PATROTISM THE WAY FORWARD FOR IMO PDP

Nze Raymond Emeana

I contemplated writing a post entitled "Imo PDP: Patrotism as a the only way forward, The Examples of IHEKWEME and PAPAMUNCHIES." A post by the same Papamunches on Imo PDP ROUNDTABLE has come to my rescue and reminded me of my promise to myself. Let me attempt a brief one here since time is not my friend any more. Patrotism is defined as "the quality of being patrotic, vigorous support for one's Country." "Loyalty and love for one's country". "Ability to make sacrifices for one's country" "Totally loyal and committed to a course"

It is examplified by the ability to give in, forgo advantages and benefits for the survival of a nation or common course in this case PDP. If we all re-examine our actions and inactions using the definitions of patrotism above, can we truly say we are indeed patrotic PDP members?. One Papamunches, an Executive member of the Sheriff following and a top notch of the same persuasion, Fabian Ihekweme, after the Supreme Court judgement, realising that both Markarffi and Ezekwem remain the authentic Chairmen, National Caretaker Committee and Imo State PDP respectively willingly relinquished their positions to rejoin the main stream PDP without conditions. This to me is patrotism defined. If they can, we all can too. Ka chineke mezie okwu.
Hon (Nze) Ray Emeana

HOW OKOROCHA HAS RAPED IMO STATE

By Chief Peter Ollie

If we must refresh our memory, Okorocha, in six years, has received in revenue a total sum of Nine Hundred and eighty Two Billion Naira (N982bn). In 2012 alone, for example, Okorocha received a total Revenue of N209.79bn. Okorocha’s revenue in 2012 alone is more them what Ohakim received in his entire four years of governorship. Ohakim’s administration received only a total of N140bn in his four years of governorship.Yet if you add contractors obligation, unpaid salaries/pensions, judgment debts to official state and local government commercial loans, Okorocha has gotten Imo State into a debt profile in excess of N238b. Is this not a disaster?

In 1976, for example Imo received a total of N295.5m as Federal allocation.In 1977 it was N345.8m. In 1980 it was N722.1m.In 1981, it was N795.934m. In 1982 it was N698.298m. In 1988 it was N812.249m etc.

It may interest Imo people to note that the first billion naira revenue was in 1991 which stood at N1.5596bn. From Admiral Ndubuisi Kalu i.e. from 1976 to Tanko Zubairu, (up to May 1999) the total revenue of Imo State stood at N25.22bn. Chief Sam Mbakwe worked hard and secured a $2bn foreign loan which he invested in revenue generating and employment creation projects such as Concorde Hotel, Avutu Poultry and various manufacturing outfits.Chief Achike Udenwa’s total revenue from 1999-2007 stood at N190.79bn, which is over N50bn less than Okorocha’s income in 2012 alone.

Between 2011 to 2014, Nigeria entered into a cycle of mega oil boom. The price of crude within this period averaged US $105 per barrel. On sighting the oil boom, Okorocha started cost-centered projects, mostly along highways. Unfortunately for Imo State, Okorocha mismanaged the boom that was witnessed between 2011 and 2014. He failed to save like his counterparts in Enugu and Anambra States. He went into spending spree on mostly populist projects without economic value in order to earn immediate applause from Ndi Imo. He began to expand roads that were unnecessary and began to erect squares and projects for personal luxury and never thought of the rainy days. This mismanagement he followed up with expensive TV showmanship, inciting the masses that all is well.

Listen to Okorocha’s official statement on the morning of 3rd December, 2012 on the floor of the house of Assembly.

“We have set up Imo College of Advanced Professional Studies (ICAPS); we have rescued the State from the shame of not having a befitting office of the first lady, including an ultra-modern banquet hall, a press center, a world class expanded exco chambers; we rescued the State from the shame of not having a befitting presidential lodge and VIP guest house”

These uneconomical spending by Okorocha includes a“befitting”Deputy Governor’s Lodge; 27 “State of the Art” general hospitals in the 27 Local Government Areas, Ochiedike Diagnostic Centre, Young Scientist College, Ikemba Ojukwu Centre, “Freedom” Square, Heroes Square”dangerous roundabouts, plus unappropriated university and a tile factory in his father’s compound in Ogboko.
Hear him again:
“Our legacy projects like Imo Towers of 1000 Housing units targeted at high net worth individuals and our citizens in the Diaspora, the ecumenical center known as Amarachi and the magnificent towers known as Akachi; the five Star Crystal Hotel, Ultra Modern Shopping malls, multi level car parks, the ultra modern judiciary headquarters, all designed to put Imo in the Guinness Book of World Records.”
Okorocha squandered this huge revenue on projects that will never come to fruition because he is an emperor. An emperor must build a befitting empire regardless of the welfare of his subjects.While Okorocha was throwing money on everything, the Imo State University was losing accreditation in most of its professional courses. The Law faculty of the university lost accreditation for five years and only got reaccredited a few days ago. The medical schools lost accreditation and have yet to be re-accredited up till today. The Heartland football club that has never been relegated is now relegated.

But in spite of just receiving N140b in four years, no course of study lost accreditation during the governorship tenure of Ikedi Ohakim. Inspite of receiving only about N190.79bn, in eight years, no course of study in Imo State University lost accreditation under H/E Achike Udenwa, yet we are regularly inundated with Okorocha having performed wonders more than the 13 previous governors combined.
Can Ndi Imo forget easily that under Ikedi Ohakim, Imo state workers received their salaries and as at when due and pensioners were paid their gratuities and pensions on a monthly basis. State owned hospitals were functional, our rural and paved roads were regularly maintained by IROMA and the Imo environment was kept clean through the efforts of the Clean and Green Initiative.More than 1300 Urban and rural water schemes were regularly maintained by Imo Water Board.Once workers and contractors are paid in full on a regular basis, they will have the needed funds to make their lives better, meaning that traders and business will thrive, also meaning that money will circulate within the state.

The legacy of a governor,therefore,is not measured by structural monuments but by prudent management of resources, respect for law and order and how better the vulnerable in society fair. The quality of life of any society speaks volumes of the headship of the society.Pensioners and children are the two most vulnerable in any society. Without regular full payment of salaries and pensions, the retired elderly and the children suffer.

GOVERNOR ROCHAS: PLEASE REVIEW YOUR STRATEGY, PROJECTS AND MOTIVES 19/9/17

I WANT TO DRAW ATTENTION MAJORLY ON THE AERIAL BARRICADING OF OWERRI AFTER THE DEMONIC GATES FAILED, MULTIPLE POOR ROAD PROJECTS AND HARSH SOCIAL-ECONOMIC EFFECTS ETC.

