₦airaland Forum

The Acting National Chairman of the People Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagun has called on Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to conduct a bye election to fill up the vacancies of the sacked Pro-Wike rivers Lawmakers.


Damagun action was contained in his letter addressed to the commission which its Certified True Copy (CTC) dated Nov 13, 2024 was released.

The spokesperson of opposition Lawmakers Coalition, Hon Ikenga Ugochinyere disclosed this yesterday, during a press conference in Akokwa, Imo state.

In the letter titled, "DEMAND FOR IMMEDIATE CONDUCT OF FRESH ELECTION IN 27 STATE CONSTITUENCIES OF RIVERS STATE WHICH HAVE BECOME VACANT PURSUANT TO SECTION 109(1)(g) OF THE CONSTITUTION", recalled the unlawful defection of the 27 former lawmakers in December 11, 2023, noting that in line with the constitution they are no longer members of assembly.

He therefore urged the Commission to performs its constitutional duties and begin the process of conducting a Fresh Election to fill the vacancies created in the 27 State Constituencies by the unlawful act of the former Assembly members.

The Letter read in part, "The Leadership of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) wishes to draw the attention of the Commission to the gross violation of Section 109 (1)(g) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) by 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly following their unlawful defection from our Party, the PDP who sponsored their elections to the All Progressive Congress (APC) on Monday, December 11, 2023.

The Commission may recall that our Party, the PDP nominated all our 32 State House of Assembly candidates in Rivers State for the 2023 General Election on the 7th of July 2022 via your electronic candidate election nomination portal (See attached acknowledgement).

The Commission may also recall that following the nomination, the Commission conducted election into the Rivers Stare House of Assembly the 18th of March, 2023 and our Party won 32 seats in the state Assembly. The elected State House of Assembly members were inaugurated and sworn-in on June, 2023.

"However, on Monday, 11 December, 2023 a period of just six (6) months after inauguration, 27 out of the 32 members publicly announced their defection from our Party to the All Progressive Congress (APC). This defection is a gross violation of Section 109(1)(g) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (As amended).

The only two grounds of division and merger provided for in the Constitution that permit such defection is completely non-existent in our political Party. It therefore means that the defections of the 27 members are without lawful excuse and these members have vacated their seats in the Rivers State House of Assembly by the operations of Section 109(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution.

In view of the foregoing, we hereby demand that the Commission performs =_ its constitutional duties and begin the process of conducting a Fresh Election to fill the vacancies created in the 27 State Constituencies by the unlawful act of the Assembly members.

Find attached the list of the 27 State Assembly Members and their Constituencies. While thanking the Commission for its commitment to deepening democracy in our country, please accept the assurances of our highest regards."

UNIZIK VC saga_ : Odohmania, Igbo Ebonyiphobia and the rest of us


By Charles Otu

The dusts stirred in the premier Nnamdi Azikiwe University over the dissolution of it's Governing Council and the consequent removal from office of the Seventh substantive Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Professor Benard Odoh may not settle anytime soon despite all we have to heard and read on the now highly-contentious matter.

I am compelled to write, not in any official capacity as a media aide to the embattled Vice-Chancellor, an insider to some of the happenings during the imbroglio but only as a concerned Ebonyian, lover of Igbo nation and to the rest of the extent and intent, an average Nigerian. This clarification becomes very important in order to disabuse the minds of any reader and also clear any form of bias whatsoever on the minds of readers and watchers of events.

*_In the beginning, is Odoh_ - the intelligent, strong, mighty but highly envied...*

Like a shining star, Umuezeokoha-Ezza North, Ebonyi State born Professor Benard Ifeanyi Odoh has something about his destiny that even his enemies admire. His exemplary courage is so infectious that even those around him wonders how this moment, he is about to be utterly slayed. And before his sympathizers finishes pouring in their litany of words of encouragements, like a Joseph, he has put his past episode and background behind him and he is already dreaming again for the future he envisages.

And so it was for him when he graduated from Geological Sciences in UNIZIK in 1999 and I'm sure that the petty jealousy some of his contemporaries in Awka may have had towards his fast rising career must have buoyed him into considering returning to his home varsity, EBSU to begin his teaching career as an Assistant Lecturer. Thinking he was settled and better at home with his kinsmen, the same Joseph's envy among his brothers soon arose.

There were insinuations he was not getting the cooperation a bright Adamu in Kebbi would have easily gotten, the moment his kinsmen realizes he can spell, write and pronounce his name. And so, it took a visit to EBSU by his erstwhile Boss, Professor Egboka of his same Geological Sciences in UNIZIK as a Vice-Chancellor to cause him to return to help him as a Personal Assistant to the Vice-Chancellor. This was a few years after 'Joseph Odoh' returned to Awka, after bagging his Doctor of Philosophy Degree through the guidance and mentorship of Prof. Egboka who heavily regretted that Ebonyi people in EBSU didn't know or value what they had in Odoh.

During Senate Council meetings, Odoh- the Ebonyi-born bright and brilliant Personal Assistant to Egboka - the then Vice-Chancellor will be asked by his boss to preside over sensitive committee meetings often to the angst of some indigenous academics who feel he was being over-favoured by the VC. And Professor Egboka will in his defense insist that if as a PA he can attract a whooping N150M and $1.7 from firms into his administration, why will he not continue to place him on merit above others?

Perhaps, sensing also that the tenure of his boss was over and a Pharaoh who know no Joseph may take over, Odoh decided after taking stock of his impacts even in his Ebonyi enclave in the little opportunities he has had so far in life decided to try plying his trade in politics. He consequently proceeded on leave to vie for the Ebonyi Central Senate in 2015 and clearly 'won' that election even under an unknown APGA.

I vividly recall that it was in the course of his electioneering campaigns a decade ago that someone like this writer who had taken time to study his blitzkrieg academic records and other accomplishments at such a young age decided to support his ambition even if only in the media as he was not of my Ebonyi South Senatorial zone. I recall interviewing him in his Umuezeokoha-Ezza North village in December that year and rejecting any transport fare he had offered. I later published that interview in my CONSCIENCE newspaper days after and sent some copies which he asked that I keep for him in a hotel in Abakaliki hence he was not around. Out of love for his daring courage, I never accepted any remuneration or gratification for that job till date!

Feeling his tremendous impacts in the election and with advices from those who knew he actually made it but was denied for "PDP's bullish sake", then newly-elected Governor David Umahi- a man his predecessor-boss warned Ebonyians not to support or vote for approached Odoh to become his SSG on the strong counsel of the academic who came as Returning Officers in the election and actually knew the truth about what transpired.

In a meeting I later learnt took place in Enugu, Odoh was reported to have boldly told Umahi that he may find it difficult working with him because all the testimonies and allegations suggested he was a wicked, callous and tyrant leader. Of course those who know Umahi truly well would attest to his claims to Odoh in his reply that he was merely being blackmailed by Elechi and other losers who laboured in vain in Labour Party. Odoh however accepted his offer of a Secretary to the State Government but with cautious optimism. His academic competitors in Awka ironically became even more jealous that at 39, they have pursued Odoh into fame as SSG of his State.

Those conversant with his 30 months stay in office as SSG under Umahi during which some of us stayed completely away from him because we knew the character he accepted to work for and with would attest that it was all _roforofo_ fight between the two 'wise men'. Umahi and his brothers would want SSG to sign and release funds for unbudgeted and unaccountable spendings which was a common feature of his government. An Odoh as SSG would request for a formal memo in writing, signed and properly documented. The Umahis will decline and Odoh will call a bluff of them, insisting that such is not how public funds are spent.

And so it was that for nearly 30 months beginning from May 29th 2015 to April 2nd 2018, that there was no peace in Jerusalem between the SSG and his Governor boss simply because Odoh held his heads so high with every circumspection. He had to resign when Umahi least expected it and was perhaps plotting his sack and handed over everything he made from government to the same government he served, including his official vehicle that he had almost completed payment for just to be free from Umahi.

But that was not to be. Umahi soon 'rented' his people to protest and call him 'the devil'. He would go ahead to probe his stay in office with 32 auditing of accounts and every record books he handled as SSG. It was the most desperate attempt to indict a public office holder in history and yet, nothing, absolutely NOTHING was found on Odoh. For he was very careful to dine with the devil with a very long spoon. Every transaction he made, Odoh had his personal records intact. And that was why when Umahi eventually thought he had got him with allegations of diverting N2Bn CBN Agric loan, Odoh soon flooded the media with evidences of the roles played by the Umahis, not him. He consequently wrote the EFCC to come and probe him and everyone involved in the committee. Umahi quickly ran to block it, preaching a gospel that Ebonyi was very united in brotherly love and no funds were never missing nor stolen!

Some months later, Odoh surprisingly appeared in an APC National Convention in 2018 ahead of the 2019 elections. He later officially decamped to the APC to vie for the Party's ticket and narrowly lost it to Umahi's desperate shemings. The later wanted a weaker opposition candidate to make his re-election easier and that he exactly got in Ogbuoji. Odoh, again left to focus on his classroom and other engagements for survival.

*Shot eight times at different places in 2023 but God still spared 'Joseph Odoh'...*

Three years later in April 2022, Odoh returned to the boxing ring and got the APGA ticket to vie for the Governorship election in Ebonyi. By August, Umahi had ordered that all his billboards be destroyed by his Ebubeagu militia and they strictly ensured that even his posters were not spared. Odoh was first physically attacked and rescued by the DSS at Iboko- the capital of Izzi LGA where his strongest opponent, Nwifuru hail from. His crime? He was warned by thugs never to come and campaign in Ali Izzi where incidentally his wife hails from. Of course a stubborn Odoh dared them and had his convoy vehicles shattered and some injured with gunshot wounds. Not done, he was again shot directly at and almost killed on the 5th of February 2023 while returning from a campaign in his Ezzaegu community somewhere around Rest House, Okpoto in Ishielu LGA by some hired assassins. He lost his driver and orderly in the milieu and the rest of us on his convoy miraculously escaped, some with gunshot wounds.

About a week after, he again came under heavy gunshot attack at Okposi where he had gone to commission the campaign office of his Party in his Deputy Governorship candidate's domain. God, again saved him! Seeing his impact that saw his Party win his Federal Constituency against all odds and frightened he may also win his own election, the government used security agencies to hunt and hound him out of Ebonyi over curious allegations he killed his own Traditional Ruler.
Like Moses, Odoh, again fled Ebonyi for his dear life and never campaigned again two weeks before his election. They sent thugs who successfully burnt all election materials in his Ezza North strongholds. Yet, a run-away Odoh won the LGA and his sister Ezza South LGA landslide! He yet remained hibernated as the government still sort to arrest and try him even when confessions made by those arrested never linked him to their heinous crime.

*Odoh and the UNIZIK VCship journey and matters miscellany* ...
*Why the joke is on FUGUS!*

A lot has already been said and read about Odoh and his ordeals in Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. But some of us who had a hint in his interest in the race months ago understand pretty well that his rise to glory and ouster in a coup-like manner were all political tussles between his former boss who allegedly vowed he would never allow him become anything again in life after quitting his government and one of Odoh's benefactors who has influence within the South East region. The later, knowing what was at stake lobbied to make input in the Governing Council while the former was dazed his sworn enemy would later emerge a beneficiary of that. Angered by his eventual emergence on the 29th of October, 2024, his ertswhile boss never hid his bilious feelings.

It was alleged he quickly 'mobilized' the Ministry of Education to oust him with a stroke of a "Null and Void" letter for and on behalf of a Permanent Secretary. But some of us roared back instantly that the Education Ministry has no powers to so act. The arrival of Dr. Tunji Alausa - a Doctor chauvinist who was allegedly backed by top echelon of the Medical profession that desperately want their West African Post Graduate College of Medicine certificate to be considered an equivalent of a Ph.D changed the game in his enemies favour.

Upon assumption of office on November 5th, same day Odoh coincidentally took over as the Seventh substantive Vice-Chancellor of NAU, the former expressly vowed to revisit the case of UNIZIK and reverse whatever had been done. Talk about having a written script from day One and you may not be utterly wrong!

