answered in affirmative voice that Chief (Hon.) Allwell Heacho Onyesoh is the only candidate to follow. Na who know road we go follow!

Indeed he is a round peg for a round hole

Chief Hon. Allwell Onyesoh JP, PDP Senatorial candidate for Rivers East. Rivers State, Nigeria

Chief Hon. Allwell Onyesoh JP, PDP Senatorial candidate for Rivers East. Rivers State, Nigeria

OPEN LETTER

Amb. Desmond Akawor
Chairman, PDP
Rivers State
Nigeria.

Dear Sir,
INCESSANT INVECTIVES ON GOV. NYESOM WIKE AND THE PDP LEADERSHIP: SANCTION MRS UCHE KEN NDUKWU NOW

It is no longer news that the social media, in the past few days, have been awash with one Mrs Uche Ken Ndukwu's tongue lashing of His Excellency Gov. Nyesom Wike; the PDP leadership, especially the Etche LGA party chairman, Hon. John Otamiri, and a Frontline politician Chief Allwell Onyesoh (JP). Even her successor and follow woman Mrs Gladys Nweke was not spared of the unjustified vilification and name-calling.

Ordinarily such tirades and diatribes from inconsistent character like Mrs Uche Ken Ndukwu ought to be ignored as not to be dragged to her level of parochialistic tendency and naked ignorance. But given the time and implications of this to the aggregate minds of the political gladiators and admirers, it is pertinent to address issues like this head-on in other to nib further occurrence in the bud as a deterrent.

Sir, incontrovertible evidence both audio, video and written forms at different occasions support this petition against the said Mrs Uche Ken Ndukwu's (immediate past Vice chairperson of Etche LGA) overt disdain, recalcitrant and vituperation against the leadership of our great party, PDP. Obviously, this she is doing in other to cause disaffection and disharmony amongst the huge faithfuls and admirers of our performing governor across party lines by setting an agenda of public consideration.

Suffice to say that there is no smoke without fire. Evidence abound of Mrs Ndukwu's unholy romance with the opposition and her clandestine meetings with the enemies of PDP. That she is a mole in the PDP family is not in doubt. Her mission is to pollute the political space with misinformation and propaganda just to massage her opposition friends' ego.

Sir, it is our believe that the likes of Ndukwu must be singled out and sanctioned appropriately as a vicarious punishment. An infested finger must not be allowed to pollute the other ones. The Bible says, cut it off.

Her level of hypocrisy and inconsistency define her as a selfish oriented fair weather fellow. She became a vice chairperson of Etche LGA through the same consensus and harmonization arrangement. Then, heaven did not fall. So why do we have to loose sleep because the tide changed?

Sir, recall that as vice chairperson, the said Mrs Ndukwu took her boss Dr. Hon. Obinna Anyanwu and Elder Prince Emma Anyanwu out for castigation and public reproach. Later on shifted her invective venom to her supposed political mentor, Hon. Ephraim Nwuzi. And we clearly state that Mrs Uche Ken Ndukwu's recent outburst is possibly to atone for her wrongs and appease her APC boss.

It is disheartening that someone's wife and a mother would insult another person's husband and father when she suggestively asked if "Gov. Wike eats through his anus?" amongst other unprintable words. Etche women are not known for use of uncultured words. What a manner of woman is she? Must she insult everybody in the name of politics? Who is her boss? There should be answers to these.

Sir, it is our considered view that Mrs Uche Ken Ndukwu should be investigated dispassionately and sanctioned as not to pollute other minds. This period requires goodwill commentaries on our aspirants/candidates especially the governor who is eyeing the presidency. And until the likes of Mrs Ndukwu is brought to book as a punitive measure, people will not seem to understand the supremacy of party leadership.

We trust in the ability of the party leadership to do the needful as to engender discipline.