I inspected some areas of Owerri over two weekends of 8-10 Sept and 16/9/17.
It covered Ow-Phc to Assupta/Control road, Concorde Hotel, Nekede Old Road to Umumbazor Nekede, Control –Warehouse-Post Office-Douglas, Warehouse-IICC (Imo Intl Conf. Centre-Old Rex Cinema/NEPA-Royce-Ekede/Alama Avenue-Douglas. School Road-MCC –Urrata Road, IMSU-Iwuanyawu Glass House Orji, Orji Road-Uwaelu, Orji-Old Secretariat Okigwe Road-Prisons-Mbari (Cultrual Center)-Cherubim Wethedral-Tetlow-Old Stadium, School Road-Wethedral-Fire Service-Ogbo-Oshishi-Emmanuel College-Nekede Road-Concorde- Imo Investment Centre-Phc Road.
I will make my comments brief as possible and employ that only those who know the areas should comment especially if you disagree. Please may I make one serious request for someone or persons who are good at taking GSM PICTURES TO GET SNAP SHOOTS AS A TRUE PICTURE (NOT PHOTOSHOPED OR EDITED.MANIPULATED) IS BETTER THAN A THOUSAND WORDS. Dr Nma Olebare did one FOTOS-SPEAK in the past but was wrongly attacked by yes-members.
1) AERAIAL BARRICADE OR OBSTRUCTIONS ALONG MAJOR ROADS: I had written when Gov. Rochas/IMSG started with poorly conceived and execution of projects. ( in order not to repeat myself and for constrain of time & space, I will find my Old Post on PROJECTs & re-post it) It started with the “DEMONIC GATES” Rochas claimed will reduce crime rates in Owerri. Confirmed as failed project with uncompleted gates and unpaid contractors. Now we have AERIAL BARRICADE of major roads, including FEDERAL ROAD (as the ones along Government Sec. Sch-IMSU Okigwe Road will soon be mounted as the poor block-pillars are ready). This aerial obstruction started with the ones along Imo Raod/TV (IBC) – Concorde Hotel (AKASHAWA). The purported purpose is to beautify Owerri but it is totally wrong. There are better alternative ways. Many people don’t realize the implications of this in terms of SAFETY & EASY MOVEMENT OF GOODS AND SERVICES and ECONOMIC GROWTH OF OWEERI. Good examples include that Cranes, Containers, Rigs, Boilers and Industrial modular parts higher than the low heights of the barricades cannot be moved into Owerri or out. Please may Owerri AND Imo people, Chamber of Commerce, FGN Road Transport Unit/Transport Unions, even ROAD SAFETY etc, should put pressure to stop and remove those already mounted.
2) DITCHES/TERRIBLE HOLES AT ROCHAS PROJECT POINTS: Good examples of this include Assumpta Round-About, On River Nwa-Orie Tunnel-Bridge, Ow-Phc Road Tunnel sights Concorde & IMHA junctions. The SAFETY hazards and long traffic jams, frustrations, lost man-hours etc are better experienced than imagined. On 16th Sept, one vehicle broke down on top the Nwa-Orie site. For a Governor who claimed to be the best Imo has ever had, is it not easier to remedy these portions created by him? Yes, him, for he initiated the projects and has his men to supervise and eventually pay, if ever.
3) ROYCE-EGEDE-ALAMO AVENUE: The hold-up there is caused by broken culvert which can be fixed easily. People suffer here every day. Yet the IMSG over looks it and others but embark on more damages.
4) EXPANSION OF DOUGLAS COMPARED TO OTHERS: Remember that Douglas was already “dualized” long time ago. If the purported purpose is to make it “8-lanes”or whatever, projects are not just embarked upon without serious thinking about their costs and benefits, not just in terms of money but including social impacts and timing. Given the facts that IMSG is broke like other states, should Douglas rank high in project priorities? Me think all Douglas needed is re-surface it with coal-tar, clean the drains and demolish illegal projections of shops into the road. But, now, we will not up with inferior road, damaged underground drains and the last state will be worse than beginning, (Matt12v45, Lk11v26). This is common feature of all the projects undertaken by IMSG under Gov. Rochas. For examples, go to New Owerri-Nekede, check out Concorde-IIC (Imo Investment Centr-Phc Rd). Be it noted that even in London, when I visited, I saw narrow roads that are designated “one-way” to enhance traffic flow & management. Same applies to India as my brother reported. Multiple-lanes roads are built on fresh projects in less inhabited areas.
5) GREATER OWERRI RING ROAD (OBINZE-IHEAGWA/FUTO-NEKEDE-POLYNEK, NAZE-EGBU, URTTA-ORJI-ORLU ROAD, MBAITOLI-OKWU-OJI OW-ONTISHA RD BACK TO OBINZE) & ORJI IWUANYANWU GLASS HOUSE, BEHIND IMSU-MCC-URATTA ROAD-EGBU-OW-UMUAHIA ROAD.
Sincerely speaking, any Governor/Government in Imo interested to improve traffic flow and general development in Imo State must address these projects. The width is free, so what is holding back Rochas and more so why do shabby projects on them just to deceive people? The bad condition of the Orji Iwuanyanwu Glass House area has remained so for years. Driving in from Orji, one will think serious road project is going on, but that narrow road stopped before Uwa-elu, Fed. PolyNek –Iheagwa road is impassible. Why should Rochas focus on reasonable projects. Even MCC-URATTA road provides enough width for serious road construction project, but one can go and see the poor job, yet Gov. Rochas will soon mount his AERIAL BARRICADE around the old ITC Park and Township School –New Stadium area.
6) OLD-NEKEDE BRIDGE AND ROAD TO NEKEDE: Not minding being charged of selfishness, Gov Rochas’ bad treatment of Nekede people should be exposed and condemned. Here is the people that have suffered most in the hands of subsequent regimes in Imo State and Rochas ranks the worse Governor in this regard. Standard bridge was constructed by NDDC under Ex-Gov. Ohakim, but Rochas has abandoned the road. To deceive himself, while the main purpose is to cover corruption in the use of Imo Ecological funds, he constructed unnecessary “fake” through the ecological disaster created by excavation. The current status is that vehicles cannot use the bridge and big vehicles like trailers and Coca-cola trucks end up falling on the road. Travel down to Nekede and one will weep. To show you the deplorable state of the road, KEKE driver charged me N800 from Imo Civil Service Secretariat to No. 11 Bus stop while I paid N1000 from Phc to Ow. Worse of all, the only project Gov Rochas deemed fit for Nekede is the Refuge Dump site while totally neglecting the Nekede Farm for a Governor parroting about agricultural development. CONCLUSION: I have to stop. You can check things out for yourselves in Imo. Please ignore typo errors. God save Imo people & Nigeria from bad governments.

@EngrCELE

Have you been to old Etche Road field area at Aba recently?

Have you been to old Etche Road field area at Aba recently?

Here is what you need to know.

A new ultra modern market is under construction there.

To support the project, Etche Road, Unity and Green streets are currently under reconstruction.

The project is a PPP between Checkbest International Ltd and Abia State Government.

According to the MD of Checkbest, Mr Chidozie Njoku, work is expected to be competed by August 2018. He also confirmed that the project already has more than 70% off-takers for the available shop spaces.

The new Etche Road mall is expected to be the most modern shopping complex in the whole of the South East region of Nigeria.

JOK

IPOB agitation right, method wrong ―Ikpeazu

GOVERNOR Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State has observed that even though the grievances of members of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra are germane, they cannot attempt to box Igbo people into a narrow and separate geographical entity.
Speaking in Abuja to State House correspondents after a meeting with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on Tuesday, he said as the most widely traveled Nigerians, leaving Nigeria to form a small country called Biafra is not desirable for south easterners.

He said: “I think there are enough reasons to see that under our circumstance that we may not be Eldorado yet but there are concerted efforts that attempt to make our place a better place.

“I do not see how as an Ibo man boxing myself into a smaller geographic entity will be the recourse of the most widely traveled people in Nigeria.

“There are Igbos in Sambisa. What are you expecting of them if I narrow their geography of coverage?

“But agitation, marginalization, infrastructural deficiencies, these are issues which are germane and they can be discussed, they can be spoken about, they can be addressed.

“But I do not know how in 21st century, how carrying arms in my kitchen will grow the prosperity of my people.”

Okezie who was responding to the assertion that IPOB agitation is the result of leadership failure in the region, added: “Allegations are supposed to be investigated by investigative officers and I’m not trying to investigate such things. So, is just the masses especially the press.

“You know, we are perception builders. We should try to say things that are good about our country not things that are bad.”

He spoke on the recent events in the east which have heightened tension in the area saying that the IPOB agitation necessitated the intervention of the military.

According to him, “As expected, when such things happen, there is an interface between some members of that group and the military, and the theater was Abia State. And some people attempted to hijack that event to conflagrate (sic) our country.

“To the glory of God, the rest is history. We are still working to stabilize the fragile peace in the region.

“I thank God also for the instruments he used to be able to keep our country as one. We are humbled by the privileges.”

On the visit of northern governors to some south east states, Abia State governor said he has assured them of the safety of lives and property of all those residing in the south east.

He said he intended to stick to the oath he took to protect the people and not allow crisis to develop from his own backyard.

He added: “Well, I assured them of safety of lives and property of everybody that resides in Abia whether you are an Abian or not an Abian.

“I swore with the Bible to protect lives and property and because I take such things seriously, I will continue to protect the lives and property of my brothers and sisters irrespective of where they come from.

“You know that the main stay of our economy in Abia State is trade and commerce and I do not think it will augur well for our economy if we make our kitchen the theater of Biafra.

“A native wisdom in my place says you shouldn’t allow fight to ensue from your mother’s kitchen. It’s my responsibility also to grow prosperity from my state.”

On the call from some quarters for action against the father of Nnamdi Kanu, the IPOB leader, the governor maintained that father and son are two different individuals.

His words: “I clearly separate Kanu from his father. The processes of handling traditional institutions are enshrined in the laws of our land. And traditional rulers who are members of our constituency have leadership.

“They will do the needful at the appropriate time. But for me, I think there is a clear division between Nnamdi Kanu and his father.”

On the meeting with Osinbajo, he said it was to brief the Vice President on the recent events in the south east.

“Well, naturally I’m heading a subnational government. When this kind of things happen, which would have had dimension of national proportion, it’s right that you will come and brief the C-in-C or his vice and that is exactly what I have come to do.”

Okezie advised Igbos to be confident in Nigeria and be guided by the rule of law.

http://www.tribuneonlineng.com/ipob-agitation-right-method-wrong-―ikpeazu/

Abia Gov. Ikpeazu, Northern counterparts assure of safety

Newsmart September 19, 2017 News


Abia Gov Ikpeazu

Abia Gov. Okezie Ikpeazu, on Tuesday assured Nigerians that the crisis created by the face-off between security operatives and IPOB in his state was over and assured everyone of safety of lives and property.

The Governor gave the assurance while speaking with State House Correspondents after he briefed the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbbajo, about the crisis in some parts of Abia.

He said that he is in close consultations with the Northern governors, who have given assurances of the safety of lives of those residing in their states.

“We are in very close consultations and relationship with our brothers from Northern Nigeria, the governors.

“And they have assured that every part of Nigeria is safe for every Nigerian, including Igbos, to continue in their business and their enterprise.

“And I want to announce that the population of Igbos outside the Igbo enclave is about 11.6 million; you don’t play with the lives of 11.6 million people.

“We all have to be careful, the press, the leadership at the state level and at the federal level, everybody.

“I think that we should be guided by rule of law and grow confidence in the Nigerian citizen that under our laws that he (one) is protected everywhere.’’

The governor acknowledged that Nigerians knew that in the past one week the group called IPOB “has been agitating for a separate nation called Biafra and the homestead of the leader of that group happened to be Abia state.”