And so it was as we strongly suspected that when these aggregated interests aligned, led by a more bitter enemy within, the services of 'The Presidency' were allegedly procured after some Anambra big spenders were brought into the game. Imagine hiring those you consider 'enemies' to come and fight your brother from the same house! The strongest argument is that it was all politics that produced Odoh as a VC and he was not qualified. Pray, tell me; which Vice-Chancellor in Nigeria has ever been appointed without some form of political influence? The visitor of Nigerian tertiary institutions is himself a politician!

The allegations of a gamut of gang ups and dangerous schemings against Odoh by the Umahis, including the new industry of attempting to rubbish his long-standing reputation as a fraudulent scholar reminds one of this famous quote:
_He who rides on the back of the tiger to terrorize others will one day find himself in the belly of the same tiger_ - Umaru Dikko to Abiola.

Some powerful people in the kitchen cabinet of Tinubu were allegedly recruited to boot Odoh out of office whether lawful or illegal. The plotters travelled as far as Gusau to strangely smuggle out his staff records and succeeded in using the new administration they also put in place to achieve same. Everyone got settled and the rest you are hearing are mere defensive gibberish!

*The FUGUS gaffe and it's unpardonable shame...*

The discordant tunes of politics over academics being dished out from the inglorious kitchen of Federal University, Gusau is nothing but shameful and they all add to the dangerous politics we play with everything in Nigeria. First, a Professor was elevated in your institution and people said he was not. The then VC, Professor Benchuks Okeke, the Registrar, Ibrahim Bawa Kaura and another assessor, Professor Isaac Aiyegbogun of ESUT and Edo State Universities all went to Court to swear to affidavits attesting to his assessment and promotion to the rank. He had personally written the Pro-Chancellor to clear the airs to save both his reputation and the two institutions involved and you never officially replied such an official correspondence.

What did the mugus in FUGUS do? Rush to reference a Vanguard publication in a tone that sounded more political than academic. Not done with their absurd contradictions, the VC called for a World Press Conference and further contradicted the Vanguard's rejoinder. He said Odoh was never a staff because his records cannot be found but same Odoh received salaries and other entitlements from the University. Talk of dishing one out after serving you, then you remember FUGUS!

All these actions and decisions, including comments and write ups would be tested in Court and it will only be a matter of time before the chicken finally comes home to roost. Even the Doctor chauvinist minister who neglected pending five suits in court knows this much too. All that a not-too-desperate team would have done is to set up a committee and invite all parties in the controversy. But not when the law means nothing!

The mere fact that close allies of Umahi were joyfully sharing the news even to Professor Odoh himself without shame or wisdom tells all about their key roles in the entire process. While we leave the rest to history to judge even as we pursue the matter in court, one teary scenario for Igbos in general and my beloved Ebonyi State in particular is the question posed by a friend of mine who watched Professor Odoh speak in defense against one Professor Mohammed- National Chairman of the MDCAN on ARISE Tv:
"Editor, why are you Igbos always undoing yourselves? Watching your principal speak and hearing that Aboki Professor, it was never in doubt who amongst the duo is indeed a Professor!"

In a more mocking manner, my Yoruba friend said no wonder they allowed Buhari to govern for eight years with a questionable WAEC. "My Yoruba people have kept you quiet over Tinubu's certificates. Has he not governed Nigeria for eighteen months and still counting? But you Igbos were quick to force Peter Obi to produce his UNN second class lower certificate just to prove he was indeed a graduate. You guys should continue to undue yourself and be claiming you would ever rule Nigeria!", he concluded. At this point, I only fought back tears! Imagine watching the current VC of FUGUS struggling to read out a written text in a video they said they disclaimed Odoh's Professorship and watching the same Odoh speak extempore on a National Television being grilled by Abati and the ARISE TV gang. You can just conclude that's why Nigeria out not to have been in the first place.

*Igbos Ebonyiphobia and the rest of us...*

While in UNN, I heard people get shocked in my Department and Faculty that I proudly introduced myself as an Ebonyi man. Many Ebonyians, particularly from the Abakaliki bloc comprising of some eight or more out of 13 LGAs would never want to introduce themselves or identify with and as Ebonyi undergraduates. I was a Director of Socials in the National Association of Ebonyi State Students, NAESS and we had less than 20 persons from the entire Abakaliki bloc! It was more of an Ebonyi Southern affair because they never wanted the rest of their Igbo brothers to deride them as "Nwa Abakaliki".

Leaving Nsukka in 2011, I chose to settle in Abakaliki to first understudy this my people that have become 'rejected stones' in their own region. For nearly a decade and half, I can beat my chest to say I have no regrets not setting in Ebonyi because I am one of the few from my Afikpo bloc that have truly mixed up, speaking and understanding almost all the various dialects. Ever wondering why the rest hate the best of us, my encounters as an editor of a National Daily in Awka opened my eyes the more and that was why Ebonyians should have all rose up in defense of Odoh. In the past two weeks that Odoh held sway, some of the staff claimed they can't write or speak. Immediately Ikechebelu who obtained his Ph.D just less than two years ago. He only had a Fellowship from his profession was reappointed by the Doctor chauvinist, Alausa, they started churning out materials in defense of their brother. This is the same man they joined forces to fight to remove in June.

Our stakeholders, some in the academics out of envy and jealousy decided to keep mute and foolishly called it an Odoh versus Ndi Anambra war. Now that they are done with Odoh, Umahi and his co-travellers who cried wolf in the National stadium during APC Presidential primary in 2022 should wait to cry for more justice without being heard from their Anambra and the rest of their Igbo brothers. For those who were already thinking that Odoh will stall their 2027 and 2031 political ambitions if allowed to last five years as VC, I urge you therefore to weep not for Odoh but for you/ourselves because Anambra and others remain 'Bluebloods'.

And to the rest of the Igbos touting Biafra go, Biafra come, you can peep through the Gaza that we could easily become if the rest of Nigeria decides to let us go our way. We will continue to deceive ourselves in pursuit of shadows while the rest of the Nigeria and the world laugh at our foolishness. Yes, Odoh may down, but if God spared him in all the aforementioned battles, He must have a reason for keeping and sustaining him. Umahi and his cohorts can now send the admission lists, employment quotas, contracts, influence and the rest of the perks and accoutrements that come with the Office of the Vice-Chancellor Nnamdi Azikiwe University through their rich Anambra billionaire contacts to Professor Ikechebelu while Odoh perhaps continues his fight for life's survival amidst heavy burden to make impact in our hopeless and shattered society. For one day, the God of Odoh SHALL ARISE to fight for him his battles and he shall yet fulfill destiny!

Charles Otu , _w _rote, this time as a concerned Public Affairs analyst_ .

By Chubby Mike


....to aide Pro-Wike forces seize Rivers allocation


The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised serious concerns over recent developments in the legal handling of cases involving Rivers State.

The alarm was due to the actions of Justice Barka, the Presiding Judge of the Abuja Court of Appeal, alleged to be involved in a plot to influence decisions unfavorable to Rivers State.

HURIWA has called on the National Judicial Council (NJC), the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), and the President of the Court of Appeal (PCA) to investigate Justice Barka's actions, which the group fears could undermine the financial stability of the state.

The alarm comes amid a series of judicial controversies involving Rivers State.

On November 14, 2024, a special panel was set up to hear appeals concerning the state, with matters scheduled for today’s hearing.

However, on Thursday night, under what HURIWA describes as intense political pressure from forces allegedly linked to loyalists of former Governor Nyesom Wike, the special panel was abruptly disbanded.

The disbandment followed a ruling by the same panel that favored Rivers State, leading to suspicions of external influence to manipulate legal outcomes.

According to HURIWA, Justice Barka, allegedly influenced by powerful political forces, disbanded the panel and reassigned its cases to his direct supervision.

The organization argues that this move jeopardizes the impartiality of the judiciary and raises concerns about undue interference in the state's legal matters, especially those tied to the control of federal allocations.

“This recent development is not occurring in isolation. Just days ago, the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal, led by Justice Onyekachi Otisi, overturned a Federal High Court ruling that had halted the October 5 local government elections in Rivers State.

"The Federal High Court, presided over by Justice Peter Lifu, had initially restrained the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) from conducting the elections, citing jurisdictional issues and restrictions on the use of the 2023 voters’ register.

“However, the Rivers State government contested this decision, arguing that Justice Lifu lacked the authority to preside over state election matters.

"The Court of Appeal agreed, ruling that the Federal High Court had overstepped its bounds, as the relevant sections of the Electoral Act did not apply to state elections. This was seen as a significant legal victory for the Rivers State government, affirming the state's authority over its electoral processes," they said.

In light of these legal victories for Rivers State, HURIWA is troubled by the sudden dissolution of the special panel, especially as it coincides with ongoing financial disputes related to the state's federal allocations.

The organization believes that Justice Barka’s decision to consolidate these matters under his own jurisdiction could compromise the fairness of rulings, potentially disadvantaging the state in its legal struggles.

HURIWA highlighted the significance of maintaining judicial impartiality, particularly in cases that impact a state's financial stability and autonomy. The group fears that if the judiciary is seen as susceptible to political influence, public trust in the legal system will erode, and the rule of law will be compromised.

In response to these developments, HURIWA urged the NJC, the CJN, and the PCA to urgently investigate Justice Barka’s actions.

The organization emphasized the need for an independent and impartial judiciary, free from political pressures that might sway its rulings. HURIWA called for transparency in the handling of Rivers State’s cases, especially those involving the state's financial interests, and insisted that any judge found to be compromised should face disciplinary measures.

“HURIWA stands for a judiciary that is accountable and free from manipulation,” the group stated. “The sudden disbandment of a special panel that was already delivering judgments indicates a worrying trend that needs immediate redress.

These recent judicial actions highlight broader tensions in Rivers State's political and legal landscape. With cases concerning local governance, federal allocations, and party defections, the stakes are high”. HURIWA expressed concern that political actors might be using the judiciary to advance their interests, a development that could have far-reaching consequences for the state's governance and financial health.

The human rights organization underscored the importance of fair legal processes for sustaining Nigeria’s democratic institutions and maintaining public confidence in the rule of law. It stressed that all legal matters should be adjudicated on merit without political interference, particularly when they involve significant financial allocations that could affect the welfare of the state's residents.

HURIWA pledged to monitor the situation closely, mobilizing civil society to ensure transparency and fairness in all judicial proceedings affecting Rivers State. The organization also vowed to work with other advocacy groups to hold the judiciary accountable, protecting the rights and interests of states against any form of external manipulation.

The group called on the judiciary to maintain its independence and resist any pressures that could influence decisions on matters of national importance. According to HURIWA, only an impartial and independent judiciary can ensure the fair distribution of resources and uphold the democratic values that are fundamental to Nigeria's unity.

Conclusively, HURIWA’s leadership reiterated its dedication to advocating for justice and transparency, urging the NJC, CJN, and PCA to take decisive action to protect the rule of law in Nigeria. The organization warned that any attempts to manipulate judicial outcomes not only damage the credibility of the judiciary but also threaten the stability and progress of Nigeria's democracy.

Rivers: Lawyers call on Appeal Court President to stop Justice Barka injustice

Lawyers in Defence Of Democracy, has called on the President of Appeal Court, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem to stop the Presiding Judge of Appeal Court, Abuja, Justice Hamma Barka's plot to sit today over a matter that is before a special panel, looking into the political cases from Rivers State.



The group of lawyers in a statement signed by Okere Kingdom wondered while Justice curiously wanted to sit over the matter after President of Appeal Court, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem raised a panel to entertain the legal tussles.



According to them, there has been escalating legal tussles as a result of the face-off between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, who is the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.



They noted that the crisis fueled by Wike antics culminated into an upsurge of legal acrobatics from Rivers that created factions among political actors which resulted in conflicting judgments from courts of the same jurisdictions, putting the judiciary into public opprobrium.



"In a bid to streamline the resolution of these disputes, the Court of Appeal President Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem constituted a special panel to oversee all appeals related to the political crisis in Rivers.


"The panel, headed by Justice Onyekachi Otisi which has Justices Misitura Bokaji-Yusuf and James Abundaga, is saddled with the responsibility to tackle these cases that involved key political actors and factions in Rivers State.


"We are aware that the special panel was set up to hear the Appeal on the case by the pro-Wike group to seize Rivers allocation, the sack lawmakers and allegations of bias against Justice Barka, an acolyte of the Minister of FCT who has been instrumental to his judicial rascality in issues involving Rivers State.


