₦airaland Forum

Can you tell your mother shut up before addressing an issue.

If your destiny is worth just kerosene during campaigns and not securing a future for all, then your challenges are precarious to say the least.

muykem:
This woman should shut up. Ikpeazu is the best, he shared kerosene to almost everybody and people gave him landslide victory. Igbo have rejected APC evil for ikpeazu kerosene.

An Igbo civil and social cultural group, the Concerned People of Abia Home and Abroad in a statement has issued a vote of no confidence on Governor Okezie Ikpeazu's administration owing to the continued decay of the state and waste of collective resources.

The President of the group Chief Fidelis Anyanwu while calling on all Abia citizens to continue speaking truth to power as the administration of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has not in any way improve the livelihood of the people.

Read the statement below;
“It is has become worrisome that the chief executive officer of our dear Abia state has gone into his periodic annual slumber owing to the fact that many have come to realize we have no government in Abia state.

The Okezie Ikepazu led administration has not only thrown caution to the win but called every questioning voice bluff with incessant intimidation and media war by his aides who gather young minds together subjecting them to peanuts hacking and wasting their future away all in the name of image laundering.

Most roads that the government started are yet to be completed apart from Ominyi drive and a few others. Even the road leading to the governor’s village, Ururuka from Obikabia Junction is yet to be completed.

On environment protection, the state government has not been able to tackle the issue of environmental sanitation in the state. The problem of gabbage disposal in the commercial city of Aba remains intractable.

Aba is still dirty and this has been blamed on the poor funding of ASEPA, the agency responsible for refuse disposal in the state. The agency lacks adequate gabbage disposal equipment, vehicles, staff and other logistics to properly carry out its duties.

Workers welfare is hit an all-time low in many agencies and parastatals in the state: For example, Abia Polytechnic workers and staff of state university teaching hospital went on Christmas break without pay as they are being owed seven months salaries.

Similarly, local government workers and staff of the state broadcasting media outfit, BCA, have not been paid for about months.

The governor has not done anything noticeable in the health sector. The state University Teaching Hospital is almost comatose. The primary health care service is in a poor and shabby condition across the state.

The CPA, at this time in all sense of responsibility and service to pursue the best approach to bring about developmental projects to our people and not the sham, schemes and optics employed by Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, we hereby after NEC resolution pass a vote of no confidence on this administration.

We call on all well-meaning citizens of Abia state to begin that mental shift of godfatherism politics to considering the effectiveness of casting our votes for proven competence and directional strategy to forge Abia ahead.

We remain resolute and believe that the Abia we desire will surely come while we are still breathing. God bless Abia state.

Your sincerely
President, CPA

Message from The Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha on this day of the International Day for Rural. Woman

Throughout history women have been mistreated - up till this day women suffer harsh and inhumane treatment through to continuing discrimination in the workplace. Focusing legislations, attention and effort on the way forward, reconciling discrimination through encouraging awareness and banding together to affect positive change is all part of what International Women's Day stands for.

Today, October 15 is set aside as the International Rural Women's Day, the call for justice across the world still prevails as women seek equal treatment, conditions and opportunities to that of men.

Rural women must be incorporated into our policy making and empowered with the ideals and the idea that all people have the right to be valued, respected and receive ethical treatment.

We must ensure in our dispositions and actions towards the rural women in our society ensuring all people have equal opportunities to make the most of their lives and talents, and that no one has poorer life chances due to their background or status - the very core of International Women's Day.

Gender Equality in reality refers to women receiving and accessing the same opportunities and benefits as men - but throughout history, women were deemed to have no place in politics. Most of this women couldn't stand as candidates for Parliament and they weren't allowed to vote as it has been assumed husbands would take responsibility for political matters because a woman's role was seen to be child-rearing and taking care of the home.

Strength in numbers and voice are critical in driving change. As we all can recall that the International Women's Day was founded on collaboration, and continues to be a key element of its power to this day. Across the world individuals and groups must unite, not only to celebrate the achievements of women, but to continue to call for action supporting greater gender parity.

We must begin to pay considerable attention and effort to forging the rights of women. Around the world today, as in the past, exists an extensive number of groups and networks all working to improve the social, economic, cultural and political status of women - and International Women's Day is the major day for rallying action, driving visibility and applauding women who make a difference through their achievements.

Today, not only as the Deputy Chief Whip house of Representatives but one of you, I celebrate the success, and appreciative of the role Nigerian rural women play in contributing to society. As always, I pledge to continue bringing to fore awareness and legislations to improve the expectation that women will not be marginalised, discriminated against or absent from future successes moving forward.

That in commemoration of this year international Day For rural women. There is an urgent call on Government and relevant stakeholders, to develop attention to Gender responsive investment to expand basic Adult education, infrastructure, health care and security in rural areas.

Wishing all our rural women across Nigeria, A Happy International Day for the Rural Women.

Rt. Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha
Member, Representing Isukwato/Umueochi, Abia State
Deputy Chief Whip,
House of Representative

As the world celebrates this year’s International Day of the Girl child, The Mental well-being of the Girl child and Girls living with disabilities must be prioritized and adequate resources deployed to maximize interventions needed to create an enabling environment for them to attain their full potential and optimize their capacities.

In Nigeria, an estimated 20%–30% of our population are believed to suffer from mental disorders. This is a very significant number considering Nigeria has an estimated population of over 200 million. Presently, there are only 130 psychiatrists in Nigeria, which has a population of 200 million and counting.

Schools were closed as part of necessary measures to curtail the spread of Covid-19 and that means children may no longer have that sense of structure and stimulation that is provided by that environment, and now they have less opportunity to be with their friends and get that social support that is essential for good mental well-being.


The realities are staring us in the face and begging for action.

Hence, more proactive moves must be made to put legislations that will further prepare and enhance the mental health and educational sector of our country in order to aid the mental well-being of our children especially the girl child.

As a legislator and ranking officer at the House of Representatives for Nigeria, I strongly advocate and insist that It is crucial to keep making demands on institutional collaboration towards finding justice for victims of child abuse and sexual and Gender-based violence irrespective of the laws been made because it takes strategic collaborations to curb the monstrous and inhuman acts against the girl child who is often the victim of such acts.


As a pointer, the recent budget presented by the President at the National Assembly on the 8th of October 2020 must be tailored towards prioritized interventions, whilst also taking into cognizance the need for financial inclusion when it comes to issues affecting women, children, girls and also ensuring that MDAs take into consideration gender budgeting during their budgeting cycle and implementation.

#My Voice #Our Equal Future the theme for the United Nations International day of the girl child this October 11th 2020, should not only be a much needed narrative but a proof that the right actions must be taken to ensure and insure the future of the girl child.

Happy International Day of the Girl child

Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, Deputy Chief Whip, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria

The Convener, Revolution Now, Former Presidential Candidate and Founder of Saraha reporters will be Talk2Adaora on KissFM today discussing POLICE BRUTALITY and rising issues in Nigeria after 60years.

