₦airaland Forum

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) on Friday called for the need to make Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law more stronger in the effort to end gender based violence (GBV).

They made the remark in Abakaliki during a road-walk to mark the 2022 16 Days of Activism and public presentation of Amended VAPP Law No 003 of 2022 to eliminate GBV in Ebonyi.

The event with theme, “UNITE! Activism to end violence against women and girls” was organised by state ministry of women affairs and socal development with support from UNFPA and other partners in the state.

Mr Benedict Essong, UNFPA Representative in the state, said that doing justice to the victims would go a long way in checkmating the menace not only in the state but Nigeria at large.

Essong expressed satisfaction that the amended provisons of the law would enhance justice delivery, prohibit all forms of violence and human rights violations.

"From UNFPA, we are proud to be part of the state programmes. We appreciate GBV stakeholders, civil society, youths organisations among other partners for being part of the progress," Essong said.

Mrs Rachael Umahi, Wife of the Governor, said the essence of the amended law was to ensure sustainable and workable implementation.

Umahi represented by Mrs Patience Offor, her Special Assistant on Welfare Matters, said the theme was apt and urged partners to collaborate to ensure that the law was made effective.

She described it as an achievement that would assist the judiciary to persecute offenders and give justice to victims.

Umahi added that when the law becomes effective, it would empower women to speak out and break the culture of silence in reporting GBV cases.

She enlightened the public on the negative consequences of gender-based violence, rape and other acts of domestic abuse, as well as the need for the victims to speak out for possible assistance.

"Women, girls and other victims of violence should assist report activities of violence around them to get help.

"We wish the law to be sustained to ensure people rights are not violated. If you do that, you will enternalise our passion," Umahi said.

Mr Chukwuma Elom, Coordinator of the Foundation, read out key features of the amended VAPP law to include, section 10, which stated that High and Magistrate courts of the state would have jurisdiction to hear and grant applications.



Elom said, section 14 amrended, stated that GBV court established, was for the purpose of hearing and determining matters on gender based offences.


He said section 20,stated that wife of the governor, who is facilitator of GBV programme in the state, should appoint, GBV committee, taskforce, implementation team to supervise and monitor implementation of activities.


He said that section 21, stated that victims and survivors was entitled to receive free medicare and adequate medical investigation in any government health centre.


"Still in section 21, it also read that it an offence to charge on this and fine of N 200,000 or imprisonment for three months or both, if found wanting.


"And section 23, read that state government shall make budget provisions to fight GBV annually," Elom said.


Mrs Deborah Okah, Commissioner for women affairs appreciated Mrs Umahi for championing the VAPP law and it enhancement with her pet project, Family Succour and Upliftment Foundation.

Okah who was represented by Mrs Florence Nwali, Permanent Secretary in the ministry, commended the UNFPA for their support since 2009.

She also commended other donor agencies for their various supports so far to eliminate all forms of violent against women and girls in the state.

She promised that all efforts by partners would record success.

The event featured public presentation of the amended VAPP law by Mrs Umahi to GBV state actors for effective implementation.

The programme also witnessed, presence of all Implementing Partners (IP) to include, the World Health Organisation, USAID, NAWOJ, ministry of justice, persons with disabilities and NAPTIP.


Others include the police, Nigeria Red Cross Society among other IPs


The road walk had inscriptions such as, "you can help by speaking up : GBV is punishable by the law, FGM, rape is a crime end it now!, among others.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Candidate, Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu has said he will check electricity estimated billings on the populace when becomes the country's president.

Tinubu made the pledge in Abakaliki during his presidential campaign rally, describing such billings as extortive.

The former Lagos Governor said that adequate power supply remained a catalyst for overall economic development of any country as he would pay adequate attention to the sector.

"I will ensure that electricity blinked no more and no one would pay on estimated billing.

"I am from the city and know the pains caused by estimated billing.

He pledged to deploy needed resources to revatalise the power sector to boost the economy and make life easy for Nigerians.

"When the main opposition party was in power, it failed to realise that transmission lines are super highways to generated electricity.

"It failed to make any down payment despite the over $16billon spent on the sector during its reign".

Tinubu also pledged to solve the frequent conflicts between educational authorities and the government to ensure undisrupted educational process in the country.

"Education is the greatest weapon against poverty and the education of our children is important to secure our tomorrow.

"We would not opt for conflict but peace as inherent complaints are not resolve through conflicts but dialogue.

He thanked Ebonyi people for their support and love for him, pledging to reciprocate when he becomes the president.

"Governor David Umahi has transformed the state beyond expectations and I thank the progressive governors for the work they did in bringing him over.

Gov. David Umahi in his remarks, assured Tinubu that the people would vote for him and all APC candidates in various positions.

"Ebonyi people have benefitted tremendously from the APC-led federal government as it was not about an individual but the people's interest.

"We are adopting the operation post posters on your projects as the APC had exceeded expectations in Ebonyi.

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo thanked Ebonyi people for trooping en masse to support Tinubu, noting that he was credible and a good product.

Uzodimma who chairs the party's campaign council in the south east zone and Imo said that such massive support would be replicated in all states of the zone.

The event was attended by top party bigwigs such the party's Vice Presidential Candidate, Alhaji Kashim Shettima.

The governors of Kebbi, Jigawa, Cross River and Bornu, members of the party's national working committee among others, also attended the event.

The Ebonyi government has disclaimed social media reports that a company, Andrew Bishopton Nig. Limited and its partners, Mauritz Walton Nig Ltd got a court order to garnish its accounts.

Mr Uchenna Orji, state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, made the disclosure while addressing journalists in Abakaliki, urging the public to discountenance such claims.

Orji said that those claiming such were on a forum shopping over a clearly and notoriously baseless allegation of performing consultancy services for the state.

"Such people are on a fruitless enterprise and wild-goose chase for funds meant for the development of Ebonyi.

He noted that the state government had in different communications, extracted information from the company's representatives that they had no contractual basis to make claims against it or Local Government Councils in the State.

"The persons who instituted the said suit do not have the consent of Andrew Bishopton Nig Limited to institute the case.

"The directors of the company never passed any resolution authorising the commencement of the suit.

"The state government or local government councils do not owe the company and that the said suit was brought in bad faith.

"The LGAs of the state which had just little business with the said company have already gone to a court of competent jurisdiction and secured a valid subsisting order restraining the said companies and other relevant parties from further making such outrageous claims.

"The state government which was falsely and ridiculously sued by the companies has also secured a valid order setting aside the 'order nice and order absolute' for lacking in merit.

"The appeal is now being heard on merit at the court of appeal.

"In an order dated dated 7th July, 2022 , the high court restrained the said companies, their privies and other necessary banks from accepting for, permitting or allowing the execution of any judgment either by garnishee or any writ of execution whatsoever.

"We therefore urge the public to ignore these antics as they have already hit the rocks,".

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID)--State to State project says it has ensured the formulation of an endearing development plan for Ebonyi.

Dr Sam Onyia, Team lead of the project in Ebonyi made the pledge on Tuesday in Abakaliki during a one-day validation workshop on the final draft of the Ebonyi development plan.

Onyia said that the plan 25-year plan will encompass the short, medium and long-term development of the state.

"The process commenced seven months ago with critical stakeholders such as traditional rulers, political leaders, civil society organisations, government officials, private sector among others; making veritable inputs.

"The inputs resulted in the final draft to be validated as the development plan covers key sectors of the state.

"The plan contains policies which should be implemented to make Ebonyi, one of the best states in Nigeria as regards development,".

The team lead who gave an overview of the project's initiation, said that the state governor inaugurated a four-man transformative committee for such purpose in April 2021.

"A retreat was organised for the committe in Enugu, in June 2021 with one of its recommendations, being the formulation of a state development plan.

"The governor thus inaugurated a 12-member committee and an 18-member technical committee in November 2021 to achieve the intended purpose,".

He noted that the committees set to work in February 2022 and thanked the state deputy governor who is the chairman, for his invaluable support.

The Ebonyi Deputy Governor, Dr Eric Igwe thanked the USAID team for its efforts towards formulating the development plan for the state.

Igwe said that USAID had the interest of the state at heart, always collaborating with it and responding whenever called upon.

"Ebonyi has become an emerging economy in the country and all measures geared towards actualising its full potentials should be supported.

"I however plead for time to study the draft in ensuring that what the government asked to be done was being delivered.

He noted that he had a synopsis of what the draft was all about but had to make assurance double.