"The President of Appeal Court, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, a respected jurist has her reputation at stake if she allows Justice Barka, her supposed subordinate to torpedo the integrity she has built over the years.


"We as Lawyers In Defence Of Democracy are worried by this ugly trend and called on the President of Appeal Court, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem to rise up to the defence of herself, the integrity of the judiciary and Nigerian democracy by calling Barka to order.



"In a nutshell, she should stop the Justice Hamma Barka's plot to sit today over a matter that is before the special panel she set up and recommend him for sanctions for attempted insubordination and rape of the judiciary, the last hope of a common man.

Rivers: Lawmakers urge NJC, Appeal Court President to call Justice Barka to order






The Opposition Lawmakers Coalition in Nigeria has raised alarm over alleged plot by Justice Barka PJ Appeal Court Division to return back to preside over a matter by the Pro Wike group already transferred to a special panel.

Recall that Rivers State Government last month appealed the Federal High Court, Abuja’s judgment which retrained the Central Bank of Nigeria from further releasing allocations from the federation account to the state. Ruling on the matter is set for today.

However, the opposition Coalition in a statement by its spokesperson, Hon Ikenga Ugochinyere stated that they have credible intelligence and evidence that Justice Barka will preside over the session today.

According to him, Barka had earlier in open court recused himself from Appeals involving Rivers State., wondering why he has all of a sudden decided to preside the matter now.

Ugochinyere said, "A special panel was constituted to hear appeals concerning Rivers State. The below appeals came before the special panel last Thursday, 14th November 2024, and were adjourned to tomorrow for hearing. Also, the APC defection case was adjourned to 24th January 2025. After today's judgment by the Special Panel, under intense pressure from Wike, the Special Panel has been disbanded by the President of the Court of Appeal.

"CA/1277/2024, CA/1303/2024, CA/1293/2024, CA/ABJ/1287/2024....All this cases has now been consolidated into this - CA/1196/2024. Hon Justice Barka, Hon Justice Bonjoko, Hon Justice Obiora."

The Lawmakers called on the National Judicial Council, NJC to call him to order, adding that any judgement in favour of seizing the Rivers State allocation is an unenforceable height of judicial rascality, invitation to anarchy.

"Like I said before, the pro-Wike group and the Federal High Court Abuja have shown that they are anarchist and anti-people and warming up to ignite anger and confusion that can consume the current democratic settings like the shameful criss of the 60s and 80s.

The president is now going to be at the receiving end if anything happens to the funds of people of Rivers State President Tinubu should remember that his government in Lagos secured the Supreme Court judgement during his fight with Obasanjo, which barred the seizure of LGA allocation , so he doesn't need to be reminded on what to do in the face of these manifest desire for constitutional anarchy by his appointees.

"Justice Barka had earlier in open court recused himself from Appeals involving Rivers State., we wonder why he has all of a sudden decided to preside the matter now? There can only be one reason. We are calling on the National Judicial Council, NJC to him to order, adding that any judgement in favour of seizing the Rivers State allocation is an unenforceable height of judicial rascality, invitation to anarchy."

Enugu Council Boss, Odo begins construction of 16.5KM road within one month in office


The chairman of Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area, Dr. Eric Odo has flagged-off the construction of the 16.5KM Umuoka – Nkporogwu Ukehe – Ngele Okwete – Ugwuogo Nike Road.

Odo also flagged-off the opening of all motorable roads in all the 20 electoral wards of Igbo-Etiti LGA.

The council chairman stated this on Wednesday while briefing journalists during the flag-off in Eke-Achara, Ukehe.

He noted that construction of the Umuoka road would make it more easier for people to access the LGA and open it up for more business opportunities.

According to him, the road will be solarised with streetlights as a way of beefing up security alone the road and has 90 days completion deadline.

“The road traverses three local government areas of Udi, Igbo-Etiti and Enugu-East.

“This road will make it easier for our people to bring out their agricultural produce, which has been their worries.

“It is not only a legacy project, but it will wipe away tears of our people who have long suffered.

“The road will end the problem of kidnapping and other insecurity disturbing our people.

“This is part of our achievement in office in the last one month. This implies that we have a lot of developmental programmes for people of Igbo-Etiti”, he noted.

Odo hinted that aside the Umuoka road, all access roads in the council area would receive adequate attention, in order to make them accessible, pointing out that it is the cardinal agenda of his administration.

He assured the people that his administration would not abandon the project, as funds needed to complete the Umuoka and others roads are readily available.

“There will be nothing like abandoned project because all needed resources has been mobilised for it.

“The Umuoka – Nkporogwu Ukehe – Ngele Okwete – Ugwuogo Nike road will be completed within 90 days, that is three months.

“It has three culverts, and we are sure that the contractors will do a good job on that road because of its economic benefit for our people.

“We are going to get the support of the state government in tarring it. We are hopeful that Gov. Peter Mbah, after seeing what we are doing, will support us.

But the support does not come, we will take the bull by the horn and tar the road gradually till we finish it”, Igbo-Etiti Council boss added.


On his part, the Project Manager of the Architrite & Partner Ltd. Mr Jimon Oluwatosin, said the company would deliver a quality road before the three-months deadline.

Oluwatosin maintained that the company would ensure that the LGA have value for the money spent on the road and other roads the firm would handle.

Also, the deputy speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Mr Ezenta Ezeani, congratulated the council chairman for embarking on such project.

This, Ezeani emphasised, demonstrate the passion of Odo to ensure that the people enjoy the dividend of good governance, urging him not to relent on his oars.

The flag-off was attended by many dignitaries, including government officials, women groups, community leaders and religious leaders.

Civil society organizations on the platform of the Green the Red project have decried poor budget performance in the Ebonyi State health and education sector within the third quarter of the year 2024.

The focal person of the clusters, Mr. Oliver Chima Ajah, who gave the disclosure during a media briefing held on Monday in Abakaliki, the state capital, said government spending must be traceable to budget before it could be counted as performance for the state.

He pointed out that the Ebonyi state government has not fulfilled its obligation of allocating a 15% budget to the health sector, following the 2001 Abuja declaration, nor reached the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recommendation for a 26% budget for education.

"Again, budget performances over the years are poor across social sectors, for instance in 2022, the Ministry of Health achieved only 0.2'% annual capital budget releases,

"EBSPHCDA and others had 0% capital budget performances in 2022. As of September 2024, the Ministry of Health has 5.6%, EBSHIA 8.8%, and EBSPHCDA others 0%.

"This shows that none of the health sector MDAs had a pass mark, as cach MDAs are supposed to achieve at least 75% by the third quarter and 100% by December 2024.


"We recognize and commend the government for all ongoing projects; however, such Spending should be traceable to the budget before it can be counted as performance for the state." Ajah explained

He maintained that since the current administration has prioritized education and health as first and second, respectively, in its people's charter of needs mantra, it should be demonstrated through adequate funding.

Mr. Ajah called on the Ebonyi state government to prioritize items in the budget for all expenditures in the state and show commitment to support in achieving 70% budget release for social sectors by the end of 2024.

"All social sector-related expenditures should be drawn from the approved budget; they should make social sector budget releases an agenda of the State Executive Council meetings.

"Heads of MDAs to commit to writing fundable memos for consideration at Exco meetings
We therefore call on the media to make personal commitment(s) to support achieving the Green-The-Red project objectives.

"Publicize and publish issues of poor social sector budget releases in both print and electronic media and join hands in advocating for budgetary releases in social sectors." He stated.

Gov. Nwifuru is leading Ebonyi people to Golgotha: The Residents in endangered (part 1)


According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) Ebonyi State has the highest poverty ratio in Southern Nigeria with a staggering 80% of its close to 4 million estimated population classified as living in poverty.

According to data sourced from the office of the Debt Management Office (DMO), Abuja as published on their website, Ebonyi State is one highest indebted state in Nigeria.
According to DMO data, as at June 30, 2024 Ebonyi State is owing external debt of $92, 655,060.01 or N157 billion.

Ebonyi State cumulative internal debt stands at over N70 billion that is aside from various commitments to some other domestic financial institution.

In a June 6, 2023 published by Punch newspaper, of the 10 poorest states in Nigeria, Ebonyi State is the second most indebted state internally with its debt standing at a whopping N76.5 billion second only to Bayelsa State, an oil producing state.

Yet between May 29, 2023 and today more people in Ebonyi State have since dropped deeper in excruciating poverty.
In fact, a walk on the now dirty and unkept streets of Abakaliki clearly shows countless evidenced of the grim reality facing Ndi Ebonyi today.

An unfortunate fact is that Ebonyi State under the command of Hon. Ogbonnaya Nwifuru is currently bleeding, hemorrhaging and lives of the people are thinning out in droves due to hunger and poverty. Ebonyi State today is seemingly directionless.

Since May 29, 2023 when Mr. Nwifuru took over office as the governor, the state has suddenly taken a nose-dive in all possible parameters of assessment.

From the economy, infrastructure, education, health services, environment, human capital development and sanitation there is hardly any visible plan to extricate the people of the state from the stranglehold of poverty, disease, ignorance and mass starvation.

THE SANTA CLAUS OF EBONYI
Just when a strategic thinking and innovative planning are required to save the state from the deep abyss it has been thrown over the years, Governor Francis Nwifuru has rather become a Santa Claus with Ebonyi State’s meagre resources.

In the last one year, the Governor has been on a spending spree with Ebonyi State public funds and these funds are being spent on things that have zero effect in improving the lives of the people and residents of the state.

Upon assumption of office, Governor Ogbonnaya Nwifuru embarked on the most bizarre spending spree, splashing over N10 billion to purchase bullet-proof vehicles for himself, his wife, the Chief Judge of the state and the Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly.

In a widely published, though laughable justification for such a wasteful spending, Governor Nwifuru in November 2023 while hosting the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi in Abakaliki said that he made the spent the humongous amounts to buy bullet-proof vehicles because he wants to show that the three arms of the government were equals!
Here him:

“The legislature and judiciary deliver dividends of democracy to the people more than the executive arm, though people might say this view is because I come from the legislative arm.

“I cannot remember, as a governor, when last I reached my local government area chairman or village head, but legislators are in steady contact with these people,” he said.
“These criminals work for politicians, and judges have sleepless nights trying to sentence them on conviction.

“When these criminals regain freedom through the prerogative of mercy, you will discover that the judges are at risk when these criminals meet them on the road.”

Whereas, there is the only the three arms of the government can be equal is only when all the arms are allowed function in line with their constitutional powers including allowing their fiscal autonomy.

The constitution does in any way give power to head of one arm to become a “boss” or benefactor of other arms of the government. The constitution provides that head of the three arms of the government take proper charge of the affairs of each arm in line with laid down rules.

EBONYI SUV BAZAAR
On Saturday July 6, 2024, Governor Nwifuru in an unprecedented practice announced the donation of 14 brand new SUVs to newly ordained Catholic priests at St John’s Catholic Church, Ogoja Road, Abakaliki. The cost of the SUVs runs into billions of taxpayers’ money. Earlier in 2023, the governor had donated another set of five brand new cars to another set of Catholic Priests.

As if the profligate bazaar with Ebonyi State Public meagre allocation is not enough, just recently, in October 2024, Governor Nwifuru doled out Prado Jeeps to members of the National Assembly from Ebonyi State, the jeeps are valued at over N2 billion.

This is despite the fact that all Federal Lawmakers already received their vehicle allocations from National Assembly management. Even very rich states like Rivers, Delta, Akwa Ibom, Lagos, Edo, Oyo, Kano etc. have never engaged in such wasteful spending of their state allocation.

Governor Nwifuru donates cars at will to individuals at the expense of the people of Ebonyi State. Our governor is now ‘Oji Moto eme ogo’ at the expense of the suffering people of the state.

CHUBA OKADIGBO CARGO AIRPORT, ONUEKE
Perhaps the most astonishing show of profligacy amidst excruciating poverty and hunger is the wasteful spending of Ebonyi State Resources on the Chuba Okadigbo Airport, Onueke at the slightest snap of finger.
Recall that the Airport was inaugurated on May 26, 2023 by then President Muhammadu Buhari, However, by September 2023, Governor Nwifuru announced that he had awarded a N13 billion contract, already information emanating from government sources indicate that close to N20 billion for the rehabilitation of a three-month old runway!

