By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka

At least 29,214 poor and vulnerable households across nine Local Government Areas in Anambra state have been selected to benefit from COVID-19 Rapid Response Register (RRR) Cash Transfer.

The State Commissioner for Economic Planning, Budget and Development Partners, Hon. Mark Okoye, who disclosed this in a press conference, said the beneficiaries would receive an undisclosed amount of money through thier respective bank details for a period of six months.

Okoye, represented by a permanent secretary in the ministry, Dr Dan Ezeanwu, explained that RRR is a federal government intervention programme under Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development in partnership with the World Bank.

"The selection is based on scientific method of Satellite Remote Sensing Technology, Machine Learning Algorithm and Big Data Analysis, which provided the basis for ranking the wards according to poverty index and availability of resources. This is followed by digital identification using the unstructurised supplementary service data link of TELCOMs facility by dailing a unique code to access the application portal,” he maintained.

According to him, qualified households from the benefitting Council Areas including Awka North, Anambra West, Ayamelum, Dunukofia, Ekwusigo, Onistha South, Ogbaru, Oyi and Orumba North, would start receiving short message services (SMS) for enrollment into the programme from May 24 to 31, 2021.

Earlier speaking, Engr. Bede Okoli, the State Coordinator, State Operations Coordinating Unit (SOCU), implored applicants to be quick to respond to the SMS as they come in so as to enable enumerators to meet them respectively at their residence for proper identification and documentations.

Rev Jerry Nwachukwu is the Senior Pastor of the Bible Base Miracle Assembly, No. 19 Ezendu Street, off Mesedez Avenue, Nkpor-Agu, Idemili North LGA, Anambra State, Nigeria. In this interview with Okechukwu Onuegbu, he speaks political developments in Nigeria, insecurity, among other things.


Considering the level of insecurity in Nigeria under this present government, coupled with lopsided appointments and ethnicity, do you think that church leaders that supported this administration into power did well?
I believe that those that facilitated the coming of the present administration by pulling down the previous government and prayed for the emergence of the present government did so out of selfishness. Selfishness and ethnicity can blind the eyes of a prophet to give prophesies that are not from God, but from the flesh. I believe their intentions were to go to Aso Rock whenever they want. We are not interested in those of them that benefit from the present government. Our worries are the thousands of innocent souls that perish everyday under the insecurity in this administration. If the church leaders, who supposed to be the shepherds of the sheep, are the ones that open the gate for devourers to get access to the sheep, then, we must approach God in repentance and seek for forgiveness. Our country must go back to God in prayers, and in repentance. We must ask God for forgiveness. When there was clamour from every quarter that this government should come into being, there were yet other little voices, which were not well known in the platform of the church, but had continued to say that Nigeria was getting it wrong; but they were not heard. There were many pastors and men of God, who met the man in power one on one, and they prayed for him. There are many of them still praying for him today. Are they praying for him to succeed or to govern well? Are they praying for him to change? If they’re praying for him to change and do things better, what stops them from open rebuke, just as Fr. Mbaka did? He actually prayed for and supported the present government, but when he realized the present government was deviating, he withdrew his support and told the executive to govern well or be impeached by the legislature. As it stands, we can only get out of the wood if we knelt down and seek the face of God.

What is your reaction on the present travail of Fr. Ejike Mbaka?
I don’t know what transpired between Mbaka and the presidency behind the scene. If the allegation that Mbaka come to see Mr. President with some contractors were true, he missed it; but if he never demanded for anything, and they are laying allegations against him, that is their business.

Mbaka said he only introduced the security contractors to the presidency, but had no personal interest in whatever contract they were looking for. What is your view?
Is Mbaka a contractor? Is he a security consultant? For me, if I were not any of the above, I did not have any right to introduce such people to anybody who I prayed into office. For instance, when Uma Ukpai prayed for Orji Uzor Kalu, and prophesied that he would be Abia governor, Uzor Kalu said he had no money to contest governorship election in the first place. But he prayed for Kalu, and he was able to do oil business that boosted his finance, and he was able to finance his guber election. When he won the election, he drove to Uma Ukpai’s house and asked him what contract he would like to execute for the state government. Ukpai said he did not want any contract. Ukpai only told him that if he would execute contract, if his government would be probed, they would also come after him (Ukpai). He rather told Kalu to tar a road from Umuahia to the last point of his (Ukpai’s) local government, which Kalu did. It is wrong for a prophet to pray for the success of a politician, because wants to demand favour whenever he wants.

What is your advice to Rev. Fr. Mbaka and the Federal Government on their present loggerhead?
First, I will advise Fr. Mbaka that he should subject himself to the Catholic doctrine. The Catholic Church, which he serves under as a priest, has its own way of doing things. So, Mbaka should obey the rules and regulations of the Catholic Church, and stop where they tell him to stop. To the federal government, I will ask them to make amends based on the realities Fr. Mbaka presented. Mr. President has short time to stay in office; let him use the time at his disposal to offer quality governance that will promote the welfare of the generality of Nigerians, instead of going after Fr. Mbaka for telling the bitter truth. The reaction of the federal government towards Fr. Mbaka is not answer to the problem. If they killed Fr. Mbaka today for telling them the reality on ground, another Mbaka will rise up to still speak the truth.

For you, what is the way forward for Nigeria?
The way forward is for those in government to stop divide and rule. Nigeria must stop nepotism, favouritism, and ethnicity. Then, we must also look at what we call federal character principle in Nigeria; which is a very terrible thing. The Federal Character Principle makes people to be in office which, ordinarily, they ought not to be. When somebody with the capacity of a clerk is made manager of a company, because of what they call federal character, the capacity he will apply in running the company is the capacity of a clerk, and certainly, the company will collapse. The managers of different departments and components of this country called Nigeria are misfits. Until we put the right people at the right positions, this country cannot move forward.

Based on the security situation of Nigeria presently, do you see the country disintegrating soon?
Nigeria is already disintegrated. That we answer one name does not make us one people. Honestly, we have different ideologies, different focus. We have different motivations, and our strategies are not the same. Our strengths and weaknesses are not the same. There is no ethnic group in Nigeria that is not under one form of agitation or the other; yet, treatment meted on agitators from different ethnic groups are not the same. If Niger Delta militants and the murderous Fulani cattle husbandmen were not proscribed based on their activities, why IPOB? Without mincing words, the idea of proscribing IPOB came from the South East governors, and they should be ready to face the music; because, after being governors for eight years, the immunity will no longer be there; unless they would decide to fly to other countries. What matters before do not matter anymore, because, nothing lasts forever. Internet fraudsters did move with convoy before now, but such thing does not happen anymore in Nigeria. So, I’m calling on the church to be on their knees and beg for God’s forgiveness; so that He will tamper justice with mercy. Our condition as a country calls for prayers.

How would you score the Buhari administration, and in which areas would you want the government to improve?
As it stands presently, Nigeria is at cross-roads. I can only score Buhari’s government any point if they amended the Electoral Act. If they failed to amend the Electoral Act, to me, the government has not achieved anything in its lifetime; because, good changes and good government will come if the Electoral Act is amended. If the Electoral Act is not amended, it means that when you vote in a particular polling unit, the result of your vote will move from the booth to the collation center, down to the local government, then, to the state level. They may even carry the result to Abuja before declaring it. At that point, there will be duplication of result sheets, so that the result sheet the polling agent is holding becomes useless. On the area of Electoral Act amendment, I will score Buhari’s government zero. They should amend it so that our votes will count. I was in Israel during one of their parliamentary elections. People were going about their businesses. Everyone would vote and go back to his business. If you were a visitor to the country, you go about your business, while they go to the polls. During election, you won’t even see any security personnel holding stick, let alone guns. There is nothing like restriction of movement. So, something should be done about Electoral Act amendment in Nigeria. I want government of the day to amend the Electoral Act and introduce the electronic voting system, where somebody can even vote at the comfort of his office. This system can hardly be manipulated. Electronic voting will reduce electoral fraud to a large extent. With this, all the people voting ten times will find it difficult doing so; thumb printing will end; cow voting, under-age voting, animal voting, using palm cannel to vote, all of them will end. They will no longer work. Electronic voting will also help cut down the cost of any election. Manual voting has been the bane of our democracy. In the area of health, I will also score this administration zero. In the area of judiciary, I will also score them zero. I will also criticize this government when it comes to cost of governance. Because, the money they use in servicing themselves is more than what they use in servicing infrastructure in the entire country. Roads belonging to the federal government are depleted. For the past 22 years, from the administration of Obasanjo to the present day government of Buhari, we are still talking about constructing the Enugu-Onitsha expressway, and other major roads in the country. Is there any pass mark there?