"It is better to err on the side of caution than to throw caution to the winds,".

A presentation was made at the workshop by the Chairman of the plan's Technical Committee, Dr Stephen Odoh who is also the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry.

The Ohaneze Ndigbo Youth Wing has canvassed for equity in choosing the next governor of Ebonyi in the 2023 general elections.

Mr Damian Okafor, Leader of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation's youth wing gave the urge on Monday during its equity advocacy tour of Ivo Local Government Area.

Okafor said during the tour at Ihietutu community, Ishiagu that equity remains the only way to sustain the prevailing harmony which pervades the political landscape of the state.

"Do not derail in your belief on power rotation among the three senatorial districts as it has been enshrined in the people's minds.

"The first executive governor of the state came from the northern senatorial district and he handed over to someone from the central district.

"Power afterwards rotated to the southern district where the incumbent governor hails from.

"This implies that in the spirit of equity, the northern district should take the next turn in 2023.

He commended stakeholders of the area for ensuring a peaceful atmosphere and urged the youths in particular to be law abiding.

The Head of the community, Chief Emeka Ogbonnia commended the Ohaneze Ndigbo's youth leadership for the advocacy, pledging that the people would support moves that would ensure peace in the state.

"The people wholly support return of power to the northern district and in this particular instance, the Izzi clan.

"We are wholly in support of Chief Francis Nwifuru who is from the area because his people supported the southern district when we sought such in 2015.

He commended Gov David Umahi for his infrastructural strides in the state which had transformed it beyond expectations.

"The people would continue to be law abiding and contribute in achieving peace and harmony in the state.

Stakeholders of the community and the council offered their support for power rotation and ultimate return of power to the northern senatorial district.

The National Sports Festival's torch of unity has arrived Abakaliki and was received with pomp and pegeantries by officials of the state's sports council.

Chief Amaka Ashiofu, Deputy Director in the Federal Ministry of Youths and Sports who led the delegation, handed the torch to officials of the state's sports council.

Ashiofu who is also the Director of the torch of unity, noted that the forthcoming festival would achieve the aim of its organisation.

"The torch is on a symbolic tour of states across the country as participating states are assured of equitable participation at the festival.

"This event signifies that the torch arrived Ebonyi as the festival would foster unity among participating states of the federation.

"We thank officials of the state government for warmly receiving us and wish the state luck as it competes with others.

The Director of Sports in the state Sports Council, Emmanuel Utobo who received the torch on behalf of the government, assured that Ebonyi would participate credibly at the games.

"The state governor has approved necessary funds for the athletes' preparation and actual participation at the festival and we would reciprocate by winning medals, especially gold.

"We have intensified preparations for the festival and would select the best athletes to win laurels for the state.

He pledged that the state's contingent would adhere to all regulations guiding the festival and compete with the spirit of sportsmanship.

"We have churned several athletes who have represented the country in international competitions and the 2022 edition will not be an exception.

The Nigerian Institute of Soil Sciences on has trained Ebonyi farmers and agricultural extension agents on the protection and management of soil resources.

Prof. James Nwite, the institute's Representative in Ebonyi, said during the training in Abakaliki that it was inaugural in the state and was authorised by its zonal and national offices.

Nwite said that the training aimed at having experts train farmers, extension agents and other agricultural production stakeholders, on soil resources protection and management.

"The trainees are expected to utilise the knowledge gained from the training to improve their agricultural production systems for higher productivity.

"This will ultimately ensure food security in the state and country under sustainable environment,"

He noted that there was a nexus between concepts of soil protection and management, good agricultural practices and sustainable soil management.

"The training will highlight the common objective of these thematic areas in increasing productivity, resilience and mitigation of environmental degradation.

"NISS since its inception in 2017, has always fulfilled its mandate of ensuring sustainable management of the country's soil resources.

"We understand that soil is a natural gift from nature which makes its protection paramount,".

Prof. Clement Okonkwo, a Resource Person at the training said the participants would be educated on managing soil acidity due to the acidic nature of soils in Ebonyi.

Okonkwo who tutors at the Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, said that the participants would know that the amount of hydrogen iron concentration in the soii determines its acidity.

"They should know whether the soil is acidic or alkaline and also the measures to take when confronted with acidic soil situations.

"They can apply lime to mitigate the acidity and organic materials as fertilizers.

"Waste products from welders such as carbides, ash from wood among others can be used as lime".

Mr Okike Onwuasoanya, the General Manager of the state Agricultural Development Programme commended the institute for the training, noting that it would tremendously benefit farmers and extension agents.

"We would continue collaborating with agencies and organisations who impact modern agricultural techniques into our farmers and extension agents,".

Miss Oluchi Nwode, a participant at the programme also commended the institute and pledged to utilise the knowledge gained from the training to enhance her farming undertakings.

Many members of the Labour Party in Ebonyi State have been injured following an attack on the party's rally venue by gunmen in the state.

The incident, it was gathered, happened in Okposi, Ohaozara local government area on Saturday.

The gunmen, the party alleged, are members of Ebonyi Command of Ebubeagu Southeast Security Outfit.

Ebubeagu is a security outfit in the South-east that is backed by the Ebonyi State Government and other state governments in the region.

The gunmen, according to the Labour Party House of Assembly candidate for Ohaozara East Constituency, David Ogbonna, allegedly pushed a woman and she hit her head on a hard concrete surface.

He said the woman was rushed to hospital where she has remained unconscious as doctors battle to save her life.

Mr Ogbonna also alleged that the attackers shot at the party faithfuls and inflicted varying degrees of gunshot injuries on at least three of them.

He alleged that the gunmen were led by the Chairman of Ohaozara local government area, Consider Ajah.

Mr Ogbonna said: “we scheduled a meeting with our supporters in Okposi community to lady, Mr Nkemkanma Kama was supposed to be there. We were to receive defectors from PDP, APA and other parties.

“On the road that led from the local government, we saw many car parked on the road including a Mercedes Benz belonging to Consider, the local government Chairman.

“I told people that this is the chairman and asked if they have any programme where we are going they said they don’t know.

“As we were going, they suddenly passed us with speed. When we got to Okposi we saw them barricading the entire road. We made a detour towards Onitsha local government becaus we didn’t want out security to have any altercations with them.

“We stopped at a place and made calls and then decided to go back and asked them why they are barricading the road leading to where we are having our programme.

“When we got there, we didn’t see them. We proceeded to the venue. When we got there, we saw people on the floor. They shot directly at people. Then a woman who ran into an uproar, they pursued her to the three stores building and pushed her from there and she fell down.

“She was rushed to the hospital and the report we are getting is that she is unconscious. We saw people with bullet wound injuries. We have taken them to hospital”, he said.

In a statement he issued on Sunday, Mr Ogbonna further narrated how the gunmen invaded the venue.

He wrote: "Yesterday, as party faithfuls gathered at our (Labour Party) office at Mgbom-Okposi, waiting for the arrival of the Labour Party Candidate for Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo federal constituency - Nkemkanma Kama , the Men of Ebube-Agu Security Network led by Ohaozara Local Government Chairman invaded the venue.

"As they entered the venue, our campaign office, our supporters on the road waiting for our arrival erroneously thought we were the ones possibly because of the exotic car of the Local Government Chairman, they rushed to warmly welcome 'us' only to meet young men numbering over 40 wielding all kinds of automatic guns who came down from the fully loaded Toyota Hiace Bus and Sienna buses and opened fire on Innocent people.

He said they shot at the people and chased both men and women at the venue, making efforts to apprehend as many as they could.

Mr Ogbonna said three persons have so far been confirmed shot on their legs, one had his Femur (bone of the thigh) shattered and had been transferred to an Orthopedic Centre.

Continuing he said: "As at this early hour of 13th November 2022, three of our supporters from Uburu who came with Labour Party Candidate of Ohaozara West are yet to be home and their phones have not been reached.

"We are yet to establish a contact with the Personal Assistant (PA) of Labour Party Candidate for Ohaozara East Constituency. His phone has not been reachable since he ran away from the event venue yesterday.

"Two of our supporters from Ugwulangwu are yet to be home and their phones not reachable".

"Six Women supporters from Ugwulangwu and one of our Women Leaders from Okposi who ran for their lives yesterday in the process lost their Handbags containing Phones and other valuables, and some cash.

"The Woman supporter from Okposi who was pursued, fell head-down on her way to safety and has remained unconscious. However, Doctor confirmed she's still alive.