This is aside the fact that just four months earlier in April 2023, then Governor David Umahi announced that Ebonyi State Government spent 36 billion to build the airport, unofficial reports be over N42 billion).
Despite these humongous amounts that were said to have been spent in building the airport, on Friday November 15, 2024 Governor Nwifuru again rolled out the drums to commission yet again, the runway of Chuba Okadigbo Airport!

This time, Governor Nwifuru invited the wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu who came to Abakaliki with a retinue of other first ladies and top government functionaries and with that visit yet another set of billions of Ebonyi State allocation have been spent on duplicitous re-commissioning of a runway that is barely one year old.

Airports are economically strategic investments that are planned and backed up with data of return on investment (ROI), but since the Chuba Okadigbo Airport was constructed, no kobo has been generated for Ebonyi State and there is no plan anywhere on how the airport can become economically viable.

COMATOSE BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT IN EBONYI

In this last one year and half, no new business has sprung up anywhere in Abakaliki, not one and not in any part of Ebonyi State.
The only business is Governor Nwifuru’s endless political appointments, they just keep coming, yet the government activities remain in doldrums.

While the Governor is busy displacing people in Abakaliki the state capital, Ebonyi rural economy has since gone belly up. Business activities have been grounded to a halt in Abakaliki as thugs have now been unleashed on the residents as all manner of taskforce and government policy enforcers and revenue collectors.

They are the only employments the government seem to be happily creating as they are seen on all corners wielding nail-laden sticks, ready to pounce on already tired Okada riders and Keke operators.

For instance, businesses and families have been grounded to a halt in the most popular street in the state capital, Ogoja road. Under the guise of building a flyover bridge in the heart of a town that has more of motorcycles and Tricycles, thriving businesses have been dislocated while continuous threats to do the same on Water Works road remain a nightmare for the residents.

Just like the last administration displaced business people in Abakpa Market and today the place lies fallow, traders at the Abakaliki International Market are already abandoning their shops in favour of trading in their private house due to the activities of government revenue officers and other government officials that are taxing businesses to death. In fact, Abakaliki is becoming a desolate capital.

TRANSPORTATION

Ebonyi State has become the hardest place to do business in Nigeria because business activities shut down in Abakaliki as early as 6pm due to harassment of residents by government vigilante group and activities of police operatives who have been unleashed on hapless residents.

Ebonyi State is the only state in southern Nigeria that has no transport policy or system, yet the residents by 6pm are outlawed from moving around. There is no viable bus service, no taxi service, yet motorcycles the only means that an average resident can afford is not allowed to move and thrive in the state, even in villages.

Sanitation and environmental protection
Abakaliki, the capital of Ebonyi State is today adorned strategically by heaps of refuse, every corner of the town is overrun by garbage heaps. While the World Bank funded canal channelization has been overrun by shrubs. The channels have become a harbinger of diseases as it has become a massive hatchery for mosquitoes, reptiles, rats and other diseas vectors.

Abakaliki is already fact reverting to the old days of the “DUST of the nation.” In the name of road construction, the roads have even become death-traps.

Even with the recruitment of medical officers and other health workers into the state ministry of health, the General Hospitals remain just a transition to mortuary as there are no basic equipment and consumable to care for the health needs of the people.
In the area of Water, Ebonyi State remains dependent of private impurities-laden boreholes and pure water produced in Enugu State.

We challenge Governor Nwifuru to show clear direction of his government as Ebonyi State is currently on intensive care unit as far as governance is concerned. Ebonyi State is bleeding from all sides and the future of the state now hangs in the balance.

Anyi’ Ga Emeya Movement

....the party is making wave to do much better in future elections in Nigeria

Party here to Stay----National Chairman

The Action Peoples Party (APP) has won a councillorship seat in the just concluded Jigawa local government polls after its historic outing in Rivers state.

This victory is coming just after the party's good outing in Rivers State last month during which APP won 22 chairmanship positions out of 23 in the Rivers and 314 councillorship seats out of 317.

The announcement was made by Hon. Auwalu Muhammad Harbo, Chairman of the Jigawa State Independent Electoral Commission.

In the certificate of return dated 6th October, 2024, the commission declared Usman Alhaji Ali of APP the duly elected councilor for Buntusu ward of Gwiwa local government area.

Reacting to the victory, the National Chairman of the party, Barr. Uchenna Nnadi expressed his gratitude to Gwiwa local government indigenes for believing in the party, assuring them that their councilor will provide quality leadership.

He stated that with the current victory and the landslide victory they had in Rivers is proof that the Action People's Party, APP is here to stay.

The Chairman expressed confidence that with its current performance, the party will do better in different regions during future elections.

Nnadi said, "Once again I'm happy and elated about our party's victory in the just concluded Jigawa State Local Government election. I thank Jigawa people and all party faithfuls for believing in our party.

"We are steadily moving forward, I'm optimistic that officials elected under our great party will perform well and deliver the dividends of democracy to the people. I'm equally optimistic that with this current victory in Jigawa and the landslide victory we had in Rivers State, the Action People's Party, APP is here to stay and the party will do better in different regions during future elections.

"I congratulate the winners, and urge all party stakeholders to work together. When we are united, we can be stronger across all regions."

The Federal High Court sitting in Abakaliki, Ebonyi capital on Monday, nullified the current ward, council and state congress of the Peoples' Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

The Court also restrained Indepedent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the sencod Defendant in the Suit from recognising any of the officers purportedly elected from the void and nullified congresses.

The judgement was followed in a suit No. FHC/ AI/CS/183/2024 between: Nnenna Lynda Udeh & 12 others versus PDP.

Our correspondent recalls that some stakeholders of the party had on Nov. 2 conducted a congress and elected Mr Peter Nwele as newly Chairman of the party in the state.

The Presiding Judge, Justice Hilary Oshomah in his ruling, said the Congress was void, unconstitutional and of no effect.

Oshomah, therefore nullified the congresses and ordered that the executives elected during the congress should cease from presenting themselves as the State Executive Working Committee.

"The congress of the PDP in the state in now nullified for being void, unconstitutional and of no effect whatsoever," the Judge stated.

Dr Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii, Chairman, :Orient Global Group has said that Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, the pioneer civilian governor of Abia State and immediate past Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology was a "patriotic leader" in the Nigeria politics before he died.

Odii, former Gunernatorial candidate of the Peoples' Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi for the 2023 general elections, made the remark in Uburu Community, Ohaozara local government area of Ebonyi during a burial ceremony of Onu, who died on April 11, 2024 at age of 72.

"Dr Onu was a quintessential scholar, academician, politician and a patriotic leader. He was also a prolific writer and purveyor of knowledge.

"As the first Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Onu’s patriotism and selflessness manifested as he tenaciously laid solid foundation for the development and progress of Abia State, even today the indelible marks of his footprints remain bold on the infrastructural foundations and the body politic of the God’s Own State.

"A renown democrat, the sacrifice he made ahead of Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999 when he patriotically, without bitterness relinquished his presidential ticket in favour of Chief Olu Falae stands tall till eternity.

"Onu redefined politics-without-bitterness, he stood for ideologically driven politics, he was a steadfast politician who was never driven by pecuniary gains, but a man ruled by a strong principle of integrity and honesty.

"Perhaps, he was one Nigerian politician that never believed in defection, irrespective of the attractions.

"While he served as the longest ever minister of the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya exemplified service to country, he was never controversial, he was never accused of any form of malfeasance, neither the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) nor the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) ever featured Dr. Onu’s name in their bulletin- he was that trusted, he was that honest!

"It is very unfortunate that just when Nigeria needed the most, leaders in the hue of Dr. Ogbonnaya is when we lost this great statesman, but then he has done his work and his maker has called him home.

"Dr. Onu excelled, he lived a fulfilled life, a life that impacted humanity positively and a life that people are proud to be associated with.

"As an Ohaozara man, as an Ebonyian, Igbo and generally as a Nigerian we will mourn his loss, but much more, we will celebrate him for he did us proud while he lived.
Jee Nke oma Okpeennem!
Adieu to a great man

Chief Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii, FHL.

The chairman of the Abakaliki rice mill industry, comrade Obeji Linus, has extolled Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru on his various human and capital development initiatives and described them as a replication of Chief Obafemi Awolowo's educational program, which created mass literacy in the South West Nigeria in 1958.

Obeji, who made the assertion while commending Governor Nwifuru for empowering 200 youths from Ebonyi State with agricultural skills in various food production areas such as poultry and fishery, among others, from the CSS Global Integrated farms in Nasarawa State, said it would create positive impacts in the state.

"Indeed, I will continue to say that the Governor's intervention in human and capital development is worth appreciating and commending because this is a replicate of what Awolowo did in the South West.

"Chief Obafemi Awolowo led a free education program in the Western region in 1955 to expand education to all in the region, and the number of primary schools more than doubled in the region by 1958.

"Without fear of contradiction, by virtue of his capital, human development agenda, based on his people's charter of needs, the achievement and effects are going to be monumental," Obeji said.

He further expressed confidence that the governor's people's charter of needs agenda that has continued to focus on human development would keep the youths away from crime and other social vices and be more productive for the betterment of society.

"What this means is that, when these youths engage their strength into action, they will not have the time to engage in crime or any social vices. They are definitely going to have positive impacts on their immediate families and the entire society; therefore, it is highly commendable.

"We appreciate His Excellency, RT Hon Builder Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, because with the way he is going, Ebonyi State would be ranked number 1 in human development." He added.

The rice mill boss commended the governor's good gestures in education, employment, and other business empowerment programs initiated over the few periods of his administration, as well as the approved 75,000 naira minimum wage increase.

"His achievements in these areas are highly monumental; in the areas of the worker's minimum wage, he made Ebonyians happy by approving 75,000 naira for an average civil servant in the state."

He maintained that the peaceful state of Ebonyi communities in this administration would not be made possible if not for the various human and capital development initiated by Governor Nwifuru.

"He is attending to the need of everyone in the state; the people were hungry, but he has come to give us succour, and we pray that the Lord continue to protect him, increase him, and enlarge him."

Obeji equally charged the trainees to utilize the opportunity by deploying the knowledge they acquired into better use to benefit their lives, immediate families, and the state.

ALTERNATEID:
Absolute nonsense. There is nothing wrong with the judgement stopping release of further allocation to Rivers. Any reasonable right movement should be urging the governor to obey court judgement and nothing else.

Ur opinion no matter

Human Rights advocate ban on Judges over “politically motivated” judgements destabilizing Rivers



The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has issued a strong condemnation of recent Federal High Court judgments, calling for visa restrictions on judges allegedly involved in issuing rulings perceived as politically motivated and destabilizing for Rivers State.

The group cited recent judgments halting federal allocations to the state as alarming, calling for international embassies, including those of the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union, to impose travel restrictions on judges like Chief Judge John Tsoho, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, Justice Peter Lifu, Justice Omotosho, Justice Okorowo, and Justice Emeka Nwite.

HURIWA’s statement follows Justice Abdulmalik’s controversial ruling to halt financial allocations to Rivers State, which HURIWA equates to a “constitutional coup” that disrupts Nigeria’s democracy.

They argued that such judgements are reminiscent of previous politically charged decisions, such as the Imo State governorship verdict that led to a visa ban on Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun (now the Chief Justice of Nigeria).

This recent ruling, according to HURIWA, effectively disregards a longstanding Supreme Court principle affirming that statutory allocations to states cannot be withheld by federal authorities. HURIWA insisted that the judgement violates established legal precedence, putting Rivers State and Governor Siminalayi Fubara's administration at risk of political destabilization.

The lawsuit, initiated by a faction within the Rivers State House of Assembly loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike, claims the power to halt funds distribution within the state.

HURIWA views this as a strategic attempt to undermine Governor Fubara’s administration through judicial means. According to HURIWA, such “partisan” judgements blatantly contradict principles of judicial impartiality, as the judiciary should uphold constitutional protections rather than favor specific political agendas.