The show kicks off by pm, Today, Tuesday, 6th Oct. 2020

Host is seasoned Broadcast Jouranlist, Adaora Onyechere

Studio Numbers: 09030000899 or 08099987770

Powered by: WeWe Network Afrique, Signature Heels Media

Talk2Adaora... Leaves you at the edge of your seat

TOGETHER WE SHALL”

An October 1st Goodwill message to Nigerians as Nigeria celebrates her independence anniversary and her 60th Birthday.

From Honorable Nkeiruka Onyejeocha
Deputy Chief Whip
Nigeria’s House of Representatives.


My Dearest Nigerian Citizens,

Every October 1, We celebrate Independence Day as the national festival of Nigeria. This Day marks the anniversary of national independence from the British Government on October 1, 1960.

COVID-19 has indeed changed the tides of event in our nation as other global communities.
Yet through it all the resolve of the people in all sense of humanity has kept us going, the perseverance through these trying period has seen us rise above the travesty of the COVID19 and also given us a greater urgency at emphasizing the need to put nationhood first, through the sacrifice of various organs of government working together to keep us ahead of challenges brought by the COVID19 pandemic.

Post pandemic and the anniversary of our independence - a very important day in our history and in the hearts of every Nigerian citizen and as a nation, we celebrate this day with the full spirit of patriotism.

As a sovereign state, our country has the power to uphold the torch of a great country by taking deliberate steps to lead by example, maximize the role of the voice of the people.

The Future of our country hinges on our unity, resilience and the sacrifices we make as a purpose driven generation.

The Nigerian youth must never give up nor cultivate the notion or accept the conviction that all is not well with the nation but garner ideas activated towards nation building whilst focusing on those areas that progressively gives us the opportunity to grow as a nation.

This year's theme; "Together we shall" is a call and charge for all of us both to put nationhood first before self, knowing fully well that united we stand and divided we fall.

It's a new day to remember our strides as a nation and the echoes that should resonate from the cities to the hinterland is a message of togetherness.

Truly, my fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters and our beloved children, as a mother, I stand positive, reassured in the strength in our diversity for that is what makes us a prosperous people, a people full of potential and led by their resilience to excel and in the complete resolution that Together we shall" triumph.

Happy 60th independence Anniversary

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.


Yours Truly
Honorable Nkeriuka Onyejeocha
Representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State.

Deputy Chief Whip
Nigeria’s House of Representatives.

The Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha has called on the Abia State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to intensify its opposition status in the state.

Onyejeocha who is the Member Representing Isuikwuato-Umunneochi Federal Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives also described the Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu -led administration in Abia State as clueless and totally unconcerned about the yearnings of the people.

She made the statement in her country home of Isuochi, in the Umunneochi Local Government Area of the state when the APC Abia State Working Committee led by the Chairman, Hon. Donatus Nwankpa continued their tour of the 17 LGAs with a Town Hall Meeting at Umunneochi LGA.

The Green Chamber Deputy Chief Whip thanked the party Exco for adopting the strategy of Town Hall Meeting, stressing that the move has rekindled the hope of people that the APC is now very serious to effect the necessary change in Abia.

Onyejeocha charged them to speak against the bad governance of the Okezie Ikpeazu led administration, stressing that the Umunneochi LGA has been excluded from benefiting from any state government projects.

"When the government is bad, it affects everybody and when it's good everybody benefits no matter the party. So, your visit has rekindled our hope. Prior to this visit, many people thought that APC is just a branch of PDP because we were not providing viable opposition.

"We're behaving as if the government of the state will understand that after the election that it's governance. But it's quite unfortunate that the present government in Abia State doesn't have a clue of what governance is.

"And the party in the Federal started to govern the people by bringing the dividends of Democracy. So, there's this disconnect from the state because we're not getting anything. For instance, yesterday the Executive of the state passed some resolutions and approved some road projects.

"It's sad to tell you that Umunneochi was excluded. And Umunneochi is part of Abia. They did it before, my LGA was not included and yesterday again, they repeated it. I was expecting the party to come up strongly to say this is wrong. We're the opposition and we must provide that viable opposition.

"There's no gainsaying that the party in the state has underperformed, they do not care about governance, they're playing politics with the welfare of Abians," she said.

She advised all APC members to get ready for strong opposition politics, saying, "If any member of APC thinks that PDP will hand over power to us, then the person is joking. Powers are taken.

"Nobody hands power to anybody. I believe the party should come out strongly and provide the needed opposition. Having suffered what we suffered in 2019, I believe by 2023, we should be ready to force those people out of the government house."

She noted that the state government's inability to perform has shifted the role of Federal Legislators from the state, who are now expected to perform Executive duties as against their primary duty of lawmaking.

"This government has made people's representatives in the parliament ls to begin to work as if they're Executive. We're not the Executive arm of government. We're just lawmakers.

"The state is collecting money every month for Ecological Fund issues. Go and verify from the ministry of finance. I come from a place where the Ecological problem is so intense and yet the governor has not found it necessary to do even a kilometer road or solve one Ecological problem and yet the party is watching.

"No matter what anybody thinks, we're from Abia and we're representing the people and we're in Abuja. Even if I'm the Senate president or the speaker of the House of Representatives, what I'll bring to you cannot be quantified with what your state Governor can bring.

"The State government is having your funds and the funds will go to units if they're doing projects, but the senate president cannot do much. What the person is going to bring is Federal Government projects in budget.

"But the point is this, somebody is holding your wealth, he's not paying salaries, he's owing pensioners so, if you're Senate president how will you help to pay pensioners in your state and how will you pay people who are being owed salaries?

"How will whatever you're bringing build Hospitals in the 17 LGAs, how will it take the youths off the streets? How will it create employment? So, even if you're a Minister, all you may bring will be 20 percent or 30 percent and we're leaving 70 percent for people to do."

Speaking on the December 19, 2020 Abia LGA election, Onyejeocha urged APC in Umunneochi to show that they have the numbers and do the needful.

"I don't know how we can watch people write the results of local governments we belong to. I don't know how we approve of our attitude that people should bring anybody to come and occupy our LGA seats while the constitution frowns at it. We must show them we have the numbers and people who can win."

Abia APC Chairman, Hon. Donatus Nwankpa while speaking thanked Onyejeocha for all her achievements for the people of her constituency, her empowerment programmes, as well as her leadership contribution to the party.

The Lagos State Task Force team on Human Trafficking and SGBV has been inaugurated by The Governor of Lagos State Sanwo Olu.

Sanwo-olu assured the Director General, National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons(NAPTIP), Dame Julie Okah-Donli of his administration’s commitment and resilience towards the fight against Human trafficking and Sexual and Gender Based Violence.

The Governor reaffirmed that Lagos amongst one of the leading states who have domesticated the Child’s right act and VAPP, will not relent until the scourge is rid of and Offenders prosecuted accordingly.

The Director General, NAPTIP emphasized on the need for the state governments to continue to support the fight against Human trafficking and Sexual and Gender Based Violence and she thanked the Lagos state government for always been proactive.

The Lagos State Task Force team on Human Trafficking and SGBV has been inaugurated by The Governor of Lagos State Sanwo Olu.

Sanwo-olu assured the Director General, National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons(NAPTIP), Dame Julie Okah-Donli of his administration’s commitment and resilience towards the fight against Human trafficking and Sexual and Gender Based Violence.