Mr Ogbomna also alleged that all Canopies, Tables and unnumbered Chairs at the venue were badly damaged

"The music box (Speakers) of the DJ was shot at by the Ebube-Agu, damaging them near-irreparably and even confiscating some of his equipments"

"The Drums of the Cultural Women dancers from Afikpo were destroyed and some seized"

"The Drum Boxes of the Drummers who were on the road waiting for our arrival were destroyed and drummers beaten mercilessly"

"As at yesterday night, three of our boys supporters from Ugwulangwu reported that Men of Ebube-Agu visited their compounds asking after them. As we write now, they have relocated out the community for fear of their lives", he said

Council Chairman, Ebubeagu commander give conflicting reactions

But the Chairman of the local government, Mr Consider Ajah denied leading an attack on the Labour Party supporters.

He, however, admitted that Ebubeagu officials went to the area to stop the people gathered there from blocking the road, which is a federal highway.

"We did not attack anybody. They were blocking the road which is a federal highway and we had to intervene to prevent them from disrupting people's movement".

Mr Ajah further noted that the organisers did not get approval from the local government before holding the rally.

" We have a law that before you hold any form of gathering you must get approval from the local government for security purposes. But they did not do that"

"We have no interest in what any other party is doing but they should do the right thing at all times", he said.

Mr Ajah's reaction conflicts with that of the Commander of Ebubeagu, Nnanna Friday who vehemently denied that Ebubeagu was in the area.

"We did not attack anybody. They should stop mentioning Ebubeagu everytime they have problems among themselves.

"They may have been attacked by their fellow members who they may have had a disagreement with and they now turn around and blame it on Ebubeagu.

"They did same thing recently in Izzi and we later discovered that they were attacked by their members", he said.

Police not aware of incident- spokesperson

Police spokesperson in the State, Chris Anyanwu said he was not aware of the incident.

He promised to make enquiry and get back to our Reporter later. He was yet to do so at the time of this report.

Notorious past

Ebubeagu is a security outfit in the South-east that is backed by the Ebonyi State Government and other state governments in the region.

The ourfit has become notorious for indiscriminate arrest, torture, and even extra judicial killings in the state, leading to calls by opposition parties and rights groups for it to be disbanded.

Last month,the group abducted a senatorial candidate of the Labour Party for Ebonyi South District, Linus Okorie.

After his family and associates raised an alarm, he was hurriedly taken to the police, who later arraigned him in court.

He was later remanded in prison.

Three days ago, the group abducted Mr Ahịa Onyike, who is the Spokesperson of the People's Democratic Party(PDP) governorship candidate in the state, Ifeanyi Ọdịi.

Mr Onyike was taken to the groups office where he was allegedly tortured for over an hour before being released.

Last month, the group allegedly attacked the convoy of the governorship candidate of All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) in Izzi local government area.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Gubernatorial Candidate in Ebonyi, Chief Francis Nwifuru, has said that all residents of the state are indigenes and should not be seen as visitors.

Nwufuru who is the Speaker of the state House of Assembly made the assertion when members of the urban community in Abakaliki paid him a solidarity visit.

The APC guber candidate said that those being categorised as non indigenes were actually those who develop the areas they reside.

"My clan Izzi for instance, is happy that our land is steadily developed by the non-indigenes and we would always celebrate them," he said.

He noted that if the clan's ancestors did not make the sacrifice of welcoming and accepting visitors, Abakaliki could not had been chosen as Ebonyi capital.

"Onueke, in Ezza clan was more developed than Abakaliki but with the development majorly anchored by the non-indigenes, Abakaliki has become a model in the country.

"There are several instances where non-indigenes contested elections against natives and won through massive support.

"We are talking about success and the contributions of your fathers would not be taken for granted.

Nwifuru said that the forthcoming election was not about him but about everyone who believe in equity, capability and competence.

"There are people who want to govern the state but do not reside in it or feel the pains of the people.

The Leader of the Urban Community in the state, Charles Akpu-Enika assured the guber candidate of massive support of the urbanites in his bid to govern the state.

"We have been campaigning for you in various communities before this visit and we would take this battle as ours.

"We urge our brothers and sisters who have been misled to have a rethink and support this cause because it is anchored on capacity, justice and equity.

"Non-indigenes have benefitted tremendously from the APC- led government in Ebonyi and we would support all its candidates in the elections.

The President of Urban Community in the state, Rev. Anayo Ilo said that non-indigenes no longer feel as visitors but real citizens of the state.

"This association consists of landlords association, town union associations, women groups, divine mandate associations, artisans among others.

By The Editor

The superlative Mayor Super Cup 2022 has entered its final stages.

The competition which has achieved its aim of uniting youths in Abakaliki has entered the decisive stages. The actions still inside the impressive Pa Ngele Oruta stadium, the progenetor of the ultra-modern 30,000 Olympic stadium Abakaliki. The semifinals beckon on the weekend of November 12-13, 2022.

Group A saw police FC and Bankers FC qualifying for the semi final. Police played four matches: won two, drew two, lost none, goals favour was eight, goals against was three and goals difference was +five and it had eight points.

Bankers trailed in second place. The team played four matches, won one, drew two, lost one, goals favour was three, goals against was three, zero goal difference with five points.

Group B had its stars qualifying. All stars came first while future stars trailed. All stars played three matches, won one, drew two, lost none, goal favour was seven, goal against three, goal difference +four with five points.

Future stars came second, playing three matches, won one, drew two, lost none, goal favour five, goal against two, goal difference +three with five points.

ISSUES

Two issues propped but were effectively handled. They however made the canvas for organisers of such competitions to evolve more proactive steps in future.

Salt FC in group A, overcame its initial registration hooplas to place third, in the same equilibrium with second placed Bankers. Salt played four matches, won one, drew two, lost one, goal favour one, goal against one, goal difference none with five points. They perred with Bankers in all aspects.

The question then became which between it and bankers should qualify. It felt it should go through having conceded less goals. The rules however applies that the the team which scores higher should go through.

"That is the standard" says Lewis Obi, a Soccer Analyst. This calls for proper enlightenment on team officials before and during competitions of this magnitude. They should show know the rules and its due application".

The second issue was dense. Lions FC in group B, cried foul that the All Stars team fielded an ineligible player. However, according to the organisers, they took the wrong steps to register their complaints.

It copied its petition to the authorities it was not supposed to, without allowing the Main Organising Committee (MOC) handle such first. Also according to the MOC, Lions quoted the inappropriate section of the rules governing the competition in laying its complaint.

The Lions felt All stars should be sanctioned and it should go through. That was not to be as it placed third behind Future stars, though with the same five points, had a lesser goal difference of +two to future's + three.

This still posed the challenge to the organisers to evolve more proactive ways of detectig cheats and a call to the teams as they vie in the semis, to search their consciences and play right.

With the four teams slugging in the semi finals, the exhiliarating scenario promises to be more than football.

.....Maxwell Umahi is a Goooaaalll....

The ObiDatti Carally, an automobile support group for Peter Obi has unveiled plans to embark on a 100 Km drive across the southeast States in Nigeria, to canvas for support for the Labor Party presidential candidate ahead of the 2023 general elections.


According to the Southeast regional coordinator, Comrade Chimezie Ozurumba, who gave the disclosure at a press conference in Abakaliki, said the automobile rally would be happening simultaneously across the 36 states and FCT, starting from 19th to 26th of Nov 2022.


"This has become necessary because the event would be happening simultaneously across the 36 States in the country, the FCT, and southeast Nigeria in particular". Ozurumba said.


He explained that the ObiDatti Carally group is dedicated to the Peter Obi and Ahmed Datti campaign organization, to sensitize and create awareness for people to vote for Peter Obi as the most qualified candidate to be Nigeria's president come 2023.


"We believe in his proven capacity and credibility as a leader with a sound mind who possesses the required qualifications to tackle the current challenges facing our Nation, no doubt, these issues have made us be going backward instead of moving forward as a people.

"You could relate with us clearly when we say that the security of this Nation at the moment is nothing to write home about,

"you all know that our economy is visibly in shambles, the price of things has continued to go hiking and people are hungry,


"no better business opportunities, no better employment opportunities, our production level is nothing to write home about, we keep importing almost everything we consume,


"and depending on other nations to survive, our educational system, health care, and innovation sectors are all deprived of competent and quality leadership, yet, we are the giant of Africa".


Ozurumba, who called on youths across the Country to raise and install youthful and quality leaders, said the youths have been denied access to inclusive governance and urged them to take back their Country.