He said that as expected, when such things happens there was an interface between some members of that group and the military and the theatre was Abia state, adding that the situation was exploited by some people to cause disharmony.

“We are still working on stabilizing and sustaining the fragile peace that we enjoy now.

“But I thank God that he found us worthy instruments with which to continue to keep our country on and we were humbled by the privileges.”

Ikpeazu stated that he had assured some five Northern governors, who visited the state of the safety of lives of everybody resident in Abia, whether they were Abia people or not.

“I swore with the Bible to protect lives and property; because I take such oath very seriously, I will continue to protect the lives and property of our brothers and sisters irrespective of where they come from.

“Especially, the main stay of our economy in Abia is trade and commerce and I do not think it will augur well for our economy if we make our kitchen the theater of fracas.

“Native wisdom in my place says that you should not allow fight to ensue from your mother’s kitchen.

“And it is my responsibility also to grow prosperity in my state and that would have led to negative growth,’’ the governor said.

On the call for the dethronement of Kanu’s father from the traditional stool, the governor said he clearly separated Kanu from his father noting that the processes of handling traditional institutions are enshrined in the laws of the land.

“The traditional rulers who are members of his immediate constituency have leadership. They will do the needful at the appropriate time.

“But for me I think there is a clear division between Nnamdi Kanu and his father,” he emphasised.

Ikpeazu declined to link the agitation to the alleged failure of leadership in the South East, saying that allegations were supposed to be treated by investigative officers, which he was not trying to investigate.

The governor advised that leaders as perception builders should try to say things that were good about the country not things that were bad.

“There are enough reasons to see that under our circumstance, we may not be in El-dorado yet but there are concerted efforts and attempts to make our place a better place.

“I do not see how, as an Igbo man, boxing myself into a smaller geographic entity will help the cause of the most widely travelled people in Nigeria.

“There are Igbos in Sambisa (Forest); what are you expecting of them if I narrow their geography of coverage.

“But agitation, marginalisation and infrastructure deficiencies, these are issues which are germane and they can be discussed, spoken about and addressed.

http://www.newsmart.com.ng/2017/09/abia-gov-ikpeazu-northern-counterparts.html?m=1

PRESS RELEASE

Tuesday, 19th September, 2017

PDP CONDEMNS THE UNWARRANTED ATTACKS ON JOURNALISTS IN IMO STATE BY GOVERNOR ROCHAS OKOROCHA AND THE APC GOVERNMENT

The attention of the Peoples Democratic Party, Imo State Chapter has been drawn to the purported banning of the ThisDay and Vanguard Newspaper reporters Messers Amby Uneze and Chidi Nkwopara by the Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha, from covering government activities, thereby stopping them from carrying out their constitutional duties of reporting and holding the government accountable in the discharge of their constitutional duties to the people.

The Peoples Democratic Party, Imo State Executive Council after a very careful and painstaking review of the purported ban in an emergency meeting views the ban as a breach of the constitutional rights of the journalists and hereby condemn the action of Governor Rochas Okorocha in its totality.

One of the tenets of any democracy is the freedom of information and this must be respected by all segments of the government in Imo State. The purported ban of the two journalists from carrying out their legitimate duties is to show the whole World how the Governor is becoming increasinly intolerant of opposing views to his draconian style of governance.

The APC government of Imo State under Governor Rochas Okorocha has done so much harm to the people of Imo State and has completely lost popularity and sympathy of the people, through his maladministration should not transfer his aggressions to innocent Journalists who are carrying out their constitutional duties in Imo State. The ThisDay and Vanguard Newspaper Correspondents are not responsible for the dwindling image of Governor Okorocha which is self inflicted due to the many failed promises he made to the Imo people.

We ask, are the correspondents of ThisDay and Vanguard Newspapers whom Governor Okorocha banned responsible for the destruction and demoilition of Eke Ukwu Owerri, Orie Amaraku and Anara Markets; the abandonment of the 27 general Hospitals in Imo State, the non- payment of complete pensions and salaries of Workers in Imo, the non- conduct of Local Government elections since 2011 till date which he has always promised, the collapse in the educational system, the destruction of critical infrastructures in Imo State, the non-completion of all destroyed roads in Imo State, non functional ISOPADEC for the Oil Producing Local Government Areas, non functional Adapalm, abandonment of all the Rural Roads in the 27 Local Government Areas in Imo State and most importantly the flagrant disobedient to Court Orders and Court Processes etc?

The PDP hereby call on Governor Okorocha to allow these Journalists to do their legitimate duties as they are not the Eke-Ukwu Owerri Market Women and other artisans in Imo State whose livelihood have been destroyed by his questionable urban renewable policy.

We also urge the two Journalists and indeed other Journalists operating in Imo to continue to boldly do their duties as much is expected from them at these challenging times of bad governance without fear or favor, as in the time of bad governance like this, it is only the media that can strengthen and protect democracy from declining as the watchdog.

We therefore call on the all media houses not to kill the morale of their professional reporters because of a failed government. The media has an obligation to stand up to him and shame him. We also call on the NUJ Imo State Chapter and her National body to take appropriate actions to protect the Journalists concerned and others likely to fall victims to Gov. Okorocha's antics as that is the only way to preserve the sanctity of the secred duty the media perform in a democracy.

Oparah Damian
State Publicity Secretary, Imo PDP.

Press Release
Office of the President,
Federation of Ngwa Students (FNS) National
18/09/2017

Sequel to the security situation in Abia state, in particular Aba and Umuahia, due to the recent IPOB/Military imbroglio imposed on the atmosphere, there have been series of reports by the media on the situation.

It is worthy of note that, while civilian masses, sociopolitical pundits and public affairs analysts have been vocal on conventional and social media have been busy conjuring, the Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu had been on top of the situation. Holding series of security meetings with the relevant authorities in the Nigerian Army and with the Federal Government, to see to a peaceful resolution and guarantee security in the State so that citizens and residents can go on with economic activities without fear.

The governor had as well met with members of the National Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abia State Chapter, to felicitate with members of the union and dialogue for more active participation in ensuring democracy and credible media reportage is promoted in the State.

Recognizing that these efforts by the amiable governor are on right track in such a time, we wish to on behalf of the Federation of Ngwa Students (National), thank him and the Abia State government for taking necessary constitutional measures to ensure security in the State.

Security of lives and properties is one of the primary responsibility of government and His Excellency's swift actions to that effect, on the prevailing situation is commendable.

We are also using this medium to implore good citizens and residents of the State to go on with their peaceful living. Self-determination is a right recognized by international convention, however, given the political realities of the country and constitution, it is advisable for agitations in that light to be done with regards to legal approaches to avert breaching of public peace in the State.

In Conclusion, we call on the governor to continue prioritizing the security of the citizens of the State, for continuous boom in economic activities.

FNS! Umunna Bu Ike!

Signed:
Comr. Chinenye Goodluck
Public Relations Officer.

Comr. Emenike Vincent Onyembi
National President,
Federation of Ngwa Students [FNS], National.

GOVERNOR OKEZIE VICTOR IKPEAZU, THE PROACTIVE GOVERNOR

The leadership of Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN) Abia state chapter applauds our amiable and God sent governor Dr, Okezie Victor Ikpeazu on his swift response to the security situation, which has averted dangers, lost of live and paralysing of economic activities in Abia state, we also request south east citizens to comply with the decision of the south east governor forum in their agitations.

Apostle CHIDINDU
James, state chairman, PMAN

IKPEAZU’S PRO-ACTIVENESS IN AVERTING BLOODSHED IN ABIA TAKES HIM TO #1 ON THE YNAIJA EFFECTIVENESS RANKING FOR GOVERNORS

Tensions are high in the country at the moment and one wrong move from anyone in power can set the country ablaze.

The Army’s Operation Python Dance II in the Southeast had every possibility of turning out bloody but for the prompt and well thought out action of Abia governor, Okezie Ikepazu. In the week under review, the Abia governor takes the top position in the YNaija Effectiveness Ranking for Governors.

Though the operation is for the entire region, Aba, the state’s commercial hub is the centre of attention and home to the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

Following allegations and counter allegations from both the army and the pro-Biafra group, Ikpeazu promptly declared a curfew in the city, which was observed for a week. This singular act by the governor went a long way in calming frayed nerves.

In the same vein, the southeast governors proscribed IPOB activities in the region as they urged President Buhari to withdraw troops. Giving reasons for its decision, Chairman of the Southeast Governors’ Forum, Ebonyi Governor David Umahi, said it was taken to put an end to the impending crisis in the region. On his part, Rivers governor, Nyesom Wike in a state broadcast said, “Rivers people fully subscribe to Nigeria’s corporate existence and its indivisibility”, as he warned IPOB members to steer clear of the state. Imo governor, Rochas Okorocha, a prominent voice against IPOB activities says Igbos are not in support of Nigeria’s disintegration, Willie Obiano while his Anambra counterpart, says there is no hiding place for IPOB members in the state.

In non-IPOB related news, Ekiti governor, Ayodele Fayose who condemned the alleged invasion of Kanu’s home by the Army, and urged the FG to allow Southeast governors’ speak to Kanu, launched his presidential campaign, making him the first individual to publicly declare his intention to run for the nation’s number one position.