HURIWA’s appeal also included reference to notable human rights lawyer Professor Chidi Odinkalu, who echoed similar sentiments in response to Justice Abdulmalik's ruling. In his public reaction, Odinkalu stated that the ruling overturns a precedent set by the Supreme Court, describing the judgement as a form of judicial tyranny that dismisses the rule of law. “Today, a judge of @FederalHigh overruled the Supreme Court. This is not #RuleOfLaw; it is tyranny of the #Outlaw,” Odinkalu tweeted, underscoring the dangerous precedent this decision establishes.

In addition to Justice Abdulmalik, HURIWA highlighted several other recent rulings by Federal High Court judges that it considers constitutionally questionable. The group pointed to Justice Lifu’s recent decision regarding Rivers State Local Government elections, where he ruled that the Electoral Act, rather than state electoral laws, governs Local Government elections.

HURIWA, alongside constitutional lawyers, expressed concern that this judgement could endanger the legality of local elections already conducted in states such as Kwara, Anambra, and Imo, which had relied on State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC) laws. If upheld, the judgement would also challenge the authority of SIEC to conduct local elections, placing upcoming polls across multiple states in jeopardy.

They criticized Justice Lifu for repeatedly issuing judgements favoring factions loyal to political figures and for delivering contradictory rulings that create legal uncertainty. In an earlier case, Justice Lifu ruled that party decampment is a pre-election matter, thus benefiting those described as pro-Wike faction in Rivers State.

HURIWA contended that this interpretation conflicts with existing party constitutions, such as the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in sections 45, 47, which stipulates that an acting chairman must be temporarily appointed only until a substantive officer from the zone of the former occupant assumes the role. Such rulings, HURIWA argues, reflect blatant disregard for party protocols and constitutional guidelines.

Moreover, HURIWA noted that Justice Okorowo previously issued an injunction declaring that Rivers lawmakers’ seats should not be vacated, a ruling upon which Justice Lifu then based his order allowing certain lawmakers to maintain their positions.

Recently, however, the lawmakers chose to withdraw the case from Justice Okorowo’s court, yet Justice Lifu’s rulings continued to rely on the withdrawn case. HURIWA called this a “disturbing misuse of the judiciary” that undermines the stability of Rivers State and allows personal or partisan interests to influence judicial outcomes.

HURIWA emphasized the potential for civil unrest if financial allocations are withheld from Rivers State, as groups within the region have reportedly issued warnings threatening to disrupt critical infrastructure, including oil pipelines, in retaliation.

The group stressed that the court’s ruling aggravates existing tensions and could incite further instability in the region. “The judgement issued is like dousing the flames of political discord in Rivers State with gasoline, in what appears to be a deliberate push toward civil instability,” HURIWA stated. “Justice Abdulmalik’s decision delegitimizes the duly elected administration of Governor Fubara, and as such, is unconstitutional and akin to a plot to forcefully remove the governor without due process.”

In response, HURIWA appealed to Chief Justice Kekere-Ekun, urging her to restore integrity within Nigeria’s judicial system. HURIWA warned that the credibility of the judiciary is at stake, as these repeated instances of perceived bias in high-profile cases erode public trust in the rule of law. “The Nigerian judiciary is in jeopardy as these rulings reflect a disturbing pattern of bias in political disputes. If this persists, Nigerians may begin to question the value of seeking legal recourse, potentially leading to societal chaos,” HURIWA stated.

Concluding its statement, HURIWA warned that the judiciary must act quickly to address these incidents of alleged misconduct to prevent the erosion of Nigeria's democratic framework.

HURIWA vowed to pursue sanctions on any judge whose rulings compromise Nigeria’s democratic principles, emphasizing that Justice Abdulmalik’s order represents a dangerous encroachment on the powers vested in elected officials. "It is crucial that the CJN and the National Judicial Council take corrective measures to prevent further damage to Nigeria’s judicial image,” the group stated. *Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, National Coordinator, HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (HURIWA). October 31st, 2024.

Nobody will stop Rivers Allocation, judgement is unenforceable----Opposition Lawmakers Coalition




The Opposition Lawmakers Coalition in Nigeria on Wednesday said the judgment to seize Rivers State allocation is an unenforceable height of judicial rascality, invitation to anarchy to the state.

The Lawmakers stated that nobody would stop the Allocation.

They decried the way Judge deliberately gave the judgment to seize RIvers Allocation despite knowing that there are pending cases on the legitimacy of the decamped Lawmakers.

...It's prejudicial to deliver Judgment for seizure of State Allocation when the Appeal Court/Supreme court have not decided on the legitimacy of the sacked pro-Wike Lawmakers, the Opposition Lawmakers Coalition added.

..The order for Rivers State allocation to be seized despite the issues been subject of an ongoing appeal, is a mockery of constitutional democracy, unenforceable and an invitation to anarchy - Opposition Lawmakers Coalition

..It's judicial rasacality to issue orders to seize Rivers State Allocation over issues that are pending at the Appeal Court. Judgement appealed, orders unenforceable - Opposition Lawmakers Coalition

..The order to seize Rivers Allocation is not enforceable as matters are still in Appeal Court. It's time for NJC to discipline Justice Abdulmalik- Opposition Lawmakers Coalition

The Opposition Lawmakers Coalition in Nigeria have described it as a height of judicial rascality, for the Abuja division of the Federal High Court presided over by Justice Abdulmalik Joyce to issue orders for the seizure of the Statutory State Allocation, when the issues involved and surrounding the decamped pro wike sacked lawmkers legitimacy are still pending at the Appeal Court and Supreme Court.

The Opposition Coalition declared the judgment as a legal coup against the likely outcome of pending appeals at the Court of Appeal and Supreme court on the same subject matter. It is unenforceable and an attempt to unleash constitutional anarchy against a Federating State and independent branch of government that have constitutional responsibility to the people.

The Opposition Coalition in a media conference by its National Spokesperson Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere described the judgment as a clear evidence that the Federal High Court have gone out of control and willing to do anything to favour the undemocratic interest of Wike's groups to the extent of attempting to seize constitutional funds of a sovereign people in pursuit of political interest of one man.

How can a judge who knows very well that the decamped lawmakers have lost their seats, still go ahead to order for the allocation to be seized in favour of those who have lost their seat while the issues are pending at different courts on whether they should be parading as Lawmakers.

You want to use the Federal High Court to undermine democracy and constitutional governance. The issue of legality of their decampment is still in court and you are rushing to order that budget be presented to them as who?

The opposition lawmakers said that the decision of Justice Abdulmalik Joyce and Chief Justice of the Federal High Court John Toso to proceed with the case despite pending petition against the clear evidence of bias against them shows that there is more to the case than meets the ordinary eye. How can petition of bias and evidence be presented before you and you still proceeded.

How can you be aware that all the subject matters are before the Appeal Court and Supreme Court and you still went ahead to attempt to do harm and damage to innocent tax paying people of Rivers who did nothing.

The Supreme Court have ruled on the sanctity of the LGA and State allocation as a sovereign wealth of the people that can't be seized as such funds are constitutional and can only be spent on the authority of that State or LGA. If the head of the state or LGA is not spending it well or spending it without necessary compliance with laid down regulations, the constitution gives you power to impeach such officer, if you have the numbers and legitimacy. So because the pro-Wike group know they have lost the legitimacy to be called lawmakers or perform legislative functions, they now rushed to court to use the court to attempt to carry out a financial coup against the Rivers people.

So after generating Oil revenue from the backyard of Rivers People, other states will take tbeir own share home and the people that produced the revenue will starve to death because the Federal High Court wants to please the Pro Wike Group , and you think this will bring peace to Niger Delta? The allocation is not a political fund or money meant for Gov. Fubara but official revenue of the entire people that covers their economic , health, security and welfare needs.

Imagine a worker being denied his salary or monthly earning after working for 30 days, imagine oxygen been switched off from hospitals because one man wants to rain down anarchy and constitutional crisis just to attempt to capture the wealth of the people which does not belong to him by using Federal High Court to overthrow the express provisions of the Constitution by attempting to seize their constitutional revenue.

The pro-Wike group and the Federal High Court Abuja have shown that they are anarchist and anti-people and warming up to ignite anger and confusion that can consume the current democratic settings like the shameful criss of the 60s and 80s.

The president is now going to be at the receiving end if anything happens to the funds of people of Rivers State. President Tinubu should remember that his government in Lagos secured the Supreme Court judgement during his fight with Obasanjo, which barred the seizure of LGA allocation , so he doesn't need to be reminded on what to do in the face of these manifest desire for constitutional anarchy by his appointees.

The opposition not only condemning the judgement which rubbished the Supreme Court exiting judgement that barrs the federal government or any organ of the federal government from seizing any State or LGA allocation but will do everything legally and humanly possible to ensure that the controversial ruling is quashed.

We have been informed that an appeal has been lodged against this anti-people judgement which is an invitation to anarchy.

The opposition calls on Rivers people, workers and citizens to mobilise for a day of protest against the ongoing agenda to use the Federal High Court Abuja and selected judges to create constitutional crisis in Rivers State . Warning that the dark days of the 60s and 80s are been prepared by these actions of political desperadoes and their friends at the Federal High Court, have now reached a boiling point that the Rivers and Nigerian people will rise up and reject vehemently.

Rivers State is the treasure base of the nation and you can't embark on a journey to starve the people and think peace can be maintained in such an atmosphere of anarchy.

Opposition is hopeful that upper courts will quash and throw into the Judicial dustbin these pro-Wike judgments which have become a huge embarrassment to the judiciary today and increased our people's loss of confidence in the judiciary.

We wish to urge the people to stand firm and rally together to end all these Political madness aimed at burning down Rivers State.

Stop plan to seize Rivers Allocation to favour Pro Wike, Opposition Lawmakers tell FHC




Nigeria's Opposition Lawmakers Coalition have spoken out over the impending Constitutional anarchy that is looming with the plot by Federal High Court, Abuja and the Pro Nyesom Wike group to seize Rivers State Allocation despite pending cases at Appeal and Supreme Court.

According to the Coalition, the Pro Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT's group intends to use the Federal High Court presided over by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik to destabilise Rivers State by seizing local government allocations to make governance at the third tier of the oil rich state comatose.

The opposition lawmakers in a statement asked the Chief Judge of Federal High Court, John Tsoho and other Judges, especially Justice Joyce Obehi Abdulmalik to halt the clandestine move to use the court to seize Rivers Allocation in favour of Pro Wike group.

They said that such action would destabilise constitutional governance and illegally hijact the statutory revenue of a people that is secured by the constitution.

In a statement by its Spokesperson, Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, the coalition said they had received credible intelligence over plots by Wike and his cohorts to connive with the High Court to perpetrate the evil against democracy and people of the oil rich state.

He said; "We are receiving intelligence that The ProWike group has perfected their move to use the Federal High Court to seize the statutory sovereign constitutional revenue of Rivers State and they are going to ensure that the matter is heard and concluded today and judgement delivered in days .

"Nigerians are watching, this is the people’s federal high court, it’s not the private property of anyone. Judges will come and go but it’s an institution that people must have confidence in.

"It’s about the confidence and belief that justice has been done. Is this what justice Tsoho wants to be remembered for? A Federal High Court of Wike Interest? Are we now going to elevate building of Houses for Judges above manifest issues of Justice and Public Good?

If the sacked lawmakers have not lost their seat by decampment they should have used their powers if they feel the Governor is not doing the right thing not to run to court room and use the court to legislate or perform legislative functions .

There is no provision for seizing statutory public funds because the funds are for constitutional purposes. I want lawyers to speak up, your institution is under attack!! We can’t because of one man’s selfishness interest and reduce our institution!

"You want to seize the statutory revenue of an arm of government? So what will happen to teachers , students , salaries, hospital, drugs , security, welfare of the people? The Court have no such powers , they want to throw that state into anarchy and burn it to the ground, and you want Nigerians to clap for you.

NJC must review all these rulings on Rivers, it’s becoming embarrassing!"

“The people of Rivers State have elected their council chairman and councillors in line with the recent ruling of the Supreme Court to democratize all LGAs in Nigeria and any attempt to truncate democracy in Rivers would be resisted by the people. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu can not afford to fold his arms and watch as Wike group plots to reverse democracy in Rivers State and undermine the peace and stability of the country."