Eye witness reports learned in the southeast, the event would be held in Imo, Abia, Anambra, Enugu, and Ebonyi States respectively, and to be led by Comrade Chimezie Ozurumba who serves as the southeast regional coordinator and Ebonyi coordinator ObiDatti Carally.


"In southeast Nigeria, it would be observed in Imo, Abia, Anambra, Enugu, and Ebonyi State respectively. (which would be held on the 26th of November 2022)". he added.

By the Editor

The United Brothers Club popularly known as Internal Brothers on Saturday, dedicated its newly acquired four plots of land worth 22million, to God.

The President of the club, Hon Charlse Akpu-Enika said during the dedication on the land situated at Obama area of Abakaliki, that God manifested his greatness though the acquisition.

Akpuenika who is the Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports in Ebonyi profusely thanked Governor David Umahi for his immense love for the club which has led to its growth.

"We have imbibed his message of love and unity which had enabled us achieve great feats such as this.

"Acquiring such expanse of land is no mean feat and this shows that with continued love and unity among members we would achieve greater feats".

He noted that the club has decided to make the governor its Grand Patron and pay an appreciative courtesy call on him.

"We would present the documents of the land to the governor and seek his continued blessings and support.

"We also thank the incoming Governor of the state who is the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt.Hon Francis Nwifuru, also a member of the club.

"I also thank the incoming House of Representatives member representing Izzi/ Abakaliki federal constituency, Chief Emma Uguru, that of the Abakaliki North state constituency, Hon. Maxwell Umahi among other stakeholders," he said.

He remarked that work was expected to commence on the land by Wednesday, November 9 as the club hoped to organise its 2022 end of the year celebrations on its headquarters to be constructed on the land.

Chief Emmanuel Uguru, a Top Member of the club who performed the traditional blessing rites commended the members for their tenacity which has made it grow beyong limits.

"I encourage you to be steadfast in unity to achieve more feats which would project the club beyond the shores of this state and Nigeria.

"God will help us achieve all intensions of acquiring this land and grant us long life and prosperity to see to the completion of all projects on this land".

He thanked Governor David Umahi for ensuring that peace and unity reigned among citizens of the state which the club had imbibed for continued greatness.

Barr. Emeka Anosike, the Secretary of the club thanked the members for their cooperation and called for sustained synergy for continued growth.

"We pray against every negative tendency on the land but the fulfilment of all aspirations".

The President, Hon Akpu-Enika later constituted a project committee for the land to ensure the actualization of all projects on it.

The Ebonyi government has said that it will pay attention to the hinterlands in implementing its monthly sanitation exercise.

The State Commissioner for the Environment, Grants, and Donor Agencies, Dr. Richard Nnabu disclosed in Abakaliki while reacting to the conduct of the October edition of the exercise.

Nnabu said that subsequent editions of the exercise would see greater participation of rural dwellers to replicate the successes recorded in the urban areas.

"It is instructive to note that the October edition of the exercise was extended to the suburbs of Abakaliki and other urban areas and it was a huge success.

"Implementing the exercise at the hinterlands would have a wider impact and encourage good hygiene in those areas.

"We would sustain the monthly sanitation exercise in the state as we are presently overcoming the challenges which halted the exercise in the past.

"The success we have achieved since the exercise's resurgence in September is encouraging and we would sustain it henceforth,".

The commissioner commended the citizens for complying massively in the exercise noting that the enlightenment carried on them was yielding fruits

"I advise the public to collaborate with the ministry in keeping the state clean, as it was in everyone's interest".

Dr. Kelechukwu Okezie, Director of the Neighborhood Environment Watch Foundation, who observed the exercise commended the commissioner's efforts in resuscitating the exercise.

"Environmental cleanliness is important to the health of the people and general development of the society.

"The exercise was not observed for long which made people revert to negative environmental tendencies.

" People should presently see environmental cleanliness as a serious business and its reintroduction should strengthen this notion.

By The Editor

The superlative Mayor Super Cup 2022 entered the second week on the weekend of October 22 and 23. The actions are still inside the impressive Pa Ngele Oruta stadium, the progenitor of the ultra-modern 30,000 Olympic stadia Abakaliki.

Group B took the centre stage on Saturday, October 22 with All Stars FC squaring with Immigration FC. All stars which drew 0-0 with Future Stars in its first match seriously looked for a way of upping its ante. It did just that as its strikers especially got their acts together to find the back of the net at will.

After an exhilarating duel, the stars pummelled their opponents with four unreplied goals. The stars in their galaxies truly shone.

Jude Ibekwe, a Football Fan said that they had a full dose of entertainment.

"Football is all about goals and we had full dosage today. This reminds me that Maxwell Umahi, the sponsor of the competition is a prolific striker. He scores goals at will,".

The second match was between Lions FC and another star, Future stars FC. In this match, the Lions did not devour. The fangs went blunt. The stars did not sparkle either. The match after regulation time and the dogged efforts to turn the tide did not produce any goal. It was stalemated at 0-0.

Emmanuel Utobo is the Chairman of the Main Organising Committee (MOC) of the competition. He said that the competition was living up to the billing as a top-notch.

"We are happy with the standard displayed so far at the competition and hope to see more scintillating performances as it progresses.

(NB: W--Win, D--Draw, L--Loss, GF--Goal favor, GA--Goal against, GD--Goal difference, PT--Point)

GROUP B STANDINGS

W D L GF GA GD PT
A.Stars 1 1 0 6 2 +4 4

Lions 1 1 0 2 0 +2 4

F.STAR 0 2 0 2 2 0 1

IMMGT 0 0 2 0 6 -6 0


Group A action came up on Sunday, October 23. The first match was between Salt Fc which stirred the nest with their late registration process and the NYSC team. The Salt debacle drew the ire of other participants but reason still prevailed. On the pitch, it still showed class and beat NYSC 1-0.

Brenda Ajani, a Youth Corper who watched the match expressed dissatisfaction over the match's outcome. She said the NYSC team was expected to win the match and seal qualification for the semi-final.

"We are however confident of winning the remaining matches and qualifying. The players are expected to learn from their mistakes and make necessary corrections.

The second match of the day was between Bankers FC and the recalcitrant Nkuwasi FC. Nkuwasi grabbed headlines when it refused to honor the opening match fixture with police FC citing that police paraded ineligible players.

Even after persuasion to honor the tie and make its complaints formal, it still did not heed and therefore forfeited three points and three goals.

On the pitch, it refused to live up to its name literarily meaning scatter, it failed to scatter its opponents and only drew 0 -0 with their more fancied opponents, Bankers FC.

Group A standing


W D L GF GA GD PT

Police 1 0 0 3 0 +3 3

Salt 1 0 0 1 0 +1 3

NYSC 1 0 1 1 1 0 3

Bankers 0 1 1 0 1 -1 1

Nkosi 0 1 1 0 3 -3 1

.....Maxwell Umahi is a Goooaaalll...

The Federal Roads Safety Corps (FRSC) has mobilized 1,023 personnel for its ember monthly operations in Ebonyi state.

The FRSC Ebonyi state Sector Commander, CC Uche Chukwurah disclosed in Abakaliki during the flag-off rally of the ember months campaign in the state.

Chukwurah said that the personnel consists of regular and special marshals as the command will deploy 10 patrol vehicles for the operations.

"We would also deploy one ambulance and one power bike to guarantee safe travels for all road users within the state.

"Patrol operations would be sustained while mobile courts would be fully operational for quick dispensation of justice to traffic violators.

"We would also embark on robust public enlightenment at markets, schools, motor parks, places of worship, and through various media channels".

She noted that emphasis would be placed on checking over speeding, overloading, and the use of substandard tires.

"These factors increase the severity of crashes when they occur as the public should realize that the task of ensuring safe roads was collective.

"The FRSC as the lead agency in traffic management in Nigeria will continue adopting proactive approaches to enlighten the public on ways of reducing carnages on our roads.

"I appreciate the state government and other stakeholders for their support in achieving our mandate and hope that the 2022 ember-months would be crash free,".

The Acting Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Dauda Biu in his message, observed that the ember months witness a huge volume of traffic with people traveling across the country.

Biu represented by the Zonal Commanding Officer of the corps Ocheja Ameh remarked that the yuletide which falls within this period sees people traveling to meet their loved ones and attend various occasions.

"The huge vehicular movements are compounded by the excesses of motorists which leave horrifying nightmares in the minds of road users".

