₦airaland Forum

IPOB Lawyer 'Ejiofor' Warns FG Against Counter-Subversion Bill 2024 in Nigeria

Lawyer to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor Esq, has warned against the covert move by the Nigerian House of Representatives to introduce the Counter-Subversion Bill 2024.

Ejiofor, in a statement titled "The Proposed Counter-Subversion Bill 2024: A Proposed Draconian Bill Roundly Persisted by the Free World and Responsible Citizens," said that social media platforms and print media are abuzz with news of the House of Representatives' plan to introduce the Counter-Subversion Bill 2024, which he described as anti-human and anti-freedom.
According to him, the proposed bill primarily seeks to impose stringent penalties on individuals involved in separatist agitation or actions that incite inter-group or sectional conflicts.
He noted that without delving into an extensive discussion of the bill's constitutionality, it is crucial to observe that the proposed bill represents a dangerous version of an authoritarian anti-people law and should be vehemently condemned and resisted.
"Apart from the fact that the law sought to be enacted directly confronts relevant sections of Chapter 4 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended, it is, ex facie, in direct violation of relevant provisions of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights (Ratification & Enforcement) Act (Cap A9), Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. This law has been ratified and is accordingly part of our laws today, effectively enjoying the pronouncements of our courts, including the Supreme Court.
Specifically, Article 20 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which has been applied in Nigeria by virtue of its domestication as part of our laws, clearly provides that all people shall have the right to existence; they shall have the unquestionable and inalienable right to self-determination. They shall freely determine their political status and pursue their economic and social development according to the policies they have freely chosen," he said. According to Ejiofor, Nigerian law recognizes the right to self-determination as inalienable and sacrosanct.
He added that to properly understand the dubious intentions behind the introduction of the proposed bill, one should consider the mischief, if any, which the House of Representatives set out to address — this mischief may have necessitated the introduction of the draconian bill.
"A simple analysis will reveal the unfortunate reality that the Federal Government is recklessly trying to stifle and suffocate dissenting voices from relatively marginalized sections of the country. It is therefore a positive development that the Speaker of the Nigerian House of Representatives has withdrawn the proposed draconian bill, as they initially attempted to introduce it covertly. If the proposed anti-people bill had been allowed to stand, it would have marked our gradual descent towards a fully authoritarian regime where the voices of the oppressed can no longer be heard or tolerated. Rest assured, we will not hesitate to challenge any attempt to craftily introduce laws that infringe on the constitutionally guaranteed rights of citizens by those elected to represent their interests in the National Assembly," he said.

IPOB Lawyer Demands President Tinubu Sanction Onanuga Over #IgboMustGo Statement

Titus Maduako Eleweke

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) lawyer, Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has questioned why President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has not taken action against his aide, Bayo Onanuga, for the #IgboMustGo statement made in the South West.
In a statement on Monday, Ejiofor suggested that President Tinubu should initiate the process by instructing Onanuga to review and delete these offensive posts and issue a public apology to Ndi Igbo.
According to Ejiofor, only if the President orders the removal of these provocative statements from social media will the Igbo community start taking seriously any measures the presidency claims to implement for their safety in Lagos State.
He noted that social media has not forgotten Onanuga's vituperative and ethnically charged statements against the Igbo community, which are still visible for the world to see.
Ejiofor highlighted that Onanuga, who currently serves as a Special Adviser to President Tinubu, is promoting divisive rhetoric that influences others.
He expressed concern that the threats made by Onanuga, which seem to be endorsed by those in power, could escalate into full-scale violence if not addressed promptly.
The statement reads:
"As the situation intensifies and the reality of a looming conspiracy becomes apparent, it is crucial to address the facts with clear evidence. The mastermind behind the #IgboMustGo movement may not be acting alone in this sinister agenda. One might question the role played by Bayo Onanuga in Tinubu's rise to the presidency during the 2023 General Election campaign and thereafter.
Social media has not forgotten Onanuga's vituperative and ethnically charged statements against the Igbo community, which remain visible. Onanuga, currently serving as a Special Adviser to President Tinubu, is promoting divisive rhetoric that affects many.
Onanuga's threats to the Igbo community in Lagos, warning of severe consequences if they did not vote for Tinubu, led to physical attacks, killings, and destruction of Igbo properties under the pretext of violating the city's master plan. These threats, seemingly endorsed by those in power, could escalate into violence if not addressed immediately.
I strongly believe this is a carefully planned agenda and urge our Igbo brothers and sisters in Lagos to remain vigilant. This conspiracy seems to have the backing of those in power and should not be underestimated.
The pressing question for President Tinubu is why Onanuga has not been required to apologize to the Igbo community and retract his existing threats. Why do his inflammatory comments from the election period remain on his social media platforms 18 months later?
President Tinubu should begin by instructing Onanuga to review and delete these offensive posts and issue a public apology to Ndi Igbo. Only then will the Igbo community start to take seriously any measures the presidency claims to implement for their safety in Lagos State.
To the Igbo community in Lagos, stay alert and do not underestimate this grave conspiracy. Although its execution may be challenging, our resilience will prevail. The Igbo people are not cowards; they have been tested and proven. History and posterity will judge us kindly.
Udo diri Umuigbo worldwide."

Opinion: Why Igbos Should Stop Following Reno Omokri on Social Media


Ifeanyi Ejiofor

A renowned content creator whose major source of sustenance is from the financial gains he repeatedly records from your reactions on his Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter), controversial/unfounded claims.
Reno deliberately crafts insulting, derogatory, and disdainful posts targeting the Igbos, in his relentless ethnic baiting against Igbos, and the person of Peter Obi. Why? Because he knows that by provoking you, he can drive up traffic and engagement on his posts. Your comments and engagements will inevitably promote his business by sustaining traffic and popularity on his platforms which will make way for steady returns on his chosen career, which usually runs into millions of Naira and USD. And to your estimation, you think that a man who earns this outrageous sum will change pattern, he cannot unless YOU STOP HIM.
His strategy is simple: manipulate your emotions to increase his content’s reach and revenue. By constantly engaging him to possibly dislodge his often deliberate falsehood, you become an enabler of his intentions and flourishing business. He is not a patriot in the affairs of this Nation, it is only for business enterprise.
Here is what you can do to stop Reno and his business:
- Ignore his provocations. Silence speaks volumes.
- Unfollow him. Do not give him the satisfaction of your attention.
- Spread the word. Let others know how he operates.
As an Igbo Man, you hold the power. Use your brain and stand together to diminish his influence. Let this message go viral and take back control from those who exploit our community for their gain.

Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, Esq.
August 09, 2024

PRESIDENT TINUBU’S HYPOCRISY ON THE #IGBOMUSTGO THREATS

If the presidency is genuinely concerned about the serious threats to the safety of the lives and properties of Igbos in Lagos State, associated with the inflammatory hashtag, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should without further ado, dismiss @BayoOnanuga from his cabinet.

It is contradictory to keep the originator, Chief promoter and main advocate of ethnic baiting against Igbos in the government, especially when he has repeatedly expressed his deep-seated animosity towards the Igbos and even suggested their expulsion from Lagos, without any reprimand. He was rather rewarded with an appointment by the Tinubu-led Government.

It is easily understandable that this faceless group are mere mentees and advocates of Bayo Onanuga’s long held philosophy on ethnic hatred against Igbos.

Following the turn out of events, the Igbos may need to take control of their fate and prepare for tougher times ahead. Only time will reveal the outcome.

In these trying times, the resilience and unity of the Igbo community are paramount. Standing together and supporting one another will be crucial in overcoming these challenges and ensuring a future of peace and equality.

Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, Esq.
August 07, 2024

Ned Nwoko urged to refrain self from
Akpoma-OgbeOzoma Land Dispute Intervention


Ogbeozoma community, Okpanam, in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, has appealed to Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta South Senatorial District, to cease misleading the public with his claims of intervening in the land dispute between Akpoma and Ogbeozoma communities.

In a letter to Senator Nwoko, signed by its lawyer, Mr. Ifeanyi Ejiofor, titled "Re: Delta Senator, Ned Nwoko Prevails in Land Dispute Between Akpoma and Ogbeozoma Communities: Request to Refrain from Further Misleading and Contemptuous Publication with Respect to Above Subject," the community urged the Senator to stop deceiving the public with his claims of intervention.
The letter noted that there are two subsisting pending court cases before the Delta State High Court involving the parties Nwoko purportedly presides over, and that proceedings have fully commenced:

1.OBI DR. VICTOR NWOKOBIA & 2 ORS (for themselves and as representing members of Ogbeozoma Community of Okpanam) vs. MR. AGBA ARINZE & 2 ORS (for themselves and as representing members of Akpoma Quarters of Iselle-Azagba)** in Suit No: HCI/23/2021, holding before Iselle-Uku Judicial Division, Onicha-Ugbo, Delta State.

2. EKWE OGIDI INTEGRATED RESOURCES LTD vs. FRED AJUDUAH & 5 ORS, also pending before the same court at the same Judicial Division in Suit No: HCI/6/2024. This case includes an incident in May 2024, when Ogbeozoma community was invaded by thugs, allegedly led by Ekwe Ogidi.

The letter further stated that the community had published a rejoinder to refute the falsehoods conveyed in an earlier publication. It also noted that the Inspector General of Police has ordered an immediate investigation into the invasion, with arrests made and useful statements obtained from the suspects.

The community requested that Senator Nwoko avoid interfering with the ongoing police investigation and emphasized that only the Committee set up by the Executive Governor of Delta State, led by the Deputy Governor, is authorized to mediate in the dispute between Ogbeozoma and Iselle-Azagba Quarters.

The letter read:
"We are solicitors to the Ogbeozoma community, hereinafter referred to as 'Our Client,' and on whose behalf and definite instruction, we respectfully wish to issue the following clarification and request that you refrain from further misleading the general public regarding your purported intervention in the aforementioned matter.
BACKGROUND:
Ogbeozoma Community (our client) is in Okpanam, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State. Without prejudice to ongoing litigations challenging apparent acts of trespass by those you advocate for, it is important to clarify the situation for discerning members of the public, particularly unsuspecting vendors and buyers, who may be misled by the said media outing into transacting on any part of our client’s land. The Distinguished Senator is respectfully invited to note the following:
There are two subsisting pending court cases before the Delta State High Court, involving parties you purport to be presiding over a meeting for. These proceedings have fully commenced:

1. OBI DR. VICTOR NWOKOBIA & 2 ORS (for themselves and as representing members of Ogbeozoma Community of Okpanam) vs. MR. AGBA ARINZE & 2 ORS (for themselves and as representing members of Akpoma Quarters of Iselle-Azagba) in Suit No: HCI/23/2021, holding before Iselle-Uku Judicial Division, Onicha-Ugbo, Delta State.

2.EKWE OGIDI INTEGRATED RESOURCES LTD vs. FRED AJUDUAH & 5 ORS**, also pending before the same court at the same Judicial Division in Suit No: HCI/6/2024. In May 2024, our client’s community was invaded by thugs, allegedly procured by Mr. Chinedu Okeke alias Ekwe Ogidi. During this attack, four young men were gruesomely murdered. The corpses remain in the mortuary while the police investigation continues.

A publication dated 9th July 2024 in the Pointer newspaper was attributed to your office. Our client had since published a rejoinder to this apparent falsehood, requesting that your office refrain from misleading the public.
On 22nd July 2024, Mr. Chinedu Okeke alias Ekwe Ogidi led another gang of thugs, armed with prohibited firearms, in an attack on our client’s community, resulting in extensive property damage. Some gang members were apprehended, including those in police uniforms. One police officer was fatally shot and remains hospitalized.
The Inspector General of Police has directed an immediate investigation into this act. The investigation is ongoing, with arrests made and useful statements obtained.
Our client is concerned that the publication dated 6th August 2024 may be an attempt to derail the police investigation into Mr. Chinedu Okeke's activities or an act of shielding offenders. Therefore, we respectfully request that you avoid involvement in any conspiracy that could interfere with legitimate police investigations.
Additionally, it should be noted that a Committee, headed by the Deputy Governor of Delta State, was established to mediate the land dispute between our client and Iselle-Azagba Quarters. This Committee is the only one with state authority and court permission to intervene in the matter. Your purported Committee is unknown to our client and exists only in the media and the imagination of Ekwe Ogidi, who is currently seeking refuge.
We urge you to counsel Mr. Chinedu Okeke to surrender to the police to clear the serious allegations against him.

PRAYERS AND CONCLUSION:
Our client reaffirms their belief in the Rule of Law and confidence in the state’s authority to resolve disputes justly. The police investigation into the murders and the violent attacks on our client’s community should proceed without interference. We respectfully request that you refrain from misleading publications that could damage your office's reputation and appear to support the nefarious activities of Mr. Chinedu Okeke.