The Governor reaffirmed that Lagos amongst one of the leading states who have domesticated the Child’s right act and VAPP, will not relent until the scourge is rid of and Offenders prosecuted accordingly.

The Director General, NAPTIP emphasized on the need for the state governments to continue to support the fight against Human trafficking and Sexual and Gender Based Violence and she thanked the Lagos state government for always been proactive.

Been hanging with my friend and brother, His Excellency Governor Seyi Makinde, in Ibadan for the last 3 days. I just love this beautiful, peaceful ancient city with all its majesty, tradition and history.

Each time I come here I feel nothing but joy and nostalgia for the past. I lived here many years ago as a child from the age of 4 to 6 when my father of blessed memory was Deputy Premier of the old Western Region.

As a matter of fact I am staying in Government House, in the old Governors lodge on the hill overlooking the city, right next door to where we used to live when he was Deputy Premier.

Brings back so many memories and particularly that of the night of January 15th 1966 when the first coup took place and soldiers came to our house to arrest and abduct my father. What a night of horror that was! I shall never forget it.

I have had a great time here over the last few days and some much needed rest. The tour of the state is going very well and we will see more projects, sites and industries in Oyo state tomorrow. We will visit Ogbomosho, Oyo and other great ancient towns in this state before rounding up.

I love being home in the South West and I really have missed my people.

His Excellency, Rt. Hon Emeka Ihedioha in his first outing since the Supreme Court saga on January 14, 2020, attended the Eleventh Synod of the Diocese of Abuja at St. James Church Asokoro Abuja this day, Saturday 25th, July, 2020.

The first session of the Eleventh Synod was an introspection of our times in Nigeria and how we are able to forge on in view of the right spiritual and ethical principles in these post Covid-19 period.

The event which was themed: Building on the sure foundation focusing on the biblical notes from the book of (1 Corinthians 3:11-13) which had Most Rev'd. Henry Ndukuba, the host and Primate of Nigeria, charging both elected officials of the Synod and church council to be prudent at spending and selfless at serving.

The Chairman of the Launch of The Bishop’s Charge atSaint James Church Asokoro Abuja, Rt. Hon Emeka Ihedioha in his speech gave gratitude to God for keeping his life and protecting his family through the Coronavirus pandemic, charged those present and Nigerians to stay safe during this pandemic and pledged his full support to the Diocese while delivering the pledges of Edo state Governor, Godwin Obaseki and PDP Chairman, Uche Secondus.

Construction of the Obudu International Airport in Cross River state has received further impetus as the five host communities where the project is sited have declared their absolute support for the project.

This is even as Governor Ben Ayade disclosed that the Airport, when completed, will boost the state's economy through export of ornamental flowers and other resources found in abundance in Northern Cross River.

The communities; Atiekpe, Ikwuomkwu, Igwo, Okamibi and Abonkib made the declaration Monday in their separate presentations during an interactive session with the governor at the project site.

The five communities disclosed that in view of the enormous economic spinoffs that will be derived from the construction of the airport, they freely donated their land to the state government.

Most of the youths that turned out for the meeting displayed several placards with messages of support for the governor and the projects.

"We are extremely proud that Igwo is one of the communities that donated land for this project. We are happy that in our life time, Igwo will be hosting an airport. This airport will bring jobs and development to our people. We are grateful to His Excellency," a representative of the Igwo community said in his presentation.

On his part, the Councilor for Obudu Urban Ward 2, Honorable Emmanuel Akomaye stated that contrary to insinuations, the land was not acquired by government, but was freely given.

"Nobody forced us to give up our land. Our land was not acquired by government for this airport project, it was freely given," Akomaye said.

On his part, the Clan Head of Abonkib in Obudu Urban 1, His Royal Highness, Augustine Ikashi, said the people were fully behind airport project.

The royal father said the project when completed will bring development to the area.

"It is not because the governor is our own son, but because we need development, because we love progress, therefore, we are fully behind the airport project. We believe it will bring development to the entire community.

"I think the project is the only good thing that has happened to Obudu and Cross River State. So if we have this International airport, Obudu is going to be on the world's map."

Responding Governor Ayade disclosed that the state government has so far paid N500 million as compensation to the communities that donated their land for the project.

He expressed optimism that in no distant future, the airport will be completed and operational as the federal government has already given the necessary approvals.

His words: "We are right here at the site of an international cargo airport in Obudu, Cross River State. The intention of this airport is to provide cargo support services and export of ornamental and special flowers from the Obudu Cattle Ranch. As you are well aware, a country like Kenya does average of 39 million Euros annually exporting flower from an altitude even less than that of Obudu cattle ranch.

"So for Cross River State, we need to have an airport here to be able to assist us take advantage of the Obudu cattle ranch. More so Obudu Cattle Ranch is a beautiful place of nature which has been heavily under utilised because of access. So we are building an airport that can allow us benefit from the full potentials of the ranch."

Continuing, Ayade stated that the airport will also help create access to the rich agricultural potentials of Northern Cross River to the world.

"We have very very essential elements to find which is the agricultural heritage of Cross River State and with all the precious stones available to us, the cargo airport will be very critical"

On the land donated by the Obudu communities for the project, the governor said: “N500 million has been paid and the work is going on. And as you can see the communities are celebrating, they are excited that I have come here in person to speak to them and hear their concerns with a view to addressing them.

"Every single contributing village here today is excited about the potential of this airport. And we have also received the approval from the Federal Ministry of Aviation already. We have all the necessary approvals and construction work is on going. We are working very hard to see that this airport is ready by the close of this year.”

Earlier, the Cross River state Commissioner for Aviation, Dr Jacob Otu Enyia disclosed that the airport runway will be the longest in the country at 5.6km.

"We have also been able to remove the top soil and the next phase will see us go into filling to attain the required level as requested by the consultant," the Commissioner quipped.

Your Excellency, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, our amiable leader, news of you and your family members testing negative for COVID 19, has brought so much joy to Delta and Nigeria.

The state was more united in their resolve to stand with their governor the people's servant.

The scourge of this pandemic has proven to spare no one, we must key into the admonishing words of the masses oriented governor, "I appeal to all residing in Delta to obey all instructions/ regulations in our collective fight to stop the transmission of the virus...

We must not fail to flatten the curve of this ravaging novel virus in our state.

My role model, you're a good man, soft spoken and a free giver. You're humane to say the least. As the recovery in the state house continues, we welcome you back as we know you're set to activate your unwavering dexterity in the work place.

We pray for Peace and healthy living in our state.

Stay Safe... Take responsibility. Covid-19 is real.

Hon. Taleb Tebite JP
Chairman
Delta State Urban Water Cooperation

In the moment of truth and reality, appraising excellence is a motivating tool for an achiever.

Sir, celebrating and honoring your great exemplary leadership role in the state and the nation at large amidst you and your wife testing positive to Covid-19 is a reflective inspiration for leaders to engage more in direct human developmental projects and programmes.

My family and I join millions of Deltans in prayers as we expect the speedy recovery of our first citizens in Delta State.

Your Excellency, Ifeanyi Okowa, a peace loving and compassionate Governor who has in time proven that governance can have a human face.