What is your take on the calls in some quarters for the country to be restructured?
The present administration has already restructured the country? We have six geo-political zones in Nigeria. But vital government positions in this present government are controlled by Northern elements. What the North is telling us is that they are the owners of government of Nigeria; then, other regions are foreigners. That is how they have restructured the country. Meanwhile, in the actual sense of it, resource control is needed. True restructuring is needed in Nigeria. Those states that cannot survive on their own could be collapsed into some other states. When this is done, whatever you generate as a state will determine your pace of development. This is where respect comes in. This is when we know who is helping who. The way we operate today as a country is not good. This is a situation where a state governor will fly into Abuja at the end of every month and come back with money, share it and wait for another month end. Once a governor is elected in Nigeria, in few months, he will develop pot belly; because, he is not thinking anything. What he knows is that at the end of every month, money will come to him. Then, he will meet some powerful members of the House of Assembly to help him amend the laws to increase his security votes, or to enable him receive lifetime pension. If a governor in Nigeria is thinking of how to manage say, six corporations that are giving his state money, he won’t have time to drink Champaign, and will hardly sleep at night. In the olden days, during the time of administrators like Mbonu Ejike, Jim Nwobodo, Akpabi Asika, Michael Okpala, and others, did they attend funeral ceremonies? Did they have such time? Today, our governors go for night vigil, and drink from 10pm to 4am; then, they will drive home, get prepared for 10am service for the burial proper.

What is your view on the Ebubeagu security outfit proposed by the Southeast governors?
What I understand about Ebubeagu is that governors will go back to their states to recruit their followers into the outfit. Most of these people are jobless men that they want to give guns! Ebubeagu will create more insecurity in the region; because, politicians in power will recruit those that will help them during their elections. After the election, members of the outfit will phase out with the government that recruits them, and incoming government will recruit their own people. Then, how do you retrieve such guns from the men who have been using such guns as means to an end? Ebubeagu is primarily a political security outfit. Any law made now to form them will be quashed by any incoming government, because, they will recruit those that helped them win their own election. They will not allow those who fought on the side of their opponent to still hold the gun in the name of state security. For instance, if new governor comes into office, it will be difficult for him to retain the ADC of former governor. So, Ebubeagu is already dead on arrival; because, their life span may not go beyond the governments that recruit them. Again, who told you that Ebubeagu can confront faceless gunmen disturbing the peace of this region presently? Ebubeagu will be wearing their uniforms, exposing their identities, when the people they are fighting are faceless people; how can they perform?

In your own view, what is the way out of insecurity in the country?
Those in government should find where the whole thing went wrong, then, seek for dialogue. If they put eyes on the ground, they would know how the insecurity started. They may know those behind the insecurity, then, seek dialogue and amicable settlement. Nigeria cannot afford to go into another war. Let it be paper war, ideological war, not war with gun and bullet.

Do you think that president of southeast extraction come 2023 will solve the present state of insecurity in the sin the region?
People who are not good in opposition cannot produce a leader. The southeast is not good in opposition. If Igbo people cannot adopt one political party and develop it, stay in it, and build it to a level that if you’re not in the platform, you cannot be governor within the region, we will remain were we are. People should stop talking about Igbo presidency in 2023; to me, it is not coming; unless Igbo will get it in a Platter of gold.

A Civil Society group under the aegis of Advocates For Good Governance on Monday protested alleged poor service delivery at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi, Anambra.

The group who gathered at the entrance of the hospital gate with varying placards also alleged cases of job racketeering and financial in propriety by the management.
In a letter entitled “Abuse Of Due Process, Racketeering, Extortion, Graft And Celebration Of Corruption At Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi”, the group faulted the Chief Medical Director selection process.

According to the group which claimed anonymity, we, the patients , patients’ relations, staff of NAUTH and residents of Anambra and we have poor service rendered by hospital.

“There is lack of drugs in the hospital , most painful include absence of drugs in emergency and theatre , leading to patients being frequently asked to go outside the hospital to procure drugs.
“Surgical operations are being frequently postponed due to lack of materials in the theatre, this frequently leads to patients death in emergency situations and wounds unattended to for days due to lack of materials for dressing
“As members of Advocates for Good Governance and interested parties, we were quite concerned and alarmed to discover that Jobs are racketeered and sold, this leads to recruitment of unqualified personnel.
“We have decided to carry out a peaceful protest to sensitize the public on what is happening in NAUTH, the only Federal medical institution in Anambra and demand the cancellation of the whole CMD selection process and new one started
“Dissolution of the present hospital management board because they can never oversee a free , fair and transparent process , they are already compromised and are part of the on going corruption
“Dr Ugboaja should step aside as Acting CMD and participate with others on a level playing ground,” they stated.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

Anambra State born philanthropist, Dr Godwin Maduka, Monday, bagged Outstanding Personality Award in recognition of his contributions to the growth and development of judiciary in the State and Nigeria at large.

Speaking at the occasion, Chairman of the Award Night, Sir Anene Ubah, commended Maduka for building Magistrate court, a High court, and well furnished Judges quarters for the use of the state judiciary which he handed over to the judiciary years back.

Ubah also commended the zeal and synergy that exist in Awka Branch of NBA, affirming that Anambra lawyers are making waves in the country.

Responding, Maduka, a frontline politician and governorship aspirant in Anambra November 6 election under the platform of People’s Democratic Party (PDP), said he would not relent in supporting the judiciary as it was last hope of the voiceless.

He urged the NBA to quicken dispensing justice to all no matter their social status, adding that he would give a face lift to the judiciary by providing enabling environments to aid speedy dispensation of justice, as well grant financial autonomy to judiciary.

Earlier, Mr Ekene Okonkwo, the Awka Branch Chairman of Nigerian Bar Association(NBA) reassured the branch commitment to ensure that legal practitioner’s in the branch acts professionally at all times as a voice to the voiceless.

The occasion was graced by famous Nigerian human rights activist, Chief Mike Ozekhome , Professor of law, Omari Omaka, and Senate minority leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, among others.

BOOK REVIEW
Name of Book: In His Days -The Legacy of Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo
Authors: Samuel Ezekwo & Ejiofo Umegbogu
Year of Publication: 2020
Publishers: SilverWood Books Ltd (United Kingdom)
Reviewer: Kate Azuka Omenugha

In His Days, the Legacy of Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo is a 222 paged book that explores the life trajectories of an Umuchu born teacher, evangelist, Catechist and social crusader Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo. As the title suggests, these trajectories are legacies which only a book of this nature can capture as often people like Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo who gave their all, making and creating impact within the Christian world remains largely unsung. The book written by the duo of Samuel Ezekwo (the son of Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo) and Ejiofo Umegbogu (a veteran investigative journalist) seeks to change the narrative and to portray Pa Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo as an "unsung hero." He was a man who by 1929 had successfully completed his teachers' training programme and became a certified church teacher and catechist (p. 73).
He acquired what could be described as "double honours" as a Grade III teacher and third-class catechist from the teachers' higher elementary certificate examination he took in 1929 and became the "first indigene of Umuchu to receive that level of education at the time" (Pp. 73-74). Here was a man whose career in teaching and evangelization which took him and his household to many communities in the former Eastern Nigeria span over 50 years. The authors capture this fact thus:

His giant strides in the education system of the CMS of Nigeria, diocese on the Niger are still visible, many years after his transition to the great beyond. He traversed the length and breadth of the old Eastern Nigeria like a Colossus, planting churches, evangelizing to people, establishing schools, teaching children and gathering men and women for the development of their towns, as well as lighting up many rural communities with his torch of liberty, which is the freedom (from primordialism) that comes with education and enlightenment (P.74)