In anticipation of your cooperation, may the Distinguished Senator accept the assurances of our deepest regards."

Igbo People Face Unique Challenges Requiring Attention, Support from Leaders


Ifeanyi Ejiofor

In a recent viral video, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of Nigeria's House of Representatives, stated, “IGBOS SHOULD SIT-AT-HOME AND NOT JOIN THE #ENDBADGOVERNANCEPROTEST BECAUSE THEY WILL BE SLAUGHTERED IF THEY PARTICIPATE.”
MY THOUGHTS: I find this statement from a prominent Igbo political figure deeply concerning, as it essentially sought to encourage Igbos to waive their constitutionally guaranteed rights. If Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu had advised Igbos to refrain from participating in the #EndBadGovernanceProtest for any reason other than the fear of being slaughtered, I would not have criticized him as harshly, nor would many others who think critically.
For those of us who analyze such statements, the implications of this reckless remark highlight the precarious status of Igbos in Nigeria, now seemingly acknowledged and cowardly reinforced by their political leaders – individuals who should be vigorously combating the longstanding injustices faced by their people.
Historically, Igbos across Nigeria have been victims of violence during times of crisis or protest, often at the hands of fellow citizens and even Nigerian security forces, who are meant to protect them.
It is alarming that today, our innocent mothers, sisters, and brothers are routinely abducted across southeastern states and consequently whisked away under the guise of hunting for criminals, without any significant public outcry, and our political leaders remain silent or feign ignorance of this brazen violation of the rights of Igbos.
I have consistently argued that security forces are aware of the locations and identities of the criminals wreaking havoc in our communities and should be capable of identifying these targets and apprehending them. Instead, they target vulnerable individuals based solely on tribal identification, leading to their enforced disappearances.
Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, hailing from Abia State, should have firsthand knowledge of the hundreds of innocent Biafrans abducted during military operations in the state and still being abducted till tomorrow. This is a critical moment for him to speak out against such acts and advocate for the release of those wrongfully arrested during the exercise and still held in unknown captivities.
I cannot, under any circumstances, support or condone the violent criminals who are terrorizing our land, abducting Biafrans, and killing Biafrans/security operatives. This represents a grave crime against humanity and must be condemned. However, it is essential to ensure that innocent individuals are not punished for crimes they did not commit.
While Igbos are certainly not immune to the economic hardship currently bedeviling the entire nation, the Southeast region has endured both criminal and security siege for the past three years, which has likely contributed to their reluctance to participate in the #EndBadGovernanceProtest. The notion that they would be slaughtered for exercising their constitutional right to protest is an unfortunate reality. However, for such a statement to proceed from someone who should be leading the fight against these injustices/scourge is, at the very least, profoundly condemnable.
Adding to this alarming scenario, a recent tweet from the Lagospedia Twitter handle on July 27, 2024, has exacerbated tensions. The tweet called for a massive protest, #IgboMustGo, scheduled from August 20th to 30th, 2024, urging Igbos to leave the southwestern states and relocate their businesses. It also asked Yorubas living in the southeast to return home. Such statements only serve to deepen the divide and perpetuate the cycle of violence and discrimination against the Igbo community. This call for expulsion is not just an attack on the Igbos but a serious security threat to lives and properties of all igbos across the Nation. It underscores the urgent need for our political leaders to address these issues with the seriousness and commitment they deserve.
The continuous marginalization and endangerment of the Igbo people within Nigeria's socio-political landscape is a grave injustice that must be urgently addressed. Our leaders must rise above parochial interests and work towards addressing this ethnic profiling.
The consistent promotion of ethnic baiting against igbos must stop, and the time is now!
Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, Esq. (KSC)
August 02, 2024
@EjioforBar

Soludo Urges Non-Indigenes to Contribute to Security in Anambra



Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Soludo, has called on non-Indigenes in the state to assist in combating insecurity. He made this appeal on Wednesday during the inauguration of the Association of Non-Indigenes in Awka, the capital of Anambra State.

Represented by Barr. Titus Akpudo, President General of the Anambra State Association of Town Unions, Soludo emphasized that tackling insecurity is a collective responsibility.
He urged tribal leaders to use their influence to encourage their communities to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities.

"Use your position to guide your people and advise them against actions that could tarnish your tribe's reputation,"
"I also appeal to you to leverage your leadership to support the government’s efforts in ensuring the safety of everyone in the state."he said.

The governor further encouraged non-Indigenes to back the government's policies, highlighting that opposing these policies could hinder peaceful coexistence.
He urged them to live harmoniously with the local population and other tribes in the state.

"Feel free to live in Anambra State as ordinary citizens so that you are not unfairly profiled as criminals or troublemakers. It is crucial for maintaining the synergy within the state," he added.

In his address, Prince Chigozie Nweke, President of the Association of Non-Indigenes in Anambra State (ANIAS), explained that the event's purpose was to inaugurate the Elders Council. This body comprises experienced leaders from various geopolitical zones and ethnic groups residing in the state. The Elders Council is tasked with guiding both the executive and members of ANIAs.

Nweke noted that the council's establishment is crucial given the current challenges and the allegations that non-Indigenes are contributing to insecurity in Anambra.
"These Elders are well-respected leaders and title holders within their communities, known to both government and security agencies. They possess the authority to address and prevent criminal activities."he stated.

He also highlighted that ANIAs has successfully united residents from all 35 states under one umbrella, with membership continuing to grow.
The association aims to operate under principles of law, justice, equity, transparency, and good leadership.

Additionally, ANIAs seeks to foster peaceful relations between non-Indigenes and their host communities in Anambra and to promote the diverse cultural, religious, and traditional heritage of the various ethnic groups represented in the state.

Court Judgment on 3-Man Committee: A Soothing Balm for the Electronic Market in Anambra

Titus Maduako Eleweke

The recent judgment by the Anambra State High Court in Atani, Onitsha, ordering a three-man committee at the Onitsha Electronic Market to focus solely on government revenue, is poised to restore peace and harmony in the market.

The market has long been marred by leadership crises, leading to numerous court battles.
Mr. Ifechi Anozie challenged the authority of the three-man committee, which had been set up by the government to collect taxes.
Anozie argued that the committee had no mandate to collect Union funds or manage Union affairs.

In its ruling on Wednesday, the court ordered that the three-man committee could only collect government revenue, including taxes and development levies, and was prohibited from collecting Union-related monies, such as those for security, electricity, and environmental needs.
The court also directed that the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the market to assume control of market administration until new executives are elected.

Speaking on the development, Mr. Ifechi Anozie, also known as IfyGod Electronics, described the judgment as a welcome relief that would heal past wounds and advance the development and peace of the electronic dealers' association in Onitsha.

"I commend the Atani High Court for delivering justice and providing a fair hearing for the Onitsha Electronics Dealers Association. The market has suffered since the elected executive's term expired in July 2022. The court’s decision on July 26, 2024, benefits the market greatly. I thank the High Court and the judiciary for upholding the rights of the common man and showing that justice is achievable," Anozie said. He also thanked the Anambra State government for accepting the judgment and urged market members to comply with the court’s order by paying the government taxes and development levies, currently set at N17,500.

He emphasized that the court's ruling mandates the three-man committee to manage only government taxes as directed and allows the BoT to handle market leadership in the interim.

Hon. Chuks Onyeizugbe, a former Special Adviser to the former Governor Chief Willie Obiano on political matters and an electronic dealer in the market, criticized those who deceive the government. He claimed that misinformation from certain individuals in Awka has led to misguided government actions.
Onyeizugbe expressed concern over the market's deterioration due to fraud and mismanagement and urged the BoT to collaborate with the government to rectify the situation.

"The market is deteriorating because some people are misleading government officials in Awka. The market, built by contributions from multiple states, is suffering because of these deceitful actions. I urge the BoT to take charge and work with the government. The governor is doing well, but some individuals are tarnishing his efforts," Onyeizugbe said. He called on Governor Charles Soludo to personally investigate the market's issues, noting that current revenues are significantly less than potential earnings.

Nkem Okoli, chairman of Freedom Line, echoed support for the court's judgment, believing it would restore peace and address the market's prolonged conflicts. He affirmed their commitment to paying all required taxes and development levies, despite the current high rates, in support of the governor's efforts.

The judgment, therefore, represents a crucial step toward resolving the market’s issues and promoting stability and fairness in its administration.

Ogbeozoma Community Petitions Gov. Oborevbie Over Attack by Land Grabber

The Ogbeozoma Community, Okpanam, in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, has petitioned the state govenor Sheriff Francis Oboreveori for intervention to ensure a thorough and comprehensive investigation into the heinous crimes committed against community.

The community in petition signed by its lawyer Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, Esq. said that one Mr. Chinedu Okeke, known as Ekwe Ogidi, is the leader of the group that attacked the community, specializing in land grabbing and violent attack on the community .
Acoording the community ,Mr. Okeke, who is also the Managing Director of Ekwe Ogidi Integrated Resources Limited and owner of Golden Tulip Hotel Asaba, orchestrated a brutal attack on members community on the morning of 22nd July 2024.

It stated that a gang, consisting of about 15 Hilux vehicles loaded with heavily armed individuals and dressed in Special Police uniforms, invaded Ogbeozoma Community with assailants wielded AK-47s, AK-49s, daggers, machetes, and other weapons, and used earth-moving equipment to destroy properties valued in billions of naira.

It further stated that during the attack, security agents on duty were assaulted, and some civilians were injured, stating that a policeman was shot and critically wounded in an attempt to block the criminals' escape.

The petitioner said that the police have since arrested several members of the gang, including one who has confessed to the involvement of Ekwe Ogidi.
" Despite the arrest of some gang members and recovery of vehicles and equipment, Mr. Okeke has evaded capture and is reportedly using his connections within the Police High Command to avoid arrest. Efforts to apprehend him have been thwarted, and he is suspected to be seeking refuge in Abuja" it stated

It also stated that the attack followed a previous incident in June 2024, where four security personnel were killed by the same gang and the bodies of these victims are still in the morgue while investigations continue.

The petitioner urged the governor to take immediate and decisive action to address this grave situation noting that Mr. Okeke’s actions are a serious threat to state and national security.

"His criminal activities must be met with a firm response to restore peace and ensure justice.

We request Your Excellency’s urgent intervention to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice and to prevent further violence. Your swift action in this matter will be greatly appreciated"it stated.


Read the Petition:

27th July, 2024
Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oboreveori,
The Executive Governor of Delta State,
Delta State Government House,
Asaba, Delta State.