Dr. Rebecca Omokamo Godwin-Isaac, esteemed Chief Executive Officer of Homadil Realty Ltd urged women to shun emotional barriers such as jealousy, envy, and entitlement mentality that hinder collective progress and individual growth.

Speaking as a keynote guest at the International Women Power Conference 2024 in Abuja, themed "The Resilient Woman," she delivered a powerful message on resilience and its role in women’s success stories.

She identified jealousy, envy as retrogressive attributes capable of retarding progress of women.

"Envy, though quieter, is just as dangerous. It grows in the shadows, as we compare ourselves to others feeling inadequate in the face of their achievements.

"Envy is the name of confidence, it makes us to question our worth, blinding us to our own strengths and what we have to offer.

"Jealousy creeps in when we see others succeed and feel that their victory somehow diminishes our worth, we feel threatened instead of inspired.

"But Jealousy is a thief - it steals our focus, our energy, and our potential to uplift one another," she said.

The Homadil CEO who vehemently condemned all emotional traps like, jealousy, envy and entitlement mentality, said that they are subtle destroyers.

According to her, they divide us, weaken our bonds as women, and distract us from the real work of building each other.

The Guest Speaker emphasized the imperatives of embracing resilience by all women in order to not only confront the forces retrogression but surmount all challenges on their road to greatness.

She said: "To be truly resilient, we must confront these forces within ourselves and choose a path of unity, support and mutual empowerment."

Godwin-Isaac who defined resilience as the ability to bounce back from difficulties, urged women to see it as a power to rise above, to adapt, to grow, to thrive, even in the most difficult of circumstances.

She explained further that resilience is the inner force that could enable women to confront life's most daunting obstacles with amazing courage and grace.

"As CEO of Homadil Reality, Ltd, and founder of multiple enterprises, I know firsthand the hurdles we face as women in leadership.

"I have battled stereotypes, overcome obstacles and continuously proven that women deserve a seat at every table.

"But like many of you, I have learned that resilience is the key to survival - and, more importantly, to success."

She however lauded women's doggedness and resilience in the patriarchal world.

Godwin-Isaac said: "Through my work with the Girl Yesterday, The Woman Today, I have witnessed the incredible resilience of young women who against all odds, have risen to become leaders, innovators, and change-makers. Their stories are not just tales of survival; they are stories of transformation and hope.'

She paid tributes to accomplished women like Margaret Ekpo, Ladi Kwali, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti etc in the past whose resilience and brilliance catapulted them to stardom.

The Guest Speaker expressed optimism for a more resilient women laced with strength, compassion and vision in the future.

She therefore reiterated the need for unity and love among women in order to attain the desired greatness.

"The need is urgent. Together, we are unstoppable."

Opposition lawmakers warns against APC, Pro Wike move to throw Rivers into anarchy



The Nigeria's Opposition lawmakers Coalition has raised alarm over alleged fresh move by the All Progressive Congress, APC and group supporting the Minister of FCT Nyesom Wike to secure a court injunction/Judgement to stop the constitutional/statutory monthly allocations of Rivers State Local Government allocation that belongs to the people which any attempt to starve the people can lead to unimaginable crisis that can destabilise constitutional governance.

They said that Rivers LGA allocation is statutory constitutional sovereign fund of an arm of government that can't be hijacked by the federal high court, Abuja/Pro Wike group to starve innocent workers/citizens to death, especially with the conduct of the LGA election in the state that have not been voided by any Court.

Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, Spokesperson of the coalition, said that they got credible evidence from a source that the above mentioned group working with some anti Democratic forces have filled a legal process at the Federal High Court, seeking for their usual kind of court injunction/Judgement to withhold monthly funds allocation to the LGAs in Rivers State.


Ugochinyere said, "The APC and Pro Wike group as i am talking is filling a suit at federal high court to help them seize the statutory sovereign allocation of entire Rivers state LGA knowing fully well that no court in Nigeria have declared the election of the LGA Chairmen invalid but still they want to stop the constitutional allocation of a revenue to an arm of government that is constitutional. This is the second of such cases by the Wike group to bring constitutional disorder.

"They have pending case seeking to seize the entire Rivers allocation/LGA funds they filled, and now they are using the wike APC faction to file another suit seeking order to stop the Federal account allocation committee , Accountant General of the Federation, Minister of Finance , Attorney-General of the Federation, Attorney-General of Rivers State of Nigeria, and Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission.

The Spokesman stated that the Wike group are still in pains following the outcome of the just concluded Rivers State LGA election which held in compliance with the Supreme Court judgement that ordered mandatory LGA election which the pro wike group who claimed to be working for President Tinubu wanted to stop at all cost so that Rivers State can be thrown into anarchy in pursuit of their greedy political interest.

Ugochinyere added that their intelligence includes boosting by some of the pro wike supporters that the case before close of Business today or tomorrow will be assigned to the usual Judges that always deliver swift Exparte Orders/judgements in favour of the wike camp while warning that the opposition is closely monitoring the development and will not hesitate to alert the Nigerian people .

He stated that LGA allocation is statutory constitutional sovereign fund of an arm of government that can't be hijacked, especially with the existence of a valid LGA leadership.

The Spokesman, therefore urged the FCT minister camp to accept defeat, and leave their alleged plan to undermine Rivers People and as well urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene and not allow some scrupulous elements to lead the nation into anarchy and tarnish democracy under his watch including creating more hatred for him as Rivers Workers and Indigenes will not forgive anyone or political party that is attempting to seize their statutory allocation.

Ugochinyere said, "The APC and Pro Wike group as i am talking is filling a suit at federal high court to help them seize the allocation of entire rivers state knowing fully well that no court in Nigeria have declared the election of the LGA Chairmen invalid but still they want to stop the constitutional allocation of a revenue to an arm of government that is constitutional.

“The people of Rivers State have elected their council chairman and councillors in line with the recent ruling of the Supreme Court to democratize all LGAs in Nigeria and any attempt to truncate democracy in Rivers would be resisted by the people. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu can not afford to fold his arms and watch as Wike group plots to reverse democracy in Rivers State and undermine the peace and stability of the country .

"I hope the case doesn't go to those who like to issue orders for the pro wike group in seconds. We are watching closely. The judiciary should quit granting any frivolous requests from the wike group related to the LG polls and Rivers to help save the image of the judiciary, which their desperation is undermining.

Members 'of the United Brothers Club (a.ka Internal) in their numbers, have gathered in merriment to celebrate their new headquarters at Obama Village, outskirts of Abakaliki and called on Nigerians to embrace peace for the country's development.

The President of the social, non political club, Hon. Charles Akpuenika said that the club formed few years ago, has credible individuals from different walks of life who are united in championing the main thrust of the club: 'One Love'.

The Immediate Past Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports in Ebonyi, said that the members have shown unbridled commitment in promoting love, peace and unity which has seen to the club's astronomical rise within years.

"The club supports any governent in power and remains indebted to its members, particularly those who occupy various governmental positions and assisting the club in several ways.

"You can see that members are exuding confidence as they are celebrating their gathering of unity in its headquarters."

He noted that the club observed the fifth general meeting of the year at its headquarters, as it hold its meeting every two months.

"We used the opportunity of the celebration to induct new members with the charge to observe the tenets of the club, uphold its ideals and contribute to the promotion of its unity.

"We purchased two plots of land two years ago and today, it has been fenced and its headquarters steadily being constructed".

The president commended Governor Francis Nwifuru whom he remarked was a member of the club, for his human oriented policies in the state and pledged the club's continued support to his governent.

"We also thank the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. Senator David Umahi for replicating his infrastructural strides in Ebonyi at the federal level and for giving the state, the gift of Nwifuru as a governor."

The State Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Hon. Richard Idike, a Chieftain of the club, said the occasion was a time to for members to reflect on the successes recorded so far and how to plan for a better future.

"I am happy and proud to be a member of the club and happy with the successes it has recorded so far.

"This occasion gave us the opportunity of inspecting work at our headquarters and celebrate a bountiful harvest of our agricultural and other endeavours.

"I urge the new members to uphold the tenets of unity, oneness, commitment and support to incumbent governments which are our watch words.'

The Secretary of the Club, Barr. Emeka Anosike said that the members were happy to celebrate the the gathering in its permanent site and therefore, a call to renew their commitment towards the club's ideals.

Anosike who was a Former National Officer of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) urged members especially the new ones, to continue promoting the tenets of peace, friendliness and conviviality and ensure the growth and prosperity of the club.

The Former NBA Secretary in Ebonyi, urged members to ensure that opportunities that would benefit the club and other members are fully explored to ensure the continued progress and unity of the club.

Chief Ben Nwovu, the Chairman of the Planning Committee of the Event said that the club encompass es citizens from various parts of the country who are united, to forge a common cause of love and unity.

"Nwovu who is the Former President of Izzi Nnodo Youth Forum said that as a son of Amagu Soil, the blessings that follow events of happiness and love would be bestowed on the club and its members.

Chief Dominic Nwibe, an Elder of the club prayed that the club would continue growing in strenght and its members prospering and succeeding beyond bounds.

Members used the occasion to merry and re-affirm their commitment towards the growth and unity of the club.

...Rettrive staff of office untill After Burial Of Our Late Monarch..




Members of the traditional rulers council of Late Ezeogo Augustine Okwor in Nkalaha Autonomous Community, Ishielu LGA of Ebonyi State, have called on the state government to retrieve the staff of office given to a new Igwe until the remains of the dead be buried to avert the wrath of the gods in their community. 

The Traditional Prime Minister of Nkalaha Community, Chief Ogenyi-Ogbuabo Edeoga, made the appeal while addressing journalists on the recent recognition of a new traditional ruler in Nkalaha while their Igwe, Augustine Okwor, was still in the morgue, a situation he described as sacrilege. 

Chief Edeoganoted that until his demise of Ezeogo in May this year, Ezeogo Augustine Okwor (Onwa Fuo Igboamaru II) of Nkalaha served the community diligently, hence the reason he should be accorded the due respect as a traditional ruler before a new king can be recognized in the area. 

While debunking the rumors that late Ezeogo Augustine Okwor was dethroned, Chief Edeoga argued that the building project that was ongoing in his compound, his salary, and other government presence in his community until his death would not have commenced in ab initio if the alleged dethronement was true. 

The Cabinet members described as falsifying lies and defending the indefensible, the rumors alleging that Late Chief Okwor was not fully recognized in the community, adding that, next to the King, they never received any notice of dethronement by any committee or any government agency while the monarch lived or even after his demise. 

The Nkalaha cabinet council membersfurther maintained that they were still making arrangements on how to officially notify the state government and the public about their late Ezeogo's demise before the shocking news of recognizing a new king came to their notice. 


The Eze's council explained that the delay in announcing the demise of the late king was attributed to Nkalaha tradition and culture, where the death of such magnitude (onye izhi) is not announced or made open officially till the Ikpu uzo festival comes and goes the following year.

They lamented thatstopping the salary and allowances of the late Ezeogo immediately after he passed on is a feat that has never happened to other Highnesses. The Cabinet members also decried the stoppage of the building project by the state ministry of local government and chieftaincy affairs, describing it as cruel and disheartening as there are other late traditional rulers in the state whose own houses are ongoing and are almost completed.

According to Chief Edeoga, the acclaimed kingship election that allegedlyproduced Chief Thomson Ebeh was illegal as the then local government chairman gave a letter to stop the action, hence the reason late Ezeogo Okwor never appeared on the ground on the day of the said purported election.

Chief Edeoga also emphasized that there should be a fresh election to produce a new king according to the Ebonyi State Executive Order No.002 of 2021 for the selection, recognition, and installation of traditional rulers and town unions and ancillary unions in Ebonyi State, as signed by the past administration.


The Nkalaha Cabinet members through Onowu therefore appreciated Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuruand expressed confidence that the Governor will harken to the cries of the late Ezeogo's children, whom he said are his fellow youths, for the betterment of society.

Yayari capable of reformation, end reign of pro APC elements in PDP-Opposition Lawmakers


The Spokesperson of Nigeria's Opposition Lawmakers Coalition, Hon Ikenga Ugochinyere, says that Ahmed Yayari Mohammed decision to hit the ground running as the Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) shows that he understands the need to reform the party and ensure seamless transition that will usher stability and end reign of pro APC elements in the party.