Samuel Ezekwo and Ejiofo Umegbogu can be considered neophytes in biography writings, yet they have approached this book with a touch of mastery of the subject. It is not surprising as the book is a product of deep research and painstaking study seen in the eyes for details within the book and the re-writing of history. The authors admit that “it took about two years of spine-breaking research to really retrace the footsteps and chronicle the legacies of Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo from the areas he served". (p. 50).
This research has paid off in the production of a book that is not just a biography, but history, religion, culture, anthropology and sociology all rolled into one. In tracing the life of Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo the authors equally bring to bare the rich cultural heritage of the lgbo community -the rites, festivals, the ceremonies and their spiritual implication.
What I find interesting is the audacity with which the authors take a swipe at modern-day pastors and ministers who covet wealth and eulogizes the likes of Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo of the early days for their selflessness, commitment to duty as they took the gospel of Jesus Christ to the remotest parts of the land.
The book is packaged in a manner that makes it easy to read and understand. The Foreword written by the Anglican Bishop of Diocese of Enugu North Rt Rev. Sosthenes I. Eze sees the book as a "historical record (that) is full of inspiration that one can draw from to create a more impactful ministry in our time" (P.19) This sets the tone for the book and gives it a stamp of authority.
The book has six chapters each with its title. Chapter one "The Man and His Environment"', explores the times and environment in which Pa Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo was born and lived. Here the authors, give the genealogy and historical antecedents of Umuchu exploring their cultural heritage. This chapter is an asset for those who study anthropology and sociology. It is of course a must-read for every Umuchu person -male or female.
Chapter 2- "In Search of Golden Fleece" explores the growing up of Pa Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo amidst the challenges of being an orphan early in life. It traces his various adventures into Christianity and education and how he utilizes the various opportunities that present themselves for both educational and spiritual upliftment.
Chapter three "Ready to work in the God's vineyard" shows clearly the inter-relatedness between education and evangelical work as Pa Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo is prepared to be "armed with the torch of liberty that is elementary education and the Apostles' battleaxe, which is the Christian Bible" to evangelize. The great strength and virtues of the early evangelizers are clearly shown in this chapter, their zeal, their commitment to duty (even when unrewarded or unappreciated) and their enthusiasm to bring converts to Christ. These are virtues that are worthy of emulation by the modern-day church.
Chapter four - "Retracing his Giant Footsteps" showcases the legacies of Pa Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo; his indelible footsteps as he traversed the landscape of old Eastern Nigeria, preaching the gospel to heathens and educating those that believed. In the historical archives, he is mentioned in some places and unmentioned in others. But what came out clearly in this chapter is that Yes, Pa Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo was an itinerant evangelist/teacher. This chapter is liberally spread with pictures, recorded letters, etc. that give credence to the life and times of Pa Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo, as amidst the challenges of family life, he won souls for Christ. With the archival records, no one can doubt the authenticity of the legacies of Pa Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo as recorded by the authors in the book.
In chapter five "Harvest of Legacies", the authors recount the testimonies of various people about the prowess of Pa Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo. Account in details is many of his exploits in the church building, creating community harmony and union as well as community development. His escapades at fostering development, unity, progress and peace for all humanity earned him the name "a holy man of peace".
In all these, he was simple and humble, eschewing flamboyance of any kind. With similar humility, he reluctantly accepted the title "lde 1", bestowed on him by the Igwe -in -council, Isiobi-in- council, Umuchu Improvement Union (UIU) (home and abroad) together with the leadership of all existing age grades in Umuchu. This chapter is equally liberally spiced with pictures showing Pa Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo in his hay days as a husband, father, grandfather, and traditional titleholder. One's legacy is equally the family he leaves behind. This chapter also showcases Pa Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo's greatest legacy -leaving behind a family that is prosperous, closely knit and further immortalizing his name through Ide Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo Memorial Foundation.
Chapter six "Anglican Evangelism in the Twenty-first Century" compares the present church with the olden ones of Pa Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo. There appears to be a romanticisation of the "old ways", yet ends on a hopeful note that despite the huge challenges of the "new church especially the increasing rate of moral decadence "the Christian foundation is still intact". (P. 186). This is one of the greatest strengths of the book that, in X-raying the life and times of Pa Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo, there is a lot to be learnt that have much relevance today.
The appendices are like the icing on the cake especially the memoir written by one of Pa Ezekwo's daughter- Mrs Ozioma Ezeakunne. She gives a personal account of the habits of her father from the eyes of a loving daughter.
This book is written in a very enchanting language with wise sayings spread sporadically across the text. This technique makes the book a pleasure to read. It is recommended for everyone interested in history, religion, anthropology, sociology and community development. In writing this book the authors have proved as true the old long saying that "when there is a will, there is a way" while interrogating the one that says that"history does not remember the soldiers who fought in the battlefield, but kings who ruled in the palaces".
Pa Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo was a soldier of Christ who fought many battles and today posterity has remembered him in singing his songs of conquests as captured in the book In His Days - The Legacy of late Gabriel Nnolim Ezekwo.

The book is a must-read.
Please go for it!

Mrs Kate Azuka Omenugha
Professor of Mass Communication.
Commissioner for Basic Education, Anambra State.

Response to Campaign of Calumny Against the Principal of FGC Nise By Concerned Alumni

Date May 12, 2021

We, the Concerned Alumni of Federal Government College (FGC) Nise, received with utter shock the story of campaign of calumny against our Alma Mater and it's management under the Leadership of Dr. Mrs Ekumankama Ijeoma L as principal

We are deeply worried about the damage the publication entitled "Save The Soul Of Our Children." would do not only to the management but the institution which has nurtured great minds for 26 years now and still counting, hence it becomes imperative for us to make some clarifications as critical stakeholders of the school.

The publication sponsored by one Kenenna Obiatuegwu, raised a number of allegations including fraud, poor infrastructure, unhealthy environment, malnutrition and intimidation.

We wish to state that just as the case in most government owned institutions, FGC Nise, has its own infrastructural challenges which to the best of our knowledge are being genuinely addressed but we will not allow anyone to malign and ridicule the school or its management in the name of pursuing personal vendetta.

We therefore state as follows:

That the current Principal assumed duty in the school on 14th December, 2018 (barely 2years)

That the infrastructure and amenities in the school were inherited by the current management and based on our findings, the management has demonstrated genuine efforts and commitment towards making them better than she met it.

That the pictures and videos used in depicting the state of affairs were taken at a time the facility was undergoing maintenance and so, no longer valid as the facilities have been fixed.

Though we are not here to respond to the allegations, most of which are spurious, from our findings, we make bold to say that in the last two to three years, the following developments have taken place under the current administration .

i. Reconstruction of collapsed school e-library

ii. Tiling and painting of JS1 boys and girls hostels

iii. Installation of celling fans in 12 classes comprising JS3 and SS3 installed with ceilings and painted.
iv. Construction of embankment on 5 block of classes to check erosion on the structures

IV. A new Principals house building was built, and a modern gate house was constructed
Vi. The dining hall was tiled and painted

Vii. School toilet seats and bathrooms were also changed and rebuilt while new ones are being constructed.

Viii. Construction of drainages in the hostels

IX. Installation of Solar powered street lights on strategic areas in the School

There are also a number of ongoing projects;

1. Construction of School Pavilion in the Field
2. Completion of Home Economics Department
3. Completion of a four unit 3 bedroom apartment
4. Completion of collapsed school hall is ongoing

Like we stated earlier, this malicious petitions is a product of vendetta because the petitioner, Kenenna Obiatuegwu does not have a child or ward in FGC Nise, rather he is fighting the battle of his sister who made failed attempt to have the school adopt her hospital as a referral centre.

The petitioner's niece was admitted without paying anything even when she did not meet the cut off mark, this makes his claim of admission sale surprising.

Our rejoinder was prompted by the desire to protect the image of our dear school and not to defend anybody.

While we appreciate the Federal Government For the capital projects and intervention projects funded through the annual national budgets , we want to use this opportunity to call on the Federal Government to increase funding for FGC Nise to enable the management meet the educational and facility needs of the school.