Yours faithfully
Nwachineke Chibuike
Co-ordinator, Professionals In Politics (PIP)

OPEN LETTER

Amb. Desmond Akawor
Chairman, PDP
Rivers State
Nigeria.

Dear Sir,
INCESSANT INVECTIVES ON GOV. NYESOM WIKE AND THE PDP LEADERSHIP: SANCTION MRS UCHE KEN NDUKWU NOW

It is no longer news that the social media, in the past few days, have been awash with one Mrs Uche Ken Ndukwu's tongue lashing of His Excellency Gov. Nyesom Wike; the PDP leadership, especially the Etche LGA party chairman, Hon. John Otamiri, and a Frontline politician Chief Allwell Onyesoh (JP). Even her successor and follow woman Mrs Gladys Nweke was not spared of the unjustified vilification and name-calling.

Ordinarily such tirades and diatribes from inconsistent character like Mrs Uche Ken Ndukwu ought to be ignored as not to be dragged to her level of parochialistic tendency and naked ignorance. But given the time and implications of this to the aggregate minds of the political gladiators and admirers, it is pertinent to address issues like this head-on in other to nib further occurrence in the bud as a deterrent.

Sir, incontrovertible evidence both audio, video and written forms at different occasions support this petition against the said Mrs Uche Ken Ndukwu's (immediate past Vice chairperson of Etche LGA) overt disdain, recalcitrant and vituperation against the leadership of our great party, PDP. Obviously, this she is doing in other to cause disaffection and disharmony amongst the huge faithfuls and admirers of our performing governor across party lines by setting an agenda of public consideration.

Suffice to say that there is no smoke without fire. Evidence abound of Mrs Ndukwu's unholy romance with the opposition and her clandestine meetings with the enemies of PDP. That she is a mole in the PDP family is not in doubt. Her mission is to pollute the political space with misinformation and propaganda just to massage her opposition friends' ego.

Sir, it is our believe that the likes of Ndukwu must be singled out and sanctioned appropriately as a vicarious punishment. An infested finger must not be allowed to pollute the other ones. The Bible says, cut it off.

Her level of hypocrisy and inconsistency define her as a selfish oriented fair weather fellow. She became a vice chairperson of Etche LGA through the same consensus and harmonization arrangement. Then, heaven did not fall. So why do we have to loose sleep because the tide changed?

Sir, recall that as vice chairperson, the said Mrs Ndukwu took her boss Dr. Hon. Obinna Anyanwu and Elder Prince Emma Anyanwu out for castigation and public reproach. Later on shifted her invective venom to her supposed political mentor, Hon. Ephraim Nwuzi. And we clearly state that Mrs Uche Ken Ndukwu's recent outburst is possibly to atone for her wrongs and appease her APC boss.

It is disheartening that someone's wife and a mother would insult another person's husband and father when she suggestively asked if "Gov. Wike eats through his anus?" amongst other unprintable words. Etche women are not known for use of uncultured words. What a manner of woman is she? Must she insult everybody in the name of politics? Who is her boss? There should be answers to these.

Sir, it is our considered view that Mrs Uche Ken Ndukwu should be investigated dispassionately and sanctioned as not to pollute other minds. This period requires goodwill commentaries on our aspirants/candidates especially the governor who is eyeing the presidency. And until the likes of Mrs Ndukwu is brought to book as a punitive measure, people will not seem to understand the supremacy of party leadership.

We trust in the ability of the party leadership to do the needful as to engender discipline.