Governor David Umahi represented by Dr. Stephen Odo, state Commissioner for Commerce and Industries commended the FRSC for the initiative and pledged that the government would support measures to ensure safe roads.

"The protocols involved in saving road accident victims, especially at the hospitals should be withdrawn to ensure that lives are saved.

Goodwill messages were delivered at the occasion by representatives of security agencies, and non-governmental organizations among others.

The theme of the event was 'Avoid overspeeding, overloading and unsafe tires to arrive alive'.

The Unwuekumenyi youths, a socio-cultural group in Ebonyi have urged the state's political actors to sustain the gubernatorial charter of equity in the 2023 general elections.

The group while addressing the press in Abakaliki, said the prevailing peace and harmony in the state would be sustained if the gubernatorial position is still rotated among the three senatorial districts.

Prince Uche Ali Ega, National President of the group said that the forum had appraised the political developments in Ebonyi since 1999 and appreciated the gains of the rotation.

"The founding fathers were forthright and had an unwavering belief in equity, justice, and fairness, especially the rotation of the gubernatorial seats among the three senatorial districts.

"We sincerely appreciate the courage, boldness, honesty, and political will of Gov. David Umahi in sustaining the power rotation among the three districts.

"The governorship position having rotated from the north, central unto the south should automatically return to the northern district.

"It is heartwarming that the governor has supported that the gubernatorial seat is zoned to the north senatorial zone, particularly to the Izzi clan.

The group's president noted that it critically assessed the candidates of various political parties and unanimously endorsed Chief Francis Nwifuru, of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as its gubernatorial choice.

"We, therefore, enjoin other critical stakeholders, in the spirit of equity, justice, and fairness, not to truncate the dreams of our founding fathers.

"Izzi is the most populous clan in the state; consisting over 70 percent of both landmass and citizenry of the state," he said.

Mr. Victor Chukwu, Leader of the Ebonyi House of Assembly, said that a vote for Nwifuru is a vote for reciprocity because the Izzi clan supported Umahi in 2015.

"The Izzi clan rejected its son in 2015 insisting that it was the turn of the south where Umahi belongs.

"It is, therefore, heart-warming that Umahi recognizes this magnanimity and resolved that Nwifuru replaces him.

"We, therefore, urge political actors to toe this line to sustain the political harmony in the state.

It would be recalled that the group participated in the one million men march on Oct.22 in support of Nwifuru's candidacy.

By The Editor

The much heralded Mayor Super Cup 2022 kicked off inside the impressive Pa Ngele Oruta stadium, the progenetor of the ultra-modern 30,000 Olympic stadium Abakaliki, on October 15, 2022.

The opening match pitched two group A teams: Police FC and Reformed Nkuwasi FC. Ironically, there was nothing reformed in its name.

As the match was billed to commence by 3pm, Nkuwasi started a furore; It claimed the police team fielded players that were not police officers. Its players shouted and raked.

The Main Organising Committee (MOC) intervened and urged them to play and make their complaints formally. They would not bulge and caused rancour. The Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports and even the sponsor of the competition intervened, urging them to toe the path of reason, due process. They did not heed.

The referee and the linesmen met and decided. The regulations guiding the competition require that they be walked-over. The competition will not halted because of unguarded defiance.

Fabian Igwe, a fan who came to the stadium with much expectation of action-packed, football showpiece, expressed disappointment over Nkuwasi's conduct.

"They wanted to spoil our fun. They seem to live up to their name, Nkuwasi, meaning (Scatter). But it will not work here".

It did not actually work because the second match between the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and Bankers FC took centre stage. It lived up to its billing as the sponsor and the youth and the sports commissoner, among other dignataries performed the opening formalities. The sponsor performed the ceremonial opening kick-off. Both teams to Nkuwasi's consternation, took to the pitch.

After an exhiliarating first half, both teams took the fireworks to the second half. Midway into it, the NYSC team scored the solitary goal off a tantalising right-wing cross and that settled the tie, despite their opponents recovery onslaughts.

Hillary Ogbonna, is the Secretary of the MOC. He said that the committee would uphold the regulations guiding the competition at all times and commended the teams for their sheer football artistry.

(NB: W--Win, D--Draw, L--Loss, GF--Goal favour, GA--Goal against, GD--Goal difference, PT--Point)

Group A STANDINGS

W D L GF GA GD PT Police 1 0 0 3 0 +3 3

NYSC 1 0 0 1 0 +1 3

BNKER 0 0 1 0 1 -1 0

NKWSI 0 0 1 0 3 -3 0

SALT 0 0 0 0 0 0 0


MATCH DAY 2: Group B

The second match series came on Sunday, October 16. Lions FC proved that they were true predators by devouring Immigration FC 2-0. The match was played at a frenetic pace and the Lions proved that they were true nationals who posed no migrant threat to immigration authorities.

Emmanuel Utobo is the Chairman of the MOC. He said that the competition was moving smoothly and the teams abiding to the regulations of the game. He commended the sponsor and the coordinator (commissioner) for their support towards a successful competition and his MOC members for their cooperation.

The second match of the day turned out to be the fiercest and most entertaining. The game of the stars :All stars and Future stars was played with full galaxies, with both teams scoring and equalising for a pulsating 2 :2 draw. The spectators sat on the edges of their seats and got full dose of entertainment.

Uche Mouka (Shaba) is a member of the All Stars team. He commended his players for their high technical output, noting that they attacked and defended well which they are known for. He expressed confidence of better performances in subsequent matches.

GROUP B STANDINGS

W D L GF GA GD PT
LIONS 1 0 0 2 0 -2 3

A.STAR 0 1 0 2 2 0 1

F.STAR 0 1 0 2 2 0 1

IMMGT 0 0 2 0 2 -2 0

....... Maxwell Umahi is a Goooaaalll....

The Technology for Transformative Development Foundation has urged the Ebonyi government to develop an education strategy to enhance the sector in the state.

Mr Ewa Eleri, Executive Director of the foundation, gave the urge in Abakaliki during its policy brief on improving the quality of primary education in Ebonyi.

Eleri said that such strategy would evolve a road-map involving critical stakeholders for the enhancement of the sector in the state.

"We have presented a baseline assessment of primary schools with the support of the United States International Agency for Development (USAID).

"This assessment is also in partnership with the state's Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB),".

He noted that assessment identified inadequacy of teachers in primary schools and their inequitable posting to schools.

"We discovered challenges of effective supervision of teachers in schools and inadequate provision of learning materials,".

Eleri commended the state government's commitment towards addressing these challenges and sought the cooperation of the traditional institution for its attainment in the rural areas.

Chief Kingsley Ikoro, Deputy Speaker of the Ebonyi House of Assembly urged relevant authorities to ensure strict enforcement of teachers' postings to ensure adequate teachings in schools.

"It is wrong for teachers to be posted to areas where their services are needed and they lobby to return to where they were posted from.

"Teachers should be effectively supervised to check truancy and ensure they deliver quality
teachings,".

Dr Emmanuel Obasi, the Principal Secretary to the Ebonyi Governor said that the state government has deployed adequate resources to enhance teaching and learning in its schools.

"Statistics have shown that the state has equitable distribution of teachers to schools which would be sustained,".

Mr Francis Egwu, Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Teachers in the state urged relevant stakeholders to prevail on the government to enhance teachers' welfare.

The event was attended by traditional rulers, clegy, Non Governmental Organisations among others.

All is now set for the Mayor Super Cup 2022 road walk to be staged on Saturday, October 8, 2022, with the take-off point being the impressive PA Ngele Oruta stadium, Abakaliki.

The road walk which is expected to involve over two million participants would signal the commencement of events concerning the much heralded Mayor Super Cup competition 2022, involving nine teams in the state.

The teams include Police FC, NYSC, Immigration, All Stars, Reformed Nkuwasi, Lion, Bankers, Future Stars, and Salt FCs.

The teams and their supporters including soccer enthusiasts around the state and the generality of youths would throng the stadium at 6. am on Saturday morning for the walk expected to touch most parts of Abakaliki and its environs.

The draws for the competition are expected to be held immediately after the walk, at the stadium, to fix the teams in their various groups for the commencement of hostilities.

Preparations for the walk commenced on Tuesday, October 4 with the handing over of jerseys to participating teams, kits to referees, and presentation of the competition's match balls to the Main Organising Committee (MOC) of the competition.