His Excellency Sir,

PETITION ON A CASE OF MURDER, ILLEGAL POSSESSION OF FIRE ARMS, MALICIOUS DAMAGE TO PROPERTY, BLOODY INVASION OF OGBEOZOMA COMMUNITY OKPANAM IN OSHIMILI NORTH L.G.A. OF DELTA STATE AND FATAL SHOOTING OF POLICE PERSONNEL, BY DEADLY CRIMINAL GANG SPONSORED AND LED BY ONE MR. CHINEDU OKEKE A.K.A. EKWE OGIDI- A NOTORIOUS LAND GRABBER IN ASABA.
We are Solicitors to Ogbeozoma Community, Okpanam in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, whom we shall hereinafter refer to as “Our Client” and on whose definite and firm instruction we most respectfully petition for His Excellency’s deserving intervention to ensure that the above heinous crime is thoroughly and comprehensively investigated to avoid a reoccurrence.
It is our instruction that Mr. Chinedu Okeke who is the ring leader of a criminal group that specializes in land grabbing, kidnapping and killing of persons perceived as their targets, within Asaba metropolis is the Managing Director of EKWE OGIDI INTEGRATED RESOURCES LIMITED and who equally doubles as the owner of the GOLDEN TULIP HOTEL ASABA.
We were further informed that our client's peaceful community was at the wee hours of 22nd day of July, 2024, invaded by deadly criminal/terror gang who were heavily armed to the teeth with all forms of prohibited firearms, led by one Chinedu Okeke, a.k.a Ekwe Ogidi.
It is our Client’s instruction that these brutal gang came in with about 15 hilux vehicles and were all fully loaded with persons who were not only wielding sophisticated weapons ranging from AK-47, AK-49, daggers, machetes and all other forms of charms, but were equally fully kitted in various Special Police uniforms.
It is our further instruction that during this bloody attack on our client's peaceful community, security agents on duty were not spared by the invading assailants, while some civilians were equally brutally assaulted/wounded and properties worth billions of naira belonging to our client’s Tenants were completely destroyed, with the aid of earth moving equipment the assailants came along with to facilitate swift execution of their deadly and nefarious mission.
However, luck ran out of a few members of these criminal gang when the last batch of their vehicles could not speedily leave the scene of the crime before policemen on rescue mission blocked them and in the ensuing argument, they opened fire on a policeman and fatally shot his left leg, before they were fully disarmed and arrested.
The gallant policemen were able to recover few vehicles left behind by the invading criminals, which included two hilux vans, and earth moving equipment used in the said deadly operation, as can be seen from the attached pictures.
We were further informed that one of Ekwe Ogidi's henchmen who was also arrested during this deadly operation had since confessed to the commision of the crime and the involvement of Ekwe Ogidi in the operation and has continued to donate useful information to the investigating authorities in Police Headquarters Asaba, Delta State where those arrested are presently undergoing thorough questioning by the police, while the wounded policeman is still under intensive care in an undisclosed hospital where a team of doctors are battling to save his life.
It is our further instruction that Ekwe Ogidi who was the ring leader of these assailants narrowly escaped from the crime scene, and is presently exploring all his high powered contacts within the Police High Command in Abuja to stop his arrest. Information available at our disposal suggests that all efforts made by the Delta State Police Command to arrest Chinedu Okeke alias Ekwe Ogidi has been futile, as he is presently in Force Headquarters moving from one office (monitoring team department) to another in search of safe haven and has refused to honour police invitation in Delta State.
We were informed that this latest bloody attack on our client's peaceful community makes it two consecutive recorded bloody onslaught on our client’s community. Each of these bloody attacks, is led by Chinedu Okeke's terror gang and in every brutal attack, innocent lives are lost in their numbers. A case currently under the police investigation, before the Delta State Police Command Headquarters was the brutal killing of four security men by Chinedu Okeke's led criminal gang, specifically in June 2024. The corpses of these victims of Chinedu Okeke's led heinous attack, are still deposited in the morgue while police is progressing with the investigation, before this latest attack.
It is our solemn appeal that this latest attack should not be treated as an isolated case, it is rather an attack too many, deserving of immediate decisive action by the Executive Governor as the activities of Mr Chinedu Okeke is a serious threat to the security of the sate and by extension, National Security.
It is unheard of that in a civilized society, a mere land grabber who has gained notoriety for violent crimes will be perpetuating heinous crimes such as murder of security agents, and police will still be giving protection to the said person. It is crystal clear that Chinedu Okeke is a threat to civilized society and by extension National Security of the country, who must be decisively dealt with by the intelligence community no matter whose ox is gored. Chinedu Okeke is largely considered a sacred cow in Asaba and its environs who can commit any form of crime and go scot free. Evidence abounds to show his involvement in violent crimes. Vehicles recovered from the invaders in this latest attack all belong to Chinedu Okeke, and his personal driver who was equally arrested has openly confessed in the attached clip and equally to the police as being sent by Chinedu Okeke alias Ekwe Ogidi. The victim of their latest bloody attack is a policeman who was shot in the line of duty. If we may then ask, what other evidence does the police need to be enabled to reign in on Ekwe Ogidi?
It is our instruction that Ekwe Ogidi is presently making frantic efforts to use his strong contacts within the Police high command in Abuja to prevail on the Delta State Police Command Headquarters to release the vehicles, sophisticated weapons recovered at the scene of the crime, including the criminals who shot a serving police officer.
It is against the backdrop of the foregoing serious allegations that we most humbly crave for the expeditious intervention of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Delta State, in bringing these culprits to book.
In anticipation of His Excellency’s speedy consideration of our complaint, may His Excellency accept the assurances of our deepest regards, Sir.

Yours Faithfully,

...............................................
Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, Esq. (KSC)
Chief Counsel/Principal Partner

Okpanam Community Urges IGP to Investigate Attacks by Alleged LandGrabber


Ogbeozoma community,Okpanam in Oshimli North Local Government of Delta State has petitioned the Inspector General of Police IGP, calling on him to thoroughly investigate the alleged murder, illegal
Possession of fire arms and destruction of property by a landgrabber.
The community in a petition by its lawyer Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, Esq alleged that one Mr Chinedun Okeke invaded the community with armed men and heavy equipment and destroyed property worth billions of Naira.
According to petition, against the serious allegations the community crave the immediate intervention of the Polie high command in bringing those involved to book.
The petitioner appealed to the IGP to use his good offices to immediately direct for a thorough investigation of these heinous crimes.
The petitioners said the landgrabbers are using violence and intimidation to seize land from local residents and the community seeks to address these criminal activities and ensure that justice is served, aiming to restore safety and security in the area.

The statement reads:
We are Solicitors to Ogbeozoma Community, Okpanam in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, whom we shall hereinafter refer to as “Our Client” and on whose definite and firm instruction we petition for a thorough investigation of the above heinous crimes.
It is our instruction that Mr Chinedu Okeke who is the ring leader of a criminal group that specializes in land grabbing, kidnapping and killing of persons perceived as their targets, is the Managing Director of EKWE OGIDI INTEGRATED RESOURCES LIMITED and who equally doubles as the owner of the GOLDEN TULIP HOTEL ASABA.
We were further informed that our client's peaceful community was at the wee hours of 22nd day of July, 2024, invaded by deadly criminal/terror gang who were heavily armed to the teeth with all forms of prohibited firearms, led by one Chinedu Okeke, a.k.a Ekwe Ogidi.
It is our Client’s instruction that these brutal gang came in with about 15 hilux vehicles and were all fully loaded with persons who were not only wielding sophisticated weapons ranging from AK-47, AK-49, daggers, machetes and all other forms of charms, were equally fully kitted in various Special Police uniforms.
It is our further instruction that during this bloody attack on our client's peaceful community, security agents on duty were not spared by the invading assailants, while some civilians were equally brutally assaulted/wounded and properties worth billions of naira belonging to our client’s Tenants were completely destroyed, with the aid of earth moving equipment the assailants came along with for the swift execution of their deadly and nefarious mission.
However, luck ran out of a few members of these criminal gang when the last batch of their vehicles could not speedily leave the scene of the crime before policemen on rescue mission blocked them and in the ensuing argument, they opened fire on a policeman and fatally shot his left leg, before they were fully disarmed and arrested.
The gallant policemen were able to recover few vehicles left behind by the invading criminals, which included two hilux vans, and earth moving equipment used in the said deadly operation, as can be seen from the attached pictures.
We were further informed that one of Ekwe Ogidi's henchmen who was also arrested during this deadly operation had since confessed to the commision of the crime and the involvement of Ekwe Ogidi in the operation and has continued to donate useful information to the investigating authorities in Asaba, Delta where those arrested are presently undergoing thorough questioning by the police, while the wounded policeman is still under intensive care in an undisclosed hospital where a team of doctors are battling to save his life .
It is our further instruction that Ekwe Ogidi who was the ring leader of these assailants narrowly escaped from the crime scene, and is presently exploring all his high powered contacts within the Police High Command in Abuja to stop his arrest. Information available at our disposal suggests that all efforts made by the Delta State Police Command to arrest Chinedu Okeke alias Ekwe Ogidi has been futile, as he is presently in Force Headquarters moving from one office (monitoring team department) to another in search of safe haven and has refused to honour police invitation in Delta State.
We were informed that this latest bloody attack on our client's peaceful community makes it two consecutive recorded bloody onslaught on our client’s community. Each of these bloody attacks, is led by Chinedu Okeke's terror gang and in every brutal attack, innocent lives are lost in their numbers. A case currently under the police investigation, was the brutal killing of four security men by Chinedu Okeke's led criminal gang, specifically in June 2024. The corpses of these victims of Chinedu Okeke's led heinous attack, are still deposited in the morgue while police is progressing with the investigation, before this latest attack.
It is our solemn appeal that this latest attack should not be treated as an isolated case, it is rather an attack too many, deserving of immediate decisive action by the Police Force Headquarters. It is unheard of that in a civilized society, a mere land grabber who has gained notoriety for violent crimes will be perpetuating heinous crimes such as murder of security agents, and police will still be giving protection to the said person. It is crystal clear that Chinedu Okeke is a threat to civilized society and by extension National Security of the country, who must be decisively dealt with by the intelligence community no matter whose ox is gored. Chinedu Okeke is largely considered a sacred cow who can commit any form of crime and go scot free. Evidence abounds to show his involvement in violent crimes. Vehicles recovered from the invaders in this latest attack all belong to Chinedu Okeke, and his personal driver who was equally arrested has openly confessed in the attached clip and equally to the police as being sent by Chinedu Okeke alias Ekwe Ogidi. The victim of their latest bloody attack is a policeman who was shot in the line of duty. If we may then ask, what other evidence does the police need to be enabled to reign in Ekwe Ogidi?
It is our instruction that Ekwe Ogidi is presently making frantic efforts to use his strong contacts within the Police high command in Abuja to prevail on the Delta State Police Command Headquarters to release the vehicles, sophisticated weapons recovered at the scene of the crime, including the criminals who shot a serving police officer.
It is against the backdrop of the foregoing serious allegations that we most humbly crave the immediate intervention of the Polie high command in bringing these culprits to book.
We are by this correspondence inviting the good offices of the Inspector General of Police, to immediately direct for a thorough investigation of these heinous crimes.
In anticipation of your speedy consideration of our complaint, may the Inspector General of Police accept the assurances of our deepest regards, Sir
Yours Faithfully,
Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, Esq. (KSC)
Chief Counsel/Principal Partner

OCHA Brigade MD, Anere Celebrates Soludo at 64 as an Uncommon Achiever

Titus Maduako Eleweke

Comrade Celestine Anere, Managing Director of Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA Brigade), has praised Anambra State Governor Prof. Charles Soludo on his 64th birthday, calling him a model and mentor for the younger generation.

In his congratulatory message, Anere highlighted Soludo's exceptional achievements both in the private and public sectors.
He lauded the governor's remarkable leadership and the substantial progress made under his administration, noting significant advancements in infrastructure, transport, education, health, and the environment.

Anere emphasized that Soludo's efforts to revamp the transport sector have notably improved connectivity and quality of life for Ndi Anambra. He described the governor's leadership as transformative and aligned with the aspirations of the people, setting him apart as a standout leader of this era.

As the state marks Soludo's birthday, Anere expressed deep appreciation for his relentless dedication to building a greater Anambra, celebrating his continuous breakthroughs and impactful service.

Delta Community Urges IGP, Governor To Investigate Invasion Of Community


The Ogbeozoma community in Okpanam, Delta State, recently experienced a violent invasion by armed criminals, allegedly led by Chinedu Okeke, also known as Ekwe-Ogidi.
According to a statement issued and signed by Diokpa Egwuagu Joseph Aninye ,Diokpa Isi Okpanam / Ogbe Ozoma on behalf of Ogbeozoma Quarters on Thursday described the invasion as criminal.
He said the attackers used prohibited firearms and earth moving equipment to inflict extensive damage, including injuring policemen and civilians and destroying property worth billions.
Diokpa said fortunately, law enforcement managed to disarm and arrest several assailants, although Ekwe-Ogidi evaded capture.
He said the incident marks the second brutal attack on Ogbeozoma by Ekwe-Ogidi and his gang, who are reportedly involved in land disputes and criminal activities, including the killing of security personnel.
Accoding to him,the community is calling for a thorough investigation by the Inspector General of Police and the Governor of Delta State into these crimes.
He said the community is emphasizing on the urgency of holding Ekwe-Ogidi accountable and preventing further attacks, stressing the need for justice and protection for their ancestral land.
According to him, the community also highlights legal judgments supporting their claim to the land, asserting that Ekwe-Ogidi's actions are aimed at displacing them.
He urged authorities not to allow political or personal influences to obstruct justice and request immediate intervention to ensure the safety and rights of Ogbeozoma residents.
Diokpa said that the plea from Ogbeozoma is for swift and unbiased action from law enforcement and government authorities to address these criminal activities and safeguard their community from further attack.
Statement reads:
BLOODY INVASION OF ANCESTRAL LAND OF OGBEOZOMA COMMUNITY OKPANAM IN OSHIMILI NORTH L.G.A. OF DELTA STATE AND FATAL SHOOTING OF POLICE PERSONNEL, BY DEADLY CRIMINAL GANG LED BY ONE CHINEDU OKEKE- A NOTORIOUS LAND GRABBER IN ASABA AND THE MANAGING DIRECTOR OF EKWE OGIDI INTEGRATED RESOURCES LIMITED WHO DOUBLES AS THE OWNER OF GOLDEN TULIP HOTEL ASABA;
SOS TO THE INSPECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE AND THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF DELTA STATE, TO DIRECT FOR A THOROUGH INVESTIGATION OF THE ABOVE HEINOUS CRIMES:

The peaceful community of Ogbeozoma, Okpanam, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State was at the wee hours of 22nd day of July, 2024, invaded by deadly criminal gangs who were heavily armed to the teeth with all forms of prohibited firearms, led by one Chinedu Okeke, a.k.a Ekwe-Ogidi.
During this bloody attack on the peaceful community of Ogbeozoma, security agents on duty were not spared as policemen on duty were brutally shot with live ammunitions, while some civilians were equally brutally assaulted and properties worth billions of naira completely destroyed with earth moving equipment the assailants came along with for swift execution of their deadly and nefarious mission.