Yours faithfully
Nwachineke Chibuike
Co-ordinator, Professionals In Politics (PIP)

Some guys celebrating birthday with bread instead of cake

Some guys celebrating birthday with bread instead of cake

This is Chief Hon Allwell Onyesoh, the political leader of Etche extraction

This statement can only be correct if the Npower beneficiaries are converted/absorbed into the Federal Civil Service (FSC), especially the 2016 Npowers, as their 2 years engagement winds up by November 2018. No one expects them to go back to the street of labour market. it will be counter productive if after two years, they are asked to go back back home. Pls, their appointments should regularized. PERMANENCE

This statement can only be correct if the Npower beneficiaries are converted/absorbed into the Federal Civil Service (FSC), especially the 2016 Npowers, as their 2 years engagement winds up by November 2018. No one expects them to go back to the street of labour market. it will be counter productive if after two years, they are asked to go back back home. Pls, their appointments should regularized. PERMANENCE

This statement can only be correct if the Npower beneficiaries are converted/absorbed into the Federal Civil Service (FSC), especially the 2016 Npowers, as their 2 years engagement winds up by November 2018. No one expects them to go back to the street of labour market. it will be counter productive if after two years, they are asked to go back back home. Pls, their appointments should regularized. PERMANENCE

hmmm

Patrick, the grammarian. Don't confuse the electorate with grammar so that they can understand you and give you their votes. My humble advice

CHIEF (HON.) ALLWELL HEACHO ONYESOH (JP): A CURSORY LOOK

Born to a humble family in the old Port Harcourt township of Etche parents. Chief (Hon.) Allwell Heacho Onyesoh (JP) whose chronicle of political history is a conglomeration of intellectual sagacity, emotional equanimity, humane disposition and unique potential always inform his choice of political moves.

A critical perusal of Chief Onyesoh's political credentials would leave one with a conviction that if experience counts in Nigerian politics, then Allwell should be a professor of politics. The Political Octopus, as he is popularly known, is an advantaged well-bred politician, courtesy of his upbringing. His mother was a renowned politician in the Nigerian Second Republic.

Young Allwell started his political career in his twenties. And at the age of 33 he was elected the Chairman of National Republic Convention (NRC) of the old Etche LGA in a keenly contested poll. And in 1997, following the formation of new political parties in Nigeria, Chief Onyesoh contested and won the Etche constituency II seat in Rivers State House of Assembly under the platform of the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP).

By 1998 Allwell and his friends formed the famous Restoration Team ( a political front for the actualization of Dr. Peter Odili's governorship ambition), including Hon. Kenneth Kobani, Prince Uche Secondus, Rt, Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, Hon. Abiye Sekibo, et all which was emptied into Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), at the formation. And collectively, they worked for and championed the eventual victory of Dr. Peter Odili as the Governor of Rivers State.

Allwell's political dexterity has always endeared him to men of goodwill. He was appointed a commissioner for Education, and later Sports for four years each. Hon. Allwell Onyesoh and Hon. Kenneth Kobani were the only two cabinet members (commissioners) that served for the whole eight years of Dr. Peter Odili's regime. Suffice it to say that Allwell's impregnable records in the ministries of education and sports are yet to be beaten.

With his wealth of experience as a former commissioner of education, Allwell on assumption of office in 2011 as Chairman, Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board beckoned, ensured and secured the approval of Rivers State Governor, Rt, Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, for the successful employment of thirteen thousand, one hundred and fifty one (13,151) graduate teachers in August 2013. An unprecedented feat that did not only save the public schools from total collapse, but serves as a means of livelihood in many homes today.

To say the least, Chief Allwell Onyesoh's enviable tracks and intimidating credentials cannot be exhaustedly condensed within the confines of this piece. Allwell's political touches permeate political differentiations. Speaking at the Easter convention of Ogbaku Etche, Hon. Jerome Eke of PDP, member House of Representatives, sealed it when he acknowledged that Chief Allwell Onyesoh is a respected political father across party lines. Hon. Eke extolled Allwell's spirited oriented contributions to the political empowerment of the youths.

There will be no gainsaying that Allwell's 2019 senatorial ambition is unique, coming at a time the voices are united in support of it. It is today a common belief that the likes of Chief Allwell Onyesoh is a round peg for a round hole, or better still, a square peg for a square hole.