The presentation was performed by the competition's sponsor, Hon. Maxwell Umahi, the All Progressives (APC) Candidate for Abakaliki North State Constituency in the Ebonyi State House of Assembly; in the 2023 general elections.

The 'mayor' as he is affectionately called by fans and political watchers was assisted by the Ebullient Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports in the state, Charles Akpu-Enika, who coordinates the competition.

Akpu-Enika in his address commended the sponsor for his doggedness in ensuring the organization of the competition and his overall interest in enhancing the well-being of youths.

"You have been demonstrating keen resolve to unite youths in the state, especially through sports and we are sure of better packages when you assume the exalted position next year.

"I urge officials of participating teams to ensure that their teams and supporters actively participate in the road walk to show the whole world that a competition which type has never been witnessed in the annals of Ebonyi state, is to be organized".

Officials of the participating teams took turns in expressing their readiness to participate in the road walk and the competition properly, pledging also to abide by all rules and regulations guiding the competition.

The 'mayor' in his remark, thanked the MOC, teams, and others who have ensured that the competition becomes a reality.

He expressed his resolve to ensure that youths are brought together and empowered through sports to make society peaceful and habitable for all.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps have commenced moves to secure schools in Ebonyi through the launch of the Safe School Initiative.

The Commandant of the Corps, Felix Gbolade, gave the during a 2-day train-the-trainee capacity building seminar on safe schools in the state.

Gbolade said that the initiative was a response to the incessant attacks on institutions of learning by criminal elements in society.

"The project would build on steps taken by the federal government, the NSCDC, and other stakeholders to sustain a safe environment for schools in the country.

"The female strike force of the corps would spearhead the initiative by patrolling schools to monitor activities within their environment".

The state commandant noted that the program's commencement testified to the corps' resolve to check insecurity in schools in the state.

"We are at the same time ensuring the overall well-being of students and staff.

"We all can assist to ensure a coordinated platform that brings relevant stakeholders together in achieving the desired goals".

He noted that the initiative would commence from Ebonyi's north senatorial district and hoped to be subsequently extended to other districts.

"We however solicit that key stakeholders be identified and mobilized to promote the project across the 13 Local Government Areas of the state.

Governor David Umahi represented by Dr. Sunday Nwangele, Commissioner for Education expressed satisfaction over the initiative and noted that the government would support it.

"I, however, encourage the corps to expand the project to other senatorial districts of the state for better results.

"I also urged students teachers, and principals, among others to take advantage of the program and provide vital information to security agencies,"

He noted that the state government was committed to ensuring the safety of its schools and another segment of its existence.

"The participants should pay attention to the tutorials at the seminar to enable them to identify possible security threats within their environment,"

The state Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Garba represented by ACP David Kolo urged students, and teachers among other stakeholders in the school system to be security conscious.

The State Commandant of Federal Fire Service, Mr. Iruegbu Okpan charged teachers and school management in the state to increase fire prevention and control awareness in their environment.

The theme of the seminar was 'strategies for sustainable safe schools in Ebonyi.

The Ohaneze Ndigbo worldwide, Ebonyi state chapter has urged Ebonyi people and Nigerians in general, not to compromise on the unity that binds them.

Dr Peter Mbam, President of the chapter gave the urge in Abakaliki while felicitating with Ebonyi people and Nigerians on the 26th anniversary of the state's creation and the nation's 62nd independence anniversary.

Mbam noted that Ebonyi and Nigeria have every reason to celebrate their self rule and emancipation from colonial rule respectively.

"Ebonyi has restored the unity existing among its sons and daughters as we salute all those who fought for its creation.

"We salute past governors of the state for their contributions and especially the incumbent Governor David Umahi for his numerous achievements.

"These achievements have catapulted Ebonyi from zero ladder to top in seven years of his administration with the quality and impact, second to none.

"The Ohaneze Ndigbo world wide is proud of these achievements and readily available to go all the way with you".

The Ohaneze Ndigbo state president congratulated President Muhammadu Buhari and principal officers on the occasion of the nation's independence as the nation has a lot to look back to, these past years.

"We equally celebrate the Wife of Ebonyi Governor, Chief Mrs Rachael Umahi for her immeasurable support in the realization of the state's advancement.

"We also congratulate the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, the Chief Judge, member of the State Executive Council, among other top government functionaries on this aspicious occasion.

"We urge the citizens to always pray and support the government at all levels as together, we would achieve the Ebonyi and Nigerians of our dreams,".

From the Editor

Football will be used to set Ebonyi agog with the forthcoming Mayor Super Cup competition, 2022. It is a competition that will involve eight teams which would slug it at the main bowl of Pa Ngele Oruta stadium, Abakaliki for the coveted prize.

The eight teams include the Nigerian police, National Youth Service Corps, Nigerian Immigration Service, All Stars, Reformed Nkuwasi, Lions, Bankers, and Future Stars football teams.

The competition is aimed at fostering unity and purposefulness among the participating teams which will cascade to an atmosphere of conviviality across the sporting sphere of the state using football as an illus.

Hon. Maxwell Umahi, a protege of the Umahi's political dynasty, is a chip off the old block. He is effectively towing the political, sagacious steps of the effervescent master performer, Engr, Chief David Umahi, the Governor of Ebonyi state.

Maxwell, a renowned sports enthusiast, matches words with action. He declared that he will use sports as a tool for social re-engineering and a veritable source of self-reliance by youths of the state, especially those from the Abakaliki North state constituency.

He is vying to represent the constituency at the state House of Assembly under the All Progressives Congress (APC). Even before ascending the seat deservedly, he has set the ball rolling with the super cup in his alias name.

The competition is aided by the composition of seasoned football administrative egg heads, ably coordinated and supervised by the ebullient state commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Hon, Charles Akpu-Enika, another chip of the Umahi's block.

The 9-man Main Organising Committee (MOC) has quickly set to work and successfully conducted all pre-competition formalities.

Emmanuel Utobo, Director of Sports in the state Sports Council heads the MOC. In several meetings with the committee and representatives of the participating teams, he outlined the modalities to ensure a hitch-free competition and dexterously clarified issues of interest to the teams.

Hillary Ogbonna, the Secretary of the state Football Association is the MOC's Secretary. He oversaw the production of the competition's rules and guidelines and stoutly maintains that the guidelines would adhere to the latter in conformity with the Federation of International Football (FIFA) and Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards.

With the commencement of activities about the competition after the nation's Independence celebrations, football fans are expecting worthy days of football glory.

The Ebonyi state government has commended the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) assisted Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP) for prudent management of funds meant for its activities in the state.

Prof. Humphrey Nwobashi, the state Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources gave the commendation during the programme's meeting/working session on 2023 draft annual workplan and budget.

Nwaobashi said that IFAD VCDP has shown that it could manage available resources allocated for its activities in the state to still impact positively on beneficiaries.

"Several economics are still battling with the effects of COVID 19 but IFAD-VCDP has shown high level of probity and accountability in managing available resources.

"When I assumed office as the commissioner, I was briefed by the programme's coordinator in Ebonyi and was amazed with the impact of its activities in the state.

"These impacts were made despite the reduction of funds due to the effects of COVID 19 and one would then wonder the level of impact if such funds came in full.

"I would advise the programme to continue making judicious use of available funds instead of projections that are not available.

He commended the federal government for approving the programme, describing it as one of the best agricultural interventions in West Africa and beyond.

"The Ebonyi government will continue collaborating with the programme and fulfill all its obligations toward it.

Mr Muhammad Damatar, the IFAD-VCDP National Financial Controller
commended the Ebonyi government for its commitment towards the sustainance of the programme's activities in the state.

He advised officers in charge of the IFAD-VCDP budgetting to be proactive as their activities drive the programme.

"When you prepare the budget, ensure it is properly coded as it provides the opportunity of uploading it to the Management Information System (MIS) and finance software.

"The coding is driven from the accounting software which shows that the relationship is good.

"When there is a single code that is not on the accounting software, the MIS will accept it but will not allow the budget to balance on software.

"It must be comprehensive and correct and if not, might result to problems.

Mr Mohammed Lawal, IFAD-VCDP Monitoring and Evaluation Advisor, assured participating states of its commitment to implement its activities despite the effects of COVID 19 on funds availability.

Mr Sunday Ituma, the IFAD-VCDP State Programme Coordinator thanked the national officers for their visit and assured of the proactiveness of the state office in the implementation of activities.