Thank you

Signed

Mr Chinedu Aniagboso

By Okeke Okenta

Old students of Federal Government College (FGC) Nise, Anambra under the aegis of Concerned Alumni of FGC, Nise have condemned what is termed campaign of calumny against their alma mater and the Principal Mrs Ijeoma Ekumankama.
The alumni which spoke in a statement made available in Awka on Thursday said they received with utter shock the publication on petition entitled “Save The Soul of Our Children” sponsored by one Kenenna Obiatuegwu.
The petition raised a number of allegations including fraud, poor infrastructure, unhealthy environment, malnutrition and intimidation of parents by Ekumankama.
The statement which was signed by Mr. Chinedu Aniagboso said the poor state of infrastructure and amenities in the school did not start with the current principal who had spent just about two and half years.
They said they were worried about the damage the publication would do not only to the management but the institution which has nurtured great minds for 26 years now and still counting.
According to them, the malicious petitions is a product of vendetta because the petitioner does not have a child or ward in FGC Nise, rather he is fighting the battle of his sister who made failed attempt to have the school adopt her hospital as a referral centre.
“We wish to state that just as the case in most government owned institutions, FGC Nise, has its own infrastructural challenges which to the best of our knowledge are being genuinely addressed.
“We will not allow anyone to malign and ridicule the school or its management in the name of pursuing personal vendetta.
“Therefore we clarify that the infrastructure and amenities in the school were inherited by the current management and based on our findings, the management has demonstrated genuine efforts and commitment towards making them better.
“That the pictures and videos used in depicting the state of affairs were taken at a time the facility was undergoing maintenance and so, no longer valid as the facilities have been fixed.
“Under the current administration, collapsed e-Lib was reconstructed, JS1 boys and girls hostels was tiled and painted, 12 classes comprising JS3 and SS3 installed with ceiling, fans and painted.
“Embankment was constructed on five block of classes to check erosion on the structures, a new principals house building was built, and a modern gate house was constructed, the dining hall was tiled and painted while the school toilet seats and bathrooms were repaired and new ones built.
“A number of other projects were also executed including construction of drainages in the hostels, installation of solar powered street lights on strategic areas, construction of school pavilion, completion of Home Economics Department among others.
“The petitioner's niece was admitted without paying a dime even when she did not meet the cut off mark, this makes his claim of admission sale surprising,” it stated.
The group called in the Federal Government to increase funding to the school to enable management meet the educational and facility needs of the school, while appreciating it the capital projects and intervention projects funded through the annual national budgets.

By Oke On


Federal Government of Nigeria has been asked to declare bandits and Fulani herdsmen terrorists to show their seriousness in combating insecurity in the country.

The Human Right Liberty Access and Defender's (HURIDE) which stated this in a press conference in the FCT ABUJA also issued a seven-day ultimatum from the day of publication of this story to declare the murderous groups terrorists or face the wrath of already aggrieved Nigerians.

The Executive Director of HURIDE , Dede Uzor A, Uzor, who read the text of the conference said if Federal Government fails to declare the two blood letting groups terrorists, it will be a clear confirmation that they are behind insecurity in the country.

He lamented that insecurity is fast consuming the country with many states and communities losing their citizens and farmland to the killer groups with their wives raped with qualm.

Dede Uzor said in Niger State, many local Governments and communities have fallen into the hands of bandits with their women taken over from them by the bandits. Many people , he said, were equally said to be kidnapped and houses burnt down.

In Kaduna, he said, students of Greenfield University and School of Forestry, were kidnapped with some killed and others still being held.

"Infact, many states in the North have been taken over by these murderous groups.

This is serious because if not checked it can lead to disintegration of the country", said Dede Uzor.

The Executive Director said the sympathetic disposition of the Federal Government to these gangsters has been the major booster to their murderous activities.

" The president has not shown any sign of seriousness in challenging these bloodletting groups, who are mostly mercenaries chased out from Libya, Mali, and other African countries who were given rousing welcome in Nigeria to help them win election" he said.

Continuing Dede Uzor said " since then they have seen in Nigeria an opportunity to unleash terror on indigenous people of the country".

HURIDE called for national security summit of the political zones and ethnic groups immediately to discuss the security situation in the country and take extensive decision the matter.

He said that after the meeting a state of emergency should be declared on the security of the country, lamenting that an average of 67 persons are being killed on daily basis in the country.
9th May 2021

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

Mr Godwin Ezeemo, a frontline Governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) has promised to end erosion in the state.

Ezeemo made the promise in an interview with the Newsmen in Umuchu, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra.

He said priority attention would be given toward providing lasting solution to the lingering Erosion menace in the state, if elected as governor on Nov. 6.

He said that erosion challenges being faced in the state were manmade, noting that the menace resulted due to the poor attitude of the people while planning to build their houses.

“Effective check on erosion menace that has made life difficult for many people in Anambra state would be one of the priorities of my administration, if given the mandate to govern the state.

Ezeemo promised to checkmate people planning to build houses by making them to provide drainages to avoid flood.

“This will be done effectively through environmental legislation that will be firm in its implication,’’ he said.

Ezeemo added that he would make environmental policies that would make people build with catchment pit in their buildings to trap all waters into a desired point.

“Unchecked water flow is what aggregate to erode our roads. If laws are made to encourage people to comply to build catchment pits in their structures, water would be channeled right and erosion becomes old story,” he added.

The gubernatorial aspirant also said that serene environments would not be toyed with in his administration.

According to him, no leader worth his or her salt would neglect erosion menace in the state.

He added that such should be top in the list of “a good leader who knows how to mix variables of ideas and creativity to suit all time challenges in the society to build a better living condition for all.

Ezeemo said that he knew the vital role stable environment played in the development of any society, adding that as such, he would ensure that human friendly environment laws are made to guide the people aright.

“With good environment laws partying to excavation of the soil, tree felling, among others variables would be put in place to ensure safe environment for all and sundry to thrive in.

“Residents would be made to understand and appreciate the need to comply with green life and environment safety compliance by all, to grow the economy of the state,’’ he said.

Ezeemo said that with his entrepreneurial ability, he would bring to fore great regulators in all sectors of the economy, through his wealth of knowledge to change the narrative of the state in the positive.

“I have been with my people for over 10 years, I really know the yearnings and aspirations more than any one all I ask for is vote of confidence on me,” he said

He said that gender-based participation would be key to his model of leadership, adding that even in his business empire many women were employed and given equal and greater hand with their men counter parts to prove their mettle to demonstrate his love for gender sensitivity.

According to him, his practical sense gender sensitivity had given him the opportunity to see the worth of many women in manning his business because with great sense of commitment and reliability.

“If i am given the privilege to serve at the apex of the state I would make women to occupy 50 per cent of the positions because of my conviction of their capability, creativity and transparency,” he said.

Ezeemo said that women were more sincere in attitude to service and humanity, adding that when given opportunity to serve, they usually perform creditably.

You didn't see the author's name?

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

In the spirit of World Press Freedom Day, the Anambra State Council of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and a philanthropist, Valentine Ozigbo have sued for improved welfare packages and working conditions for journalists.

NUJ in a statement issued by her Anambra state Council Chairman and the Secretary, Comrade Emmanuel Ifesinachi and Emma Udeagha, enjoined the three arms of government to take urgent measures to strengthen the safety of journalists and improve their working conditions.

According to the Council, this was a precondition for attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), while addressing the threat of extinction faced by state owned media organs and local news stations across the nation due to a huge drop in revenues following the COVID-19 pandemic.

On his part, Ozigbo, a business mogul and aspirant for 2021 Anambra State gubernatorial poll under PDP, called for a total press freedom in the country because the media was "the defenders of our democracy".

"Today, I celebrate the Nigerian press for their resilience and commitment to the professional and the development of Nigeria. Our journalists operate under some of the harshest work conditions in the world, yet they continue to play their role in building Nigeria and growing our democracy.

"Any nation that wishes to progress must guarantee the free flow of information. It is essential that the threats and clampdown on journalists should immediately be stopped. Rather than censorship, governments should enter into partnerships with the media by investing in strengthening and equipping the press to carry out its responsibilities," he added.

He further urged the federal government to respect the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act, stressing that if he wins the 2021 poll he would domesticate the FOIA by sponsoring a Freedom of Information bill at the State House of Assembly.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka

The Vice Chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Professor Charles Esimone, has appealed to staff of the institution to refrain from examination malpractice, employment or admission racketeering as they were unethical practices.

Esimone, who stated this while receiving award from the Association of Yoruba Staff of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, stated that staff engaging on unethical practices tarnish their images and those of the university.

The event organised to honour some eminent Nigerians from different ethnic nationalities for their meritorious services to father land and the University Community at the instance of one of them and member Governing Council of NAU, Surveyor Jacob Abiodun Aluko, who has served out his tenure as member of the Governing Council.