By:
Chibuike Godspower Iroegbu

CHIEF (HON.) ALLWELL HEACHO ONYESOH (JP): A CURSORY LOOK

Born to a humble family in the old Port Harcourt township of Etche parents. Chief (Hon.) Allwell Heacho Onyesoh (JP) whose chronicle of political history is a conglomeration of intellectual sagacity, emotional equanimity, humane disposition and unique potential always inform his choice of political moves.

A critical perusal of Chief Onyesoh's political credentials would leave one with a conviction that if experience counts in Nigerian politics, then Allwell should be a professor of politics. The Political Octopus, as he is popularly known, is an advantaged well-bred politician, courtesy of his upbringing. His mother was a renowned politician in the Nigerian Second Republic.

Young Allwell started his political career in his twenties. And at the age of 33 he was elected the Chairman of National Republic Convention (NRC) of the old Etche LGA in a keenly contested poll. And in 1997, following the formation of new political parties in Nigeria, Chief Onyesoh contested and won the Etche constituency II seat in Rivers State House of Assembly under the platform of the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP).

By 1998 Allwell and his friends formed the famous Restoration Team ( a political front for the actualization of Dr. Peter Odili's governorship ambition), including Hon. Kenneth Kobani, Prince Uche Secondus, Rt, Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, Hon. Abiye Sekibo, et all which was emptied into Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), at the formation. And collectively, they worked for and championed the eventual victory of Dr. Peter Odili as the Governor of Rivers State.

Allwell's political dexterity has always endeared him to men of goodwill. He was appointed a commissioner for Education, and later Sports for four years each. Hon. Allwell Onyesoh and Hon. Kenneth Kobani were the only two cabinet members (commissioners) that served for the whole eight years of Dr. Peter Odili's regime. Suffice it to say that Allwell's impregnable records in the ministries of education and sports are yet to be beaten.

With his wealth of experience as a former commissioner of education, Allwell on assumption of office in 2011 as Chairman, Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board beckoned, ensured and secured the approval of Rivers State Governor, Rt, Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, for the successful employment of thirteen thousand, one hundred and fifty one (13,151) graduate teachers in August 2013. An unprecedented feat that did not only save the public schools from total collapse, but serves as a means of livelihood in many homes today.

To say the least, Chief Allwell Onyesoh's enviable tracks and intimidating credentials cannot be exhaustedly condensed within the confines of this piece. Allwell's political touches permeate political differentiations. Speaking at the Easter convention of Ogbaku Etche, Hon. Jerome Eke of PDP, member House of Representatives, sealed it when he acknowledged that Chief Allwell Onyesoh is a respected political father across party lines. Hon. Eke extolled Allwell's spirited oriented contributions to the political empowerment of the youths.

There will be no gainsaying that Allwell's 2019 senatorial ambition is unique, coming at a time the voices are united in support of it. It is today a common belief that the likes of Chief Allwell Onyesoh is a round peg for a round hole, or better still, a square peg for a square hole.

By:
Chibuike Godspower Iroegbu

Allwell Onyesoh Vs Andrew Uchendu.

Breaking News :

In Rivers State, a former House of Representatives member, Hon. Nwuke Ogbonna has just been suspend by his ward chairman for disrespecting chief Allwell Onyesoh Etche Apc Caucus leader, inciting statement, anti-party activities and trying to cause disaffection amongst the APC family in Etche LGA of Rivers State.

THE PLACE OF ETCHE NATION IN RIVERS STATE. (By Chibuike Godspower Iroegbu)

It is now 50 years since the creation of our dear Rivers State. Precisely, the 27th day of May 1967 marked a watershed in the birth of the treasure base of our dear country. And then followed by the creation of the LGAs of Etche and Omuma which left no dent nor severance in the filiation and consanguinity of the Etche bloc ( both LGAs) as a nation.