However, luck ran out of these criminals when they were overpowered by superior powers of the well trained policemen on duty, who succeeded in disarming and arresting a number of these criminal gang members, including all the vehicles and earth moving equipment used in the said deadly operation, as can be seen from the attached pictures.

Those arrested are currently providing useful information to the police Headquarters Asaba Delta State, while two policemen who were fatally wounded during this deadly attack are receiving treatment in an undisclosed hospital.
Ekwe-Ogidi who was the ring leader of these assailants narrowly escaped from the crime scene, and is presently exploring all his high powered contacts within the Police High Command to stop his arrest.

This will make it the two consecutive occasions the peaceful community of Ogbeozoma was brutally attacked by Chinedu Okeke alias Ekwe-Ogidi and his criminal gangs. Their penultimate attack at an ungodly hours of the night resulted in the death of four security agents whose bodies are still being held in the morgue while police is progressing with investigation of the case, before this latest bloody attack that nearly claimed the lives of two gallant police officers.

This should be a convenient time the Nigeria Police Force should take a bold step and direct unbiased/thorough investigation into the criminal activities of Chinedu Okeke who has been considered within the Asaba metropolis as a sacred cow, he must definitely account for his evil deeds and the hour is now.

We are by this SOS, calling on the Inspector General of Police to direct for a thorough investigation into these heinous crimes, even as Ekwe-Ogidi is making frantic efforts to retrieve from the Delta State Police Command Headquarters, all the vehicles and sophisticated weapons, including caterpillars recovered from the assailants during this bloody attack.
Ekwe-Ogidi is notorious for land grabbing in Asaba, even the state authorities are aware of his criminal antecedents/nefarious activities in Asaba and have done absolutely nothing to stop him and his criminal gangs, even when they are ceaselessly attacking and killing security agents any time this deadly attack is launched on the peaceful Ogbeozoma community.
The hour has come for the Police High Command to investigate Ekwe-Ogidi and where prima facie case is established against him, make him to face the full wrath of the law, otherwise he will continue to launch bloody attacks on the peaceful community of Ogbeozoma.

Chinedu Okeke alias Ekwe-Ogidi who purports to have been engaged by Ogbeozoma's neighboring community known as Iseeee-Azagba, to flush out the people of Ogbeozoma community from their ancestral land/home and take over their lands, is using every contacts at his disposal including his contacts with high echelon of security commands, in deploying all arsenals at his disposal to completely annihilate the entire Ogbeozoma community, it doesn’t matter to Ekwe-Ogidi and his cohorts, if hundreds of security men and civilians are killed in the process.

It is the position of the Ogbeozoma community that Issele-Azagba people, were given land wherein they are resident today by Okpanam people (Ogbeozoma and Amachai). This fact is settled by the judgment of the High Court of Justice, Asaba Judicial Division delivered on the 28th day of June, 2000, by His Lordship Hon. Justice M. Umukoro in Suit No: A/12/86: GILBERT IGWEONWU (for himself and on behalf of Amachai family of Okpanam) Vs. OKAFOR NWANENE & 4 ORS (for themselves and on behalf of members of Ogbe-Utu Community of Issele-Azagba).
The Akpoma Quarters of Issele-Azagba who are also the beneficiaries of the said judgment were given a land abutting the land belonging to Ogbeozoma community by Ogbeozoma quarters of Okpanam where they live and farm as their customary tenants.
Ogbeozoma community is today living and occupying their ancestral land which has been clearly demarcated by the aforesaid judgement until Ekwe-Ogidi who is a notorious lang grabber was procured to unleash mayhem and displace the Ogbeozoma community, an evil undertaking which he has been unable to actualize till date despite his desperate and deadly efforts.

We once again call on the Executive Governor of Delta State and the Inspector General of Police to immediately intervene to ensure that investigation into these heinous crimes is not compromised in any way, we want this matter to be throughly investigated and culprits charged to court where prima facie case is established.

Thank you all.

Signed:
DIOKPA EGWUAGU JOSEPH ANINYE.
DIOKPA ISI OF OKPANAM/ OGBE-OZOMA.
CHIEF FELIX OKAFOR
IKEJIANI 1 OKPANAM
On behalf of Ogbeozoma Quarters
25/07/2024

Edozie Njoku not APGA national chair, South East leaders tells INEC

Titus Maduako Eleweke

The South East leadership of the All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA, has "vehemently rejected" Chief Edozie Njoku, as the National Chairman of the party.
The South East leadership of the party also described the alleged recognition of Chief Edozie Njoku as national chairman by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, as "a joke taken too far".
APGA National Vice Chairman, South East, Rev. Augustine Ehiemere, in a statement on behalf of the party's leadership in the zone, urged INEC, to quickly reverse the alleged recognition.
Ehiemere said that Njoku was never a product of any APGA National convention, nor was he ever declared the national Chairman of the party by any court, hence, he should not be allowed to hijack the party's leadership through the back door.
The zonal Vice Chairman further said that "Njoku's name cannot be found in any APGA membership register", wondering how a non APGA member would be allowed to parade as the party's national Chairman.
According to Ehiemere Chief Sly Ezeokenwa who was elected at the APGA 2023 convention in Awka, remains the authentic National Chairman" of the party.
He also stated that the party recognised Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State as APGA's national leader, and urged members of the public to ignore Njoku "and his co-travellers".
He threatened to expose those sponsoring them to destabilize APGA, adding that their mission is dead on arrival.
The statement read in part:"APGA leadership in the South East including the five state Chairmen and the entire stakeholders in the zone, vehemently rejects the purported declaration of Edozie Njoku and his alleged recognition by INEC as APGA National Chairman.
" We call on INEC to as a matter of urgency, de-recognise him as purportedly declared by the court and hastily recognized by the commission. Let INEC revert to the authentic National Chairman of our great party, Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa.
" Edozie Njoku was never declared APGA National Chairman contrary to his claims. He has never been a product of any APGA National convention. His name cannot be found in any APGA membership register unless a fake register.
" So, how will somebody who is not even a member of APGA suddenly begin to parade himself as the party's national Chairman? It's an aberration that must not be allowed!
" South East APGA members and leadership will continue to resist his purported recognition by INEC until he is de-recognised.
" We reaffirm our loyalty to the Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa -led National Working Committee, NWC, of our great party. We stand by him and he remains our authentic National Chairman. We also recognise Gov. Chukwuma Soludo as our national leader. We stand by him."
The statement urged APGA members "nationwide and particularly in the South East, to remain calm and focused, and never to be distracted by the antics of Edozie Njoku and his allies, nor the unconstitutional action of INEC ".
" We are aware that that there are some people funding Edozie Njoku, trying to destabilize and cause disaffection in the party particularly in Anambra State. We will mention them in our next media outing".

Prof Ibe calls for strict implementation of Supreme Court judgement on LGAs

Titus Maduako Eleweke

The Founder of Gregory University Uturu Prof Gregory Ibe has applauded the Supreme Court for giving financial impetus to the autonomy of Local Government Councils in Nigeria.
The statement was made in a statement issued by his media aide Mr.Sleek Ogwo on Tuesday and made available to news men.
Prof Ibe reacting on the last week's landmark judgement of the Supreme Court which reaffirmed the financial independence of the 774 Local Government Councils of Nigeria, commended the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, for his wisdom in "exploiting jurisprudence to deal with an apparently intractable political quagmire which has defied many years of amicable resolution.

He also enjoined Prince Fagbemi to further strengthen the autonomy of the third tier of government by championing the call for the amendment of the constitution in order to alter the current practice of using state electoral commissions to conduct local government elections.

According to him, the current practice confers undue advantage to the governors, who according to him, "use executive powers in installing their political stooges in the local councils thereby undermining the independence of the LGAs"

Prof Ibe charged the Minister to work assidously with the National Assembly in amending the constitution to provide for the conduct of Local Government Council elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC).


Citing personal experience, Prof Ibe outrightly blamed the near comatose state of activities in Local Councils on many years of financial emasculation by state governments.

According to him, many private sector powered projects initiated by his Gregory Iyke Foundation were in the past endangered by the absence of credible grassroots administration at the council headquarters.

He recalled his efforts to revive the arts, cultures and traditions of Abia by uniting the 17 Local Government Councils of the state through the organization of an annual cultural fiesta tagged Igbo "Uturu Cultural Carnival" in 2008.

Prof Ibe decried the apparent lack of governmental partnership, especially by the leaderships of the appointed Transition Committees, thereby leading to the untimely death of the initiative in 2012.
" While commending the Supreme Court for this landmark judgement, I want to specially thank the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN for his wisdom in exploiting jurisprudence to deal with an apparently intractable political quagmire which has defied many years of amicable resolution".
" With this victory in the bag, let me further charge the Minister to work assiduously with the National Assembly in amending the constitution in order to provide a level playing field for all political stakeholders in the Local Government Areas. Subsequently, he should do everything to reduce to the barest minimum the control state Governors exert over local government elections, since the current practice affords them the opportunity of using executive powers in installing their political stooges in the local councils, thereby undermining the independence of the LGAs" he stated.
According to him,"It is unfortunate that many Corporate Social Responsibility projects initiated by my Gregory Iyke Foundation suffered untimely deaths because of lack of partnership and governmental coordination by Local Government Councils. For instance, Igbo Uturu Cultural Carnival which we initiated in 2008 as a vehicle to revive, project and celebrate the unique cultures of the 17 Local Government Areas of our state couldn't survive beyond 2012 because of the absence of independently empowered administrations serving as collaborators and coordinating units at the council headquarters".
He therefore implored political elites in Nigeria to "allow the local councils to breathe by ensuring the implementation of the Supreme Court judgement in order to guarantee expedited grassroots development in the 774 Local Government Areas of Nigeria.

Release Kanu to seperate genuine agitators from criminals, LP tells Tinubu


Titus Maduako Eleweke

South East House of Assembly caucus of Labour Party LP have joined other well meaning Nigerians to call for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
According to the Labour Party, South East caucus,the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu will help to separate genuine agitators from criminals in the business of kidnapping.
The LP in a communique signed by 11 lawmakers and read by the leader of LP caucus in South East, Hon.Jude umennajiego on Saturday said the dentetion is also encouraging criminal elements masquerading as agitators to commit crimes.
“We therefore, lend our voices in appealing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to, as a matter of urgency, release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, so as to douse the current ravaging insecurity in the zone.
This insecurity has grounded the economy of the region and has occasioned unprecedented loss of human lives as well as destruction of property.
His release will act as a healing balm to the region and also encourage the feeling of oneness as a nation. Furthermore, it will separate genuine agitators from criminals in the business of kidnapping” it stated.
It noted that LP South East House caucus also appealed to the Governors of South East Region and indeed the whole nation to work towards granting full financial autonomy to the State Houses of Assembly in accordance with the constitution and the Principles of Separation of Powers.
According to the communique, granting full autonomy to state House of Assembly will go a long way in ensuring more robust assemblies, thereby enhancing their functionalities in the area of law making, oversight and other attendant legislative duties.
” Following the example of the Federal Government, it will deepen democracy in the states and ensure more quality and effective representation” it stated.
It also urged the Federal Government to ensure the quick resolution of the current minimum wage impasse between the governments, organised private sector and Labour Unions.
According to the communique, with the current economic reality and astronomical increment in the prices of goods and services, it would be wrong for the government not to hearken to the voice of the Nigerian Labour Congress NLC and Trade Union Congress TUC who represent the voice of the suffering masses.
“Nigerians are in agony on account of the current harsh economic situation, and the worst hit appears to be the workers whose income is obviously not enough under current situation” it stated.
The statement further said the recent hasty incarceration of Hon. Bright Ngene who was a candidate in a rerun election in Enugu state and prison sentence seemed to be politically motivated.
” We call on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to look into the case and ensure that justice is done. It is surprising that even when the community who are the complainants in the case opted to withdraw the case, the court still proceeded to trial and sentence him to jail in controversial and suspicious circumstance without giving room for the adoption of written addresses by the parties.
We also appeal to the Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly to as a matter of urgency ensure that in accordance with the standing order of the House, the minority positions due to the Labour Party are given to them without further delay. You recall that recently, some Labour Party members decamped to the PDP, going along with them the minority leadership positions of the Labour Party in the house. Since you have only two parties in the house, It is only right that the Labour Party is now in the minority and should be entitled to their minority leadership positions. As the speaker, who is the father to all in the House, it is only right and just that the positions be returned to the Labour Party to ensure fairness and equity.Thank you gentlemen of the press”.it added.