Among the award recipients are the Vice Chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Professor Charles Esimone, the Chairman, Governing Council of the University, Alhaji Bello Isa Modibo, and member of the Council, Dr Aminu Dukku.

“Surveyor Aluko is a great son of Yoruba land, a great son of Nigeria and a great son of Africa. He has made his marks in the university here as a dependable ally. We will definitely miss his service. But, he must move on.

The Vice Chancellor appreciated the initiative of the Yoruba staff to form a formidable union and charged them to closely monitor the activities of members to ensure that they are not involved in unethical activities that can tarnish the image of the association.

“Don’t allow any of your members who may not align with the general ideal of the association to give you a bad name. Noone should be involved in exam malpractice, admission or employment racketeering. But, think of one thing you want to do for the university that will be named after your association. We can source for fund. I will give approval for such move. With such project, your association will be remembered forever. I promise to support you in any way I can”. Esimone assured.

Responding on behalf of the Chairman, Governing Council, Dr Dukku appreciated the Association of Yoruba staff for keeping alive the spirit of oneness and unity, at a time national unity is under threat.

In a remark, the man of the moment, Surveyor Aluko, expressed profound gratitude to the Association of Yoruba Staff of UNZIK for honouring him in such an unusual manner, even as he noted with joy that the number of Yoruba staff has increased within the four years of his tenure.

Surveyor Aluko encouraged them to be of good behavior, even as he pledged to always assist them anytime he is called upon.

Earlier in an address of welcome, a member of the association, Professor Helen Adebola, noted that the resolution to honour Surveyor Aluko with a send-forth programme, was in appreciation of his undying support and encouragement to the association, during his tenure as board member between 2017 and 2021.

By Ebubechukwuzuloke Brown

All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) 2021 Gubernatorial Aspirant, Hon. Nonso Smart Okafor has hosted the Chairmen and Secretaries of APGA of the 21 Local Government Area of Anambra State.

Hon. Nonso Smart Okafor who hosted the Chairmen and Secretaries today, Sunday 2nd May, 2021, to intimate them of his Governorship ambition, said that the executives of the party at all levels remain the conscience of the party.

According to him, their efforts and commitment to the party is what has continued to position APGA for electoral victory, noting that every effort should be made to ensure a free and fair primary on June 23rd, as that will ensure the smooth victory for APGA in the 2021 Guber.

Speaking further, Hon. Nonso Okafor who is also the Lawmaker representing Nnewi North in Anambra State House of Assembly, said that his ambition is not only predicted in his desire to consolidate on Governor Obiano's achievements but also to build a viable, independent, secured, and advanced economy for Anambra State through his plan called VISA ECONOMY.

The humble but courageous lawmaker said that he has all the experience and capacity needed of one desirous of emerging the Executive Governor of Anambra State, revealing that as a state lawmaker with membership of eleven sensitive committees, he understands the potentials, problems, and challenges of the state, better than most aspirants in the party.

He said that if elected by APGA delegates to fly the party's flag in the November 6th election, the victory of the party is assured, noting that it will be a renaissance across the nation.

In addition, he announced that he will begin a tour of all the local governments in the state to meet APGA members in different wards in the state.

On their part, some of the party local government chairmen and secretaries who took turns to speak, praised Hon. Nonso Smart Okafor for his boldness and courage in deciding to contest the election, agreeing that to ensure APGA's victory, the outstanding lawmaker should be considered for the ticket of the party.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka

The member representing Nnewi North constituency in Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon. Nonso Smart Okafor, has said his ambition to govern the state was divine and not threatened by presence of other aspirants.

Okafor is vying for governorship tickets of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), with the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Charles Soludo, Nze Akachukwu Nwankpo of Sure-P, and four other persons.

The lawmaker, who added that he was not contesting to displace anyone chance, maintained that his aspiration was backed by youth, 18 out of 24 currently serving state legislators of APGA extractions and others .


Okafor, who has held different leadership position including the office of President, Student Union Government (SUG) of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, assured that he has all it takes to win the 2021 gubernatorial poll if presented with the APGA ticket at their forthcoming primary.


“I don’t understand what people mean by body language. People should stop dropping the name of the governor just to sway people into favouring their aspiration. Anambra is for all of us, and the governor is our governor. Some people say I’m challenging Soludo, but I say no. I’m not challenging Soludo. I’m running for the governorship position, just as Soludo is running. This is an era where people are yearning for young people like me as leaders," he added.


He said his administration woud create enabling environment for conducive teaching and learning and character formation, revolutionise Agriculture, give room for businesses and industries to thrive, and others, while consolidating on governor Willie Obiano's achievement in office.

Hausa community in Anambra South district, Anambra State, has reiterated their resolve to support Senator Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah in the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

Secretary General of Hausa community in Anambra South Senatorial District, Sali Suleiman, gave the assurance during a rally yesterday in Nnewi, organized by the senator to thank his senatorial district for their support towards achieving his senatorial bid, and to inform them of his intention to join the November 6 governorship election in the state.

Suleiman described Senator Ubah as “a detribalized Nigerian, who does not see the difference among Hausa, Igbo Yoruba and other tribes in Nigeria,” adding that “Ubah sees all Nigerians as a people, who must co-exist in peace and unity.”

“Even before his election into the senate, he had been doing a lot of things that benefited Hausa people and other Nigerians resident in Anambra South. He dug boreholes and provided transformers at different Hausa quarters, and other residential areas in Anambra South with the intention of ensuring regular power and water supplies. While at the senate, he had been extending employment and empowerment opportunities to our people in this senatorial zone.

“As governor of Anambra State, it is our belief that he would come up with programmes that would benefit all Nigerians resident in Anambra. We are sure that 25,000 population of Hausa people in this senatorial district will be a great boost to his governorship bid,” concluded Sali Suleiman.

Speaking, Senator Ubah informed the gathering that he had joined the governorship race under the platform of the Young Progressive Party, YPP.

“My decision to contest under the aegis of the YPP is that the party has Igbo agenda and interest. Everything about the YPP is Igbo. This is a continuation of my aspiration that started in 2014, when I contested under the platform of the Labour Party, LP, but lost to the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA. If we succeeded under this platform, we shall have achieved a milestone towards enthroning Igbo interest in our dear state; and I will continue on my stride to provide better life for Anambra people,” he said.

Earlier, chairman of YPP in Anambra State, Prince Moses Obi, assured the people that YPP would provide good governance in the state if voted into power.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

The NYSC, Anambra State, Thursday, held interactive session with some zonal and local government inspectors of the scheme in the state.


The meeting which was also attended by Heads of Branches, was aimed at improving the operations of NYSC Anambra State with regards to the administration of corps members, their wellbeing and safety.

It also sought to review the strategies used in the discharge of duties by field officers, do a critique of the process and adapt appropriately especially in the light of recent security challenges in recent times.

Speaking at the event, the State Coordinator, NYSC, Mr Kehinde Aremu admonished them to be more diligent in carrying out their assignments.

Aremu also enjoined the staff to take special interest in corps members security matters.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka

A gubernatorial aspirant of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), in Anambra State 2021 poll, Chief Akachukwu Nwankpo, has vowed to feed pregnant women and school children throughout his tenure.

Nwankpo, who stated this in media chat with the executive members of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Anambra State council, also promised to provide smartphones to all families in the state if elected a governor.

According to him, the programmes would help to build, enhance and reposition all families to contribute their qouta in uplifting the state.

“Everyone knows that every pregnant mother must go for antenantal care as required for primary healthcare. So, the structure is already in existence. I promoted healthcare during my time in Sure-P. If elected as governor, the way I will manage the primary healthcare, will make it possible that not only the baby would be taken care of during the antenantal care.

"The mother will also be taken good care of. I will increase the attention mothers gain during the antenantal care. I will provide them with specific nutritional items they need. The feeding will help to enhance their nutritional needs, increase their vitamins intake and other balanced diets. I will also provide counselling to the husband too.

“I will also provide school feeding to school children. I will bring back numerical education, improve teachers quality to improve the education system. I will ensure that every family has smartphones. When they have access to the schools and teachers where their children are enrolled, they can easily monitor activities of their children. It will also help them to maintain good relationship with the teachers, improve their studies and expose them to more opportunities in the world," he added.