Irrefutably, the carving out of Etche LGA from Ikwerre LGA and sitting of the headquarters in Okehi, and later Eberi as the headquarters of Omuma just for political and administrative convenience, is what could be described as the only government structure or institution in the whole of Etche ethnic nationality, despite her huge economic and political contributions to the country's treasury vis-à-vis her ever abundant human resources.

A nation (Etche) that is undisputedly the third largest ethnic group in Rivers State in terms of population, arable land mass, natural resources, including very rich petroleum deposit, rubber and palm plantation, and other agricultural produce has NEVER headed any of the federal government parastatals, boards, agencies, institutions, etc. To put succinctly, no Etche son or daughter has been considered worthy to head any of the over 500 government establishments.

It is more disheartening that even with all her natural and human resources, an ethnic group with the second largest voting population in the Rivers East Senatorial District has NEVER taken a shot at the senate, with the Senatorial zone structured, by default, into three ethnic nationalities (blocs) of the Ikwerres (4 LGAs); the Etches (2 LGAs); and the Wakirikes (2 LGAs). The Etche bloc remains the only group that has been constantly denied that Senatorial right, apart from the statutory political positions of House of Assembly and House of Representatives, by virtue of the collapsing of Etche/Omuma as a federal constituency.

To take a glimpse of the political emasculation of the Etche people by the hegemonic blocs just within the configuration of Rivers East Senatorial District, with a ceiling from 1999 to date (because going beyond 1999 would open more wounds in the mind of an average Etche man). Of the aforesaid ethnic nationalities, the Ikwerres through Senator John Azuta Mbata had their turn of two terms from 1999 to 2007; the Wakirikes, from 2007 to date through Senator Thompson George Sekibo, for the third term; whereas the Etche bloc is constantly shortchanged.

Even with all these unarguable facts and figures, the Etche people were again disallowed the senatorial ticket via the parties' manipulatory internal zoning arrangement and oblique structure in answer to the interest of the hegemonic dominance to favour Hon. Andrew Uchendu, despite the fact that his Ikwerre bloc, apart from taking their shot at the red chambers, amassed most of the juicy positions, including the governorship and ministerial positions, heads of known federal/state government parastatals and institutions amongst others; while the Wakirikes on the other hand, despite completing their two terms of 8 years was reconsidered (among other positions too); then the Etches were left with nothing but no choice than to fight and die for either of the candidates all in the name of party loyalty.

The Etches can be summarily described as a goose that lays a golden egg, but with nothing to show. Suffice it to say that given her rich petroleum deposit as the third largest oil producing nationality in Rivers State; and the second largest populated bloc in Rivers East, the prevalence of the presence of both the federal and state governments in the enclave would have been the envy of the others, in terms of government appointments and sitting of institutions.

Again, taking a brief historical walk from the 1914 amalgamation of Nigeria, through the creation of Rivers State in 1967 to the carving out of Etche LGA in 1987 till date, no Etche son or daughter has been considered or appointed as a minister, an ambassador, a head of any federal institution or agency. In the state, the story is the same, nobody from the Etche bloc has occupied the office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG); speaker; chief judge; and governor, just to name a few. Even in the naming of government institutions or edifice, no one from the extraction has been considered, either living or dead.

From the foregoing, it has become pertinent for every Etche person, like the Ogonis did in the December 10, 2016 rerun election, to bury all political sentiments, individual differences, animosity, personal ego and intra-opposition to speak against this unceasing injustice against the people of Etche nation.

And like Bob Marley would say, "stand up for your right". No matter the political divide, ideological creed and leaning, we MUST demand that our rightful place and consideration are non-negotiable. Enough is Enough.

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE LEADERS OF ETCHE NATION: Chief Allwell Onyesoh; Hon. Ogbonna Nwuke; Bar. Nnamdi Okere; Bar. Reginald Ukwoma; Chief Ambrose Nwuzie; Hon. Okey Amadi; Hon.
Golden Chioma; Hon. Victor Amadi and Hon. Leo Anyanwu

It is my considered wish to reach you, Etche political leaders, through this medium, to bear my mind on some of the misconceptions and misplacement of priority which ipso facto ought not to.