From the best to the worst, see our top ten below.

State Name Party Year Elected Rank This Week Rank Last Week
Abia State Okezie Ikpeazu PDP 2015 1 2
Borno State Kashim Shettima APC 2011 2 1
Anambra State Willie Obiano APGA 2014 3 4
Ebonyi State David Umahi PDP 2015 4 6
Enugu State Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi PDP 2015 5 9
Kaduna State Nasir Ahmad el-Rufai APC 2015 6 3
Delta State Ifeanyi Okowa PDP 2015 7 5
Bayelsa State Seriake Henry Dickson PDP 2011 8 7
Cross River State Prof. Benedict Ayade PDP 2015 9 8
Kano State Umar Ganduje APC 2015 10 10

RE: Python Dance: How Ikpeazu Got Things Wrong

Mr Uzoukwa Ebere, permit me to point out a few things to you, with regards to your above titled article, published earlier today. There is no time for prosaic writings as all good hands are currently on deck to save lives and restore peace in Abia State.

1. When President Buhari returned to the country after more than 100 days in UK Governor Ikpeazu joined others to meet and welcome him back. Could he have "gotten closer" to an absent president battling with his health?

2. For the more than 170 days, in total, the President was away from Nigeria this year, there was an Acting President. That's the man you derogatorily made reference to. As an educated man, when there is an Acting President who is your Governor supposed to meet on state matters?

3. How do you know the President does not have a good and direct relationship with your Governor? Is your Governor expected to announce with billboards each time he speaks with or meets the President? Do you really believe yourself sir?

4. Yes, your Governor was away on official 2 weeks vacation when the current crises started. Even while on vacation he engaged Abians in diaspora, met with the Governor of North Carolina and visited one of the biggest Agro industries in US to further the cause of Abia State. Is that what you referred to as "spent weeks doing almost nothing"? Even for a man who was on vacation?

5. Do you know that your Governor actually cut short his vacation and returned to the state immediately to take charge, once he heard of the situation?

6. If indeed your Governor does not have a relationship with those you mentioned, how on earth do you imagine he was able to get the authorities to withdraw soldiers from the streets and replace them with additional 500 policemen? Come on Mr Uzoukwa!

7. What is more proactive than declaring curfew at Aba to manage a potentially volatile situation?

8. Did you not see Abia elders and traditional rulers meeting with the Governor and the GOC of 82 Div to persuade the GOC to pull soldiers off the streets? Can it get better than that, in your view? Do you honestly believe that the COAS was not contacted by the Governor before agreements were reached?

9. Did you seriously suggest that in the heat of a massive crises your Governor should leave the state and rush to Abuja for any reason at all? Ebere Uzoukwa did you write those lines? Chai....Chineke napu Ekwensu ike.

10. You are also making same mistake most are making, in thinking that the crises we witnessed had to do with Python dance 2 that only started on Friday. Mr Uzoukwa, research more please before jumping to conclusions. Something happened and provoked the mismanaged show of force that culminated in where we saw ourselves. Find out for yourself and report back.

11. Our constitution designed things in such a way that in the absence of a Governor his Deputy should act. Did you see the press release from the Deputy Governor before the return of the Governor? If only you know how far the DGov and others went to stop the situation from escalating from the Isi gate incidence to the point the Governor came back. When tensions come down I will personally chronicle how things started and led to where we unfortunately found ourselves.

12. On Python dance 2 and the Governor being overruled, again you got your narrative very wrong and hence reached wrong conclusions, as usual. The Governor pointed out in his press statement that he obtained the consent of the authorities to pull out soldiers from the streets, starting from the next day, to allow tensions to cool. Army authorities confirmed that and the next day soldiers started leaving the streets, except those who were at some locations even before the current crises started. Those are the people the Governor referred to in his media statement as pre-existing military checkpoints that were there to protect us against kidnappers and armed robbers. Guarantee zero future kidnapping and armed robbery in Abia and even those ones will also leave.

13. The same Governor explicitly stated, but you failed to spot it, that he will meet the President to plead that Python 2 dance be scaled down in the state. Uzoukwa, that meeting will take place on Monday. That is tomorrow.
Since Friday the same Governor was in Enugu meeting with his colleagues and Igbo leaders to take a unified stand. He returned yesterday and will leave tomorrow to meet the President.
At no time did the Governor say he has cancelled Python dance 2 or obtained permission to cancel it. Only you and others know how you got that information.

14. Uzoukwa Ebere, permit me to reproduce the relevant portions of the Governor's statement to educate you.

"After several interventions, I want to inform you that by tomorrow morning, there will be withdrawal of solders from the streets at Aba and Umuahia, apart from the pre-existing military checkpoints at various location in the state.

With the expected exit of soldiers from the streets, we must warn that we will not tolerate agitators and protesters taking over the streets for any reason at all.

I will also be meeting the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Mohamaudu Buhari, to discuss possible ways of relaxing the Operation Python dance 11 in the state for now." Governor Okezie Ikpeazu on Thursday 14/9/17

Note:
*several interventions (do you know with who and who?)
* will be meeting the president (that meeting is tomorrow)

14. My brother Ebere Uzoukwa, this is what a former Governor of Anambra state had to say about the Governor's proactiveness in managing the crises:
"I am proud of the Governor of Abia State. He acted promptly in declaring curfew" -Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife

What do you know about proactive conflict management that Chief Ezeife does not know?

Nwannem, the time for ill informed blame game has not come yet. Politicization of a crises involving human lives is the stuff for political anarchists only.

The situation in Abia and Igbo land remains fluid. Let's focus more on saving lives than writing grammar because of politics.

I personally endorse the efforts of the Governor to save lives. He is a great Governor who loves all Abians and Ndigbo and at all times, in managing this crises, his focus was on saving lives only.

Accept my sincere respect.

-John Okiyi Kalu (JOK) responded to you from the Ancient Kingdom of Abiriba where warriors are born and not made.

Press release

Further extension of curfew in Aba

Abia State Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, wishes to express his appreciation to Abians and residents, particularly those living and doing business at Aba, for their support and cooperation during this trying period.

For a commercial city that is also the economic hub of the state and the South East region, the effect of the socio-economic disruption at Aba is too massive to measure at this time and the Government fully appreciates all the sacrifices made to ensure early restoration of normalcy.

We also wish to commend the efforts of the men and women of the security services currently working round the clock to restore law and order and safeguard lives and properties of law abiding citizens and residents.

After a profound review of the security situation across the state, we are compelled to extend the current curfew imposed on Aba to enable us consolidate the peace and normalcy that is gradually returning to the city.

The government is therefore seeking your continuing support and understanding for the further extension of the dusk to dawn (6pm to 6am) curfew at Aba to Sunday 17th of September 2017.

Furthermore, in order to ensure the safety of our children and wards who were billed to resume school on the 18th of September 2017, we hereby direct that the resumption be postponed till the 25th of September 2017 across the state.

It is our hope that all the measures taken so far will help to rapidly restore full normalcy to all areas of the state.

Enyinnaya Appolos
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
15/09/2017

Okigwe Youth Assembly Visits Imo PDP Chairman

The leadership of Okigwe Youth Assembly (OYA) today visited the State Chairman of Imo PDP Barr. Charles Chukwudi Ezekwem (Ikemba Okigwe), in his office at No 98 Okigwe Road, Owerri. The group led by the President, Engr. Michael Anokwuru, disclosed that their visit is in line with their determination to show solidarity and support to one of their own who is now the state Chairman of PDP Imo State. He reaffirmed His confidence on the leadership of Chief Charles Ezekwem, noting that the Chairman has never disappointed them in the past and will not at this time. The leader of the group who emphasised on the development of Okigwe Zone, also urged the Chairman to place priority on the youths in His administration. He assured the Chairman that OYA will partner with the party to ensure that victory is achieved in 2019.

The Chairman in his response thanked the group for identifying with him and the party at large. He once again reaffirmed his resolve to lead a people oriented PDP in Imo State, a PDP that will serve the masses and a party that will be fair to all concerned. He also reassured them that the youths will take center stage in his administration.

In his statement, "I want to thank you all for coming. I can assure you that I will not disappoint your expectations. The PDP of today is a party of the masses. For us to win election, we must make PDP a mass movement and that is my mission in this office. Let me also reassure you that the youths will take center stage in my administration. As you can see around me, I'm already working with the youths. My administration will carry the youths along in all we are doing".

The visit which was anchored by the SA political to the State Chairman Chief Emeka Ibe Okwuruokaa, had the presence of the State publicity secretary, Hon. Oparah DamianDamian and the Youth leader, Aburi Williams Chibueze Ahanonu, in attendance.

Press Release

Details of meeting between Governor Ikpeazu, Traditional rulers and GOC of 82 Division of the Army

The Governor of Abia State, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, alongside Traditional Rulers in the State, met with the General Officer Commanding (GOC) commanding the 82 Division of the Nigeria Army Enugu, Major General A.B. Abubakar, at Government House Umuahia today.

The following are the highlights of the meeting:

1. The Governor and the Traditional Rulers appealed to the GOC to reduce military presence in the state, particularly at Aba and umuahia, as tension in the areas have gone down.

2. That the Nigerian Police and other security agencies should ensure that those who are brought into Abia from other states, in order to cause trouble and engage in acts capable of causing breach of law and order, should be prevented from entering the state.