Ex-Staff of EEDC Arrested for Bypassing,Tampering Meters for Customers in Anambra


Titus Maduako Eleweke

Former staff of Enugu Electricity Distribution Company PLC (EEDC) in Onitsha Anambra State has been arrested for bypassing and tampering prepaid meters for EEDC customers.

The suspect identified as Lawrence Okeke is specialized in the replacement of original meter sensors with fake ones thereby bypassing the meters and making the energy company not record the actual consumption by customers.

The Head of Corporate Communications, EEDC, Mr. Emeka Ezeh who confirmed the development said it has negatively impacted on the revenue of the distribution company.

According to Ezeh following a report by a whistle blower, the Meter Monitoring Team of the company was deployed to some locations on a routine meter monitoring inspection and ilegal connection was discovered.
"At one of the customer’s premises visited at Bida Road, Onitsha, they discovered that the meter was bypassed, and the original meter sensor removed and replaced with the fake one.
While the team interrogated the customer who already admitted their findings, the customer gave out the identity and contact of the individual that performed the bypass as Lawrence Okeke, who happens to be an ex-staff of EEDC.
Immediately, Lawrence was tracked and arrested, and handed over to the Central Police Station, Onitsha, where he is currently assisting the Police in their investigation" he said .
Ezeh disclosed that Lawrence Okeke who hails from Adogba Village in Awgu Local Government Area, Enugu State, was disengaged from EEDC in December 2020 for gross misconduct.
According to him,the apprehension of the suspect by the team is a great breakthrough in the organization’s fight against meter bypass and energy theft.
He said that it is believed that by the time the investigation is concluded, a lot of atrocities already perpetrated by the likes of Lawrence in our network, would be unraveled.
Ezeh, however cautioned customers who engage in meter bypass to desist from such as the company has stepped up its prepaid meter monitoring activities and anyone caught would be made to face the music.
He also advised the customers against the activities of some ex-staff of EEDC who still parade the network as though they are still working for the company, while they are busy extorting unsuspecting customers and carrying out criminal and illegal activities that undermine the organization’s efforts in providing quality services to its esteemed customers.
“Customers should always be mindful of who they are engaging as staff of EEDC and be sure of their identity, as a lot of people out there carrying out illegalities, parading as staff of EEDC are not in its employ”, Ezeh warned.
While commending the whistle blower for giving the information that led to the arrest of Lawrence, Ezeh also urged customers to feel free to report any suspected case of meter bypass and energy theft through the company’s whistle blowing platforms (08146026678 or ethics@enugudisco.com) or other channels, assuring that their identities will be protected.

Keke Drivers beg Soludo to deploy more security operatives at Aroma junctions


Members of the Anambra State Keke Drivers Forum (AKDF) have appealed to the State Governor,Prof. Charles Soludo to deploy more operatives of the Ocha Brigade and Anambra Vigilante Group (AVG) to popular Aroma junctions and other parks across the state to enable them sustain their daily operations.
The Keke drivers who spoke to our reporter on Monday in Awka, Anambra State Capital said the call has become neccssaray given the constant threats and illegal activities of suspected secret cult groups and touts who extort money from them.
According to the operators,the presence of security men would help to reduce chaotic traffic situation and prevent constant harrassment by the bad boys.

They also denied the allegations that an Awka based Human Rights Activist, Comrade Osita Obi, collects money from them as part of his coordination of activities of the group and Convener of the forum.
The General Secretary of the forum, Mr. Uchenna Umeh said the body is a platform where all the members air their grievances and challenges in the field of operations.
He said,"I don't know the source who is alleging extortion , we do not have such complaints of extortion here (Aroma park) presently in this park. There is no one extorting anyone in this park. Before now, yes, but now we are talking, there is nothing like that happening"
"Before now what was obtainable was that when you enter the park you pay N200 for park fee and each time you load you pay N100 but that's not the situation now. Presently, we only pay N200."he said .
According to him,before now the Aroma junctions used to be very chaotic when it comes to Keke operations.
He said,before now Keke drivers were obstructing the traffic and people were everywhere causing commotion at the junction causing obstructions and nuisance
"We did our best by trying to bring relevant authority here but all our efforts proved abortive; we talked to the Managing Director of ARTMA, Mr. Konti, we arranged to have an interface with him so that he could bring his men to be stationed here permanently in order to stop those who are causing nuisance, nothing happened"

"We have also talked to the Ministry of Transport and MD ARTDA, none of them intervened until we went to Ocha Brigade MD, we pleaded with him and he intervened and that is why there is sanity at the junctions right now. As you can see there is no obstruction at the junctions and no nuisance because of the presence of men of Ocha Brigade and men of AVG."

"The truth is that the Keke Drivers here are enjoying their operations here. It's more seamless and there is orderliness as well. The reason why the AVG are here is for our own protection. When this park was secured for keke operators to use and manage it by themselves, we received various threats by those who have interest in extorting us. Before now they collect N300 park fee and N100 per loading" he stated.
According to him,the presence of AVG and Ocha Brigade is helping them to do their business seamlessly.
"We are asking the government to deploy more AVG and Ocha Brigade men here to maintain sanity and orderlyness at Aroma junctions" he said .
Another Keke driver,who spoke to us, comrade Amos Nweke said alot of cult boys and Touts are disturbing them and creating problems in their operations.
According to him,they want to be collecting their money by themselves and not by cultists or professional unionist who the governor had banned in the state.
He expressed gratitude to Managing Director of Ocha Brigade Mr Celestine Anere and AVG operatives for providing them security and maintaining sanity at Aroma junctions.
"With the presence of AVG and Ocha Brigade,we are having sanity and seamless operations and no obstructions now at Aroma junctions. We are begging the government to empower the Ocha Brigade and AVG more to permanenyly remain at Aroma and maintain peace and sanity. Aroma is the only place that habours the state three arm zone" he stated.
Responding on the allegations,that comrade Osita Obi extort money from them ,he said that those who make the allegations are the criminal elements who have been milking them all these years before Obi came in to rescue thrm.
Nweke said that Obi is an activist and he is the person who is even spending his money to entertain them during meetings.
" Obi is human rights activist,he hates injustice and cheating. When we were being treated like animals,he intervene and save us. Anything that happens to him ,we will not take it lightly,he is our savior" he said.
Also speaking,one Keke drivers at Ifite park, comrade, Aguiyi okoronkwoobiano said that some people who are playing opposition are the major problems they are having ,and urged the government to deploy more security men to stop the bad boys misbehaviours.
He commended the AVG and Ocha Brigade MD Mr Celestine Anere for providing security for them, noting that without them they would have left the state due to the activities of the bad boys.
He also refuted the allegations that comrade Osita Obi collects money from them.
According to him, comrade Osita Obi is not a Keke driver and the only things he does was to make them maintain sanity and obey traffic rules.
He said that Obi being an activist and a man who hates cheating decided to help them and to stop the cheating and injustice by some Touts in the state.

"Honestly,I am not aware of anytime , place or in any meeting where he asked for money or where the Keke drivers gave him money. He is even the person spending on us" he said .

The co-ordinator of Keke drivers forum , comrade Osita Obi said that at his age he cannot engage in Keke driving, noting that the only interest he has was to enthrone justice , fairness and equity.
He said that another interest he has was to see sanity and orderlyness in Aroma junctions because it is the three arm zone of the government of the state .
"Iam 63 years,I have paid my dues. Iam not interested in becoming a Keke driver. My interest is to stop extortion and harrassment from the cultists and Touts to these struggling men. They are coming to me because they trust and believe in me. Iam activist,I don't ride Keke. I don't own Keke and iam not member of Keke drivers and I have no interest in being one" he said.
He said that he had received several threats from some cult boys but he is not detered because he believe he is working for better Anambra.
"I brought the DPO of B division and DPO of central police station Awka to come to Aroma and clear the mess going on.
My interest is free traffic so that the cultists will not come here and continue to be killings people. It is an embarrassment to state and the government. I will do everything to sustain this development no matter the cost. I have sent the numbers of those cultists to government and appropriate authorities and if the government allow them to kill me,so be it,but Anambra must be good and habitable" he said

Uche Ogah kinsmen congratulate him at completion of leadership programme in Oxford University

The kinsmen of business magnet, Dr Uche Ogah have congratulated him for the successful completion of his Advance leadership programme in the Oxford University London, United kingdom .
The kinsmen who through a statement signed by the President General of his town Union ,Uturu Development Association of Nigeria UDAN, Dr Chidi Mba PhD and the Secretary General Mazi Titus Eleweke expressed profound gratitude for the completion of the programme in one of the most prestigious universities in the world.
The kinsmen also commended him for the love and commitment he has demostrated towards human and materials development in the town , Abia and Nigeria in general.
In the statement,they prayed to God to grant him long life in good health to enable him continue to contribute to the development of human and infrastructural development in the town and beyond.
The statement reads:
"On behalf of the entire good people of Uturu Accient Kingdom, we graciously congratulate our illustrious son and great motivator , Dr Sampson Uche Ogah on the successful completion of his leadership programme at the prestigious institution , Oxford University United kingdom.
The people of Uturu are proud of you,and wished that this will add more grease to the already enhance engine of your human and materials development ,and thereby transforming the town into a more liveble place.we are proud and happy.
We join the world to celebrate you on this noble step you have taken in the course of leapjumping your leadership inguinity to a greater height.

The entire Uturu people are seriously praying for your long life in good health, to continue in your drive to render selfless services to Uturu, Abia and Nigeria in general.
We love you and appreciate what you stand for"

GUU Chancellor commends South East Reps for wonderful representation

Titus Maduako Eleweke

The Founder of Gregory University Uturu Prof Gregory Ibe has commended members of the South East Caucus of the House of Representatives for being true ambassadors of the region.
Prof ibe who spoke on the overview of the performance of members of the caucus in their first legislative year, commended the legislators for sponsoring what he described as "uniquely special Bills that are critical to the aspirations of the people of South East.
According to him,those Bills is capable of addressing the negative consequences of many years of political exclusion and unjust marginalization.
Prof Ibe, who is a Chieftain of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Presidential Advisory Council, particularly, lauded the South East Caucus for championing the establishment of South East Development Commission, release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and creation of Etiti State, in order to bring the zone at par with other regions.
He said "As we mark the first year anniversary of the tenth National Assembly, I want to appreciate the South East Caucus of the House of Representatives for delivering a season of good representation to the zone. Let me particularly appreciate them for sponsoring uniquely special bills that are critical to the aspirations of our people as a means of addressing the negative consequences of many years of political exclusion and unjust marginalization."
Continuing, he said, "It is worthy to place on record that the gallant efforts of members of the Caucus led to the passage of the South East Development Commission bill, an initiative that will certainly propel faster transformation of our region.
"I also recognize and appreciate the laudable efforts of some honourable members of the caucus aimed at adopting a political solution in achieving the release of our brother Nnamdi Kanu.
"Finally, the icing on the cake is the recent motion sponsored by some members of the caucus for the creation of Etiti State. Being a project that the South East Delegation of the 2014 National Conference under the leadership of Gen. Ike Nwachukwu (Rtd.) championed, in my capacity as consultant to the delegation, I have, since 2014, passionately fought for the realization of Etiti State. I am glad that the vision we birthed is now being given legislative attention through the gallant efforts of some members of the caucus. Going forward, I want to appeal to all stakeholders within our region to support this move by joining forces with our Representatives in a bid to realize an additional equalizing state within the zone, that will be created by equitably annexing Local Government Councils from each of the present five states that constitute the South East and that is a central state called Etiti."
Prof Ibe therefore encouraged the caucus not to relent in their legislative duties and subsequent oversight functions, promising to partner them in achieving speedy development of the region"

Tricyclists protest to Anambra House of Assembly over extortion by touts, govt officials