I am very proud of you and your achievements so far. Thank you for your selfless dedicated aura to serve the people, it has paid off and we are grateful.

I pray for God's guidance and wisdom to propel you towards greater achievements all year round.

Wishing you the best of what life's goals and sustained success in your career and livelihood.

Wishing you and the first lady a quick recovery.

Hon. Taleb Tebite JP
Chairman
Delta State Urban Water Cooperation

You’re an amazing leader and Crossriverians are proud of you. A leader not only shows the way but also walks the way with the team, that you've proved over time.

You've exhibited an excellent and outstanding abilities of leadership and the state is so lucky to have an understanding, humane persona like you.

Working with a superlative leader like you has left me with the best experience of my sojourn - a great inspiration for me - that will keep modifying human relations and leadership.

Your leadership style has been devulge of favoritism, incompetence and of all inclusivity around human developmental projects has been the prerogative guidance to the various key success witnessed in the state.

Thank you for all your support. You're a worthy leader.

HON TALEB TEBITE JP

You’re an amazing leader and Crossriverians are proud of you. A leader not only shows the way but also walks the way with the team, that you've proved over time.

You've exhibited an excellent and outstanding abilities of leadership and the state is so lucky to have an understanding, humane persona like you.

Working with a superlative leader like you has left me with the best experience of my sojourn - a great inspiration for me - that will keep modifying human relations and leadership.

Your leadership style has been devulge of favoritism, incompetence and of all inclusivity around human developmental projects has been the prerogative guidance to the various key success witnessed in the state.

Thank you for all your support. You're a worthy leader.

HON TALEB TEBITE JP

Africa Young Special Advisers Initiative invites you to her webinar; SGBV A STATE OF EMERGENCY: THE ROLE OF YOUNG FEMALE SPECIAL ADVISERS IN IMPLEMENTING THE VAPP ACT.

20th June, 2020 by 3-5pm

Please register for the webinar via this link below:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScJ5dPedZIVTi7hXKCD6koZY65R4WrB19wFPoH3Blq1gl0QmQ/viewform?usp=pp_url
https://www.instagram.com/p/CBlC9WmnviG/?igshid=1vnl4icgo1qbm

The meetings, which may migrate offline as allowable within the COVID-19 circumstances, are intended to contribute towards practical measures to advance the good goverance in various capacity as to influence decision-making in Nigeria.

Join us Live on Zoom as we host and interact with amazing young African women from across various government decision platforms - Dr Mamatha R. Achanta, Hon. Amina Illiasu, Hon. Titilope Anifowoshe, Hon. Paschalina Mugu, Hon Lois Udonkanta.

Moderators are dedicated hands; seasoned Broadcast Jouranlist, Adaora Onyechere and Investigative journalist, Jessica Odudu Esq.

This will be the largest female-led virtual event in Africa, and we need your help to make this a reality. Please share with your friends, and ensure they sign up.

Let's do this!!!!

You are invited to participate in our 'Women in Parliament and Policy Development' Webinar Series.

The meetings, which may migrate offline as allowable within the COVID-19 circumstances, are intended as a monthly exercise that contributes towards concrete measures to advance the cause of women in political decision-making in Nigeria.

The inaugural features Hon. Taiwo Oluga, Chairperson, Committee on Women in Parliament of the House of Representatives; and Serah Makka-Ugbabe, Nigeria Country Director, One Campaign and will engage the topic, '21 years of democracy in Nigeria and the place of women.'

Date: Thursday, June 4, 2020
Time: 12.00noon (WAT).

Please reserve your seat using the form below.
https://www.orderpaper.ng/wippd/

Hurry as space is limited.

On the 2020 Children’s Day, a non-governmental organisation, the Yellow Jerrycan Save A Child Foundation, has decried the neglect and squalor at the Durumi Internally Displaced Peoples, IDPs, camp in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory.

Speaking during a visit to felicitate with children at the camp on the celebration of Children’s Day, founder of the foundation, Ms. Adaora Onyechere, said the situation at the camp was unfortunate and called on the government to address the abject nature of those living there.

“I can’t believe what we just saw. The place reeks of utter neglect and squalor. For the reason that these people are IDPs for no fault of theirs is not enough reason to allow them live like this,” Onyechere said.

“It is absolutely necessary to state that the security and welfare of every citizen is the responsibility of government. And if government has failed in securing the lives and property of some Nigerians such that they have become internally displaced, then government ought to at least ensure their welfare. But that is clearly lacking here.

“Looking around and seeing how the children here are amidst the poverty and decay, one wonders what hope these kids have.

“I appeal to the government, local and federal, to give a facelift to the camp. Let there be running water and a measure of waterproof tents. This is rainy season and it is important to ensure that children and women in particular don’t begin to come down with sicknesses,” the foundation lead stated.

Onyechere, a broadcast journalist, called on the media to continue to highlight stories of marginalized and poor communities, stressing that except the media focuses on such stories, most Nigerians will be left behind in poverty.

According to her, the foundation’s visit to the IDPs’ camp was to create Covid-19 awareness and give the children a sense of belonging and to tell them that they are not forgotten.

According to her, if government had failed in its responsibility to provide for the IDPs’ safety, then it should not neglect their welfare.

Evidently looking for the legitimacy that has eluded him since he stole the mandate given the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Hope Uzodinma and his band of Guy Men now believe the best way to gain legitimacy is to spread falsehood against his predecessor, Rt Hon Emeka Ihedioha, and his seven-month administration that many still remember with great nostalgia.

The PDP is particularly concerned that the mischievous allegation of missing whooping sum of N19.63 billion from the JAAC of the 27 Local Governments *is* a deliberate scheme by the Uzodinma administration to front load looting the resources of the state by shouting in the market place about money that is not yet missing but would be missing by the time they finish their creative accounting scheme.
Besides, this latest desperate attempt at muck raking may also be designed to hoodwink Imolites and distract their attention from the lack of performance and ineptitude of the Uzodimma administration which is being described by our people as a ‘push and start government’.

As the major opposition party in the State, Imo PDP will insist on zero tolerance for government and governance by lies and mendacity. Consequently, the party hereby charges the Supreme Court-imposed governor and his henchmen to halt this drama and focus on the real job of addressing the challenges of Imo people especially at this moment in history that requires intelligent and creative leadership to steer the ship of the state through the impending economic turbulence occasioned by the COVID 19 pandemic which regrettable we fear for the capacity and competence of the Uzodinma administration to rise to the occasion

For the avoidance of any doubt, the PDP restates that the allegation that a whopping N19.63 billion belonging to the 27 LGAs was misappropriated is false, malicious and baseless.

Does this contrived audit report which the government is using to hound the Ihedioha administration have approval of the Imo State House of Assembly?

We further note that this false statement and fictitious claim by the Uzodimma regime makes no sense. It was a blanket reference to the entire fiscal audit year, January to December 2019 without distinguishing details of the period January to May, when Owelle Rochas Okorocha was Governor and the period, June to December when Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha was Governor.