IFAD-VCDP to sustain exchange of ideas among benefitting farmers in Ebonyi


The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) assisted Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP) says it is committed towards enhancing exchange of ideas among its beneficiaries in Ebonyi.

Mr Sunday Ituma, the IFAD-VCDP State Programme Coordinator, made the declaration during its learning route programme for benefitting cassava/ rice seed enterprenuers in the state.

Ituma said that such exchange of ideas was part of the programme's implementation processes which is termed learning routes.

"We take young farmers to successful farmers who have demonstrated best practices in a particular area of our intervention.

"The successful farmers explain how they attained their present status and how they overcame inherent challenges.

"They would explain how they overcame challenges of access to land, finance, extension services, equipment, inputs among others.

He noted that the tutored farmers would be required to replicate what they learnt in order to attain the status of the successful farmers.

"We have trained over 30 youths at the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA) Ibadan, Oyo on rice seed production.

"The trainees were empowered on return to become viable enterprenuers as they have even jointly registered a limited liability company.

"They produce all the seeds we give to farmers and have become millionaires in their own rights,".

Mr John Nweze, the IFAD -VCDP Knowledge Management Officer in Ebonyi said that the learning route programme has greatly motivated young farmers to succeed in various agricultural ventures.

"When they learn the secrets of those who have succeeded, they would realise that such successes were not magical and would be focused on achieving success.

"The rice seed enterprenuers for instance sell the produce in other states and presently have the capacity of solving their immediate needs,".

Mrs Elizabeth Edu, a Rice Seed enterprenuer thanked IFAD-VCDP for the training opportunity offered her and pledged to mentor upcoming enterprenuers to succeed.

The Ohaneze Ndigbo worldwide has pledged to support the newly inaugurated local government area chairmen in Ebonyi to actualise their mandates towards the people.

The state chapter of the apex Igbo socio-cultural group made the declaration in a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Prince Anya Okorie on behalf of its President, Dr Peter Mbam.

The statement which was made available to newsmen in Abakaliki indicated the group's resolve to collaborate with the council's leadership in providing democratic dividends at the grassroots.

"We are proud of the process which led to your emergence and which is in line with democratic tenets.

"It is our firm belief that the trust which the people have in you by casting their votes in your favour will be reciprocated.

The association in the statement, noted that it had gone through the chairmen's records and discovered that they were persons of honour and integrity.

"We have no doubt that you will deliver satisfactory on your new mandates and replicating the governor's strides in your areas.

It would be recalled that the 13 council chairmen and 171 councillors, all of the All Progressives Congress (APC) were inaugurated by Governor David Umahi on September.1 in Abakaliki.

A federal high court sitting in Abakaliki had on August 25, nullified the elections which brought the officers to power for contravening relevant provisions of the electoral act.

The Ebonyi government however, announced on August. 30, that it had obtained an ex-parte order from a state high court to go on with the inauguration.

"APC HAS BROUGHT BENEFITS TO EBONYI TO DESERVE ELECTORATES' SUPPORT"--Maxwell Umahi

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Candidate for Abakaliki North constituency in the Ebonyi House of Assembly, Hon Maxwell Umahi has said that the state has benefitted tremendously from the Federal Government to deserve the electorates' support.

Umahi made the disclosure in an interview noting that it was the premise on which the people should support the party in the 2023 general elections.

The candidate who is Governor David Umahi''s relative, said that the massive transformation of the state in all spheres was due to the 'fruitful' relationship between the state and the FG.

"We have recieved massive support from the FG towards life-enhancing interventions in infrastructure, health, education, agriculture among other areas.

"These projects and interventions such as roads, flyovers and empwerment initiatives are glaring and also being utilised by the opposition,"

He noted that the development has made the ongoing consultations by the party's candidates on the electorate, easy.

"We have achievements to consult the people with and fortunately, no one listens to mere electoral promises again.

"We therefore urge the electorate to shun all unfounded sentiments and support APC candidates at all levels during the elections.

"President Muhammadu Buhari had visited Ebonyi severally to inaugurate projects and interventions which have immensely benefitted the people".

Umahi said that he was in the race to ensure that laws which would ensure massive youth empowerment are made and implemented.

"The youths hold the key to the economic and social revival of any society.

"Issues that concern them should be in the front-burner as I will emulate the governor in this regard".

EBONYI: CHAIRMAN, TRADITIONAL  MEDICINE  PRACTITIONERS  DEBUNKS ALLEGED SUSPENSION BY  THE ASSOCIATION.

By Okechukwu Eluu.

Abakaliki.

Following the  unity FM Radio announcement on 18th of August 2022 that allegedly suspended the chairman of Ebonyi State medicine  practitioners Association, Dr. Augustine Ekechi for   gross misconduct and mismanagement of the Association fund.


Dr. Chief Augustine Ekechi debunked the allegations while speaking with Newsmen  in his office at block 5 Ochudo Centenary City  Secretariat , Abakaliki the capital city of Ebonyi State.

He Said the announcement was made out of misinformation by  the perpetrators and Impostors, who are parading themselves as the executives members of the Association, wishing  to take over the Leadership of the Association.

He, subsequently wish to tell the public to disregard the Unity FM Radio announcement and also advised the practitioners and the general public to ignore any other person parading him/herself as the chairman of the Association in Ebonyi State, noting that each one does that at their own risk and would be arrested, prosecuted  by government.


"Meanwhile the State government are  therefore looking for these impostors for prosecution.

"If you have any of their  address or where they meet to carryout their operations, should report to the office of the director Medicine Service, Ministry of Health at block 5 Ochudo Centenary City secretariat ,Abakaliki." He said.
  
The Director Medicine services, Ebonyi State .
Dr.Alike Charles, on his part said the Ministry has advised the general public  and all traditional medicine practitioners in the State to Ignore any other person parading his/ herself as the chairman are Impostor.

"Ebonyi State ministry of Health, signed by the honourable Commissioner of health Ebonyi State. That Dr Chief. Augustine Ekechi is reorganized as the chairman of NANTMP in Ebonyi State."

" That all Communications about traditional medicine practice in Ebonyi State should visit Chief Ekechi."

He also made it known that a team of taskforce would commence work in all the 13 Local government areas in the State.

"Any practitioner found not to have licence duly signed by the chairman of the Association, would be treated as a quack and prosecuted in line with the Law". He added.

A Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi state, Chief Chaka Nweze has said that politicians who failed abjectly in their obligations in the various public offices that they served in the past and presently are conspiring to ensure that Governor David Umahi does not make it to the senate.

Nweze, the Pioneer Secretary of the party in the state made the assertion in Abakaliki, noting that Umahi’s sterling performance as a state governor is unmatched and the opposition is worried that the prospects of the governor in the senate is capable of shedding a light on their collective underperformance.

This is why he opined that Mrs Ann Agom-Eze is being used by the opposition to cover their paranoid inhibitions in an attempt to ensure that the APC flags a candidate that will be easier to defeat at the polls on election Day.

"The facts speak for themselves, Mrs Ann Agom Eze withdrew from the senatorial contest with a sworn affidavit to that effect. It is bewildering that the party leadership at the center is yet to make a statement on the subject.

The right to exercise franchise cannot be overemphasized and should not be trampled on. However one's need for selfish recognisance should not trump the collective ambition of our party in ensuring that we are effectively represented in the senate from the south east.

"Adequate representation and gender parity are key issues in today's politics, the need for inclusion cannot be overemphasized as-well. However inclusion should not just be a sentimental exercise if the candidate is not viable. A strong viable candidate should fly the party's flag aimed at winning and ensuring that that the party has enough seats to secure the majority in the senate.

"Our opposition is aware that with Umahi as the party's candidate, the senatorial seat's contest will be well contested with an overwhelming victory for the performing governor.

He noted that Umahi’s performances in office has stood him out among other leaders as he has become a reference point in the country on issues of excellent performances in office.

"We would not sit and allow mere political debauchery and gimmick make the people of Ebonyi south zone, lose the effective representation with accompanying democratic dividends which the governor will offer as their senator".

He particularly pointed at the main opposition party in the state for sponsoring Agom-Eze in her actions including a rebellious set of APC members still reeling from the crashing of their factionalisation bid after the last primaries.

"We are seeing a main opposition party in Ebonyi which hàs been destroyed by internal wranglings with its legal tussle for state chairmanship, gubernatorial ànd other positions, reaching the supreme court.

"Instead of looking for how to mend their torn umbrella, it is busy trying to create a failed distraction to the governor's senatorial bid.