Nwankpo also promised to equip schools with modern facilities, train teachers, create jobs, tackle insecurity and power challenges, among others.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka


Nawfia community in Njikoka Local Local Government Area, Anambra State has coroneted a new Traditional Ruler, Dr Shadrach Moguluwa.

Moguluwa was coroneted after his election reportedly held on March 26, 2021, following suspension and subsequent withdrawal of Igwe Chijioke Nwankwo certificate of recognition by Anambra state government.

However, Nwankwo who was among the eleven monarchs that travelled to Abuja in August 2020 alongside 11 others, is still in court challenging the state government, and some members of his community over withdrawal of his certificate and other issues.


Mr Nathan Enemuo, the President General of the town crowned Igwe Moguluwa saying it was in accordance to the provisions of Nawfia Town Union constitution and with the approval of ‘Nze na Oxo’ traditional title holders.


Also speaking, the traditional ruler of the neighbouring Enugwu-Ukwu, Igwe Ralp Ekpeh, expressed gratitude to God, and enjoined the new monarch to stand for justice and equity while acting the role of father to every son and daughter of Nawfia.


On his part, Chief Beluolisa, Chairman Board of Trustee of Nawfia Town Union, described the new traditional ruler as an educated, humble and godly ruler who needed the support of all to succeed.


In a remark, Moguluwa thanked the people of Nawfia for finding him worthy of the calling and promised to work with the people and government to ensure the community progressed.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka

The Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Dr Paulinus Ezeokafor, Saturday, feted over three hundred less privileged members of the society with some food items.

The beneficiries who came from across religious and ethnic drives, received bags of rice, tubers of yam, some onions, monetary cash, among other food items.

Distributing the items at St. Patrick's Cathedral, Awka, Bishop Ezeokafor, explained that the Easter package were to enable the downtrodden enjoy the celebration as well.

According to him, Easter is the greatest celebration in the Christendom, because it was a season to reflect over the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

“We are giving back to the society out of what we received from the spirited individuals. We want the less privileged to feel impulse of the season. We want them to enjoy the Easter celebration like others.

"This is our annual ritual and we shall continue as long as we keep receiving from others. We do it every first Thursday of the month. But this one is specially organised every Easter season. Last year, we did same at the Christmas due to the impact of Coronavirus.

" Easter is season of love. It is when we remember how our Lord Jesus Christ came to the world, suffered, died for our sake and resurrected. We should reflect over our own live and ensure that after our suffering on earth, we shall enjoy the eternity. So, I charge all to work for our salvation," he added.

In an interview, one of the beneficiaries, Mrs Bridget Nwachukwu, who hails from Abia State, thanked the prelate for the gifts assuring that would live their lives for Christ.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

As Christians all over the world celebrate Easter, the Catholic bishop of Awka Diocese, His Lordship Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, has admonished Nigerians to love one another, stressing that it was what God demonstrated to mankind by offering his son Jesus to be born and crucified for our salvation.

Ezeokafor, in an Easter message he delivered at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Awka, said that Easter is the greatest Christian celebration, as it called for sober reflection and preparation for life after death.

He, therefore, urged Nigerians to deemphasize the quest for materialism and inordinate ambition to make it by all means, which according to him often time, expose people to evil and fake prophets.

“Esther is the greatest celebration to Christians. It is when we should reflect on how God gifted His son to mankind; to come and die for our redemption. It is greatest time to show love. He came, suffered and died for our salvation. Christ foresaw what he was to pass through yet he persevered.

“ But today, some don’t want to suffer. They are being brainwashed not to believe that they should suffer once they are Christians. It is not true. We must suffer if we must achieve or gain something good in life. Christ carried the cross for us and allowed Himself to be killed beside robbers. We should rather be praying for God not to give us the cross we cannot carry. We should forgo material gains to those things that can make us see heaven,” Ezeokafor stated.

On COVID-19, the Bishop praised God for sparing Africans from it devastating impacts as earlier expected , even as he enjoined Nigerians to embrace COVID-19 vaccination.

‘'Humans, as images of god have dual personality, the physical which is temporary and spiritual which is eternal and there is need for us take more care of ourselves. As we celebrate, let us call to mind the situation in our country and make conscious effort to make it better.

“It is for the grace of God that we were not wiped out by COVID-19 because considering the death toll in Europe and America, it was expected that when it comes here, we will all be dead. Thank God for sparing us, now they are talking about vaccine, I encourage everyone to take the vaccine because they are good antidotes to health issues. Government can help address vaccine hesitancy by being more sincere with the people so that can be trusted the more,” he added.

On the security challenges and deaths in Nigeria, the prelate called for decentralisation of the police to enable states and regions have greater influence on the protection of life and property of the people, arguing that the current structure had failed.

He further condemned attacks on communities and security agencies across the country by unknown gunmen, urging the government intervention.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka

The Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Anambra State chapter, has appealed to governor Willie Obiano to pay up the eleven months arrears of pension owed the state retired primary school teachers for 2002 and 2003.

The State Chairman of NUP, Dr Anthony Ugozor, made the appeal in an interview after the union’s monthly meeting in Awka, lamenting that some of the beneficial pensioners have died without receiving the arrears, even as those alive need it for various reasons.

“It was over 20 months arrears. Former governor Peter Obi paid 16 months remaining 11 months. He gave approval for them to be paid. But it was not done before end of his tenure. We have been appealing for Governor Obiano to pay them off. This is for 2002 and 2003 set of primary school pensioners. Unfortunately, some of them have died waiting for the arrears. Those alive are still begging for it,” he maintained.

He also implored the governor to find ways of extending the pensioners revalidation exercise, which he said the state government would kick off online (Internet) from March 29 to April 12 2021 with a view to authenticating the actual pensioners for easy payment of pensions.

“There is need for extension. We have actually distributed the link to our members through branches so that our members can do the revalidation themselves at their convenience. But you know there are some of us living abroad and some incapacitated. So, they need more time. They have to extend the exercise for some weeks to carry all around,” he noted.

On capacity building, Ugozor explained that the union had articulated a one day seminar where members would be trained on rules and etiquette of modern unionism including constitutionality, contestation, consultation, obedient to union rule and dialogue for better engagement with the government and others.

Removed

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

The Coordinator, NYSC Anambra State, Mr Kehinde Aremu has charged corps members of the 2021 Batch 'A'( Stream 1) in the State to put to practice what they have been taught in the course of the orientation course as they move to the next phase of their service year.

The charge was given during the debriefing of corps members, ahead of the closing of the orientation course which began about three weeks ago.

He said that the foundation of success has already been laid at the camp and it is left for the corps members to build on it so as to succeed in the other cardinal programmes of the Scheme


Aremu further spoke on posting saying it was done in collaboration with Corps Employers in terms of areas of need and that it would be impossible for them not to be accepted. He warned them against inducing rejection.

He charged them to be humble, respectful and diligent in carrying out their primary assignments, and other programmes of the scheme.

He then introduced to the corps members officers, especially those they would be working with daily during their service year.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

The Catholic bishop of Awka Diocese, His Lordship Most Reverend Paulinus Ezeokafor, has urged Anambra residents to get vaccinated in ongoing coronavirus vaccination.


Ezeokafor, who stated this at St. Andrew's Parish, Adazi Nnukwu, in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State while delivering a homily to mark this year's Chrism Mass/Cathedraticum Celebration, stated that the COVID-19 vaccines has no side effect.


According to him, although there were elements of insincerity on the side of the government, people should ignore the aspect and focus on that which, he said, would better their living and save them from contracting the disease.

Bishop Ezeokafor who said that COVID-19 was still very much around and deadly, admonished Ndi Anambra to keep to COVID-19 protocols by maintaining social distancing, washing their hands regularly and also wearing of Facemasks at all times.

Ezeokafor, while speaking on the essence of the Chrism Mass cum Cathedraticum Celebration, charged Christians to always support their priests spiritually, physically and materially, because followers of Christ, should understand that priests were Christ's representatives on earth and deserved to be encouraged and protected.

He admonished priests to endeavour to practice what they preached, noting that their primary assignment was to propagate the Gospel of Jesus Christ as they are Christ's representatives on earth.

Ezeokafor also urged the Catholic faithful to be more intimate with the things of God and as well pay less attention to worldly things.