3. That Traditional Rulers should further liaise with HRH Eze I.O Kanu (father of Nnamdi Kanu, Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB) to further explore ways of restoring peace and normalcy.

4. That Abians and those who do business in the state should go about their normal businesses without fear of molestation, while desisting from acts capable of causing the breach of peace in the state.

Enyinnaya Appolos
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
13/09/2017

Press Statement

13 September, 2017.

PDP CALLS FOR CAUTION, RESTRAINT AND DIALOGUE IN THE SOUTH-EAST ZONE

The Peoples' Democratic Party (PDP), has called for caution and restraint in handling the Conflict that has erupted in Abia State between the Military and elements of the IPOB.

2. The Party noted that while it is committed to the continued corporate existence of Nigeria as one indivisible Country, it at the same time, acknowledges and respects the rights of the people anywhere to express their yearnings and aspirations within the confines of the laws of the land.

3. The PDP stated that at this time that tempers seem to be flaring up, dialogue, rather than violence is the only viable option to resolve whatever problems are on ground in the South-East Zone and indeed the entire Country; stressing that at this critical juncture in which the Nation is grappling with numerous challenges in virtually all facets, Nigeria could ill afford a further descent into anarchy in any of its constituent parts.

4. "What the Country needs at this time is an atmosphere of peace and tranquility, without which no meaningful positive development in whatever sector can be attained, and the situation unfolding in the South-East, which is a very important component of the Nigerian family, is no doubt, inimical to our collective quest to take Nigeria higher. It is therefore in our enlightened interest as a people and as a Nation, to rise up to this challenge intelligently without undue egotism, and with the best interest of the Country at heart." Declared the PDP National Caretaker Committee's Chairman, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, CON.

5. The Party expressed the belief that the Situation is a family squabble that the Country should be able to deal with without unnecessary bloodshed as it's reminding both the Government and the IPOB that no matter whatever would eventually happen at the end of the day, a sit-down is inevitable; it is always better to make it a first resort.

6. It further appealed to the Government to, even as it goes about discharging its constitutional mandate of ensuring the protection of the territorial integrity of the Country, deploy constructive engagement, involving effective and efficient communication strategies that would allay all fears as well as assure all component parts of Nigeria of their assured place in the national scheme of things. It also appealed to the IPOB and its leadership to reciprocate such gesture where and when offered reminding them that their continued recalcitrance would achieve nothing other than subjecting people of their area to untold hardship and harm.

7. The PDP also commended the Government of Abia State for the mature way it has so far been handling this delicate situation and urges people of the State to continue to support and cooperate with it in these difficult times that could necessitate the taking of difficult and painful, nevertheless necessary decisions.

God bless Nigeria! God bless the PDP!! God bless Abia state!!!

Signed:

Prince Dayo Adeyeye
National Publicity Secretary

Government Special Announcement

Extension of curfew at Aba

The Governor of Abia State, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, has extended the three days curfew imposed on Aba to Friday, 15th September 2017.

The Governor wishes to advice residents and visitors to fully co-operate with security agents to ensure continuing maintenance of law and order within the commercial city and environs.

He also wishes to express his displeasure with the situation where people are compelled to raise their hands while passing through security checkpoints and hereby call on security agents and all concerned to ensure that such acts, and other forms of inhumane and barbaric treatment of people, are discontinued immediately.

It will be recalled that following security concerns and potential for breakdown of law and order, the Governor had announced the imposition of three days dusk to dawn (6pm to 6am) curfew at Aba from Tuesday 12/09/2017 to Thursday 14/09/2017.

Enyinnaya Appolos
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
13/09/2017

Now that Imo State House of Assembly has resumed, I strongly believe they will look into this matter. There is a form in circulation by Imo State Government. They call it property verification form. People are asked to pay 1.5 to 1.9 million to reregister their houses. They are threatened with demolition if they fail to do so.

It has become obvious that the APC led government in Imo State has unleashed mayhem on Ndi Imo. Imagine a situation where you demolished someone's shope at Eke Ukwu, sent the Son parking from Tetlow Plaza, stopped the Dad who drives Keke, as if these are not enough, you have asked them to pay to reregister a house they have been living-in for the past 10 years. What else can be described as wickedness?

Indeed, when the righteous is on the throne, the people rejoice, but when the reverse is the case, mkpata mkpa ga akpa. The unfortunate situation is that those incharge of all these are the same people yearning for power to change over to the youths. You can now see the reason. They want to continue stealing. They want to ensure that no other person comes in to expose them. That's the only strong agenda of taking over. Be careful of that man whose hands will be raised by those afflicting us with poverty. He has a mission. A mission to continue destroying and stealing. A mission to continue demolishing without rebuilding. A failed mission indeed!

BREAKING.

Breaking: Ikpeazu declares three days curfew in Aba

PRESS STATEMENT BY THE GOVERNOR OF ABIA STATE OKEZIE IKPEAZU Ph. D ON THE SECURITY SITUATION IN THE STATE

Abia State has for the past few days been the focus of security searchlight occasioned by the reported skirmish between some groups in the State, especially Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) with men of the Nigerian Army.

Government notes and has observed the frenzy of activities of members of IPOB within Afara – Umuahia, the ancestral home of the leader of IPOB for some months now.
Government is equally aware of the recent proclamation by the Nigerian Army of Operation Python Dance II within the South – East geopolitical region of Nigeria.

The operation as declared by the Army is intended to check kidnapping, banditry, assassination, secessionist activities within the region, amongst other forms of criminal activities.

The recent confrontation between the Nigerian Army and members of IPOB on Sunday, 10th September, 2017, could presumably be attributed to the commencement of the said Operation Python Dance II.

The Abia State Government unequivocally states that Abia is a component State of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and subscribes to the supremacy of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and all other extant laws.

While the Government of Abia State recognizes the right of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies, to perform their statutory duty of protection of lives and property of Nigerian citizens, such duties must be carried out within acclaimed Nigerian and international standards of engagement with the civil populace, with due respect to the human rights of citizens and sanctity of human lives.

The Abia State Government is committed to the protection of the lives and properties of its citizens and others residing and doing business within the geographical entity called Abia State.

Abians and others living within Abia, are advised to remain law abiding and carry on their lawful business without fear, as efforts by Government will be made to reduce friction between the civil populace and military personnel in the State.

Meanwhile, Aba residents are advised to observe a curfew from 6pm to 6am from today 12/09/2017 to 14/09/2017.

Persons residing within the State are strongly advised to remain law abiding, while going about their lawful business without fear of molestation, and, not engage in any form of confrontation with military personnel or other security agents.

The Government recognizes the constitutional Right to Freedom of Movement for all Nigerians, but objects to the influx of people into Abia State for purposes of unsettling the enduring peace in the State.

Finally, Abia State will co – operate with security agencies to maintain the rule of law and order in the State.

Okezie Ikpeazu PhD
Governor, Abia State
12/09/2017

OwerriHumanRights Communique, Sept. 2017


MEETING OF NIGERIAN HUMAN RIGHTS COMMUNIUTY HELD ON SEPTEMBER 9, 2017 AT THE NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION (NBA) CONFERENCE CENTRE, HIGH COURT PREMISES, OWERRI, IN RESPONSE TO HUMAN RIGHTS EMERGENCY IN IMO STATE, SOUTHEAST NIGERIA

COMMUNIQUE

Human rights groups from across Nigeria convened a meeting in Owerri, Imo State in Southeast Nigeria on 9 September 9, 2017 to deliberate on various issues of concern for the protection of human rights in Imo State and south-east Nigeria in general. The meeting took place against the background of a spate of recent demolitions of human and commercial habitation in the State, culminating in the controversial demolition of Eke Ukwu Owerri on or about 26 August 2017.

The meeting was attended by over 100 members and representatives of notable human rights organisations. Also in attendance were representatives of organised community and advocacy groups, including representatives of Keke NAPEP Riders, organised labour, Pensioners, retired Permanent-Secretaries, the Owerri Community, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Amnesty International and pressure groups such as ‘OurMumuDonDo’ movement and the media.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) as well as the Imo State Ministry of Information were both in attendance as observers.

The meeting received presentations from representatives of affected organisations, interests and communities. In addition, representatives of the conveners also met separately with some senior and knowledgeable assets in the security sector in the state.

On behalf of the conveners, a delegation led by Dr. Chidi Odinkalu, who is also the Chair of the Governing Council of the Section on Public Interest and Development Law (SPIDEL) of the NBA, inspected the demolished market for an on-the-spot assessment. They also visited the family of Somtochukwu Ibeanusi, reportedly killed during the demolition as well as the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Owerri where some of the injured persons were still receiving medical attention.



The deliberations focused on four principal issues, namely:

• The appearance of a pattern of arbitrary demolitions and forced evictions in Imo State;

• The impoverishment of pensioners and expropriation of their accrued rights;

• Arbitrary government and disrespect of court orders

• The security situation in south-east Nigeria, especially in the face of the deployment by the Nigerian Army of Operation Python Dance II.