Sirs, you are undisputedly, leaders in your own rights and therefore deserve a commensurate regard, respect and acknowledgement. It is even more so (as Christian) when one reflects on the biblical injunction that reminds that leadership is divinely ordained. Permit me to define leadership in the words of Eke (2000) as "the process by which an individual influences the behaviour and attitudes of others in a desired way" (p.18). The foregoing presupposes a chain reaction. The superior (leader) exacts his influence on the inferior (followers) who wittingly or unwittingly is caused to a change in behaviour, psyche, cognition as well as attitude. Suffice it to say that there is a high tendency in the influence-caused-change arising from the stories, discussions, talks and information relaid to the followers. And when these stories...information are incubated in falsehood and later hatched in inaccurate facts and distorted figures, the resultant effect is disaffection, bickering, accusations and wrangling. Hence, the center can no longer hold.

Hon., Sirs, I have a lot of respect and regard for you, because whatever position you might have occupied or still occupying is a no mean feat, and therefore, must be guarded jealously. In the still, I appeal to your good consciences and senses of superiority as leaders to always show your subjects the path of truth. You must exact your influence on your followers by demonstrating to them the virtue of followership by respect and acknowledgement. You must not lead your subjects by constantly disrespecting your own leader in the form of castigation, open confrontation or vituperation either directly or by innuendo. You must stand by your leader, Chief Allwell Onyesoh, who also enjoys the highest acceptance by the people as the National Leader of Etche Bloc. And who is equally called the Civilian General by some persons. And this is a fact collaborated and aknowledged by the contemporary leaders in other parties.

Sirs, Etche nation needs to be more united. The nation must learn to speak in one voice, devoid of any Judas Iscariot. This is NOT the right time of sowing seed of discord and disharmony. We the youth look up to you (our leaders) to give the people's leader (Chief Allwell Onyesoh) the required flesh and muscle to lead us out of Egypt. For Professor Ndimele once said that a political leader is one who has the ability "to creatively manipulate socio-political and economic forces to bring about the desired change in both material and human resources in his domain". That is exactly what the Etche people need. The cankerous syndrome of Pull Him Down (PHD) must be discarded from the mind, and the spirit of myopia and antagonism destroyed.

Again Sirs, teach your subjects how to own Etche struggle irrespective of the political differences and that any appointment or position to an Etche person is for the entire Etche Nation.

And lastly Sirs, you must make your followers realize that the Etche nation faces a greater injustice from our brothers in the other political/ethnic bloc. You must explain to them that Etche nation with over 150 villages has never produced a senator whereas the Okirika with just 3 villages can be proud of that, including other juicy appointments.

Tell them that it is time to say NO. For Martin Luther King, Jnr. once said that "ones live begins to end the day he keeps silence about things that matter".

By: Chibuike Godspower Iroegbu

THE PLACE OF ETCHE NATION IN RIVERS STATE (By Chibuike Godspower Iroegbu)

It is now 50 years since the creation of our dear Rivers State. Precisely, the 27th day of May 1967 marked a watershed in the birth of the treasure base of our dear country. And then followed by the creation of the LGAs of Etche and Omuma which left no dent nor severance in the filiation and consanguinity of the Etche bloc ( both LGAs) as a nation.

Irrefutably, the carving out of Etche LGA from Ikwerre LGA and sitting of the headquarters in Okehi, and later Eberi as the headquarters of Omuma just for political and administrative convenience, is what could be described as the only government structure or institution in the whole of Etche ethnic nationality, despite her huge economic and political contributions to the country's treasury vis-à-vis her ever abundant human resources.