Anambra State Triycle Riders, under the umbrella of Anambra Keke Drivers Forum AKDF on Wednesday staged a peaceful protest against extortions by touts in collaboration with Goverment officials.
The protest which started at Ekeueme Junction and terminated at Anambra State House of Assembly had over 1000 triycle drivers.
Speaking at the State House of Assembly in the presence of Majority Leader of the house,Hon.Ikenna Ofodieme,one of the executives, Mr Ifeanyi Okafor, said some government officials in collaboration with touts are still extorting money from them despite governor Charles Soludo ban on the activities of louts in the state.
He told the majority leader that ,when Soludo assumed office,he banned all the activities of touts and union but regrettably today touting has not stopped.
He said that the governor promised them that immediately after payment of their levies of N15,000, they will not not pay any other money in the state.
According to him,the governor after some time graciously reduced the money to N8,000 due to the economic challenges.
"Soludo assured us that after paying the money that nobody will pay any other thing, apart from those loading in private parks.Unfortunately,those promises were not kept,not because the governor renaged rather those state actors who were given the authorities are compromising their jobs. The issue of touting are still going on,despite the governor banned three years ago. Some drivers pay over N1500 in Awka while places like Onitsha and others, pay about N3000 to these touts. We discovered that they are working in collaboration with some government officials to extort money from us.
Some time last year ,they came with Emblem,we resisted it, unrelenting,they came up with the renewal of driving lience. Drivers welfare which the governor objected as there is no union in the state.
Now ,they came up with security profiling at the cost of N2,500. Our data are already with the state government,when we did our enumeration two years ago for taxes. We also discovered that their interest is the money they want to make and not any security check and we are saying no to any payment outside what the governor told us" he stated.
According to him,they decided to protest to Anambra State House of Assembly to lay their Compliants to see how these people can leave them alone,noting that they are struggling to meet their family needs under the serious economic hardship.
Also speaking, another Keke driver Collins Ude said that the triycle drivers are not against the government but against the government officials collaborating with touts to extort money from them.
According to him,they have been captured by the Anambra state government through the state internal board of revenue with all their information, including their addresses,phone numbers, pictures and national identification numbers.
"This Security profiling is an indirect way of returning touts by what I saw. We are not against any body enforcing the collection but what we are saying is that the governor has given us the way to pay taxes and we are complying,we are not owing government and we make sure that every driver pay as at when due. We cannot accept the old touts to continue to be extorting money from us with the help of government appointees ,they should go and learnt something to be doing.
On papers renewal, we knew that every vehicle must be renewed at the expiration and we are doing that. We don't know when it has becomes the duty of anti touts to be renewing vehicle papers. We are not against the renewal of our papers but against the criminal elements using government name to extort us. We renew our papers with NN5,000 but today they said it is N12,500. The renewal of papers is not part of the job description of anti touts,they are supposed to be fighting touts and not the drivers. The governor had told us there is no room for professional unionist,they should stop parading themselves as executive of the Keke drivers. Governor said the leaders of Keke drivers must be Keke drivers,that is where we stand" he said.
The Secretary of Keke drivers Anambra state, Uchenna Umeh said that as it stands today there is no Keke union in the State and they are not taking order from any impostor.
According to him,any person or persons posing as leaders of Keke drivers is/are against the governor's policy and not acceptable to them.
He also stated that these people are coming out to enforce their illegal revenue collections because no action from the government officials in their several letters.
"The governor made it clear that nobody should pay a Koko to any government park, till today we are still paying. When we complain ,nobody listen to us. The action of these people are getting out hands,it is not that we did not know what to do. We respect our governor who is doing greatly well in the state ,he has put all the roads in order and we are happy and supporting him,those government officials should be careful not to tarnish the image of the working governor" he stated.
Responding to the Keke drivers' complaint,the Majority Leader of the House,Hon ikenna Ofodieme commended the Keke drivers and expressed shock and surprise as they spoke impeachable English ,as honourable members.
" Iam overwhelmed and shocked hearing from Keke drivers, speaking like honourable members, that simply means that any where you find yourself,no matter where you are,it is not by your making. It is just that there is need for you to be there to adjust for a moment. For you to be a Keke driver,that does not mean, you are nobody.For you to be driving Keke , that does not mean you don't have a home,for you to be a Keke driver,that does not mean,you don't know your rights. The things I saw here today from you is the best way of approaching issues. Police is here, DSS is here and members House of Assembly are here. Iam really pleased.
Anambra State House of Assembly does three things , namely, law making, representations and oversight functions. The complaints you made today is in right direction,we will look into critically for the good of Ndi Anambra.
Most of the people you said you have written and you have not written to Anambra State House of Assembly. I can tell you that I have received petitions from the other faction and I was mandated by the speaker to urgently look into the matter. I called the petitioner and he came with of his members and I told him there is no way he could get positive result with out all the Keke drivers in Anambra state. I told him that you cannot come here and discuss your personal matter. This is the first time iam meeting with comrade Osita Obi and in all the petitions he mentioned Osita Obi. I also asked him if the members he brought are Anambra or Awka members because he was unable to capture Awka in his discussion. He was only talking about Onitsha and other places and Awka was not captured there. I told him that the part of the problems brought him here was due to lack of equatable share of resources,that he eat alone" he said
On the capturing, he said that capturing is not about Keke but about crimes in the state.
According to him, people move from neighborhood to commit crime in Awka and the Keke are always accused because they used Keke.
He said the capturing should be inclusive so that any park should know who are their members and when strange comes in they will know.
Ofodieme said that time shall come when there will be good leadership in the Keke drivers and there will be what you call route, noting that it will help to detect those on dangerous missions.
"When you have a route, somebody outside the route will be asked questions" he said.
On the issue of paper renewal,he said it is not the responsibility of anti touts or the Police , noting that police can only arrest person with expired paper and asked him to go and renew.
According to him,today if any person renews his vehicle paper he will get alert that he has renewed and when to renew again.
On the Emblem,he said that the emblem is a Federal government matter and the union only used it to make money for themselves.
According to him,the Union will say they are using it to make money for the government while they are using it to make money for themselves.
He said they are aware of all these and actions are being taken to checkmate the activities in the state.
He appealed to the Keke drivers to make formal presentation through a letter and give names of those people and government agencies that are involved,as the house cannot treat any letter that is not specific.
Ofodieme said that all they have been saying here were "they " noting that they need to identify those people involved,if need be the police will prosecute them .
"Many people are complaining about the same thing, not only the Keke drivers,so long you have visited the house today be rest assured that that we will look into your case . I only want you to put your demands in writing and we are going to solve the problem,not only in Awka but the whole of Anambra state.
He commended comrade Osita Obi for leading group of people who conducted themselves orderly and purposefully, with belief that the house will solve their problems.
However,the Divisional Police Officer DPO incharge of 'B' Awka, Anambra State SP Emeka Obi commended the Keke drivers for keeping to sensitization campaign they launched last month by not blocking roads again.
He assured them of police protection so long there are doing the right things.
The coordinator of Keke drivers in Anambra state comrade Osita Obi said the purpose of the protest was to draw the attention of the house to extortion going on in the state,in the name of security profiling.
He said the Keke drivers said they cannot pay any money because they have been profiled by the state government, noting the essence of the current profiling was to extort money from the poor Keke drivers struggling to survive.
"Anything they want about from the Keke drivers they should go to the board of internal revenue or ministry of transport to get it.
Even,if they want to do security profiling on the Keke drivers they should meet them and not pouncing on the like a common criminals" he said .
Also another Keke driver,johnpaul Nnaegbule said that their major reason for security profiling was to extort money and nothing more.
According to him,those of them that have paid did not give any data information.
"These people don't have anything security in their minds order than collecting money from the Keke drivers. There is nothing like data collection,just give them the N2,500 ,they will just assign number to you and we are saying not to that criminal security profiling" he said

Aguata Anglican Diocesan Women commend Soludo's free education


Aguata Diocesan Women's Ministry has commended the Anambra state Governor Chukwuma Soludo for the free education policy of his administration.
The Diocesan president, Mrs Chinyere Ezeofor gave the commendation while presenting her address at the 19th Aguata Diocesan Women's conference holding at Saint Mary's Church Ogbunka in Orumba South Local Government Area.
She described the free education policy of Anambra State government as a step in a positive direction which according to her will give poor parents the opportunity to send their children to school for sound and quality education.
Mrs Ezeofor who is the President of the Conference extolled Governor Soludo for his massive investment in education sector, saying that the employment of more teachers for schools across the state, distribution of computers to teachers among others are geared towards improved teaching and learning.
She said that the one Youth two skills Initiative of the Soludo administration, erosion control, free antenatal care and free delivery in all the government hospitals are indications that Governor Chukwuma Soludo is committed to improving the living standards of Ndi Anambra and called for prayers and support to his administration to enable him continue to deliver on his mandate.

Mrs Ezeofor also commended the governor for the ongoing Construction of roads across the state as well as the pace of work on the Ekwulobia flyover which she noted will enhance vehicular movements and boost businesses.
She commended the wife of the Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo for using her non governmental organization, Healthy living with Nonye Soludo to reawaken the mindset of people especially Women and children on healthy lifestyle, calling for its sustenance.
The women president used the opportunity to call on the federal government to initiate more policies that would improve the living standards of the people
Declaring the conference opened, the Anglican Bishop of Aguata Diocese and Patron of the Women's Ministry, Right Reverend Samuel Ezeofor described the conference as one with multiple benefits.
He charged the participants to domesticate the knowledge they will ganer at the conference in all their Churches and communities to ensure a decent and God fearing society.
Speaking on the theme of the conference, "God's great task for the church; the great commandment", Bishop Ezeofor described the theme as apt and tasked the people to always obey the commandments of God in order to inherit His Kingdom.
Moving a motion to accept the Presidential address as a working document in the diocese, Barrister
Obiageli Erinne, described the address as apt, and well researched which will serve as a reference point, while Mrs Chizoba ChukwumaIke seconded the motion.
Some delegates, including the wife of the former Vice President of Nigeria, Mrs Ifeoma Ekwueme, Lady Uche Obi, among others expressed satisfaction with the theme of the conference, saying that it is a reminder to the faithful on the importance of God's commandment in the life of any Christian.
Over 20 Wives of Bishop's from sister Dioceses including the president of the Women's Ministry, Ecclesiastical province of the Niger and Awka Diocese Dr Chioma Ibezim attended the conference.

Insecurity,transportation cost responsible for food stuff hike - Traders



Traders in Onitsha commercial centre of Anambra State have blamed the high cost of food stuff in the country to insecurity and high cost of transportations.

The Traders made the revealations on Thursday during fact finding mission on the steady rise of food items in the market by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) at the Ose Okwudo market in Onitsha North local government council of the state.
The Chairman of Ose Okwudo Chief Ikechukwu Umuanozie represented by the Market Secretary Hon. Onyejikwe Cypril stated that if the issue of insecurity and cost of transportation are reduced, cost of food stuff in Nigeria would be reduced.

According to him,the government should adequately look into these issues for food items in the country to be affordable .
He said that farmers are no longer going to farms because of insecurity and the dealers too are being robbed often by the criminals while on transit.
"For us to have reduced cost of food stuff, the farmers must be allowed to go into farm land and farm. How can someone go into farm and he is killed or kidnap and you want others to go there? Many people are afriad of going to farm land for their safety. Apart from the farmers, traders get attacks on the roads and alot of us are afriad of travelling out to buy goods" he stated.
According to him,before now people use to get loan to farm,but today even if the the loans are given where can the person farm.
He said that before now,the cost of fueling vehicles were cheap but today it takes fortune to fuel vehicles and the transporters will charge higher and we have to add the cost to the goods.

"A litre of fuel is N850 today while a litre of gas is N1500. The lorry driver will put the cost in carrying our goods. Goods ordinarily,that cost N2 millions to convey to Onitsha is now about NN20 millions. Invariably,when fuel get higher,goods will be higher" he said .
Earlier,the Zonal coordinator of FCCPC, Mr Jude Obiora Akolam while addressing the market leaders on the mission to market said the federal government has sent them on fact finding mission to find out why cost of food items are on rise.
According to him,after the finding, the commission would advise government appropriately on how to check the menance of hike in food stuff.
He said the findings will assist the government to plan for the people,noting that without the finding out,it might be difficult to plan for populacy.

He called on the government to intervene on the issue of insecurity to enable farmers to farm and reduce the hardships in the land .

According to him,people are suffering and finding it extremely difficult to feed their families.
Mr Celestine Udealo, grain seller, who confirmed the chairman position said apart from that insecurity, cost of transportation , climate change is a serious problem.
He said before now, they paid N6000 at any produce check point but today they are paying N30,000 at a check point.
He said that they get their goods from Borno state, Taraba, Benue,kebbi states but today they hardly get good stuff because of the insecurity and cost of transportation.
He said that climate change has also caused problems because all the okro,Potatoes planted by those around Anambra riverrine areas could not survive because of climate change.

According to him,before now those food stuff take care and good needs of people before the harvest of yams.

Emmanuel Ndubisi beans seller,said that last year a bag of beans was N80,000 but today it is about N230,000 to N260,000 depending on the type.
He said that last year, a bag of groundnut was N90,000 but today it is sold at N185,000, and a bag of mazie was N45,000 last year but today is N100,000.

Also Anthony Mozo, a yam seller confirmed that insecurity and transportation as major reasons responsible for high cost of food stuff.
He also attributed the fuel subsidy as another major cause of rising cost of food stuff in the country.
According to him, the money they pay at produce check point has increased from less than N200000 to over a million.
He also disclosed that for a trailer to convey a trailer load yams from Benue state to Onitsha cost N25million against N2million last year.
While a potatoes sellers, Mrs Philomena Ikemaka described the high cost of food stuff as punishment to the poor masses.