Most of the corporate and individual entities mentioned in the spurious claims by the Uzodimma regime were unknown to the Ihedioha administration. Infact, records available reveal that the majority of them operated under the Okorocha administration. The formal response from Wallhouse (WA) Limited provided a clear evidence that the Uzodimma regime was on a mission of mischievous propaganda and unintelligent blackmail. After taking delivery of earth moving equipment, the Uzodinma government rushed to the media to deny knowledge of the same equipment it has taken into it’s custody.

The regime also told a lie about the money so far disbursed to Wallhouse WA Limited. While it quoted N1.215 billion as money paid to the contractor, the contractor insist that it was paid N945 million, in three tranches as part-payment.

To convince Imolites that his regime is not involved in witchhunt and propaganda aimed at distracting the public from its woeful failure as a government, Governor Uzodinma should tell Imo people the total allocation that accrued to the 27 local governments in the seven months of the Ihedioha administration. Thereafter, he should embark on simple arithmetic of deducting workers’ salaries, pensions as well as other statutory deductions viz: IMSUBEB, NULGE, Local government service commission, Council of Traditional Rulers, office of the Auditor General of local Governments, etc.

A cursary analysis thereafter will only but earn the Ihedioha administration commendations for being able to honour government obligations in addition to embarking on several capital projects well known to our people.

The Uzodimma administration should also account to Ndi Imo how he has been appropriating Imo LGA funds since he became foisted on Ndi Imo by the Supreme Court by diverting the proceeds of JAAC from the designated bank account to another bank account under his direct management and control instead of crediting each LGA with amounts due to it as obtained during the Ihedioha administration which enabled the LGAs manage their funds

For the avoidance of any doubt, the Ihedioha administration was guided by the principles of rule of law and due process. It instituted the system of constituting panels of inquiry to investigate any allegations of impropriety against its predecessor. It never gave room for unnecessary media trials. Incidentally, the Uzodinma regime retained those panels of inquiry and investigations they are conducting therein.

Never in the history of Imo State has such level of patriotism and desire to uplift the plight of Imolites been seen as Ihedioha practically and demonstrably dedicated himself to the service of the people (upper, middle and lower classes). The reward for exemplary good work cannot and should not be cheap blackmail.
We, as a party, call on Imo people to rise up and demand a stop to gutter propaganda as a way of governance.

We have tried as a party to be law abiding in the face of constant provocations and blackmail at unprecedented pedestrian level. Governor, Uzodinma should stop acting as if he was deliberately recruited from outside the state to humiliate and insult the sensibilities of Ndi Imo.

Meeting a Chief Chris Okewulonu one wouldn't fail to notice the ease at which he is resolved at listening and proferring solution to edgy issues.

A well grinded experienced administrator with distinct native alluring traits that has set him apart from leaders in his rank.

One can not fail to identify Chris as an astute harmonizer either in public purview or private conflict resolution.

A party man who with outstanding charisma has brokered so much habitual coordinated unified front that has forged a bond many envy and try to understudy.

The efforts towards building solidarity for the PDP and the closing in of ranks to push the party forward has not be left unnoticed by the people especially in the Okigwe zone.

The Humaness and the dexterity of purpose is one that has given a sense of belonging to every member of the party from the zone towards building a United PDP.

As the PDP congress holds today one would also want the spirit of progression and unity which has been demonstrated by the leaders of PDP so far will stretch into the follwership.
The greatest gift a party can have is to have leaders of thought no matter their zones or their political exuberances.

Imo state citizens are looking to see the activation of an opposition that speaks and listens to heart of the people, especially in view of the verdict that was largely rejected by the people of Imo State which saw Rt Hon. Emeka Ihedioha removed.

As they match forward to the congress it is expected that this begins a new lead into the future of the 2023 elections and the repositioning of the party.

We look towards the formula of gearing towards impactful leadership.

I remain the voice of reason and one who loves our polity to improve along democratic tenent.

Comrade KELECHI IGWE has spoken.

STATEMENT BY HIS EXCELLENCY, RT. HON. EMEKA IHEDIOHA, CON, AFTER THE SUPREME COURT DECISION ON THE IMO STATE GOVERNORSHIP APPLICATION FOR SETTING ASIDE OF JUDGEMENT.

MARCH 8, 2020


Dear Ndi Imo and fellow Nigerians,

On Tuesday 3rd March 2020, the Supreme Court of Nigeria gave a ruling rejecting our application to set aside its earlier judgement of 14th January 2020 on the Imo State governorship election. This is certainly not the outcome we wanted or we worked so hard for and I know how disappointed you must feel. While it is disheartening to note that your desire to introduce good governance has been halted, at least for now, it is also gratifying that our modest efforts have not gone unnoticed. I therefore feel a sense of pride and gratitude for the wonderful energy and commitment that we deployed together to secure the mandate that has now been brazenly stolen from us.


Permit me to use this opportunity to thank all those who played one role or another in this historic quest for justice and truth. I must thank members of the diplomatic community for voicing their concerns for the stability of our country. I commend the Chairman and Members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for their vanguard role and leadership during this period.


In particular, my special thanks go to all Imo citizens for their uncommon support, solidarity, and collective outrage. Never have a people been so united and committed to a cause. You prayed, fasted, marched, protested and even cried. You sacrificed your time, resources, and endeavour for this just cause. On this matter, the people of Imo State collectively rose to demand for justice and fairness. Imo people rose up in defence of their right to elect leaders of their choice. Our people resoundingly rejected oppression and power grab, defied imposition, injustice and tyranny. I salute Imo people for this display of courage in the face of oppressive state power.

I will forever be in the debt of Nigerians of all walks of life, across ethnic, religious and political divides, senior citizens, journalists, civil societies, ordinary men and women of good conscience, who added their voice to condemn the injustice done in our case. These are people unknown to me personally but who could not bear the illogic of turning number four to number one on the basis of a fraudulently procured result, and appealed to the Supreme Court to save itself and our judiciary.

Whatever may be the personal injury I suffer as a result of the miscarriage of justice, my main concern in this whole tragic episode is not about me. It has always been about the implications this judgement could have for the future of our democracy and the right of the electorate to have their votes count. If institutions that are critical to the entrenchment of rule of law could thwart the wishes of the people in a cynical manner, where lies the future of our democracy? That was why I sought a review of the Supreme Court judgement. Even though justice was not served at the end, the well articulated dissenting judgement delivered by His Lordship, Justice Centus Nweze, has vindicated our stand. I am sure that history and posterity will be kind to him.

To those who are rejoicing about their successful political fraud at the expense of Imo people, as well as their collaborators, let me leave them with the immortal words of the late journalist, Dele Giwa: “No evil deed will go unpunished; any evil done by man to man will be redressed; if not now then certainly later; if not by man, then by God for the victory of evil over good is temporary’. We believe that God will render the ultimate judgment. He has been with us through this peaceful struggle. And our future is in His hands.


In conclusion, I wish to express my appreciation to members of our legal team who pushed the frontiers of electoral jurisprudence to advance our constitutional democracy. I wish also to thank my team of committed colleagues who served in various capacities during our administration. It has been a great privilege to serve the people of Imo State as Governor. I am proud to have been the recipient of their genuine mandate. I will forever cherish the support, solidarity and cooperation given to me during my tenure. My belief in the ultimate triumph and supremacy of the will of the people remains intact. I pray God to bless and reward all those who stood firm on the path of justice and fair play.