A nation (Etche) that is undisputedly the third largest ethnic group in Rivers State in terms of population, arable land mass, natural resources, including very rich petroleum deposit, rubber and palm plantation, and other agricultural produce has NEVER headed any of the federal government parastatals, boards, agencies, institutions, etc. To put succinctly, no Etche son or daughter has been considered worthy to head any of the over 500 government establishments.

It is more disheartening that even with all her natural and human resources, an ethnic group with the second largest voting population in the Rivers East Senatorial District has NEVER taken a shot at the senate, with the Senatorial zone structured, by default, into three ethnic nationalities (blocs) of the Ikwerres (4 LGAs); the Etches (2 LGAs); and the Wakirikes (2 LGAs). The Etche bloc remains the group that has been constantly denied that Senatorial right, apart from the statutory political positions of House of Assembly and House of Representatives, by virtue of the collapsing of Etche/Omuma as a federal constituency.

To take a glimpse of the political emasculation of the Etche people by the hegemonic blocs just within the configuration of Rivers East Senatorial District, with a ceiling from 1999 to date (because going beyond 1999 would open more wounds in the mind of an average Etche man). Of the aforesaid ethnic nationalities, the Ikwerres through Senator John Azuta Mbata had their turn of two terms from 1999 to 2007; the Wakirikes, from 2007 to date through Senator Thompson George Sekibo, for the third term; whereas the Etche bloc is constantly shortchanged.

Even with all these unarguable facts and figures, the Etche people were again disallowed the senatorial ticket via the parties' manipulatory internal zoning arrangement and oblique structure in answer to the interest of the hegemonic dominance to favour Hon. Andrew Uchendu, despite the fact that his Ikwerre bloc, apart from taking their shot at the red chambers, amassed most of the juicy positions, including the governorship and ministerial positions, heads of known federal/state government parastatals and institutions amongst others; while the Wakirikes on the other hand, despite completing their two terms of 8 years was reconsidered (among other positions too); then the Etches were left with nothing but no choice than to fight and die for either of the candidates all in the name of party loyalty.

The Etches can be summarily described as a geese that lays a golden egg, but with nothing to show. Suffice it to say that given her rich petroleum deposit as the third largest oil producing nationality in Rivers State; and the second largest populated bloc in Rivers East, the prevalence of the presence of both the federal and state governments in the enclave would have been the envy of the others, in terms of government appointments and sitting of institutions.

Again, taking a brief historical walk from the 1914 amalgamation of Nigeria, through the creation of Rivers State in 1967 to the carving out of Etche LGA in 1987 till date, no Etche son or daughter has been considered or appointed as a minister, an ambassador, a head of any federal institution or agency. In the state, the story is the same, nobody from the Etche bloc has occupied the office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG); speaker; chief judge; and governor, just to name a few. Even in the naming of government institutions or edifice, no one from the extraction has been considered, either living or dead.

From the foregoing, it has become pertinent for every Etche person, like the Ogonis did in the December 10, 2016 rerun election, to bury all political sentiments, individual differences, animosity, personal ego and intra-opposition to speak against this unceasing injustice against the people of Etche nation.

And like Bob Marley would say, "stand up for your right". No matter the political divide, ideological creed and leaning, we MUST demand that our rightful place and consideration are non-negotiable. Enough is Enough.

What I still don't understand is the rush with which Mr. Lai Muhammed announced to the whole world that the Boko Haram has been "technically defeated". Was it to impress the international communities who would never give us any required assistance so that they will continue to sell their arms and ammunition? Or was it aimed at covering up the continued alleged lack of moral and incentives to the military fighting the battle? Because the number of casualties from the available sources are not something to play politics with.

What I still don't understand is the rush with which Mr. Lai Muhammad announced to the whole world that the Boko Haram has been "technically defeated". Was it to impress the international communities who would never give us any required assistance so that they will continue to sell their arms and ammunition? Or was it aimed at covering up the continued alleged lack of moral and incentives the military fighting the battle? Because the number of casualties from the available sources are not something to play politics with.