Our correspondent recalls that Yayari had on Sunday in a statement said there is no going back on PDP rescue.

The statement reads: "Dear Party members, it is with the deepest sense of duty that I address you at this time. The domestic events within our Party in the last few days calls for deep reflection about the management of the PDP especially at this crucial time in our nation, particularly as it relates to our role as an opposition Party and general management as a Constitution Compliant Party in the true spirit of the mission and vision of the founding fathers which are equity, fairness and justice.

"I am humbled and grateful by the numerous messages of solidarity, support and best wishes received from members of our Party across the country. The enthusiasm and relief expressed revealed the desire and determination of our members to see a PDP that is strong, democratic and based on strict adherence to its Constitution.

"Regrettably, we must admit that we have not satisfactorily carried out the critical role expected of a virile opposition in a democracy. This, it has been observed is as a result of conflict on interests; - personal or political - elevated above Party interest which continues to have debilitating effect on the ability of our Party to perform effectively at various levels, particularly at the national level.

"This state of affairs continues to affect the performance and viability of our Party to perform its role as expected as a platform which Nigerians have come to admire and looked up to in view of the robust Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017) and the monumental achievements of the Party in the sixteen years in government, which period is referred to with nostalgia as the golden years of governance in Nigeria.

"The National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP, desirous of revamping the Party in line with the vision of its founding fathers, on Thursday, October 10, 2024 appointed me as the Acting National Chairman to lead the charge to rekindle the hope and aspiration of our teeming members especially the youths, critical stakeholders and generality of Nigerians who wish to see a political Party that is ready and willing to play the role of effective opposition in the quest to develop our democracy and seek for responsible and responsive government in our country.

"The NWC under my leadership will be guided strictly by the Constitution of our Party and I will at all times be fair to all members irrespective of their status, position or state in the Party.

"Only this will guarantee and engender loyalty and commitment of our teeming members. In this regard, my primary goal, focus and mandate in the onerous assignment is to restore confidence of our members by immediately setting in motion the process to hold the long overdue National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of our Party already scheduled for Thursday, October 24, 2024.

"In line with the provision of our Party’s Constitution, the North Central Zone which is constitutionality entitled to produce a replacement to serve out the tenure of the former National Chairman, Sen. Iyorchia Ayu is hereby requested to urgently meet and forward its nominee to my office for necessary preparation and forwarding for consideration and approval by NEC at the October 24, 2024 meeting.

"I hereby seek and solicit the co-operation, support and advice from my colleagues NWC members, all Organs of the Party especially the PDP Governors’ Forum, the Board of Trustees (BoT), National Assembly Caucus as well as leaders, critical stakeholders and members towards a successful NEC meeting that we can all be proud of. Thank you all for the opportunity to serve. Together we can restore the glory of our Party and uphold the sustenance of Democracy in our Country."

Commending Yayari, Ugochinyere said with him as the new Acting Chairman in office revitalising the party’s structure and restoring confidence among its members will happen in a short while.

The Lawmaker lamented the damage caused by the Minister of FCT Nyesom Wike, expressing optimism that PDP will bounce back to victory with the new development.

Ugochinyere commended party leaders who did the needful, adding that restoration of PDP is underway.

Spokesperson of Nigeria opposition lawmakers coalition has backed the emergence Yayari as PDP Acting Chair, and as well expressing their full support for the sack of former acting chairman, Umar Illya Damagun.

Recall that following the suspension of His Excellency, Amb. Illiya Damagum as the Acting National Chairman of our great Party and others , the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the National Working Committee (NWC) approved the appointment of Alhaji Yayari Ahmed Mohammed (Present National Treasurer of PDP) as the Acting National Chairman.

The statement signed by Hon. Debo Ologunagba, National Publicity Secretary read in part, "Sequel to vacancy that originated as a result of the suspension of the Acting National Chairman Umar Damagun and few others. Yayari been the highest ranking officer in the NWC from the North, naturally assumed the position pending the upcoming NEC meeting where North Central Zone will be allowed to produce a substantive Chairman for the Party.

"The appointment which takes immediate effect is pursuant to the provisions of the Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017). The NWC calls on all Organs, leaders, critical stakeholder and members of our great Party to remain focused at this critical time especially as the NWC commences arrangements towards the holding of the Party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting already scheduled for Thursday, 24th October, 2024."

Reacting to the development, Ugochinyere in a statement said there's jubiliation in various quarters as PDP faithfuls, supporters and stakeholders are very happy with this development.

According to him, with the removal of Damagun, transformation of PDP will begin, as the party has faced many setbacks and challenges due to Damagun anti-party activities and frolicking with the party's enemy Nyesom Wike.

The lawmaker urged PDP Governors and stakeholders to meet to stop Damagun who is an APC agent alongside their ProWike APC group from further destruction of the Party.

The statement reads, "The news of Damagun suspension is a welcome development, there's jubiliation everywhere, PDP faithfuls, supporters and stakeholders are very happy with this development. Damagun has been working with our enemies to destroy the party and render it incapable of contesting the 2027 elections.

"With the removal of Damagun, transformation of PDP will begin, as the party has faced many setbacks and challenges due to Damagun anti-party activities and frolicking with the party's enemy Nyesom Wike. I urge PDP Governors and stakeholders to meet to stop Damagun who is an APC agent alongside their ProWike APC group from further destruction of the Party."

Spokesperson of Nigeria opposition lawmakers coalition has backed the emergence Yayari as PDP Acting Chair, and as well expressing their full support for the sack of former acting chairman, Umar Illya Damagun.

Recall that following the suspension of His Excellency, Amb. Illiya Damagum as the Acting National Chairman of our great Party and others , the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the National Working Committee (NWC) approved the appointment of Alhaji Yayari Ahmed Mohammed (Present National Treasurer of PDP) as the Acting National Chairman.

The statement signed by Hon. Debo Ologunagba, National Publicity Secretary read in part, "Sequel to vacancy that originated as a result of the suspension of the Acting National Chairman Umar Damagun and few others. Yayari been the highest ranking officer in the NWC from the North, naturally assumed the position pending the upcoming NEC meeting where North Central Zone will be allowed to produce a substantive Chairman for the Party.

"The appointment which takes immediate effect is pursuant to the provisions of the Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017). The NWC calls on all Organs, leaders, critical stakeholder and members of our great Party to remain focused at this critical time especially as the NWC commences arrangements towards the holding of the Party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting already scheduled for Thursday, 24th October, 2024."

Reacting to the development, Ugochinyere in a statement said there's jubiliation in various quarters as PDP faithfuls, supporters and stakeholders are very happy with this development.

According to him, with the removal of Damagun, transformation of PDP will begin, as the party has faced many setbacks and challenges due to Damagun anti-party activities and frolicking with the party's enemy Nyesom Wike.

The lawmaker urged PDP Governors and stakeholders to meet to stop Damagun who is an APC agent alongside their ProWike APC group from further destruction of the Party.

The statement reads, "The news of Damagun suspension is a welcome development, there's jubiliation everywhere, PDP faithfuls, supporters and stakeholders are very happy with this development. Damagun has been working with our enemies to destroy the party and render it incapable of contesting the 2027 elections.

"With the removal of Damagun, transformation of PDP will begin, as the party has faced many setbacks and challenges due to Damagun anti-party activities and frolicking with the party's enemy Nyesom Wike. I urge PDP Governors and stakeholders to meet to stop Damagun who is an APC agent alongside their ProWike APC group from further destruction of the Party."

By Mike Orji



-------Court order didn't stop NWC before they sack Damagun as PDP Actg Chairman and appointed Yayari Ahmed


------Justice Lifu's order in favour of Pro Wike APC backed PDP faction led by sacked Damagun came after the PDP NWC have suspended former National Chairman Umar Damagun and appointed Yayari Ahmed Mohammed as Actg Chairman


Spokesperson of Nigeria opposition lawmakers coalition, Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere has said that Court order didn't stop the National Working Committee of the People's Democratic Party, PDP before they sacked the acting National Chairman, Umar Damagun.

Ugochinyere said there was no Federal or State High Court order before the long overdue removal of Damagun as PDP Chairman.

Recall that following the suspension of His Excellency, Amb. Umar Damagun as the Acting National Chairman of our great Party and others, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the National Working Committee (NWC) approved the appointment of Alhaji Yayari Ahmed Mohammed (Present National Treasurer of PDP) as the Acting National Chairman.

But Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja, on Friday restrained the National Executive Committee (NEC) and Board of Trustees (BoT) of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) from removing Ambassador Umar Damagun as the Acting National Chairman of the party.

The court ordered that no other person must be recognized as PDP national chairman other than Damagun until the national convention of the party scheduled for December next year.

Justice Lifu issued the restraining order against PDP NEC, BoT and others while delivering judgment in a suit instituted against them by Senator Umar El-Gash Maina. The judge held that in line with Articles 42, 47 and 67 of PDP, it is only at the National Convention of the party that national officers can be elected .

Reacting, Ugochinyere faulted the judgement saying that Court order didn't stop the National Working Committee of the People's Democratic Party, PDP before they sacked the acting National Chairman, Umar Damagun.

He said that Justice Lifu order" in Favour of Pro Wike APC backed PDP faction came after Damagun has been suspended.

He insists that Alhaji Yayari Ahmed Mohammed remains the acting chair, while the party awaits the NEC meeting later this month.

He however urged the courts to stay away from of internal party affairs.

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) on Wednesday, said it would intensity campaign on national anthem, values charter across communities in the Ebonyi 13 local government areas.

It would be recalled that NOA had launched a three-month nationwide sensitisation and public enlightenment campaign on the subject "Nigeria’s National Anthem and National Values Charter" in Abuja.

The Director-General of the Agency, Mallam Lanre Isa, in a news conference in Abakaliki said the campaign became necessary to drive national development.

Isa, represented by Mr Emeka Egbugara, Director & Coordinator, Environment, Climate and Energies of NOA, Abuja noted that the campaign is designed to promote national unity, patriotism and renewed sense of Civic responsibility.

"The initiative is aligned with President Bola Tinubu vision on moral, ethical and cultural re-awaken which will involve various programmes at all levels, as well as in the rural areas," the Director-General stated.

Also speaking, Mr Theophilus Nwokpor, NOA's Director in Ebonyi noted that the importance of national identity project to nation building could not be over-emphasised.

"It highly important to redirect all Nigerians irrespective of class, enthnicity, and religion, to the ideals and values for which we were traditionally known and used to build our societies and their institutions.

"We need to define our identity, values and lives if we want to sit in the comity of nations," Nwokpor said.

The Director explained that the new national anthem was a wake-up call to citizens to love one another, unite irrespective of diverse background.

He urged citizens, especially the youth to always have emotional attachment to the national symbols.

Nwokpor urged the citizens and stakeholders to support the Officials of NOA at ensuring that the campaign is successful, especially among rural dwellers and in schools.

"We must hold tenaciously to the nation’s core values of love, patriotism, resilience, courage, dignity of labour for a better Nigeria.

The People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogudu Okwor Ward, Oshiri Community in Onicha local government area of Ebonyi, has
raised alarm over the unlawful arrest, prosecution and remand of some chieftains of the party in the ward.

The party further accused the suspended National Vice Chairman, South East of the party, Chief Ali Odefa of being responsible for the arrests in the area.

Our correspondent recalls that Odefa was suspended last week by the executive members of the party in the ward for alleged anti party activities.

The embattled National Vice Chairman had described the suspension as null and void and called the Ward Executives “faceless people” and reportedly petitioned the police, who arrested some of the leaders of the party.

It reported that the leaders of the in the ward were arrested, prosecuted and remanded in Abakaliki correctional center.

In a statement issued on Wednesday in Oshiri community, Onicha LGA, Mr Herbert Ovuta Acting Chairman of PDP in the ward, alleged that Odefa “led thugs and people decked in unverified uniforms” and hounded the chieftains of the party in the ward.

The statement reads, "this is to alert the general public and especially members and the National Working Committee (NWC) of our great party, PDP that Mr Ali Odefa, the National Vice Chairman of PDP on Monday September 7, 2024 at about 8pm in company with yet to be identified thugs and people decked in unverified uniforms in 5 (five) Hilux Vans invaded the compounds of some of our party members in Oshiri Community and abducted them to unknown destination.