According to her,before now a bag of potatoes was N8,000 but today it is N15,000 to N16,000.
She also stated that even those bringing the food items to the market are no longer coming often.
"Before now ,we normally get about five or six trucks and five vessels coming into the market every day and today,we hardly get one vehicle and one vessel in day" he said.

Human Rights activist raises alarm over threat to life,family by Amudo youths

Titus Maduako Eleweke

An Anambra State based Human Rights Activist, Comrade Osita Obi has raised the alarm over threat to his life and that of his family members by unknown person.
Obi who is the Convener of Recover Nigeria Project and coordinator of Anambra Keke Drivers Forum AKDF stated that an unknown person with a strange number, 07077660844 has been calling and threatening to kill him and his family members if he does not remove his hands from Aroma, and Eke Awka Keke Parks.
According to Obi,the strange caller claimed he was calling on behalf Amudo youths,Awka.
He said that he is worried by the threat given the serveral unresolved killings in Awka of recent.

The human rights crusader said that he had reported the matter to Director of Security Services DSS and the State Commissioner of Police for neccssaray actions.

He said that anything that happens to him,Amudo youths community in Awka should be held responsible.
According to comrade Obi ,he is only fighting for a just society and to see that human lives are secured.

He also noted that his purpose of coordinating Keke drivers in the state was to bring sanity and decency into the operation of Keke business in the state.
He also appealed to the state Governor Prof Charles Soludo to take serious action on the activities of these boys threatening and killing people in the state capital.
He said:"This number 07077660844 called me this evening and said he is calling on the behalf of Amudo youths. He said i should remove my hand in Aroma keke park eke Awka side. He warned that they know me, my wife and my two sons. I am worried about this threat giving the killings in Awka in recent time hence my report to you"

Ochanja market collapsed building, possibly caused by foundation--TC Chairman

Titus Maduako Eleweke

The Transition Chairman of Onitsha South Local Government Council of Anambra State Chief Emeka Joseph Orji has attributed the possible cause for the CollapsedOchanja market building to foundation.
Orji made the statement while appearing before the Anambra State Probe Panel into the collapsed buildings in Onitsha, Anambra State.
The chairman had earlier submitted the building plan of the project , which is a storey building against the collapse built two storey building.
After the submission of the building plan,the chairman of the Panel Engr. Victor Meju asked him ,if he knew any possible reason that caused the building to collapse,he replied foundation.

According to him,the original plan for the building was one storey but two storey was erected.

He said the foundation for building was meant for a storey building,and possibly the foundation could not carry the weight of a two storey building.

The chairman also revealed that his council was sidelined in the building of the market despite it was domicile in his local government.
He said he conceptualised the project but during the signing of Memorandum of Understanding MoU, the Executive chairman of Anambra State Urban Regeneration Council AURC Micheal Okonkwo and chairman of Anambra State Investments Promotion and Protection (ANSIPPA) Mike Okoye pushed him out of the project.
According to him,they told him that he should not be part of the project and he stayed away from it till it collapsed.

"Iam the TC chairman of the council and I should be involve in the project within my council. After they sidelined me ,I had to stop my involvement in the project" he said .
On whether he know that he is the chairman of the council and he should supervise the market project under him, he replied that some people from Awka hijacked the project from him.

On what was actually the cause of the collapse ,he said the building was meant for a storey but two storey building was built.
He however revealed that some people from Awka have been interfering in the affairs of the council and there is need for clearer definition of roles of the council in markets and parks in the state.
Confirming,the chairman position,the secretary of the council, Mr Paul Onuachalla said that there are much interference from those in Awka to running of the Council.
He pleaded with panel to find space in their recommendations to spell out in clear term the roles of council in commercial, markets, public buildings construction regulations as per 1999 constitution as amended. Chairman invited the Council Secretary to submit memorandum in this regard on or before 16th July 2024.

Earlier, the chairman of the Oanel,Engr Victor Meju had lambasted the Journalists who covered the first sitting accusing them of creating another chairman of the panel.
The journalists had reported that the DMGS Collapsed five Storey centenary building had no approval plan and one of the engineers that handled the project had not renewed his practicing licences for 25 years.
He was not happy with the report and said that ,the job of the journalists would have been to announce the commencement of the panel and not go into the details report.
He threatened to walk out the journalists out of the panel if not he knew one of them as senior journalist.
He further likened the senior journalist to Soludo Facebook TV,who he said did a better Job.

Anambra Police,ACTDA move against road blockage at Aroma- Awka


Titus Maduako Eleweke

Anambra State Police Command in partnership with Awka Capital Territory Development Authority ACTDA has intensified the sensitization campaign against blocking of roads at Aroma-Awka.

The Divisional Police Officer, Central Police Station CPS Awka, Mr Vena Leelea who led the campaign on Tuesday warned the triycle and bus drivers against the blockage of roads at Aroma and other places in the state.

According to him,the governor is not happy with the activities of the drivers and has directed the sensitization campaign before enforcement.

He said that Aroma is the three arm zone of the state and must be kept neat and decent, noting that anything short of sanity will attract sanction.

"We are talking to you now at your various parks to do the right thing before it becomes a fight between the drivers and Police.

We want to have a decent and serene environment in Awka as the state capital.

This is a three arm zone of the state and it habours all the three arms of the government,the Executive, House of Assembly and the Judiciary, even the Federal and State Secretraits.

Infact Awka is a transit city to many states in the country. We want sanity and we want you to help us to maintain the sanity the state deserved.

Now we are begging you to do the right and no body should blame us when we start enforcement. Let us now do the right things and move the state forward" he said .

The Managing Director of ACTDA, Ossy Onuku represented by the Deputy Commander, Sir Ukachukwu Okonkwo ,said that the agency is committed to maintaining sanity and decency in the state capital.


According to him,the agency discovered that most of the drivers who block roads are the bad boys who are not even genuine drivers.

He said " from today,we will be having special enforcement sqaud to be stationed at Aroma all round to man the activities of harwkers , beggars and those drivers creating problems in the City"

He said the core mandate of the agency was to maintain clean Awka and that is why they are ensuring that there is sanity and decency.


The ACTDA MD said that , that they knew those drivers who block roads and they are moving against them to ensure sanity in the state capital.

"We are going to expand our work ,we are now going to work into late hours . We will go after the traders on the roads and under Bridges ,those drivers blocking roads and even the beggars.

This is three arm zone of the state,we cannot tolerate this madness any more" he warned

A Human Rights activities and co-ordinator of Keke drivers in Anambra State Comrade Osita Obi commended the police and ACTDA for taking up the challenges of securing the state capital for good.

According to him, Aroma-Awka is a peculiar place that needs special attention , noting that all arms of the state government are located around Aroma.

He said that Aroma need to be properly guarded to be orderly and denent.
He however said that those creating problems at Aroma are not the drivers but group of cultists in the Awka.

He called on the police to take Special note of these boys who are bent on creating problems around Aroma.

Obi said that these boys don't go into park but prefer to load on the roads therefore obstructing traffic and free movement.

He pleaded with the DPO to take Special note of these menace and mobilize his men adequately to tackle them.

"We don't want anybody dead,we want Awka to be clean decent and calm. I got a report this morning that these boys came to park to force the drivers to pay money.

Pius Awoke, Chinonso Onyibe DSS detention, IPOB lawyer clatifies issues

The lead counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra Sir Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor has made clarifications on Barr. Pius Awoke and Emmanuel Chinonso Onyibe continuous detention at the Department State Service DSS.
Ejiofor in a statement on Monday made available to our correspondent said Awoke and his co-travellers were victims of the state security agents' cruelty, specifically by the lawless State Security Service.
According to him,over thirty of Bar. Awoke's companions still remain in detained at the Wawa military detention facility, without any valid charges.

He said they were apprehended in Lokoja, Kogi State, while returning to Ebonyi State after attending a court hearing on Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s resumed trial on July 26, 2021, describing the action as the height of gross violation of human rights.
"It is important to clarify that Bar. Awoke and his co-travellers are victims of the state security agents' cruelty, specifically by the lawless State Security Service (SSS). These innocent Nigerians were apprehended in Lokoja, Kogi State, while returning to Ebonyi State after attending a court hearing on Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s resumed trial on July 26, 2021. Their only "offence" according to the overzealous security agents, was their decision to travel from Ebonyi to witness this significant proceeding.
If the NBA leadership endorses the SSS' ludicrous defence related to logistical issues, then keen watchers will safely conclude that they are complicit in the crimes against humanity perpetrated by the SSS. Additionally, it is crucial to highlight that over thirty of Bar. Awoke's companions remain detained at the Wawa military detention facility, without any valid charges. This is the height of gross violation of human rights.
Furthermore, we must address the NBA President's stance on the logistical constraints in securing justice for these innocent Nigerians as they conspicuously alluded to.
The Federal High Court in Abuja, coram; Hon. Justice M.O. Olajuwon, had in a Ruling delivered pursuant to our application, discharged Emmanuel Chinonso Onyibe on July 13, 2023, after the SSS failed to bring forward the evidence in proof of the baseless and frivolous one count charge filed against him. Emmanuel Chinonso Onyibe was the second individual released alongside Bar. Awoke, almost a year after he was discharged by a court of competent jurisdiction.
Despite our numerous letters to the Director General of the State Security Service and the Attorney General of the Federation, requesting compliance with the court order, both the SSS and AGF ignored these appeals.
Attached for public reference is a certified copy of the relevant proceedings.
The narrative presented by the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association requires a thorough reassessment.
The Nigerian Bar Association has also not addressed the numerous petitions I have submitted concerning personal attacks by state agents and the illegal abduction of my wards from my home in Oraifite. These individuals remain in illegal detention at the same Wawa military detention facility, with no visible attention so far given by the NBA leadership.
While the NBA’s acclaimed intervention in the release of Bar. Awoke and Emmanuel Chinonso Onyibe is nonetheless acknowledged as a good step in the right direction, it is evident that significant human rights violations against the citizens by the Nigerian security agencies still persist.
The plight of those still detained without charges, the unaddressed petitions regarding personal attacks, and the ongoing illegal detentions, demand urgent and more robust action from the NBA. It is imperative that the NBA intensifies its efforts to safeguard the rights of citizens and holds state security agencies accountable for their actions and/or inactions. The fight for justice and human dignity must remain paramount, and the NBA's leadership must rise to this challenge with unwavering commitment, in defence of its motto which is "Promoting the Rule of Law".

Stop playing politics with
ABSU Staff Salary, welfare-ASUU
tells Otti

Titus Maduako Eleweke

Even when the Abians believed there is a restored hope in the state ,the government under the leadership of Dr Alex Otti is still treating the only state university with high level of levity and thoughtlessness.
Most of the people working with Abia State government today are products of Abia State University Uturu ABSU,yet they are treating the intellectual engine room of state with ulmost disrespect and dishonour.
Regrettably, Ndi Abia thought that with the assumption of Otti into the helm of affairs in the state ,he would pritiotize on human capital development and give attention to the university for greater productive,but the difference is the case.
Following Otti's failure to accord serious attention to Abia State University Uturu ABSU ,the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, ABSU Chapter has urged governor to stop playing politics with salary, health and welfare of staff of the insitution.
In a statement jointly signed by the Chairman and Secretary of ASUU- ABSU Dr. Chidi S. Mbah and Dr. Victor U. Obisike respectively, the intellectuals warned the government officials to refrain from politicizing the issue of salary payments in ABSU as people's health, families' needs and other critical issues like workers productivity are dependent on it.
ASUU- ABSU stated that since the government acknowledged the financial hardships faced by the university staff, it should take immediate action to ensure that all outstanding salaries, including the arrears, are paid promptly and in full.
The university academics seek transparency and accountability from the government in handling the salary issue and a swift resolution to alleviate the financial distress faced by the staff of ABSU.
The statement reads:
"Following the recent statement from the government of Abia State that all Abia State University (ABSU) staff have received their April and May salaries, we, the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, ABSU Chapter wishes to clarify and state the actual situation regarding salary payments in the University.
Contrary to government's announcement and news circulating in the social media, the reality is starkly different. It is only a handful of staff who have their salary accounts with commercial banks that have received their April salary and fewer have received their May salary. Very alarming are instances where the few staff who received their May salary did not receive their April salary in the same bank.
Painfully, some of the staff who received either April or May salary had unexplained deductions ranging between eight ( to Fifty Three (53) Thousand Naira made on the paid one month salary at source.
Moreover, NONE of the majority of the staff whose salaries account are domiciled with the ABSU Microfinance bank and teaching staff of Abia State University Teaching Hospital have received any payments for either April or May and this has caused significant financial strain, panic and uncertainty among the staff.
With this staggered payment system, the Unions in the university cannot ascertain the status of their Check off dues which is usually deducted at the source of payment.
Furthermore, it is important to highlight that our 11months outstanding salary arrears, remain unpaid. Despite repeated assurances, not a single month of these arrears has been settled.
We urge the government officials to refrain from politicizing the issue of salary payments in ABSU as people's health, families' needs and other critical issues like workers productivity are dependent on it.
It is imperative that the government acknowledges the financial hardships faced by the university staff and takes immediate action to ensure that all outstanding salaries, including the arrears, are paid promptly and in full.
We seek transparency and accountability from the government in handling this matter and hope for a swift resolution to alleviate the financial distress faced by the staff of ABSU.
We want to use this opportunity to appeal to our dear Governor and Visitor to our University, His Excellency, Dr Alex Chioma Oti, OFR who means well for the only state owned University, and has left a standing instruction to pay all workers of the state government not later than 28th of every month, to quickly look into this issue by calling the attention of the concerned officials, so as not to truncate his good intentions for the state workforce"