Highlights was the Bishop supervision of the renewal of ordination vow by priests in the Diocese..

By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka

The Anambra State Coordinator, National Youth Social Corps (NYSC), Mr Kehinde Aremu has expressed confidence on abilities of the 2021 Batch 'A' Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development Corps Trainees to excel in their chosen vocations.

Aremu, who made the declaration at the Exhibition/Closing ceremony of SAED in-camp training held at the Multi-purpose Hall of the Anambra Permanent Orientation Camp Umuawulu/Mbaukwu, Awka South Local Government Area, hinted that the programme had empowered them to be job creators.

According to him, the performance of the corps members at the Exhibition of the skills learnt in less than a week was commendable because "despite the perceived lowness of Nigeria economy, as an entrepreneur you can make it and you will make it, only if you build on the foundation NYSC has laid for you".

“ They will leave the service as entrepreneurs and job creators not job seekers. I am happy about that. And I wish you all well in all earndavours” he added.

Earlier some of the trainees commended the NYSC for the training bevause according to him, they acquired several skills they could not let go.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

Awka



Nigerians from across religious drives have been urged to explore the medicinal values of plants and other herbal drugs to see ways of applying them for healing purposes.



A lecturer from the Trinity Theological College, Umuahia, Abia State, Rev. Dr. Barnabas Obiorah Idoko gave the advice when he led over a hundred students of the institution on a field trip to the Centre for Psychic and Healing Administration (CPHA), Awka, Anambra state.



Idoko, who said he had identified CPHA during his visit to Awka last year, stressed that there were nothing evil in being herbalist or using herbs for treatments due to medicinal values of African plants, and urged Christians gifted in the field to utilise their expertise to the Glory of God.



“We are on field trip to CPHA. The field trip is one of the ways we are exposing those to be ordained in the church ministry to some of those things we do in Africa. Ilonzo is a renowned figure who has demonstrated an expertise in herbal medicine. And given to her wealth of experience, I thought it wise to bring my students here to explore the positive things in African culture and use of herbal medicine.



“Some Christians misconstrue the effects of using the herbal medicine; thinking it is fetish. But we have come and we have seen that there is nothing fetish in it. As a matter of fact, Christian gifted in herbal medicine can explore it in curing self and others. We have been going on field trips at various institutions at Abia state. It was during my trip to Awka last year I discovered here and decided tp explore it”, he added.



He vowed to make CPHA a permanent institution for their field trips because “We have learnt the health benefits of most African plants. We also learnt from her experiences and expertise. We enjoyed the hospitality. Therefore, I will make here a permanent place of our field trip. In as much I am the one taking the course, I have found more reasons to bring our students here learn and help in spreading the good news when ordained. I enjoin other denominations and religious bodies to adopt this kind of field trip to expose them to reality of things in Africa. It is not all African culture and tradition is evil.”

The theological institution owned by the Anglican Diocese of Umuahia runs Degree programmes in affiliation with the University of Nigeria, Nsukka



Also speaking, the Chief Whip of the institution, Mr Chibueze Kingsley Ikechukwu, who said he is from Enugu State but currently carrying out his religious service at Nnewi, said he was previously made to understand that CPHA is operating under some spiritual or evil powers but the visits has changed all that.



“She took us on three and half hours lecture standing. We have learnt from all she passed through at the course of her spiritual journey. In all these she kept giving glory to God, Almighty. We have learnt from it to be strong in our calling. We have learnt to guide ourselves. We have learnt to communicate or pass on every good knowledge and our experience to others. We are going to teach them to others. This journey has dispelled all the lies people are peddling against her. We have discovered that all the artifacts in her centre were constructed and kept because she is an artist. We have learnt some medicinal values of plants. I can tell you that we are going to repeat this journey individually with our church members, families and friends,” he added.



Earlier the founder, Centre for Psychic and Healing Administration (CPHA), Chief Dr Mrs Flora Nkemakonam Ilonzo, lectured the students on why to make African fruits and vegetables their favourite, even as she provided procedures through which they could be utilised in preventing or healing all kinds of diseases and ailments including cancer, coronavirus, pile, psychiatric issues and others.



Ilonzo, who led the seminarians into her family life, persecutions and benefits of her journey to actualise her callings to help humanity with herbal, including how her grandparents gifted the Anglicans and the Catholic where they sited their first Churches and homes at Onistha , said that she inherited the gift from her parents and grandparents that according to her, applied herbal in solving in all humans problems.



She also recalled how God used her liberate women from the deadly Odo deities at Nsukka, brought the Catholic Pontiff (the Pope) and the Archbishop of Canterbury to Nigeria, saved old Anambra state and others, reiterating that CPHA's moto is resolving the frictions between man and nature, and charged the students to endeavour to communicate to others what they have learnt from her centre for emancipation of Africans.

Mr Chinedu Thorpe (formerly known as Chinedu Okwelogu) is a household name in the scrabble world. Sidespin, as he’s fondly called in the world of Table Tennis and Scrabble, has been a scrabble player, trainer, coach and promoter. In this interview with OKECHUKWU ONUEGBU, he reels out his plans to uplift scrabble from family to state, national and international levels.

Who is Thorpe

My name is Chinedu Thorpe. My surname was formerly Okwelogu, while my nickname is Sidespin. I am from Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra state. Currently, I am an Assistant Director at the National Orientation Agency (NOA). I read English and Literary Studies at the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers state.

I became a Table Tennis player in 1974. Ten years later (in 1983), I decided to focus on Scrabble as a Player. But table tennis remains my number one love sports to date. If I have the money, I will sponsor table tennis to any level.

I joined the national scrabble body by virtue of playing with nationally rated players in 1987 at Enugu. I played at the national tournament first in 1991, and became the national champion in 1994 when I won the national open for Kano in October. In 2001 and 2002, I became Nigeria number one and Nigerian highest ranked scrabble player in the world. I was the world number 8 in 2001 and number 10 in 2002.

I have won a range of tournaments. I am a multiple champion by any definition of the terms, Nationally or Internationally. I won my first world international event in 2012. I became Kano state coach in 2003. My concern now is training of players, organising competitions, playing, etc.

How is scrabble fairing in Nigeria?

Scrabble is the number one sports that has given Nigeria number one ranking in the world. Unfortunately, many are not aware of that. The ranking is based on cumulative of all performances. Ironically, it is very neglected in the country.

What is the place of scrabble in the South East geopolitical one and Anambra state, specifically?

To start with, the problem we have in the south east is non-availability of high level players. We have them but they based outside the south east. The first Igbo man to win scrabble national champion was Chijioke Uzoh from Imo state in 1987. After that, he moved to US and remains there. The second was Azubuike Ogbogu in 1989. He is from Asaba Delta state (Technically not in South east). He was based in Benin, playing for Edo and Delta states.
The third Igbo man was Ifeanyi Onyeonwu, from Ogbunike, Anambra state. He won in 1990. And was the first scrabble player to win the African championship in 1994. He was also Nigerian number one for a long time. He based in Benin and plays with Auzbuike. They were called the Benin Maffians.
I was the fourth National Champions (and second from Anambra state). I won in 1994 while playing for Kano state.
So, there were no national champion based in South East to ginger people. But people were playing all over the country. There are scrabble clubs all over the country attached to the national team. Those existing in the South East were at Aba (Abia state), Enugu (Enugu state) and Alvan Ikoku (Owerri State). It was when I came down from north to Anambra state (on transfer) in 2012, I started a fresh move to reposition scrabble in the state.
But before then in 2009, the then Secretary of Scrabble in Anambra state, Nestor Ikwueze contacted me to train the state players for 2009 National Sports festival in Kaduna. It was about two weeks to the national sports festival at Kaduna. And I was training the Kano players too. I couldn’t go because I was also expecting arrival of scrabble equipment which I was to receive personally at Aminu Kano international Airport. I recommended two of my friends and experts from Delta State to the state. Delta is the number one scrabble playing state in Nigeria. They trained the Anambra players and they joined us at the event.
Anambra state did not win medal. But one of the players, Master Chuka Amafor was adjudged the best or most promising scrabble player of the year. The national body mandated me to train him so that he would play at the world Scrabble champions at Australia.
I wrote to the Anambra state government, requesting sponsorship of Amafor because his trip was meant to be sponsored by the state. However, that letter was not replied to date. It was one Yoruba speaking state that later sent in someone, Seun Oyeleke for Amafor’s replacement. Seun trained with us at the camp, and at the world scrabble competition, he came sixth in the whole world. That was how Anambra missed that opportunity. Amafor lost interest on scrabble since then…
I am back to reposition scrabble in the state. I am ever ready and most positioned especially now the national had lifted my suspension. The suspension began on 2011 over disagreement I had with some of their officers. It was lifted in 2019. So, I and my teams are going to Edo 2020 (2021) National Sports Festival to make Anambra state and Nigeria proud.