Arbitrary Demolitions and Force Evictions

It appears that the Government of Imo State under Governor Rochas Okorocha has pursued what the government calls “urban renewal”. Over the course of the past five years, this project has seen to the demolition of many structures and the forced eviction of families and thousands of people. These include houses and historical sites such as the Mbari cultural centre, Shell Camp residence of retired and serving Alvan Ikoku College of Education (AICE) lecturers, and the Imo State library which the governor demolished and on which he chose to build a Chapel.

Most of the demolitions have been carried out despite pending court proceedings and, in many cases, in disregard of existing court orders. The Ekeukwu Owerri demolition took place despite a restraining judicial order against the Government. The old stadium and the shopping plaza in front of it have also just been demolished. Other markets in local communities far away from the capital city of Owerri, such as Amaraku market and Eke Ata, are also said to be next in the line for demolition. In both cases, there are court injunctions restraining demolition but many fear the State Government could disregard these injunctions as it has done repeatedly in the past. Amaraku and Atta are not within the capital territory and are also outside the jurisdiction of the state government as markets are the responsibilities of local governments.

The resulting failure or appearance of due process in the demolitions has alienated the communities from the objectives of the State government and fed suspicion of its motives. Reports that some sites of previous demolitions had been appropriated by the Governor and his cronies were not immediately verifiable but appeared to enjoy considerable support among informed members of the community. Affected persons and communities mostly reported that they had not been compensated and there was no scheme in sight to address that. This is contrary to law and the constitution.

Additionally, these demolitions have mostly taken place at a time of deep economic hardship and re-location of many people from other parts of the country on the back of the “Quit Notice” to Igbos from the Arewa Youths. Some of the people affected by these demolitions have recently relocated from other parts of the country.

Section 17(2)(c) of Nigeria’s 1999 constitution mandates that “governmental actions shall be humane.” In Imo State, the failure of empathy on the part of the government and the Governor is notable. The mother of the deceased 10 year old Somtochukwu who also lost four shops to the demolition and is nursing twin babies reported that the government was yet to visit to commiserate with her family and even denied that the incident happened.

These demolitions and forced evictions have adverse effects on livelihoods. In all cases, no adequate arrangements have been made to relocate those affected. Alternative sites, where designated, have neither been built equipped nor allocated. Testimonies of the use of disproportionate force in the evictions appeared credible. Reports of discharge of live bullets during the demolitions were also credible. The deployment of assets from the Armed Forces appeared unwarranted except for the purpose of intimidating affected communities.

In support of the demolition of Ekeukwu Owerri, the State Government cited the need to control crime in the vicinity of the market. This desirable objective has now been undercut by the widespread destitution from the demolition, which has rendered many families and young people unable to support themselves. In summary, the demolitions have led to loss of investments, displacement, impoverishment, misery and frustrations for the several victims and their dependents; this and other policies have the very high potentials of leading to a spike in crime which will put further pressure on law enforcement agencies and lead to increase in human rights violations

Impoverishment of Pensioners
The government of Imo State, under the administration of Governor Rochas Okorocha has chronically defaulted in its obligations towards pensioners in the State. In 2016, the government instituted measures to address this. Two were very controversial.

First, Pensioners in the State were required to undergo verification. The problem was that Imo State last published or issued a master-list of its public service establishment in 1985. Without a master-list, the verification exercise lacked credibility. The process became the subject of serious allegation of corrupt practice. Allegations that the state government and its cronies smuggled ghost pensioners onto the list were never credibly refuted. The process of verification took place under inhumane conditions, requiring old and infirm pensioners to queue for long periods without attention. Some pensioners lost their lives while undergoing verification.

Second, the Rochas Okorocha administration required pensioners to surrender in writing significant proportions of their entitlements – in some cases as high as 60% - in order to receive any payments. Some of the pensioners with no other means of livelihood complied under duress but received nothing even after signing away most of their entitlements. With the assistance of the NBA, the pensioners challenged this measure in the High Court of Imo State, which adjudged it unlawful and restrained the State Government from continuing with policies that impoverish pensioners in the State. Despite funding supplements from the Federal Government, the Imo state Government continues to violate the human rights of pensioners in the State and to subject them to impoverishment.

Additionally, the demolitions and forced evictions in the state have affected many pensioners who have also lost homes, shops, stalls and ancestral inheritance from which they drew subsistence. The sense of destitution and despondency in many cases is total.

The Human Rights Community affirms that the allegations of corrupt practices in connection with the administration of pensions in Imo State are both serious and credibly attested. An independent investigation into these allegations is called for and those found to be implicated in the continuing impoverishment of pensioners in the state should be brought to account without delay or hindrance.

Arbitrary Government and Disrespect of Court Orders
At the time of the demolition of Ekeukwu Owerri and of the meeting of the Human Rights Community, Imo State did not have a Cabinet although there is an Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice. Governor Okorocha dissolved the Cabinet on 30 May 2017 and has not re-constituted it. There is also no Local Government. Contrary to the structure provided by the Constitution of Nigeria, 1999, the Imo State Governor is in the position of a Sole Administrator of the State. Administrative and institutional processes of due process in the state appear to have been deliberately and systematically subverted.

The habitual refusal of the Imo state Governor to respect judicial orders risks plunging the state into lawlessness, which may have implications well beyond the borders of Imo state. This should be of concern to all Nigerians, to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), on whose platform he was elected, and to the Federal Government.

Security Situation in South-East Nigeria & Operation Python Dance (Egwu-Eke) II
This meeting coincided with the deployment by the Nigerian Army of Operation Python Dance II into the states of south-east Nigeria with a declared objective of addressing what the Army referred to as “mindless assassinations (even in religious places), attacks on security personnel and theft of weapons, kidnappings, armed banditry and violent agitations by secessionist groups.”

While the objective of securing safety and security is widely shared, it was felt that most of these objectives fall within the ambit of the primary responsibility of the Nigerian Police Force (NPF). Attention was drawn to instances of un-redressed extra-judicial killings and harassment by soldiers deployed in the recent past in south-east Nigeria which few well founded suspicion of the military and fears about undue militarisation of peaceful communities.

Many participants in the Human Rights Community expressed grave fears about the methods and means envisioned in the exercise. Attention was called to the expressed design for the exercise to “transit into real time operations, thereby fulfilling both training and operational objective.” Questions were raised as to how this dovetails with the primary responsibility of the Nigeria Police Force for law enforcement.

Participants also recommended that, to assure effective guarantees for respect of human life and dignity during the operations, the Nigerian Army should issue and immediately publish for wide dissemination, the operational rules of engagement (RoE) for Exercise Python Dance II. As an act of good faith, the Human Rights Community offered to establish mechanisms of liaison with the Nigerian Army for the purpose of joint monitoring of the operations and also in order to assure amicable community relations.

Pending progress on these proposals, the Human Rights Community resolved to put in place mechanisms to monitor the operations and activities of Operation Python Dance II and to document instances of violation for possible actions including reporting such cases for appropriate action. Individual officers will be held responsible for abuse of firearms, disproportionate use of force or any abusive of civic communities.



Appreciation
The Human Rights Community conveys its appreciation to the NBA, Owerri Branch, to the Civil Liberties Oganisation (CLO) and to the Owerri community for their kind assistance and courtesies which ensured the success of this convening.

We transmit our collective condolences to the family of Somtochukwu Ibeanusi, the 10 year old school child reportedly killed in the Ekeukwu Owerri Market demolition. We also transmit solidarity to all the other persons, families and communities affected by the demolition and will remain engaged in the search for adequate and effective remedies on behalf of all affected.

Signed, for the participants:

1. Ndidi Anike
2. Femi Amele
3. Barbara Maigari
4. Okechukwu Nwanguma

Chief Tony Ezenna disassociates self from Hope Uzodinmma

Uzoukwa Ebere: the hallucinations of a failed journalist

-Adimchi Abraham Onyenso

My attention was drawn to an article written by a failed Punch Newspaper reporter and self styled Media Consultant to Abia State Government, Ebere Uzoukwa, titled "Why Crying Over Ikpeazu And His Failures”.

Without mincing words, in those days that journalism was practiced and regulated by noble characters, the contents of that article would have been enough to sack Mr. Uzoukwa who admitted to investing his "resources and time as well as activated our contacts and deploring our professionalism to ensure his victory at the polls and later in the courts."

A journalist is ordinarily expected to pursue his trade with absolute neutrality and report issues factually rather than engage in "deploring" professionalism in pursuit of narrow ill defined clannish agenda.

How will the management of Punch Newspapers and NUJ respond to Ebere's self admission of professional misconduct?

Looking at the article, as published by an online medium known for its opposition to the Ikpeazu administration, it will be apparent that Mr. Uzoukwa was merely lamenting the loss or denial of ill defined personal and group privileges he expected that will come with his so called efforts at supporting the emergence of the first Ukwa/Ngwa born Governor of Abia State.

That shows that his lamentations do not have anything to do with the interest of Abians or the Governor's non performance in office as the Governor of the whole of Abia State.

It also highlighted the wrong headed expectations of certain elements in Ukwa/Ngwa political axis that recently made the governor to emphasize the fact that he is the Governor of all Abians.

Speaking at a town-hall meeting in Obehie in Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State, on the plans of his administration to develop the state, Governor Ikpeazu said:

“My dear brothers and sisters from Ukwa/Ngwa, it is true that I am one of you, it is also true that we’ve not been governor until now, but I am the Governor of Abia State, and not just the Governor of Ukwa/Ngwa people.