On a personal note, I accept trials and difficulties as part of life as they enable one to become wiser and more sympathetic to the plights of others in similar circumstances. But I am firmly resolved NEVER to give up on the struggle for a better Imo State. And for a better governed Nigeria.


May God bless Imo State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Thank you and God bless.



HIS EXCELLENCY,
RT. HONOURABLE EMEKA IHEDIOHA, CON.

STATEMENT BY HIS EXCELLENCY, RT. HON. EMEKA IHEDIOHA, CON, AFTER THE SUPREME COURT DECISION ON THE IMO STATE GOVERNORSHIP APPLICATION FOR SETTING ASIDE OF JUDGEMENT.

MARCH 8, 2020


Dear Ndi Imo and fellow Nigerians,

On Tuesday 3rd March 2020, the Supreme Court of Nigeria gave a ruling rejecting our application to set aside its earlier judgement of 14th January 2020 on the Imo State governorship election. This is certainly not the outcome we wanted or we worked so hard for and I know how disappointed you must feel. While it is disheartening to note that your desire to introduce good governance has been halted, at least for now, it is also gratifying that our modest efforts have not gone unnoticed. I therefore feel a sense of pride and gratitude for the wonderful energy and commitment that we deployed together to secure the mandate that has now been brazenly stolen from us.


Permit me to use this opportunity to thank all those who played one role or another in this historic quest for justice and truth. I must thank members of the diplomatic community for voicing their concerns for the stability of our country. I commend the Chairman and Members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for their vanguard role and leadership during this period.


In particular, my special thanks go to all Imo citizens for their uncommon support, solidarity, and collective outrage. Never have a people been so united and committed to a cause. You prayed, fasted, marched, protested and even cried. You sacrificed your time, resources, and endeavour for this just cause. On this matter, the people of Imo State collectively rose to demand for justice and fairness. Imo people rose up in defence of their right to elect leaders of their choice. Our people resoundingly rejected oppression and power grab, defied imposition, injustice and tyranny. I salute Imo people for this display of courage in the face of oppressive state power.

I will forever be in the debt of Nigerians of all walks of life, across ethnic, religious and political divides, senior citizens, journalists, civil societies, ordinary men and women of good conscience, who added their voice to condemn the injustice done in our case. These are people unknown to me personally but who could not bear the illogic of turning number four to number one on the basis of a fraudulently procured result, and appealed to the Supreme Court to save itself and our judiciary.

Whatever may be the personal injury I suffer as a result of the miscarriage of justice, my main concern in this whole tragic episode is not about me. It has always been about the implications this judgement could have for the future of our democracy and the right of the electorate to have their votes count. If institutions that are critical to the entrenchment of rule of law could thwart the wishes of the people in a cynical manner, where lies the future of our democracy? That was why I sought a review of the Supreme Court judgement. Even though justice was not served at the end, the well articulated dissenting judgement delivered by His Lordship, Justice Centus Nweze, has vindicated our stand. I am sure that history and posterity will be kind to him.

To those who are rejoicing about their successful political fraud at the expense of Imo people, as well as their collaborators, let me leave them with the immortal words of the late journalist, Dele Giwa: “No evil deed will go unpunished; any evil done by man to man will be redressed; if not now then certainly later; if not by man, then by God for the victory of evil over good is temporary’. We believe that God will render the ultimate judgment. He has been with us through this peaceful struggle. And our future is in His hands.


In conclusion, I wish to express my appreciation to members of our legal team who pushed the frontiers of electoral jurisprudence to advance our constitutional democracy. I wish also to thank my team of committed colleagues who served in various capacities during our administration. It has been a great privilege to serve the people of Imo State as Governor. I am proud to have been the recipient of their genuine mandate. I will forever cherish the support, solidarity and cooperation given to me during my tenure. My belief in the ultimate triumph and supremacy of the will of the people remains intact. I pray God to bless and reward all those who stood firm on the path of justice and fair play.


On a personal note, I accept trials and difficulties as part of life as they enable one to become wiser and more sympathetic to the plights of others in similar circumstances. But I am firmly resolved NEVER to give up on the struggle for a better Imo State. And for a better governed Nigeria.


May God bless Imo State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Thank you and God bless.



HIS EXCELLENCY,
RT. HONOURABLE EMEKA IHEDIOHA, CON.

Adaora Onyechere, United Nations Ambassador for Peace, Social Innovation towards mainstreaming Gender participation in policy making scheduled to speak at The CSW64, commission on the status of women, holding from 09 March, 2020 at the United Nations headquarters, New York.

Theme: The role of Advocacy in mainstreaming women in policy development and implementation in 3rd world countries, Nigeria and it's emerging place.

However due to the outbreak of coronavirus, The United Nations has down scaled its two weeks conference to just Monday the 9th leaving out many CSOs from all over the world.

There will be an update for a later date for the conference as the UN plans to reschedule the major debates and side events.

Ambassador Adaora Onyechere is still scheduled to attend the event as a UN ambassador and Observer.

By: Akinloye NG.

As the ruling on the Imo guber appeal ruling review is now set for 3:00PM today, I will do a quick analysis on what transpired on both sides on the floor of the Supreme Court, before the Supreme Court stood down till later in the evening to give its ruling.

Lawyer to Emeka Ihedioha, Kanu Agabi, in his argument, advanced two claims of the appellant, Hope Uzodinma, claiming he was excluded from 388 polling units but tendered results from only 366 polling units and that with the addition of votes from 388 polling units in favour of him, the new result exceeded the total number of accredited voters by 129,000 votes.

In my last analysis, I pointed out two grounds which are only strong enough to warrant the Supreme Court being a court of records/precedence, to set aside its earlier ruling and give proper records and precedence in declaring Ihedioha as winner.

These two grounds are consequent upon the Supreme Court ruling disqualifying Uche Nwosu in December for double nomination having been validly nominated by both APC and AA, Hope Uzodinma is no more a candidate of any political party in the Imo guber contest, as no party can field two candidates for same position.

The other ground is the mismatch of total valid votes and total accredited voters after adding votes from the magical 388 PUs following claims of being cheated in 366 made by him.

It was a surprise that Chief Agabi advanced only the numerical mismatch which he split into two, leaving out the no-party ground in his address which already made the earlier ruling a constitutional crisis.

He only harped on an arm of the grounds, positing inadequate claims towards the case for a review.

On the other hand, the Counsel to Hope Uzodinma, Mr Damian Dodo, countered that the application to revisit, review or set aside the judgment of the court is an incompetent one lacking in merit.

He further argued that the Supreme Court lacks the jurisdiction to sit on appeal over any judgment already delivered by it except where cases of typographical errors or slips are noticed and went further to say such errors have not been established.

Here, Mr. Damian Dodo erred because Ihedioha's application is calling on the court to revisit, review and set aside the judgment. It is competent and with constitutional merit and therefore not an appeal.