"Ebonyi south zone cannot afford to have the sort of abysmal representation it is currently having from that party and no amount of gimmick will stop the governor from righting the inherent wrongs.

Nweze also urged the party to take cognisance of rebels in its fold and check their inimical actions with the general elections approaching.

"It is time to determine those for us and against us as we cannot in the bid to accommodate everyone, find ourselves in a quagmiric situation like the main opposition party in the state.

"We should also evaluate the character of members aspiring for various offices because for someone to cause untold embarrassment to the governor after withdrawing from a contest, dipicts an unstable character.

Ebonyi: AA candidate for Onicha east Constituency pledges to bring peace in Ishinkwor/Aboamege communities




Mr Collins Christopher Odii, the candidate of Action Alliance Party for Ebonyi State House of Assembly vying to represent Onicha east Constituency has pledged to initiate peace between the warring communities of ishinkow and Aboamege if elected in 2023.



Odii equally pledged to engage the youths of his Constituency and improve their education, productivity as well as living standard to entrust the peace process.



He lamented that the present and past leaders of his Constituency had neglected the youths which he believes hitherto formed the background for the current unrest in his Constituency.



"I've watched my Constituency from 1999 and alot has gone wrong, which is absolutely against the youths of the Constituency an I've seen that the people we've produced so far have done well but not particularly to the youths,



"As a leader, I will make out a session to discuss with the youths of my Constituency to find out what they need, my duty would be to guide and direct them and protect them.


"The Youths are the feature of tomorrow and we must take it now with good orientation and better education." Odii stated.


The house of Assembly Candidate said he would ensure that the youths are well informed and believed it would go along way to curb the level of ignorance in his Constituency.



"Other communities are doing well in education but my people are backward, this is why I'm here to give my people the light on how to get it right"


He lamented over the fact that people in his community were not properly encouraged to get better education and said he would use his experience from the common man's perspective to enlighten his people.


"No body from my Constituency will be idle".



Odii equally expressed confidence that his people would vote for him irrespective of his political party: "We are in a revolution, party politics don't count today and my vision is to give my people hope and strength the leadership vacuum". he added.

The media team of the Labour party's Presidential Candidate, Dr Peter Obi and its Gubernatorial Candidate in Ebonyi, Arc. Edward Nkwegu (Edon) has said that the latter's political structure is still intact since 2015.

The group in a statement it issued after its emergency meeting in Abakaliki, said that Nkwegu remained
a credible alternative and an Industrialist who will revamp the Ebonyi economy and make it viable.

The statement which was signed by its National President, Mr James Nnachi, expressed gratitude to God for Nkwegu's victory at the party's gubernatorial substitution primary.

"The primary was duly conducted in Abakaliki by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the party's national leadership.

"We therefore wish to thank them, the security agencies among other stakeholders for ensuring a hitch free exercise.

"We want to declare that Nkwegu is humble, peaceful and God fearing.

"His political structure is still intact since 2015 and is aggressively prepared for the 2023 elections," the statement read.

The group called on all party supporters not to be discouraged over a federal high court"s ruling as Nkwegu's candidacy.

"The party and INEC have acknowledged the outcome of the primary and Nkwegu's candidacy.

"It is part of party politics and it should be remembered that for a man to achieve success in life, he must meet a stumbling block.

"We shall however win at the end as a support for Edon is a support for a better Ebonyi state.

"He is the best candidate amongst all and has full support and goodwill of the people" the statement read.

By Maxwell Okechukwu.
Abakaliki.


The  Young Progressive Party (YPP) Governorship Candidate in Ebonyi State Dr. Opoke Sunday Andrew in an Interview with Newsmen in  his office at Abakaliki the State capital has promised the people in  the State especially the youths that If in the fourth coming 2023 general Election he's been Elected the Governor, that he will not only give people fish rather will teach them how to catch fish.


Said  "I will  create difference from the areas our past Leaders
Who believes that given people fish is the best way of eradicating poverty,"


"My purpose for coming out to contest  for  governorship, is to serve as a  Leader with leadership example, who is to serve his people, not like politicians who believes that leadership position is an opportunity to lout government funds and to  squarer wealth and authority ,while  by  deceiving  their Electorate " .

"Again I have vow in my mind that my coming out should not be to lout government funds, rather to do what the present and next generation to come should be remembering  me with.


"Meanwhile People should note that politicians only come  to win  Election, and to enrich themselves with their  family, while I am not a politician per say , therefore should establish  the  difference between a politician and a Leader in call,".

Dr. Opoke equally revealed that Ebonyi State is blessed  with natural resources, both  sold mineral and other means,
which as a geologist has carried out research and  discovered that if what the state has is developed,


"none  will remain in the poverty level people are today  and will  also  left up the State to compete with other developed  states in Nigeria and beyond also  would  create huge  employment for Ebonyians, mostly  the youths,


Dr. Opoke, a PhD holder in geology and a consultant in the Mining sector, both in Nigeria and outside  the country , had equally understood that given youth political appointments should not be the  paramount  option rather, given them full  empowerment than  short term appointment.


"in my seven point agenda mining should be  MY first option, and has mapped out the strategies and  means that would attract International Investors into the State to partner with those existing Mainers already in the State. for creating massive employment and increase the States IGR.


He assured  Ebonyians that unemployment  would be a past story through his accomplishment, following his already  connection with the some foreign countries, whom  he is in partnership with both in mining and water  project.


Reformations of the collapsed civil service system in the state, due to the inability of the past leaders, due to lack of experience which has resulted to the collapse of the civil service commission  in the State


And reform the commission back to its standard, if voted him the governor, said has once been a civil servant , and has known the system very well and what it will take in restructuring it. 
creating rooms for employment, promotion , regular payment of  salaries , both leave allowance and other attached entitlements. whereby at the end of every month  workers will be going home with smile and  proud, knowing that there is dignity in civil service Labour

Said he will  create an
urban and rureal Area migration, by designing a scheme for those in the rural areas not only having come to the capital city before gating  what they wants the create developmental strategies for rural people in the State which should not be an avenue for any Leader who did the needful, to  be proud when constructed or attracted  any projects. he said"

Dr. Opoke in conclusion said, his ambitions is not to lout government money and resources, rather to contribute his leadership experience .

"A real game changer" : Ebonyians celebrate youth development commissioner on birthday

Loads of encomiums across Ebonyi state, have been pouring for Hon. Charlse Emeka Akpu-Enika, the state Commissoner for Youth Development and Sports as he celebrates his birthday on Friday, August 5.

The amiable leader of the urban community in the state, is affectionately called 'Game changer' and "Eze- Ebunafo" (The king still reveling inside the womb) by admirers and generality of the public, especially sports enthusiasts.

The respondents who spoke in separate interviews described the elegant administrator as a God-fearing, de-tribalised and humble personality who has proactively overseen the implementation of the state government's laudable policies on sports and youth development.

Amechi Alo. Director of Youth Development in the Ebonyi Ministry of Youth Development and Sports described Akpu-Enika as a goal-getter and highly efficient administrator.

"I greet my boss on this auspicious birthday celebration and highly commend him for reviving the ministry and making it highly efficient.

"He is accomodating, fatherly but firm ; all to ensure that the ministry effectively executes its mandate of enhancing the wellbeing of youths and the state's sports fortunes".

Chief Bryan Ikpe, an All Progressives Congress (APC) Stalwart described Akpu-Enika as a loyal party man who has taught him the benefits of loyalty in all ramifications.

"The game changer believes in stability in politics and that has made him an integral part of the present administration and steadily implementing its policies as an administrator.

"He has been with Governor David Umahi since the inception of the divine mandate--laced administration and is presently in the forefront of projecting Rt.Hon Francis Nwifuru, the APC Gubernatorial Candidate".

Felix Odionye, Team Manager of Salt City Football Club of Abakaliki thanked God for his grace and blessings on Akpu-Enika and wishes him God's continued blessings.

"He is someone who does not believe in impossibilities and this showed in the way he oversaw the state government"s formation of the new football club.

"With his emergence as commissioner, sports was revamped in the state and the state governor should be pleased that he put a square peg in a square hole.

Mrs Adlaine Abah, a member of the urban community in Abakaliki wished the commissioner many birthday returns and God's continued grace upon him and his family.

"We want to thank Governor David Umahi for taking our brother as his son and grooming him to become the astute administrator that he has become.

"We pledge our continued, unalloyed support to his administration and the succeceding one that is hoped to sustain the divine mandate legacies".