“So when I want to take decisions about our state, I will think of Abia as a state and not Abia South or Ukwa/Ngwa. This is one truth that I must tell you.

I know where I come from, and our brothers and sisters from Old Bende know that I come from somewhere. We must be fair to every Abian and visitors in our land."

Apparently the import of that statement was lost on journalist Uzoukwa and others like him who expected the Governor to become the champion of their narrow selfish agenda aimed at instituting a culture of "our Governor" as against the Governor of Abia State. He clearly wanted a Governor Ikpeazu who is an Ukwa/Ngwa Governor as against the Governor of Abia State.

Whatever Uzoukwa and his likes wanted from Governor Ikpeazu certainly did not include development projects located across the state, which the Governor has been delivering. After all, the same Uzoukwa is on record as confirming in an article titled "As Court Verdict Fails to Distract Ikpeazu" that the Governor was development minded and his opponents couldn't distract him from the many projects he has executed to develop the whole of Abia State.

Portions of that article published on the 18th of January 2016 read as follows:

"Governor Ikpeazu's recent activities and official functions at delivering dividends of democracy and overall good governance to the people have largely betrayed the emotion of many bookmakers who had earlier thought that he would temporarily halt his infrastructural revolution and massive road projects ongoing in Aba and other parts of the state in pursuit of his matter already lodged at the Supreme Court by his team of lawyers.

"Now judging the activities of Dr. Ikpeazu since the appeal court bombshell, every discerning mind will appreciate and conclusively agree that no other person is divinely positioned to govern and rebuild Abia at this most critical period in the history of our nation. As the biblical David, Dr. Ikpeazu has abundantly showcased wisdom, kindness, perseverance, humility, intelligence, knowledge, simplicity, transparency, sincerity of purpose, accountability, resilience and mostly the fear of God to fast-track development and deliver the much needed social amenities to the people. The massive road construction projects aimed at restoring commerce and entrepreneurship in Aba summarizes Dr. Ikpeazu vision for greater and prosperous Abia state."

What could have led to Ebere Uzoukwa's new song of "non performance" by Governor Ikpeazu?

My personal checks reveal that Mr Uche Ogah, who unsuccessfully tried to steal the mandate of Governor Ikpeazu, "performed" for Ebere Uzoukwa who was broke and struggling for survival with the dwindling earnings from his failing media career.

As these sayings go, an idle mind is the devil's workshop and a hungry man is an angry man.

With the failure of Mr Uzoukwa to realize his dream of becoming the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Ikpeazu, after lobbying through his contacts in the state, he apparently became a bitter man and an easy prey to the likes of desperate Uche Ogah and other elements in the state who expected that the Government of Dr Ikpeazu will share the commonwealth of Abians with them and leave out the work of the people of Abia State.

If Governor Ikpeazu had agreed to appoint Ebere or regularly funded him and his sponsors he would have continued to tell the truth on the first class performance of Dr Ikpeazu in about 2 years of his administration that whethered through many distractions and sabotage from his political opponents. But since truth is now denominated in financial and other patronages, Mr Uzoukwa has transformed into a bitter opponent of the Governor seeking attention through serial attempted media blackmail.

Many Ukwa-Ngwa sons and daughters are proud of the performance of the first Ukwa-Ngwa Governor of Abia State and are already boasting that their people have produced the best and most development focused Governor of Abia state since the state was created in 1992. They are proud of the choice they made and are gearing up to deliver even more support to the Governor, when the time comes.

Only those seeking to be clan champions are complaining, not just from the Ukwa/Ngwa axis but also from old Bende political axis.

It is interesting to note that some clannish elements from old Bende axis are also whining that the Governor has done more work at Aba, a commercial city majorly populated by non-Ukwa/Ngwa people, than at old Bende area. To them Governor Ikpeazu is "Aba/Ukwa Ngwa Governor" while those who actually want him to be "Ukwa/Ngwa Governor" like Ebere Uzoukwa are also ranting that the Governor is doing more work at old Bende.

If anyone needs evidence that the Governor has not been partial to any area, there you have it.

Apparently what Ebere Uzoukwa now see as incompetence is the statewide development efforts of the Governor as against the partitioning of development in favor of any of the geopolitical zones of the state.

I wonder if anyone expects the Governor to apologize for that.

When we get to 2019 the whole of Abia State will certainly vote to re-elect Governor Ikpeazu and anyone can bet that the development loving Ukwa-Ngwa people will be in the front row of the support for the Governor who is making them and all Abians proud with his performance.

Adimchi Abraham Onyenso wrote from Mgboko in Obingwa LGA

Governor Owelle Rochas's wife Nneoma booed by Worshippers.

Today at the Holy Ghost Catholic Church Ihitenansa Orsu LGA. The wife of Imo Governor Nneoma Okorocha was booed as she tried to address the congregation.
While delivering the homily during a burial mass, the priest had requested that anybody who is standing on the success of others should henceforth release and free the person.

The wife of Imo State Governor in her attempt to address the people was shouted down and booed as the people requested her to first release the people of Imo State from the bondage which she and her husband is holding on Imo people.

She horridly dropped the microphone as the thunderous shout from the people became unbearable.

Eye witness report.

This great Okigwe Son has revived the weak soul of Imo PDP. Odi mkpu mkpu na eme ire, Barr. Charles Chukwudi Ezekwem, Ikemba Okigwe. We now have a party that is more interested in the masses than individual. A party that speaks, cares and appreciates the difficulties of a people.

The leadership qualities of this former Okigwe LGA elected chairman can not be over emphasised. He has revived the grassroot spirit of the PDP. Those thinking that He will not lead PDP to victory come 2019 should have a rethink. He has the capacity to do so and He will. He is a true definition of Onongono. He has made the PDP in Imo State an International discuss, by establishing branches across the world. What a strength of a people Ikemba!

Ride on my Chairman!

From The DG

Press Release

Rule of Law:

Odinkalu, Charlie Boy, 100 CSOs Want State of Emergency in Imo

…Condemn Military Invasion of South East

Over one hundred Civil Society organisations in Nigeria have called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to declare a state of emergency in Imo State following the continued disobedience of the state government to Court orders, even as they condemned the deployment of the Military to the South-Eastern part of Nigeria through the Operation Python Dance 11.

Rising from a meeting at the Secretariat of the Nigerian Bar Association, Owerri, Saturday, held to review what they described as human rights emergency in the state, the groups expressed regrets over the gross abuse of rule of law by the government of the day in the state.

They further called on the Federal Government to set up a Commission of enquiry into the acquisition of communal land in the state.

On the demolition of Eke Ukwu Owerri market, despite a subsisting Court order, the groups frowned at the ignoble roles of security agencies in the state, even as they asked for an end to the ongoing demolition in Owerri and her environs.

“We demand an end to further demolitions in Owerri and environs and compensations paid to the victims.”

“Security officials involved in the unwholesome act should be identified and made to face the wrath of the law. They must desist from interfering in civil matters.”

“Imo State government should be prevailed upon to obey court orders. The Federal Government should set up a Commission of enquiry into the acquisition of communal land in the state.”

“The Federal Government should declare a state of emergency in Imo State to have normalcy restored in the state.”

“Citizens should defend their rights and take to non-violent civil disobedience in an event that their rights are grossly violated.”

“The deployment of the military to the south-eastern part of Nigeria in the name of Operation Python Dance 11 is unacceptable and uncalled for. Has the provison of the Constitution been followed? Has the President given an approval for this? Has the National Assembly approved such a deployment? Is there a public disorder that overwhelms the Police to warrant the deployment of the military?”

Continuing, the group called for a probe into the activities of Imo Security Network by the Inspector General of Police, describing their activities and use of fire arms to harass innocent citizens as unacceptable.

Those present at the meeting were: popular musician and convener of ‘Our Mumu Don Do’ campaign, Charles Oputa and his group, representatives of the Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission, former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission, Professor Chidi Odinkanu, founder, CLEEN Foundation, Innocent Chukwuma, National Coordinator, Network on Police Reforms in Nigeria, Okechukwu Nwanguma, President of Civil Liberties Organisation, Barrister Wisdom Durueke, Executive Director of Media Initiative against Injustice, Violence and Corruption-MIIVOC, Dr. Walter Duru and Citizens Center for Intergrated Development and Social Rights.

Others are: Chairman, Nigerian Bar Association, Lawrence Nwakaeti, former Chairman, Imo State Civil Service Union, Chief Frank Amakwe, Chairman, Imo Bilie Initiative, Aku Obidimma, representatives of Owerri Council of Elders, community leaders, town union representatives, victims of Eke Ukwu Owerri demolition, representatives of the state council of Nigeria Union of journalists, among others.



Walter Duru

9/9/2017

Dry port a priority to Abia, says Dr-Okezie Ikpeazu

Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has said how much the proposed dry port to be established in the state means to his administration.

He described the facility as a priority, adding that his administration would support and ensure that it becomes a reality, alongside the Inland Container Depot (ICD) to be situated at Ntigha in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of the state.