"The invaders led by Mr. Ali Odefa cordoned-off the compounds of Messrs. Obinna Chukwu (Acting Youth Leader of PDP, Ogudu Okwor Ward).

"Others are: Njoku Nwagu (Secretary of PDP, Ogudu Okwor Ward), whereby they were forcefully taken away in the presence of their distraught family members.

"After abducted our two-party officers in Oshiri, the team also moved to Abakaliki, where they abducted Mr Sunday Ogbonnaya Idika (Acting Organising Secretary, PDP Ogudu Okwor Ward).

"We were surprised that barely 10 hours after their abduction, they were dumped at the SWAT detention facility at the Police headquarters Abakaliki, when information reached us and we rushed to the police headquarters we were confronted with badly tortured, battered people with swollen faces.

"Within minutes we were told that police was charging them for cultism, threatening Ali Odefa, forgery and impersonation is suit CHARGE NO”605C/2024 at the Magistrate Court of Ebonyi State, Abakaliki.

"It is important to note that Mr. Ali Odefa has special relationship with the CSP B.G . Emenike, the O. C Legal of the Ebonyi State Police Command, who has become his man-Friday in procuring police action against his political opponents.

"We therefore, state categorically that this unlawful action of Mr. Ali Odefa in collusion with the police is part of his longstanding oppressive, overbearing and anti- party antecedent that led to his suspension in the first place.

"For the avoidance of doubt, following the defection of the former Deputy Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Odefa Obasi Odefa alongside some members of the PDP Ogudu Okwor Ward Executives, the party stakeholders met and nominated their replacement.

"These replacements were ratified by the Onicha LGA Executive of the party and were subsequently endorsed by the state working committee.

"It is important to let the public know that the police never investigated these matters as the charges preferred against our duly appointed Ward Executives are mere trumped up charges aimed at ensuring that the PDP in Ebonyi State remains in disarray to the convenient of the ruling APC in the state which chief Odefa is known to be working for.

"We therefore, use this medium to alert the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, that some of his officers and men in Ebonyi State Command may have been compromised against members of our party to divert the cause of justice.

"It is to be noted that the suspension of Mr. Ali Odefa is already part of a pending suit at the Federal High Court, Abakaliki with suit number FHC/AI/CS/182/2024 in the matter OVUTA ONYEDIKACHI & ORS VS CHIEF ALI ODEFA & ORS.

"If Ali Odefa feels aggrieved over his lawful suspension, he should wait for the disciplinary committee resolution on his matter as well as wait for a court of competent jurisdiction to determine the validity or otherwise of his suspension instead of resorting to violence and self help," he added.

Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, Spokesperson of the Nigeria's Opposition Political Parties Coalition has called on the federal government and relevant security agencies to ensure that the minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike face justice over the alleged burning of Local government headquarters in Rivers State by his hired supporters.

Our correspondent recalls that in response to recent tensions following last Saturday’s local government council election, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed deep concern over reports of arson and explosions in the state.

The Spokesman of the Coalition urged all political actors to de-escalate the situation and discourage their supporters from engaging in violence or destructive actions.

Ugochinyere in a statement he issued on Tuesday, commended the State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara for setting up a judicial panel of enquiry, saying that if Wike and his cohorts are found culpable they should be charge and prosecuted.

He said: "all these explanations on TV by Nyesom Wike, I don’t understand why he’s crying, so the only thing I will advise is that, there’s no way he will escape the involvement of his supporters which I’m beginning to believe from his television comments that he’s fully aware, that he might be part of it.

"I commend the state government for setting up a judicial panel of enquiry. It doesn’t matter who you’re the panel must sit. If indeed he’s involved in this treasonable act to destroy another arm of government and burn it to the ground, then he should be charge, prosecuted.

"We can’t continue to, what are we pampering?? A whole state, a whole government will be your own? Because you came from where? What is it??

"I thank Rivers state government for setting up a judicial panel of inquiry. All those that are involved the office of the Attorney General should prosecute them. If they burn a government at the local level, they will burn state, federal and democracy.

"Government needs to deal with decisively because the consequences will be a lot. Hiding behind the disguise of being supporter of the president to do the unthinkable. Wants to bring down security agencies, judiciary, as who?".

Breaking News:

...Orders Police to protect LGA Lqrs, electoral Chairmen

President Bola Tinubu has called on Governor Siminalayi Fubara, political leaders and their supporters in Rivers State to exercise restraint and uphold the rule of law.

This is contained in a statement issued to newsmen on Monday by Mr Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy.

In response to recent tensions following last Saturday’s local government council election, the President expressed deep concern over reports of arson and explosions in the state.

He urged all political actors to de-escalate the situation and discourage their supporters from engaging in violence or destructive actions.

President Tinubu directed the police to restore and maintain peace, law, and order immediately.

While instructing law enforcement agencies to bring the situation under control, he emphasised the need to ensure the security of public institutions.

President Tinubu said government facilities built with public funds must be safeguarded from vandalism.

He stressed that self-help has no place in a democratic system, especially after 25 years of continuous democracy.

According to President Tinubu, the judiciary can settle all political disputes, and the outcome of this election should be no exception.

Polycarp Sola -Abakaliki

The family of His Royal Highness, the Late Ezeogo Augustine Okwor (Onwa Fuo Igboamaru II of Nkalaha), in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, has complained to the Ebonyi State Government over an alleged breach of the States traditional rulers/chieftaincy law.

In a complaint addressed to the Governor of the state, written by the family's attorney, E. Emeka Anosike & Associates, they alleged abuse of office by the state commissioner for local government and chieftaincy matters, saying that the recognition of one Mr. Thompson I. Ebeh on the 1st of October, 2024, as the new traditional ruler of the Nkalaha community in Ishielu Local Government Area of the state was not done with due process.

They equally maintained in the petition that the late Ezeogo Augustine Okwor, during his lifetime, was recognized as a traditional ruler of the Nkalaha Autonomous Community on the 26/8/2020 by the former Governor of the State, Engr. David Umahi, "a position he held until his demise on the 24th day of May, 2024, after a brief illness.".

The family called on the intervention of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru on the alleged ill treatment that the late traditional ruler suffered in the state ministry of local government and chieftaincy matters, which include but are not limited to almost denying him the opportunity to benefit from the government's housing projects for traditional rulers across the state, as well as how his salary and allowances were stopped without proper procedures, immediately after his demise.

"Your Excellency Sir, it is on a sad note that our clients regret to inform you that they lost their father, HRH Ezeogo Augustine Okwor, on the 24th day of May 2024, and immediately the news of his death filtered into their community, and despite the fact that the government has not been informed officially by the palace, his salary and allowances as a traditional ruler were stopped, and the housing project, whose foundation was later dug, was abruptly stopped as well. 

"While our clients' were still trying to know what was happening, they got the rude shock of their lives on independence day, 1st October 2024, when the news broke out that one Thompson I. Ebeh (their father's rival in the Ezeship election in 2008) was listed by the Honourable Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to be recognized as a Traditional Ruler without following the Ezeship election/selection process." It stated.

Other allegations leveled against the state commissioner for local government and chieftaincy matters include an attempt to extort the sum of $2000 USD from the deceased to facilitate the government-approved housing project, as well as accepting bribery of the sum of 20 million naira to recognize Mr. Thompson I. Ebeh as the new traditional ruler.

"Their father visited the office of the Honourable Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to ascertain why the palace building project has not started but was surprised by the demand of the Honourable Commissioner from our clients' father to pay to him the sum of USD 2,000 before his ministry will direct the contractor in charge of the project to start.

"We are informed that there is a rumor going around in Nkalaha Community that the Honourable Commissioner and other parties involved in this shenanigans were given the sum of N20,000,000.0 (Twenty Million Naira) only to do what they have done. 

"And this act of the Honourable Commissioner to unilaterally install a traditional ruler for Nkalaha people is capable of breaching the existing peace in Nkalaha Community because the community has not even been informed officially of the demise of their traditional ruler." 

"From the foregoing, sir, I most humbly pray for your Excellency's intervention in this matter to accord the late traditional ruler of the Nkalaha autonomous community and her subjects respect and nip in the bud the looming crises that may result from the ill-advised actions of the Honorable Commissioner as stated above." It stated.

At the time of filing this report, efforts to reach the commissioner for local government and chieftaincy matters proved abortive, as his lines were not reachable when our correspondent called him for reactions, and he could not respond to the text messages either.

By Chuddy Mike



.......RISIEC already with INEC voters register for Saturday election


The Joint Action for Democracy (JAD) has called for the removal of the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Rivers State, Dr Johnson Sinikiem after his failed attempt to help the Pro Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) group to scuttle the Saturday, October 5, local government election in the state.


JAD maintained that the election was going to hold as scheduled hence the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission(RSIEC) was already in possession of the Voter's Register, contrary to lies being dished out by Sinikiem.


The group in a statement expressed disappointment and shock over the attitude of the REC who keeps denying that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) register has not been made available to the State's Electoral body to create a wrong impression that RSIEC was not ready for the polls to perpetuate the antics of Wike's faction.



"As a democratic group under the ageis of Joint Action for Democracy (JAD), we are deeply worried over the activities of the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Rivers State, Dr Johnson Sinikiem in his failed attempt to aid and abet some Wike-led elements to details the Saturday, October 5, 2024 Rivers State local government election.


"Just few days to the election, Sinikiem addressed the media when he claimed though RSIEC had requested the register, INEC was yet to hand over the document to it and added that the process was ongoing before they received communication about a court order from INEC headquarters.


"He also claimed that INEC’s Information Communication Technology Department housed the voter register in soft copy and would typically provide certified photocopies to RSIEC but lied that no such document had been handed over to the state election umpire.



"The Rivers REC even admitted that RSIEC has written to INEC about two times for the release of the register, but they have not released before they received from its headquarters an order from a Federal High Court restraining INEC from releasing the register. He buttressed that, 'till now, we have not officially handed over the Rivers State voter register to RSIEC. We have not.'


"Sinikiem further claimed he only received one court order from the INEC headquarters in Abuja, in compliance with the Federal High Court order, denying that he was unaware of a separate state high court order.


"According to him; 'I have one from the Federal High Court from Abuja, which was sent to me by the headquarters, directing me to comply with the court order. I have not seen another court order from the state high court.

"It is administrative, it is not that we withheld it, but when the RSIEC requested, they had to come for the processes and that had not happened before we got the court order. We have not released the register.”


"His lies were however countered by the RSIEC Commissioner for Public Affairs and Civic Education, Tamunotonye Tobins said, 'that is not true and INEC cannot in good conscience say that, because the correspondences between the two bodies are here. We have the documents here.


"The RSIEC Commissioner clearly said INEC has given them all that they needed for the election and they are proceeding with the election. 'The 2023 updated register of voters for Rivers State is right now in our possession and we got it from INEC. This thing happened last year between July and October,” he said.


"By this action or actions, Sinikiem has to be removed as Rivers State REC because if he can do this in a local government election that INEC is not directly responsible, one wonders what will happen if he is to administer other elections within the purview of INEC."



https://eyewitnessnewsnaija.com.ng/rivers-lga-poll-joint-action-for-democracy-wants-rivers-rec-sinikiem-removed/

The National Vice Chairman of the People Democratic Party (PDP) Southeast zone, Mr Ali Odefa has been suspended from the party.

In a press conference held in Onicha Local Government Area by the Ward Executive Committee of the party led by its Acting Ward Chairman, Mr. Hebert Ovuta said that Odefa was suspended on the grounds of his engaging in “anti-party activities” in line with the provision of section 57 (3) of the PDP constitution.


Flanked by members of the ward executives, the Acting Chairman stated that, “ We are here to inform you of the resolution of the Ward Executive Committee of PDP Oguduokwor Ward to suspend Chief Ali Odefa the National Vice Chairman of the PDP Southeast Zone on the grounds of his anti-party activities and other offences which is destructive to the name of our dear party PDP.

“His suspension is in compliance with provision of section 57(3) of the PDP constitution.

“It is also important to inform you that we have further referred Chief Ali Odefa to the Ward Disciplinary Committee of the party.”