Have you made any attempt to get the incumbent administration in Anambra state to sponsor any scrabble activity?

Yes! I must apologise to governor Willie Obiano, his wife—Ebelechukwu Obiano, and the Commissioner for Basic Education (formerly Commissioner for Education), Prof. Azuka Omenugha. I must appologise to the entire Anambra. In 2015, I approached the state government for sponsorship of secondary school scrabble tournament. This is a project of about six million naira. The project was approved even when the governor did not know me. However, a former commissioner for youth and sports and few others insisted that I should not be allowed to handle the project. They said they have other capable hands in the ministry to handle it. I was called unprintable names… So, I left them and the project. It was not executed. I don't know what happened to the fund to date because I was not interested on the money. When I realised my mistakes, I quickly appologised to the governor, his wife and the commissioner. I have written another proposal to them. I have also introduced Mr Chuks Ndigwe and Mr Odionye to them who I am sure can handle the project perfectly even I am not involved. But nothing will make me to abandon the project.

Why is scrabble seemed neglected in Nigeria?
People have not seen the connecting point. For any activity to be valuable in the present world, it has to be motivating. It must have relevant in putting food on the table of whoever is involve in it. The project needs money to be executed perfectly.
There is something I called ‘the tournament scrabble industry.’ It is a sequence of activities in which people who are involved in the scrabble would be adequately rewarded. In this industry, I would highlight five different individuals or key players. They are the Scrabble player, scrabble coach or teacher, scrabble organiser, middleman and sponsor.

Under this your plan, how could scrabble address crimes and other societal challenges?

I have device several types of scrabble tournament from family level to house to house (neighbour), schools, town, LGA, state and national levels. All that is required is sponsorship through a middle man. Middle man is expected to bring sponsors and collect commission. He did not need to know what scrabble is all about. The sponsor is not obliged to dish out all the money requested. He is fee to provide what he can afford. The most important thing is to put down something people can fight (play) for. If for example, a sponsor provides for a year scrabble event in Awka metropolis. We can decide to make it a monthly event. If for instance N10million is required and the sponsor brings out N2million, we can still use it to achieve maximum result. Once the tournament is announced, people would begin to study harder to win the prize. This will create employments at all levels. For the one I designed for schools, everyone must win prizes. The school has prize, so also are the teachers, players and so on.
When you look at the crimes been committed in the society, you will find out that it is because most of those involved are out of job, unsatisfactory employed, under the influence of drugs or association with wrong kinds of persons. Fighting it should not be reacting to crime when it happens. Scrabble should be used to engage the minds of people.

Meaning scrabble can equally be used in addressing poor reading cultures?
Scrabble is the number sports that can significantly address the poor reading culture and other academics challenges in Nigeria. It compels practitioners to go back to schools. It motivates and inspires players to revisit their books, to cultivate a studying habit. If you want to do good in scrabble, you must study hard to increase vocabulary. It is 70% mathematics and 30% linguistics. Let us assume money is at stake, you must study hard to win the prize. There are specified books and dictionaries you are to study. The vehicle is wording, while the underlined point is mathematical. That is why it is said to be more mathematics than English. If you’re sharp, you will become sharper. If you’re dullard, you will become sharp.

Are there countries that have used scrabble to address societal challenges like crimes you know?
Pakistan used it to fight terrorism by occupying the minds of children, thereby preventing them from being recruited for crimes. Malaysia used it to produce intellectual wizards and so on. There are other people and countries using it to address one issue or another.

Is there particular age bracket meant to play scrabble?
The scrabble is for people of all ages. But the ideal age for one to begin playing scrabble is 8 years old because that is when one is assumed to have developed their cognitive reasoning. Scrabble enhances mental development, prevents development of dementia, a disease of old age. And you can play it up to 80-year-old or more.

Don’t you think that high cost of scrabble equipment is why it receives poor attention?

The equipment elements used to be a challenge. But it is no longer a challenge. All the materials are now available on Google App and others. All you need is an Android phone. You can download the dictionary, clock, and others. There is also an online board. It is during the tournament you will be required to purchase a board. The standard practise is for one to use own equipment during tournament. The prices for standard board may range from N50,000 to N200,000. But anybody that is serious can buy that of paper board. There are others within N15,000 or N18,000. The equipment is very affordable.

Do you subscribe to the notion that scrabble should be made a curricular subject?
Yes. It could be made a curricular subject. It is workable. But I would advice that students should not be compelled to study or play it. Schools should not also be compelled to register it. It should be optional. What should be done is that schools and students that engage on it should be adequately rewarded.

By Okey C

Valentine Ozigbo, a leading aspirant in the 2021 Anambra governorship election, has taken a notable step towards Agu Awka after purchasing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) expression and nomination of interest forms.

Ozigbo, in the company of several members of his campaign team and numerous supporters stormed the PDP National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Wuse Zone 5 Abuja on Monday, March 22, 2021 to pick the forms to contest for the party’s primaries.

In his remarks, the respected business leader expressed his commitment to the pursuit of excellence in all his endeavours.

“I feel like the election is already here. Looking at the people here with me today and the support they have shown since I expressed interest to join this race, I am confident that we are on the right path,” an enthusiastic Ozigbo remarked.

“I am grateful to God for keeping us alive to see this remarkable day.

"I want to express my gratitude to my fellow party members, my ever hardworking team members, and most especially, Ndi Anambra for standing by me from the very beginning.

"Picking the form is one of the steps in our pursuit of excellence, the biggest is still ahead and for that, I will continue to solicit for your support and prayers," Ozigbo declared.

The respected business leader, while speaking to journalists after picking his forms assured that he would run a government wholly committed to delivering excellent governance to the people of Anambra.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge ahead. It’s a new dawn for Anambra State. I’m filled with a renewed hope and excitement," Ozigbo told members of the PDP press corp.

“We are bringing fresh ideas that put the core needs of the people on the front burner while creating policies the will benefit generations to come.

"It is time we stop playing small by talking about good governance, I am in this race to provide excellence in governance to my people," he declared.

Ozigbo was accompanied to the occasion by his wife, Mrs Ojiugo Ozigbo and several directors of his campaign team, including Honourable Tim Egboka, a former member of the Anambra State House of Assembly; Hon. Barr. Valentine Ayika, a former member of both the Anambra State House of Assembly and the Federal House of Representatives; Rt. Hon. Eucharia Azodo, a former Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly; and a two-time member of the Federal House of Representatives.

Others are Chief Tony Offiah, a prominent stakeholder in Anambra PDP; Chief Ejike Oguebego, a former Chairman of the PDP in Anambra State; Honourable Ejike Nwene; Lady Juliet Anaeme; Dr. Chudi Akude.

Members of the civil society community represented by Comrade Kennedy Iyare. Nigerians in the Diaspora were represented by Mazi Godson Azu.

A number of House of Assembly Candidates that represented PDP in the last elections accompanied Valentine, including Hon Emeka Nwokedi, Hon Charles Okoye, Hon Divine Onyekachi, Hon Prestige Okafor, Hon Barr Fred Nzeako and Hon Moses Anene.

Valentine Ozigbo is the immediate past President and Group CEO of Transcorp Plc, a diversified conglomerate with interests in hospitality, power, oil and gas, and agribusiness.

He is the Chairman of Feet ‘N’ Tricks International, the largest promoters of freestyle football in Africa, and organizers of the Nigerian Freestyle Football Championship and the African Freestyle Football Championship.

One of a few global kaizen champions, he is the founder of the Valentine Chineto Ozigbo (VCO) Foundation, one of Nigeria’s leading charity organizations, focusing on youth, women empowerment, business and leadership mentoring, and talent development.