Human Rights Activist, Obi commends ARTMA for decongesting Traffic at Aroma


Titus Maduako Eleweke

Human Rights activist and the Convener of Recover Nigeria Project Comrade Osita Obi has commended the Anambra State Road Traffic and Manegment Agency ARTMA for decogesting road traffic at Aroma junctions.
Obi who spoke to our reporter on the ongoing decongestion exercise at Aroma junctions said the development was a very laudable development that must be sustain.
According to him,those transporters and drivers loading at the Aroma junctions ought not to be there in the first place.
"Star Sunny Motors and others loading at the Aroma junctions should leave the place to give the area the decency it deserves. Iam happy that ARTMA is clearing the place , honestly,it is a positive development for the state. I hope they will continue to sustain their presence there" he said.
He said the entire Aroma should be decent and orderly because that is the three arm zone of the state.
"I want to appreciate the people that started the decongestion of this place,the Managing Director of Ocha Brigade, Mr Celestine Anere and Divisional Police Officer DPO incharge of 'B' division in Awka, Mr Emeka Obi. These people are wonderful and great men . They have demostrated decency and commitment in their operations. Iam happy now that ARTMA is towing their footsteps of Ocha Brigade and DPO 'B' division. I prayed that ARTMA will remain there to sustain the operation" he said.

Recalled that the Ocha Brigade and DPO B division had recently commenced sensitization campaign against the blockage of roads at Aroma.
According to them, Aroma is three arm zone of the that should remain decent and orderly at all times.
Today ,those vehicles loading at Aroma have been moved to a place near ABS and the traffic at Aroma is now free.

Human Rights Activist, Obi commends ARTMA for decongesting Traffic at Aroma


Titus Maduako Eleweke

Human Rights activist and the Convener of Recover Nigeria Project Comrade Osita Obi has commended the Anambra State Road Traffic and Manegment Agency ARTMA for decogesting road traffic at Aroma junctions.
Obi who spoke to our reporter on the ongoing decongestion exercise at Aroma junctions said the development was a very laudable development that must be sustain.
According to him,those transporters and drivers loading at the Aroma junctions ought not to be there in the first place.
"Star Sunny Motors and others loading at the Aroma junctions should leave the place to give the area the decency it deserves. Iam happy that ARTMA is clearing the place , honestly,it is a positive development for the state. I hope they will continue to sustain their presence there" he said.
He said the entire Aroma should be decent and orderly because that is the three arm zone of the state.
"I want to appreciate the people that started the decongestion of this place,the Managing Director of Ocha Brigade, Mr Celestine Anere and Divisional Police Officer DPO incharge of 'B' division in Awka, Mr Emeka Obi. These people are wonderful and great men . They have demostrated decency and commitment in their operations. Iam happy now that ARTMA is towing their footsteps of Ocha Brigade and DPO 'B' division. I prayed that ARTMA will remain there to sustain the operation" he said.

Recalled that the Ocha Brigade and DPO B division had recently commenced sensitization campaign against the blockage of roads at Aroma.
According to them, Aroma is three arm zone of the that should remain decent and orderly at all times.
Today ,those vehicles loading at Aroma have been moved to a place near ABS and the traffic at Aroma is now free.

Anambra Police embark on sensitization campaign against blocking of roads


The Divisional Police Officer DPO incharge of 'B' Awka, Anambra State SP Emeka Obi on Wednesday led his men on sensitization campaign against triycle riders and shuttle bus drivers blocking the three arm zone roads in the state capital.

The DPO at the campaign told the drivers that police would take decisive action against those loading their vehicles on the roads after the excercise.

Obi who frowned at the habits of some drivers blocking major roads gave serious warning, especially against those blocking the roads leading to Federal , State Secretariat, State House of Assembly and Federal and State High courts.
According to him,the police is carrying out the sensitization in various parks to warn the operators before embarking on arrest and prosecutions.
"We are carrying out this crusade against some miscreant behaviours of triycle riders and bus drivers around Aroma and Dr Alex Ekeueme junctions. For some time now, we are hearing about some people constituting nusiance by loading passengers on the roads leading to these important places like federal and state secretrait . This is three arm zone of the state . This junctions lead to Anambra State House of Assembly, Federal and State High Court and we are not happy about the activities of these drivers. We are saying that this must stop. The drivers must do their works orderly and stop constituting nusiance and danger to other road users. This place is the third arm zone of the state ,there must be sanity and decency here" he said .
According to him,if any person found violating the traffic rules henceforth,the police will have no option than to arrest and prosecute him in the court.
The DPO assured the operators of police protection so long they are law abiding.
He also promised to provide police surveillance to ensure that no criminal disturb them and their business.
In the spirit of the campaign,the DPO released all those earlier arrested for commiting traffic offences and they were released without any cost.
He however urged them to go and sin no more.
Speaking at the sensitization campaign, Comrade Osita Obi, the Convener of Recover Nigeria Project, applauded the DPO for the wonderful work he is doing to checkmate the accesses of the drivers, stressing that the initiative was to create sanity in the state capital.
According to him,the sensitization campaign was to discourage Keke and bus drivers against blocking Aroma road junctions.
"If anybody comes here in the morning and evening ,every place is usually blocked by the Keke and shuttle bus drivers. We are saying this is unacceptable. This neighborhood harbours all the government offices in state both the federal and the state governments. This is third arm zone of the state,there is need for decency and orderliness here " he said .
He said from now any person caught violating the traffic rules, blocking roads would be dealt with according to the law.
"We are here to sensitize the drivers to avoid blocking roads,so that when the police begin to arrest them they should not complian. We are saying no to disordernlynes .
Keke now have parks at Aroma and they should make use of their park. Though,some people don't want to use park but this is time they must begin to use them because it cannot be business as usual" he said
He disclosed that police and Ocha Brigade are working in partnership to ensure that these people blocking roads are brought to books.
"My prayer is that this place should be kept clear and we need some police presence 24 to secure the lives of citizens. We need sanity in this Aroma" he said.
He also disclosed that the major people who violate the rules are those from Ifite-Awka, regretting that they armed themselves with dangerous weapons,thereby intimidating others.
He promised to work with Police towards ensuring sanity in Anambra State roads, especially at the Aroma which is the third arm zone of the state.
Also speaking at the campaign,a prominent son and Chief of ifite-comnunity Ozo Dr Chukwuoduagha Akamadozie said that any person from Ifite driving Keke that violate the government directive should be arrested and prosecuted.
"Any person from Ifite driving Keke and creating problems to the public should be arrested and prosecuted. No body from Ifite should disobey governor's orders.
Any person from Ifite loading on the roads should be dealt with mercilessly.
If they obey the law and the police arrest any, I will release the person I will even reach to the governor for his release,but if you disobey the law and police arrest you or you starting fighting the police on the wrong point , you will go to jail " he said .

A Keke rider at Aroma junction, ifeanyi Uju, pleaded with the DPO to provide them with constant police men because the riders from Ifite are the people causing the blockage.
"We need taskforce made of police and Ocha Brigade to maintain orderlyness here. Immediately the police and Ocha Brigade leave,they will disobey the rules and orders,thereby creating confusion. The problem we have here are those operating from Ifite axis. These Ifite boys are playing opposition" he said

Anambra Keke drivers plead Ocha Brigade to remain at Ifite-Aroma junction



Members of Anambra State Keke Drivers Forum AKDF have appealed to the State Government to sustain the presence of Ocha Brigade at the Ifite -Aroma park inorder to discourage the blocking of roads.
The members of the group also commended the Managing Director of Ocha Brigade Mr Celestine Anere for prompt response to their demands of decongestion the roads by some miscreants in the name of Keke drivers.
They prayed that the continuous presence of the Ocha Brigsde will help in giving Aroma the statue of third arm zone of the state.
According to the group, ifite-Aroma junction is the heart of the state capital, and the state most do every thing to maintain sanity among the operators of Keke in the state.
Speaking to our correspondent,the coordinator of Keke drivers in Anambra State Comrade Osita Obi commended the MD of Ocha Brigsde for his magnanimity in responding to the challenges of the drivers by sending his men to clear the area of the nusiance being csused by some characters parading themselves as Keke drivers.
According to him,the Anere has demostrated strong capacity by clearing the roads for traffic to move freely without hindrance.
He appealed to Anerer to sustain the tempo by retaining his men at Aroma junction to stem off the tide of road blockage.
Obi said that most of the people blocking the roads are cultists who have built themselves into untouchable in the state.
"We want to specially thank the MD of Ocha Brigade Anere for his wonderful response to the need of keeping Anambra State clean and safe. There have been much lawlessness created by some cultists in the area. They block road at Aroma junction,which is the third arm zone of the state. We also appealed to governor Charles Soludo to give the necessary assistance to the brigade to enable them sustain its presence at the junction.
The third arm zone has the governor lodge under construction, Anambra State House of Assembly,the judiciary complex where the chief judge of the state goes to work every day, federal government Secretariat and also state government Secretariat and others. This is the state third arm zone and most be kept safe and clean.
For the Keke drivers to deface the place is wrong and unacceptable.
The cult boys in in ifite said it would be possible for us to have garage but with the help of Ocha Brigade,we are having one. We are happy with the MD of Ocha Bridge and his personnels" he said .
According to him,the group is aware that the presence of many Ocha Brigade personnel is affecting the operation of the agency,and they pleaded that it should continue for humanity sake" he stated.
He said that he is happy that the Keke drivers are being organised with the help of Ocha Brigade and promised that they would be law abiding.
Osita also appealed for the state government's intervention to checkmate the activities of cultists who disturb the smooth operation of the drivers, especially now there is anti cult law in place.
He said the Keke drivers are professional drivers and they don't want to be infliterated with touts.
One of the organizers of the park, Mr Aguiyi okoronkwo who spoke with our reporter said that they are happy being in a save private park now.
According to him,they were worried by the blockage of the road by some of their members.
He commended the MD of Ocha Brigade Celestine Anere for coming to their help, pleading with the brigade not to leave them because the miscreants will devour them.
According to him,if the Ocha Brigade leaves, the problem of road blockage will resurface.
He also commended the state Governor Prof Charles Soludo for discovery the person of Anere who is bent on giving the state the best.
According to him, Anere had been wonderful in providing them with the needed protection to work.
Another of the drivers, Evaristus Mboto said they were tired of the confussion being created by road blockage and decided to find a place to have as a park.
"The Keke drivers congestion of road was embarrassing to some of them as the congestion caused alot of traffic. We discussed with Comrade Osita Obi ,he asked us to talk to MD of Ocha Brigade and when we talked with him, he obliged our demands and today he has provided us with safe home for operations" he said .
According to him,for the past two weeks they started operations in private park serveral drivers who violated the rules have been arrested and nobody is loading by the road side.
He pleaded with the MD to continue to provide his personnels to guide and protect them and also to stop the indidcriminate loading on the road.
He called on state government to fish out the bad boys blocking road and creating traffic in the state, noting that the bad boys are the people creating negative image for Keke drivers.
He assured that immediately,they stabilize the park they will elect officers to manage themselves.
He also pleaded with the government to sustain the presence of Ocha Brigade at Aroma junction so that they can have peace and free flow of traffic.
Another Keke drivers Augustine Okonkwo said he is grateful to the Ocha Brigade MD for providing them with personnels to safeguide them.
He also begged the Ocha Brigade MD not to leave them to their fate because the bad boys will destroy them.
According to him,before now they thought that if they entred the park,they may not have passengers, grateful enough passengers are graciously coming in to board.
He said that they are happy that roads are no longer being blocked by the drivers and plesded with MD Ocha Brigade not withdraw his personnels.
He pleaded with the government to empower the Ocha Brigade the more to remain its operations at Aroma junction.
Also Godwin Chigozie ,a Keke driver said they are happy being in a private park, operating according to law and order regulating Keke business.

"Iam happy being inside here ,if Ocha Brigade is not here ,we will be having alot of problems. We thanked Ocha Brigade MD for his love for the Keke Drivers,we want him to retain his personnels with us " he said .