While he is correct to say that the Supreme Court lacks the jurisdiction to sit on appeal over any judgment already delivered by it, he erred by seeing the application before the Supreme Court as an appeal. It is a review which the Supreme Court in its own earlier ruling stated it has jurisdiction over, so as to correct errors of misinterpretation or Judgement obtain in error or fraud

In my last analysis, I cited Oriker Jev & Ors. v. Iyortom & Ors. [2015] NWLR (Pt. 1483) 484, where the Supreme Court had in an earlier ruling mistakenly ordered that INEC conduct rerun election, but upon application for review, the court discovered it gave the said order based on a wrong interpretation of Section 133(2) in conjunction with Section 141 of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) and subsequently set aside the earlier ruling and ordered INEC to issue the applicant a certificate of return.

There is also a precedence of review in the case of Olorunfemi v. Asho [2000] 2 NWLR (Pt. 643) 143. The Supreme Court in its 18th March, 1999 ruling set aside its earlier judgment delivered on the 8th January, 1999 and ordered that the appeal be heard de-novo by another panel, on the ground that it ought to have considered the Respondent’s cross-appeal first before allowing the Appellant’s appeal.

These are examples of where the Supreme Court once set aside its earlier rulings and they are not typographical errors but misinterpretation and administration of justice in errors like it is evident in the Imo ruling, which gave mandate to Uzodinma who was never a candidate of any political party with votes not in conformity with total accredited voters.

Akinloye NG

By Ogu Bundu Nwadike, M.A

In the face of all the brouhaha and topsy-turvy surrounding the debacle on Imo State at the Supreme Court of Nigeria, the people of Imo State have done and doing the only thing that they can do under the circumstances viz pray!

Imo people had prayed, they have prayed and am aware they're still praying in and by faith for Supreme God Almighty to remain Supreme God of the Supreme Court!

Specifically, however, there are some factors that the good people of Imo State hinge their faith and convictions on. They include the following:

1. Imo people came out in large numbers on Saturday, March 9, 2019 and cast their votes for Gov. Emeka Ihedioha.

2. On Monday, March 11, 2019, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in its wisdom and reasons declared Ihedioha winner of the election and governor-elect.

3. Since his inauguaration on May 29, 2019, Gov. Ihedioha hit the ground running, working and restoring Imo State.

4. Gov. Ihedioha assembled some of the best brains in Imo State and appointed them into his administration. The appointees were all round pegs in round holes or square pegs in square holes.

5. Gov. Ihedioha granted full autonomy to the local government system in Imo State. That entailed financial independence.

6. Gov. Ihedioha supported the 27 LGAs in their decisions to build 27 mini-stadiums and 27 Administrative Secretariats, with thousands of classroom desks and chairs for public schools.

7. Gov. Ihedioha was committed and poised to conduct LG elections but certain bottlenecks scuttled it temporarily.

8. Gov. Ihedioha ensured that, in the spirit of LG Autonomy, 100% of LG finances were accessed and controlled by the Interim Management Committees of the 27 LGAs.

9. In the education sector, Gov. Ihedioha restored the technical education and vocational training by commencing the construction of Technical Blocks at the four Government Technical Colleges in Owerri, Ahiazu Mbaise, Isiala Mbano and Okporo Orlu.

10. Gov. Ihedioha ensured the on-job-training and retraining of teachers and head teachers in Imo State.

11. Gov. Ihedioha directed that the teaching of Igbo Language become compulsory in Imo State schools.

12. Gov. Ihedioha restored 100% salaries and pensions from the 70% and 40% that he inherited.

13. Gov. Ihedioha introduced the payment of pensions by bank alerts, after a biometric verification of pensioners that revealed that there were over 8000 ghost pensioners in the State. That saved Imo State over N280 million monthly.

14. Gov. Ihedioha signed Order 005 to introduce the Treasury Single Account (TSA) and eliminated 250 bank accounts that were hitherto being operated by the State. He, thereby, plugged holes for leakages and stealing of public money by unscruplous, evil and wicked officials of past rogue regime.

15. Gov. Ihedioha ensured a clean environment in Imo State, particularly in Owerri city and townships of Orlu and Okigwe. He robustly reinforced Imo ENTRACO and motivated environmental sanitation.

16. Gov. Ihedioha ensured that gutters, drainages, flood channels, lakes and rivers in and around Owerri Municipal city were desilted and opened for a better environment.

17. Gov. Ihedioha invested heavily in youth skills acquisition training and empowerment programmes, with thousands of Imo youths trained in various technology-based skills, fintech, agribusiness and agropreneurship.

18. Gov. Ihedioha opened up a programme of employment of Imo people with 5000 job opportunities being processed for the education sector.

19. Gov. Ihedioha signed into law, ten bills passed by the Imo State House of Assembly (IMHA).

20. Gov. Ihedioha restored the Ahiajoku Festival and its Ahiajoku Lecture Series.

21. Gov. Ihedioha restored state organized sports competitions, with reintroduction of the State Sports Festival.

22. Gov. Ihedioha commenced the comprehensive renovation of dilapidated Dan Anyiam Stadium and Grasshoppers International Stadium, Owerri.

23. Gov. Ihedioha restored the operation of public health centres and hospitals in Imo State.

25. Gov. Ihedioha grew the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of Imo State from N250 to N1.18 billion within seven months.

26. Gov. Ihedioha restored the budgetary best practices, with verifiable appropriation processes from the MDAs.

27. Gov. Ihedioha restored the Bureau for Public Procurement and Price Intelligence (BPPPI) to guarantee controls over contract awards etcetera.

28. Gov. Ihedioha created the Bureau for Ease of Doing Business to enhance the economic growth and development of Imo State.

29. Gov. Ihedioha created the Bureau for Diaspora Affairs in the Office of the Governor to assist Imo people in Diaspora so as to be directly involved in the workings runnings of the State.

30. Gov. Ihedioha reinforced the Imo State Investment Promotion Agency (ISIPA) to ensure that Imo people invested in the development of the State.

31. Gov. Ihedioha created the Imo State Power and Rural Electrification Agency (I-POREA) to ensure that no community in Imo State lacked public electricity supply.

32. Gov. Ihedioha paid various counterpart funding for foreign donor agencies to return to Imo State and continue on projects.

33. Gov. Ihedioha paid N500 million counterpart funding to get the World Bank/International Development Association/NEWMAP progamme back on track, leading to the multi billion naira erosion control projects, beginning with the erosion control project at Ezemazu Uruala in Ideato North LGA.

34. Gov. Ihedioha paid N500 million counterpart funding for the Rural Access Mobility Project (RAMP) road construction project to be resumed in Imo State with over 45 roads across Imo State valued at about N13.8 billion.

35. Gov. Ihedioha awarded contracts for the construction of 25 key and strategic roads in Imo State.

36. Gov. Ihedioha procured state-of-the-art fire-fighting trucks, machinery and equipment.

37. Gov. Ihedioha restored Ekeukwu Owerri Market and opened up Douglas Road to use after more than two years of closure.

38. Gov. Ihedioha was committed to saving lives of Imo people by considering the reconstruction of the tottering, wobbly flyover bridges and tunnels in Owerri.

39. Gov. Ihedioha restored prayerful, low key Christmas celebration by the Government of Imo State.

40. Gov. Ihedioha began the commissioning of projects in December 2019 with the commissioning of 28-offices Administrative Secretariat of Ahiazu Mbaise LGA.

Certainly, there are many more achievements that time and space won't permit to catalogue here in this short essay. But indeed, Gov. Ihedioha was project oriented. And all his projects were people-oriented and Imo people were feeling the anointing of the projects as it touched them individually and collectively directly.

For all of the above, it's little wonder that Imo people are on their knees, with Bible and chaplets on their hands praying, singing, dancing and crying to God Almighty to remember His miracle of liberation of Imo people on Saturday, March 9, 2019!

The Bible teaches that if anyone has done all that's required for him or her to stand, he or she should stand. That's where Imo people are right now, having cast their votes and prayed for the justice of God to prevail. It's, therefore, over to God! In Jesus'name. Amen!

Pro-democracy groups and concerned civil society orgnisations have appealed to the Supreme Court to rise to the occasion, rekindle hope and demonstrate courage in the interest of justice, by ensuring that the errors reversed and not preserved and justice is not delayed in its review of the Imo State Governorship election appeal

The Supreme Court has slated March 2, 2020 to adjudicate on an application for the review of its January 14, 2020 judgement over the Imo case.

The groups, Coalition in Defence of Nigerian Democracy and Constitution, Coalition for Democracy and, Justice and Unity and other CSOs, in a joint-statement made available by Comrade Ariyo-Dare Atoye, urged the Justices of the apex court to uphold the truth, show fairness, and ensure that justice is regained in the instant case.

The statement read: “We are delighted that the respected justices of the Supreme Court have not been invited to review its own judgement based an allegation of a judgement obtained by fraud in the case of Imo case, but via a window of justice prescribed by the apex court under order 8 rule 16.

“The extremely unique opportunity of order 8 rule 16 made available by the Supreme Court for use in exceptional cases like that of the Imo Appeal, is a validation of the courage of the apex court that only God is infallible and also that the fallibility of the supreme court can be redressed to preserve only justice not error, as the final court.

“We make bold to say that it is more than a national consensus that the Imo judgement was given per incuriam with due respect to the Supreme Court, and since the attention of the apex court has been through a formal application for review drawn to the obvious errors and slips in the matter, it was only a matter of when and not if, for the court to depart from the judgement of January 14, 2020.

“We humbly and passionately appeal to the Supreme Court to review and redress its January 14, 2020 ruling over Imo in the instant case because, an opportunity to depart from the errors made in the decisions may not come in the distant future and these decisions reached would be cited at the lower courts to constrain future elections petitions.

“The January 14, 2020 judgement of the Supreme Court was delivered in error to the extent that: an accidental slip was made in ruling on results from two political parties instead of 70; clerical error was made in calculating results from 388 polling units instead of less 366 polling units tendered by the principal witness (PW54);

“Another clerical error was made in allowing the votes accepted by the Supreme Court to be higher than the number of accredited voters for the election; and also, the apex committed a slip in accidentally omitting the its well settled judgment over spread in declaring a winner.

“Having observed clear cases of errors and slips in the Supreme Court ruling of January 14, 2020, we have decided to equally appeal to the apex court to remember its decision in FRN V. MKO Abiola (1995) 7 NWLR, that: justice must be rooted in confidence and confidence is destroyed when right-minded people go away thinking: The judge is biased.

“We believe that the Supreme Court has the power to overrule itself and do justice to Imo people, because according to the late sage and jurist, Oputa JSC, it is far better for the court to admit an error than to persevere in error,’ and we believe the Supreme Court will do the needful.

“Justice is the ultimate, justice is the beacon of the Supreme Court and the Supreme Court is last hope of every Nigeria, and therefore it is expected that it would neither preserve error over the Imo matter nor persevere in error.

International Coalition for Equity, Fairness and Justice says Citizens faith in Nigeria's Institutions of government at its lowest ebb, calls for caution as this could threaten Nigeria's role as a signatory to UN Human Rights Convention and other International binding Agreements.

International Coalition for Equity, Fairness and Justice says Citizens faith in Nigeria's Institutions of government at its lowest ebb, calls for caution as this could threaten Nigeria's role as a signatory to UN Human Rights Convention and other International binding Agreements.

IMO DEMOCRATIC WATCHDOG

Friday, Feb 28 2020.

We are constrained to alert the people of Imo State and Nigerians on general that Imo State is on the verge of being entrapped into the cocoon of political jobbers whose stock in trade include fraudulent schemes to siphon the Commonwealth of the State.

This is why it is worrisome that Imo State, if the staquo remains, will become a den of fraudsters who wear the garment of officialdom to pepertrate fraudulent activities.

The Imo Democratic Watchdog which has beamed its searchlight on the activities of Governor Hope Uzodinma since his surprise emergence as Imo State Governor by the Supreme Court pronouncenent on January 14, 2020,  has resorted to his usual antics which has remained his trademark.

A leopard they say cannot change its spots.This is why barely 44 days as Governor of the State, Uzodinma has used Imo Concorde hotel as his first case of his fraudulent activities which he intends to unleash on the Commonwealth of the people of the  State.

Recently, in a viral video and photographs personally posted by Governor Uzodinma,  he claimed that he has signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MOU, with Marriot Hotel international to take over the Imo Concorde Hotel, Owerri.

In the words of Gov. Uzodinma: " Today also, I sighed a memorandum of understanding with Marriot International Incorporated (MII) for the renovation and management of Imo Concorde hotel to meet international standards and hospitality".

But a visit to the website of the Marriot International, shows that the company do have 30 hotel brands in Africa and the Middle East. Imo Concorde hotel, Owerri is not listed  among its brands despite signing an "MOU" with Imo State Government.

From our findings, Marriot International is a World  leader in hotel management.We wonder how such a well respected international  hotel management company could send a "ragtag" delegation to Imo State to seal a deal of such economic importance without documentation, due diligence as seen in the photos released by Uzodinma's media team.

Furthermore, deals of this kind usually take about 6 months to seal. This is because the necessary due diligence will take some time to be completed and an MOU entered after consultation. 

But in the photos released, there were no documents, no pen, no paper to sign an "MOU" as the Governor in his usual scheme, never allowed the so called Representatives of Marriot International to give details of the "MOU" or speak to journalists on the gains of the deal.

We have made further  independent inquiry to Marriot International and we can reveal to the good people of Imo State, that Marriot International has denied visiting the Governor talk more of entering any deal with Governor Hope Uzodinma to take over the management of Imo Concorde hotel, Owerri.

This is a tip of the iceberg of the monumental fraud and deceit Governor Uzodinma intends to unleash on viable economic ventures in Imo State such as ADAPALM, Imo Transport Company, Oguta Lake Resort, Avutu Poultry and others.

We have also uncovered a grand design by Uzodinma and his agents to lure banks in the State to fund these imaginary schemes including the MOU with Marriot International on Imo Concorde hotel

Imo State and it's citizens should recall that Hope Uzodinma, prior to his emergence as Governor of Imo State was on the travel ban list of the Federal Government for fraud and was also on the  radar of anti corruption agencies in the country for defrauding the Federal Government $12 million dollars earmarked for the dredging of Calabar seaport.


Mrs. Doris Anyanwu
Executive Director, 
Imo Democratic Watchdog.