Ikpeazu, who was represented by the chairman Implementation Committee of the ICD, Mr Dan Nwankwo in a meeting with the concessionaires, East Gate Ltd, members of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) and other stakeholders at the state capital, Umuahia, said the project “is a priority to the state”, which the government would not want to toy with it.

Nwankwo stated that the importance of the dry port to the state cannot be overemphasised, adding that the government was aware that more than 50 percent of goods imported into the country comes to Aba.

He assured the investor and other stakeholders that the money they were going to invest wouldn’t be a waste as the state government would do all it could to ensure that the project succeeds.

The chairman of East Gate Ltd, Mr. Bill Nkemdirim said they were in the state capital to present some of the partners to the state government.

Nkemdirim said East Gate Ltd would ensure that the dry port came to reality, adding that the project when completed would create jobs for the unemployed youths and increase business and commerce in the state.

The Executive Secretary, NSC, Mr. Hassan Bello, a lawyer, represented by John Choji of Lagos Council stated that the project when completed would enhance movement of goods from the ports to the southeast and south-south regions of the country, adding that the movement of goods from the ports to the dry port through railway would reduce the pressure of moving goods from various parts of the country using the highways and will also reduce the cost of transporting containers from one place to another.

Other speakers including the Isiala Ngwa North Local Government chair, Ginger Onwusibe, member representing Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency, Hon. Darlington Nwokocha, HRH Eze Robert Nwaigwe; chairman of Land Donors said they were happy that the project was sited in their community and local government.

They pledged to work with the concessionaire and the state government to ensure the project was realised.

Why Ihedioha is the Best for Imo...

1. A promise keeper
2. Honesty and dignity are his creed.
3. A believer in youth development.
4. Women Empowerment is his passion.
5. Rule of law is his guide.
6. A truthful Politician and Democrat.
7. He stands for Justice, Equity and Fair play.
8. An Apostle of Good Governance .
9. A BELIEVER IN SEPARATION OF POWERS.
10. A Respecter of due process.
11. A responsible Family Man.
12. A development oriented politician.
13. Ihedioha is nationally and internationally connected.
14. He is bold and courageous.
15. A DEVOUT CHRISTIAN.
16. servant Leadership is his mantra.
17. A lover of peace and progress.
18. A lover of the challenged people.
19. Ihedioha loves IMO.
20. IHEDIOHA THINKS, LISTENS AND DELIVERS.


Think Imo, Think Ihedioha...

Press Release

Ikpeazu flags off building of 4 model schools, 132 class room blocks across Abia state

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State has flagged off the execution of 136 school building projects across the state.

The projects include four new Model Schools, spread across the state, with each comprising of ten classroom blocks, Library, Laboratory, Teachers quarters, Sick
bay, 5 secondary and 3 primary classroom blocks, Solar powered water borehole, perimeter fence and Headmaster quarters.

According to a release by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Enyinnaya Appolos, in addition to the model schools, 132 New school construction projects will be undertaken with over 80 schools renovated alongside ten thousand school furniture to be provided.

The massive educational infrastructure improvement projects are expected to be executed through the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB) and are expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2018.

Governor Ikpeazu performed the Ground Breaking ceremony of the projects at St. Silas Primary School Old Umuahia, Umuahia South LGA on Monday 28 August 2017.

The Governor charged the management of ASUBEB, under the chairmanship of Mr. Kenechukwu Nwosu, to ensure that every detail of the project is adhered to, stressing that Government will not tolerate any substandard job, as a special monitoring unit has been put in place to monitor the projects across the state.

Enyinnaya Appolos
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
02/09/2017

GONE TOO SOON... IMO STATE MOURN THE UNTIMELY DEATH OF MASTER SOMTO, KILLED BY SECURITY AGENTS ON THE ORDERS OF Rochas OkorochaROCHAS

HAPPENING NOW

Live from Ugwu Ekwema, Egbu Road, Owerri Zone mourns the untimely death of Master Somtochukwu and others who died during the August 27th massacre orchestrated by the APC led government in Imo State.

Ndi Imo from all walks of Life are currently Mourning The Deaths of Young enterprising Imolites gunned down by those Paid with Tax Payers Money to Protect them on the Orders of Those elected to Protect them.

The One week event which kicked off today will be marked by Solemn moments of Prayers and Songs.

May the Soul of the Young Departed Find solace in Peace.

OWERRI PEOPLE MOURN
Maps out programme of activities within the mourning period

The entire People of Owerri Zone and citizens of Imo State in general hereby declare one week morning in Imo State

1st Sept. to 10th Sept. 2017

During the week of mourning, Owerri People and Imo citizens will pray for the repose of the Souls of the dead who were brutally murdered during the forceful demolition of Eke Ukwu Owerri and the recovery of those currently in hospitals as a result of bullet wounds.
PROGRAMME
* Friday,1st Sept. - 10th Sept. 2017
Mass meeting of Ndi Owerri and Imo citizens at Ugwu Ekwema by 10am

Dress Code: Black clothing or black arm band

* Sunday, 3rd Sept.
Mass at Asumpta Cathedral by 9.30am

Dress Code: Black

* Sunday, 10th Sept.
Church Service at CATOL by 10am

Dress Code: black

All citizens of Owerri Zone and Imo State should wear black clothing or black arm band during the week of mourning

Signed :
* Sir Ambrose Ejiogu
* Chief Sam Obaji
* Senator Bright Nwanne
* Chief Felix Ngoka, president General Owerri Peoples Assembly
For and on behalf of Owerri Zone and Imo Citizens

News Flash...Aftermath

Aftermathe of the Eke Ukwu market demolition: Ohaji/Egbema thugs terrorise Owerri

Right now (5:20pm, Wednesday), thugs from Ohaji Egbema are terrorising Imolites going about their businesses from Douglas road through to bank road, Assumpta avenue and environs as people scamper for their lives. One person confirmed dead. Security agents should swing into action NOW.

_PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY
Motto: Justice, Unity and Progress
Orlu Senatorial District
Office: No. 1 Ashika Ilobi Street
Orlu-Township, Orlu LGA Imo State.
P. O. BOX……………………….. Phone:…………………………….. Date: 27th August, 2017
_

COMMUNIQUÉ ISSUED AT THE END OF PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY, ORLU (IMO WEST) SENATORIAL DISTRICT EXPANDED CAUCUS MEETING CALLING FOR THE EXPULSION OF SENATOR HOPE UZODIMMA FROM PDP FOR GROSS ANTI-PARTY ACTIVITIES.

The Orlu Zonal Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has observed with dismay, the anti-party and reckless conducts, and utterances of Senator Hope Uzodimma in the media in recent times. These have without equivocation, portrayed the PDP in bad light and attracted opprobrium to respected leaders of our Party and members in Orlu Zone.

We are indeed piqued that a two time Senator under the platform of our great Party, PDP, who ordinarily ought to be a role model, is rather indulging in subterranean activities targeted at decimating the Party. We authoritatively gathered that another political Party, desperate to cling to power, has recruited the Senator for this hatchet and despicable job.

It needs to be stressed that the anti-party actions of Senator Uzodimma against the PDP leaves much to be desired. They are not only reprehensive, and intolerable, but also primarily intended to push the PDP into another round of unnecessary crisis to justify his pact with the rival political Party which he is working for. In view of the above, an expanded meeting of Orlu Zonal PDP was convened on 27th day of August, 2017 at the Country Home of His Excellency, Chief Achike Udenwa, in Orlu. The meeting thoroughly deliberated on the anti-party behavior of Senator Hope Uzodimma against the PDP and therefore, resolved as follows:

That we condemn in very strong terms, the disgraceful conducts of Senator Hope Uzodimma and restate that such does not reflect or represent the character and image of PDP Leaders in Orlu Zone.

That Senator Uzodimma is not the leader of PDP in Orlu Zone. He is just a member of the Party like any other member and has no right whatever to arrogate titles or powers to himself unilaterally.

That we totally dissociate ourselves from the childish act of dropping an empty and worthless coffin at the residence of a respected leader of the PDP in Orlu Zone, Chief Osita Nwaneri one time Orlu Zonal Chairman of the Party. This tactics is atavistic, petty and smacks of desperation on the part of the perpetrator, whom we all know.

That we advise Senator Hope Uzodimma to stop forthwith from indulging in shameful and disloyal activities against the Party leadership both at the State and Orlu Zonal levels in his own interest.

That we are mindful of the mercantile style of Senator Uzodimma’s politics against the PDP especially during the last governorship election in 2015. Henceforth, we shall not fold our arms and allow Senator Uzodimma to do “trade by barter” with the electoral fortunes of the PDP for selfish and pecuniary interest.

That we remain loyal to the National Working Committee (NWC) of our great Party led by His Excellency, Senator Ahmed Makarfi and the State Working Committee (SWC) led by Chief (Barr.) Charles Ezekwem as Chairman.

That we therefore, appeal to the public to discountenance whatever action Senator Hope Uzodimma may claim to take on behalf of the PDP both at the State and Zonal levels in Imo State, as he does not have the mandate to do so.

The Orlu Zone PDP has adopted the resolution of the 12 Party Chairmen in the letter to the National Chairman through the Zonal Chairman, through the State Chairman recommending that the National Executive Committee of the Party should expeditiously take appropriate disciplinary action against Senator Hope Uzodimma by expelling him from the Party.

Signed: