It’s a most unlikely crime scene. I travelled by road from the Benin airport to Uromi, Esanland’s most significant town, for a wedding about three years ago.
The fear of kidnappers is a constant worry for road users. I was nervous for nearly four hours of the taxi ride, especially as we turned off the busy Agbor Road and veered onto narrow, lonely roads meandering through many forested small towns and villages.
I was nervous. When the driver ran into a pothole, and a loud noise suggested we might have lost a wheel or something, I insisted he should keep moving, as long as the car could still move, until we later discovered it was the wheel cover.
Entering Uromi
It was not until we passed Ubiaja, the hotspot between Biafran and Federal troops during Nigeria’s civil war and cultural capital of Esanland, and reached Igueben, the rusty town of one of Nigeria’s famous politicians, Tom Ikimi, about 20 minutes’ drive from Uromi, that I started breathing easy. It was my first visit to Uromi, a town I had known and heard about since my teenage years.
Memories from the past
My earliest memory of this town was when my mother worked as a cook at St. Theresa’s Hospital, Kirikiri Ajegunle, Lagos, owned at the time by Dr. Okoli, an Igbo man, and his wife, a nurse and an Esan from Uromi. Occasionally, when there was some social event in Uromi, the Okolis took my mum along to cook, and she returned with plenty of palm oil, large tubers of yam, and fresh fruits.
But there’s another memory of Uromi apart from my mother’s work and travels. It’s the historical significance of this town in the old Benin Empire. More contemporary references might be about the exploits of some of Uromi’s notable people, such as the three Anthonys – Enahoro, Olubunmi-Okogie and Anenih – whose footprints in politics and liberation theology cannot be easily forgotten.
Innocence lost to rage
Yet, these notable persons were inspired by the town’s extraordinary heritage of struggle and resistance to oppression. Uromi resisted the expansionism of the Benin Empire during Oba Ozolua’s reign and fought the British colonial invaders.
Though many of the town’s original settlers are believed to have come from central Nigeria, migrants from other places also settled there, highlighting its tolerance for visitors and diverse heritage as the town grew into one of Esanland’s most important agricultural trading posts.
That diversity, enterprise and welcoming spirit now seem like a story from a bygone era. After the tragic killing of the 16 travellers reportedly going to Kano to observe the Eid on March 28, the town has lost its innocence. For a long time, it will be remembered not as that place my mother frequented as a cook or the homestead of Enahoro, one of Nigeria’s greatest patriots and nationalists, but as a crime scene.
Agony of bereavement
The heart-breaking story of Hauwa Bala (whose husband, Isah, was among the Uromi 16) who went into premature labour upon hearing of her husband’s tragic death or Sadiya Sa’adu, who lost a brother and a nephew will haunt the community, as will the stories of each of the dead, and indeed the unfolding horror in Uromi now under siege and a brutal crackdown. The security services are poised to forget their complicity and instead crush the town in a mocking search for justice.
Journey to anomie
How did we get here? Kidnapping and banditry have grown from a fringe business to a N2.23 trillion naira industry, and hardly any part of the country is spared this misery. In the last 10 years, clashes among rival cult gangs have been rife in Edo State, as have been reports of severe violence as a result of farmer-herder clashes. One report said in 2020, Edo was the third most affected by violence in the Niger Delta after Delta and Rivers States.
Violent clashes between farmers and herders have led to significant loss of lives. In February alone, 27 farmers in Edo were reportedly killed by herdsmen. This figure is only atiny part of the bloody trail that often includes grotesque stories of rape, murder and wantonness wrecking many farming communities across the country as herders roam southwards for pasture.
Politicians’ fake outrage
While the affected communities writhe in anguish, official response, especially by politicians and the police, has ranged from chewing the microphone with empty promises of justice to sheer indifference and, in fact, alleged complicity in supplying weapons to the herders in some cases. We’ve seen this repeatedly across the country, from Uromi in Edo to towns in Benue and Plateau States.
When the state, expected to guarantee security and maintain law and order, abdicates its responsibility, turns a blind eye or becomes complicit, people take the law into their own hands. What happened in Uromi on March 28 is one of the tragic outcomes.
The appearance of shock and outrage amongst politicians and the security services is hypocrisy disguised as empathy. They can fool themselves all day long. Unless they begin to rebuild trust in communities and people – whether farmers or herders – can see that there are consequences for breaking the law, Uromi will not be the last tragic crime scene.
Citizens’ dilemma
Yet, while many communities are under attack, residents are on their own. The Supreme Court recently gave a judgment upholding the death sentence on Citizen Sunday Jackson and criminalising self-defence even in the face of a clear threat to life. The judgment is an absurdity that compounds the dilemma of communities coping with security services often unwilling, unable or unavailable to protect citizens.
If unarmed Jackson had known that self-defence against herdsman Boua Bururo, who stabbed him seven times on his farm, would not avail him, that if he didn’t die by his attacker’s knife, he would have still been killed by the law, he might have surrendered to his attacker. What a fate!
What kind of society gives the victims the short end of the stick? If communities cannot trust that the police can defend them and courts will not provide justice, self-help prevails. As things stand, respect for life and private property rights is endangered, and to pretend otherwise is to enable jungle justice further.
No excuses
What happened to the Uromi 16 stands condemned, but sadly, the fake outrage by politicians obscures the history behind the tragedy. It neither guarantees that a proper investigation will be done and the perpetrators brought to justice, nor does it assuage current tensions and paranoia in many communities across the country.
Open, unrestrained must stop. The Federal Government must also fast-track community/state policing, which will hopefully use modern surveillance tools and techniques to prevent and fight crime. The current security system is unfit for purpose.
Burden of kindness
I’m sorry for the truck driver who, after driving past the stranded passengers early on, turned back nearly two kilometres to pick up the Uromi 16and other stranded passengers from the roadside. Even though he escaped the mob attack in Uromi, he now lives with the guilt of a bloody reward for his act of kindness, the tragic consequence of a society where trust and compassion have declined.
Neither the Uromi I read about in history nor the one my mother visited is the same as the present crime scene. Something is broken, and false outrage won’t fix it.
Ishiekwene is the Editor-in-Chief of LEADERSHIP and author of the book Writing for Media and Monetising It.
Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike has said that it was unfortunate that some elders in Rivers State, that played ostrich when suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara was acting like an emperor are now speaking like “children who lost their most priced toys.”
Wike, in a statement on Thursday, through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications, Lere Olayinka, while reacting to remarks by a former governor of the state, Ada George,
described as funny and unfortunate for him to blame the minister for the political crisis in the state.
“A former Governor of Rivers State, Ada George, who was among those clapping for Fubara, when he was sitting on the salary and other entitlements of fellow indigenes of Rivers State, who are members of the State House of Assembly is now speaking on who should be blamed for the state of emergency in the State.
During a media briefing, Ada George, had accused the FCT Minister of orchestrating the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, including the imposition of a state of emergency and the appointment of sole administrators in all 23 local government areas.
Responding, the FCT Minister’s Spokesperson, said; “unlike these people masquerading as ‘Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum’, genuine elders sit in position of neutrality when there are conflicts among younger ones so that they will enjoy credibility and respect while sitting on the high table to resolve the issues.
“When Fubara was orchestrating the burning and demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly, supposed elders like Ada George were hailing him.
“They were telling him it was normal for three members to run a House of Assembly of 32 members, with 11 as quorum of one-third that can sit and 22 as two-third that can pass budgets.
“When the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, intervened in the crisis and resolutions signed by all parties, it was this same Ada George that described the President’s intervention as ‘executive rascality.’
“He (Ada George) went further to say that the intervention by the President ‘contravened the doctrine and practice of separation of powers and unilaterally suspended the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.’ They were everywhere calling the President a meddlesome interloper and hailing Fubara.
“Even when the Supreme Court ruled and made clear and unambiguous pronouncement, Ada George and his so-called elders still saw no reason they should tell Fubara to come down from his high horse of arrogance and lawlessness.
“Rather, they watched as he reeled out threats upon threats, including openly saying that he would give instructions as to what to do at the appropriate time.
“True to his threats, Fubara gave instructions and Nigerians saw the outcome when oil pipelines started coming up in flames.
“Now that Fubara’s lawlessness has resulted in the imposition of emergency rule, the same elders who failed to stand and act like real elders are sobbing like children whose most priced toys have been taken away. It is funny and unfortunate.
“They have even turned themselves to monitoring spirits, monitoring when Wike comes to Rivers State and when he leaves as if it has now become illegal for a Minister to visit his home-state and associate freely with the people.”
While telling Ada George and his Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum to blame themselves for taking side when they should be neutral, the miniser said; “the moment an elder takes side in a conflict between two children, such an elder has lost the rights to intervene and resolve the conflict.”
Today, April 11, 2025 all roads will lead to the Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, where the Vanguard Media Limited, publishers of the Vanguard, will honour one of Nigeria’s most outstanding, committed and performing governors, Dist Sen. Hope Odidika Uzodimma of Imo State.
Governor Uzodimma, CON, Chairman of Progressives Governor’s Forum, Chairman of South East Governor’s Forum, among others, was chosen to be honoured in the 2024 Vanguard Personality of the Year Award for Good Governance.
Uzodimma’s is in the area of Infrastructure.
And the organisers have taken note of Uzodimma’s giant strides since he assumed office in 2020 before choosing him for the honour.
In what has become public knowledge as regards road revolution and other legacy infrastructural facilities that have germinated at different parts of the State and consequently, redefining the image and landscape of Imo State, the award also tells a lot about the personality of the recipient.
It is important to note that Vanguard had traced the history of infrastructural development embarked upon by Governor Uzodimma’s administration against the sordid State of roads he inherited on mounting the saddle, January 15, 2020.
For instance, they observed that Governor Uzodimma had not only constructed and reconstructed more than 100 roads, including the dualisation of the popular Owerri-Orlu Road, Owerri-Okigwe Road, Owerri-Mbaise-Obowo-Umuahia Road, among numerous others, but gone ahead to revive other decayed infrastructure and initiated new ones.
In her own publication communicating the public on the choice of Uzodimma the Vanguard had noted that, “the Governor also made a significant difference in urban renewal, provision of night landing facilities at Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri and rehabilitated the Owerri Water Works which had been abandoned for more than 15 years.”
“The interesting phenomenon about the Uzodimma’s road revolution is that they have added value to the economic development of the State as well as connecting Imo to all the neighbouring States,” the medium had added in the said publication to defend the choice of the Governor as worthy of their honour.
The Vanguard gladly expressed satisfaction that Governor Uzodimma recorded such feats in infrastructural development without neglecting investment in human capital development and social services, noting, for instance, that the training of more than 40,000 youths in the area of digital technology by his administration with the aim of boosting the economy of the State, was highly commendable.
They, therefore, concluded that given what Governor Uzodimma had done with infrastructure in Imo, he has set the State on the path of economic revival.
Let me be clear. This award by the revered Vanguard Media Limited is not the first to be received by Governor Uzodimma since he became the Chief Executive Officer of Imo State five years ago. Rather, it has added to the numerous awards, both locally and internationally, he has been receiving, including the 2021 Governor of Year Award by the Sun.
But we thank the Board, management and staff of the medium for, again, leaving up to the expectations of the public as their mirror in relation to governance and government activities.
The reality is that Governor Uzodimma’swell-deserved recognition as the 2024 Vanguard Governor of the Year for Good Governance (Infrastructure), was not handed over to him on a platter. He earned it. And we are happy he did because he has proven beyond reasonable doubt, that he is history in the making in Imo State.
Oguwike Nwachuku is Governor Uzodimma’s Chief Press Secretary/ Special Adviser, Media
Perhaps I should use this opportunity to correct a recent mischievous assertion by one of Vanguard columnists who alluded that the Supreme Court handed the governorship of Imo State to Uzodimma on a platter in her final judgement on January 14, 2020 on the contentious 2019 Imo governorship election.
While we owe the public a duty to inform them accurately, it is important we are wary of reckless allusions and deliberate innuendos and falsehood peddled by fith columnists.
For the avoidance of doubt, the Supreme Court only ensured that the then helpless and hapless Uzodomma got justice following his mandate that was stolen through political gerrymandering, aftermath of complaints about electoral fraud that resulted in court processes which started from the tribunal through to the Appeal Court and finally ended at the Apex Court.
It is therefore preposterous for a Columnist to make such an allusion even when the facts of the matter are in public domain. Sorry I digressed.
Back to the Vanguard show, if anything, the prestigious award is a manifestation of a resounding testament to the Governor’s unwavering commitment to selfless service, exemplary dedication to duty, and profound dedication to the well-being of the people of Imo State.
The recognition further underscores his exceptional leadership, remarkable capacity, and undeniable competence in delivering the dividends of democracy to our beloved Imo State in particular and elsewhere at large, staying true to the oath of office he took.
For me, and may be other keen watchers of this enigma of a man called Hope Uzodumma, the award has helped to silence his sceptics, the naysayers, and underscores the fact that the Governor is indeed on a mission to reshape the ugly narrative that was called Imo State before he assumed the mantle of leadership.
Furthermore, the award vindicates the unwavering faith of Governor Uzodimma’s teaming supporters, who, early enough, recognised his unparalleled ability to address the infrastructure deficit that plagued our State before he arrived in 2020 to take charge.
Those who were familiar with the state of affairs in Imo when Governor Uzodimma assumed power, and the overt and covert strategies deployed by his political opponents and their uniformed critics to destabilise him and make nonsense of his well though out programmes, will understand why yours sincerely appears a bit emotional in serenading the Governor over this honour.
The sceptics in question did not just deride Uzodimma’s visionary “Reconciliation, Rehabilitation, and Recovery” mantra which, today, has resonated powerfully across Imo State because of its positive impact, but they followed up their hatred for the Governor without justification by instigating contrived insecurity to make Imo State ungovernable for him.
Fortunately, Uzodimma’s impactful leadership in Imo, five years on, has made a huge difference.
In his first four years – 2020 – 2024, Uzodimma made a difference in virtually all the sectors of the State, beginning in earnest with the recovery, reconstruction and rehabilitation of the decayed infrastructure.
He built more than 120 solid roads traversing all the three senatorial zones of Imo.
Some of his signature roads in his first four years which is a study of quality and aesthetics include the hitherto intractable Owerri-Orlu Road, Owerri-Okigwe Road and the Naze-Ihiagwa-Nekede Road that connects two federal government owned institutions of higher learning – the Federal University of Technology, Owerri and the Federal Polytechnic, Owerri.
Uzodimma rebuilt from the scratch, during his first term, the Imo State House of Assembly Complex, an edifice built by former Governor Sam Mbakwe, but was left to rot by previous administrations who preferred to have the lawmakers make laws, either from bush bars, restaurants and shanties. Today, the wonder edifice called Imo House of Assembly Complex is not only the best in the country but has added to the dignifying status of our lawmakers as honourable members.
The reelection of Uzodimma in an historic landslide where he won in all the 27 local government areas of Imo State was a testament to his extraordinary performance in his first four years and made his swearing-in for a second term as the Governor of Imo State a carnival of sort.
All genuine Imo citizens, home or in the Diaspora, took part in celebrating Uzodimma’s reelection as his unprecedented electoral victory reflected the confidence of the people in the Governor who, previously, had impacted the State in such a manner as never witnessed before.
As was expected, at Uzodimma’s inaugural address for the second term, he had promised to consolidate on his record of achievements in the first tenure. He also pledged to work harder than he did in the previous four years. More importantly, he gave his word to continue to govern Imo with integrity, honesty, transparency, and accountability.
I can report that he has not deviated from any of his pledges.
Being in a transition within the same administration, Uzodimma did not waste time in continuously implementing his Shared Prosperity agenda encapsulated in reconstruction, rehabilitation, and recovery mantra. He also started the seamless transition to the industrialisation of the State, relying on the foundation earlier laid through an unprecedented infrastructural transformation in the first four years.
Uzodimma’s Road revolution has continued in the last one year in his second term with the Owerri-Mbaise-Obowo-Umuahia Road done and dusted and waiting for commissioning, and work progressing on the Orlu-Mgbee-Akokwa-Uga Road with the speed of light.
Work has also advanced at the iconic Assumpta Flyover which will decongest traffic at the busy Onitsha and Port Harcourt Roads.
What hitherto looked like a community town hall and mistakenly called Imo International Conference Centre, is today wearing the look of a real International Conference Centre after Uzodimma’s Midas touch was brought to bear. The now renamed Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Centre, completely rebuilt to world standards, nearing completion and ready for commissioning, has brought back the dignity of the citizens of Imo State as a people who are widely travelled and properly exposed to what international conference centres should be.
What about the dual carriageway to the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport that has been completed and commissioned, and the night landing facilities which have been installed by the State government to ensure night operation at the airport?
On a general note, all the roads built by Uzodimma have economic values as virtually all of them lead to the neighbouring States of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, and Enugu.Today the Governor has a new sobriquet – Road Master. I have also heard some people describe him as “Infrastructure wizard.”
The internal roads that hitherto, were death traps when Uzodimma took over have been fixed, just as an aggressive urban renewal programme has changed the landscape of Owerri metropolis, returning it to the cleanest city in the South East.
Through the deployment of the balloon technology, the perennial flooding in Owerri has been checked, a development that helped in the recovery of abandoned property along MCC, Chukwuma Nwoha, Relief market, and Ihechiowa roads.
The massive turn around in infrastructure
by the Uzodimma’s administration is an intentional effort to prepare the State for an industrial revolution and make the economy of Imo one of the strongest in the Eastern part of the country.
Already, the foundation for this had been laid with the dredging of the Orashi River to the Atlantic Ocean, which will open economic development in the entire South East. Luckily, the Orashi Free Trade Zone is already in place, while other sectors connected to the take off of the project are being approached with the dexterity they require.
I will cite just a few.
For instance, Governor Uzodimma’s administration has signed pact with a Turkish firm for the electrification of the entire Imo State with a view to providing a 24/7 supply of uninterrupted power in the State. The target is that before the end of this year, Imo State should be able to generate her own light after the Governor took advantage of the law that removed power generation from the exclusive list of the Nigerian Constitution and put it on the concurrent list.
The moribund Concorde Hotel is also being rehabilitated in conjunction with Hilton Hotel. The renovation has also gone far as the contractors are committed to their one year target.
The government, under the leadership of Governor Uzodimma, keeps winning award from the World Bank for its enviable record of ease of doing business and for budgetary accountability. All these point to the governor’s dedication towards enhancing the economy of the State.
Since Uzodimma became Governor five years ago, he has continuously allocated more funds to capital projects as against what used to happen before his arrival.
To further drive home his seriousness in this regard, the Governor devoted 80 per cent of the 2025 State budget of N807 billion to capital projects to drive the diversification of the economy from what is currently available.
Conscious of the fact that the citizens are key in the implementation of his prosperity agenda, Governor Uzodimma has initiated policies and programmes that have impacted directly on the people.
At the inception of his administration, he embarked on the rehabilitation of 305 Health Centres across the State, instituted free mobile clinics in rural areas, and revived the dying Imo Specialist Hospital, Umuguma and Imo State University Teaching Hospital, Orlu.
Uzodimma built three brand new General Hospitals at Ohaji, Oguta and Omuma, and rehabilitated and equipped the existing ones across the State. He also revived and achieved accreditation for Schools of Nursing and Midwifery.
His interest in the areas of primary and secondary health care for the citizens led to the Imo Health Insurance Scheme, an idea that is globally known but only started getting attention with his administration. Today, thousands of Imo citizens – civil servants, pensioners and those in informal sectors – are proud beneficiaries of the great novel idea.
By and large, the needed difference has been made in the Imo health system, with the existence of two teaching hospitals, and the training and continuing graduation of medical doctors.
In education, against the one University Uzodimma met as Governor in 2020, he has increased it to three, thereby creating opportunities for students of Imo State origin to seek for admissions. Under Uzodimma, the State funds three Universities, one Polytechnic and one College of Education. It is on recorded that his collaboration with the federal government made the full upgrading of Alvan Ikoku College of Education to a University a reality.
Uzodimma has also engaged the Imo
youths not pursuing formal education via diverse empowerment programmes that have seen many of them emerge as employers of labour. Under the Skillup Imo Project, 40,000 youths have been primed to benefit from digital skills training. While many of the graduates of the scheme have already secured employment abroad, those at home are self-employed.
In the agricultural sector, Uzodimma has rehabilitated Adapalm Nigeria Limited abandoned many years ago. He has also revived the moribund Acharaubo Farm Settlements at Emekeukwu through public private partnership, thereby guaranteeing the employment of hundreds of people, and at the same time, supporting farmers with high yielding crops and other farm inputs to embark upon massive production of food.
These initiatives help to check significantly the migration from rural to urban areas and enhance food security.
Perhaps Uzodimma has received the greatest applause in the area of Civil Service reforms. Apart from the automation of the activities of the Service to tame the corruption that was previously prevalent in the payroll system, Uzodimma took the welfare of the civil servants more than seriously.
Today in Uzodimma’s Imo, nobody hears of non payment of salaries and pensions. Apart from civil servants receiving their salaries regularly (before the end of every month), they have continuously been paid 13th month salary since this administration berthed five years ago, with their promotions pending for the last 10 years approved and implemented.
In the early days of Uzodimma’s second tenure, he also approved the payment of gratuities to pensioners, which had been outstanding for 20 years. High Court, Customary Court judges, Magistrates, Permanent Secretaries now have official cars while the rank and file have been provided with free bus transport and one free meal a day.
In Imo, there is this popular saying within the workers rank that “under Uzodimma there is industrial harmony.” Of course the harmony and peace for the entire State have also been the preoccupation of the Governor since he assumed office because he believes that development can only be achieved in an atmosphere of peace.
Unfortunately, there are those who have sworn not to see Imo develop. They are the ones who have reduced everything to politics thereby vowing to make Imo ungovernable for him and for all us.
They had contrived insecurity in Imo State with bandits, sponsoring all manner of restiveness in collaboration with non state actors in an attempt to overrun the State.
But with the help of God, the assistance of the federal government and security agencies, Uzodimma has been able to check their excessive unbecoming demeanor and the menace up their sleeves.
Today, many citizens can return home to participate in any event of their choice and enjoy the peaceful celebration of such event. We saw it happen during the last Christmas celebrations and are confident the situation will be the same during the coming Easter holidays.
Expectedly, Owerri has once more reclaimed it’s status as the hospitality headquarters of Eastern Nigeria with many conferences and workshops now holding therein. Not only are the citizens indeed heaving a sigh of relief that Owerri has bounced back to life as the hospitality capital of the South East, their teaming visitors and guests to the city also do so.
Lest I forget, Uzodimma as the head of the executive and government has worked harmoniously with the legislature and the judiciary, the two other arms of government in a democracy to deliver on the mandate given to him to serve. Not only does he respect the independence of the different arms, but he appreciates their partnership as the hallmark of democracy, accountable leadership and governance.
What is significant, though, in what Uzodimma has been able to achieve so far that attracted the honour from Vanguard is the fact that the Governor has remained faithful to the oath of office he took, and his covenant with God, to serve Imo honestly, accountably and transparently.
This recognition is nothing but a fitting tribute to Uzodimma’s transformative leadership, the unprecedented infrastructure legacy he is forging in Imo State that is marked by remarkable road development and transformative facilities, as well as the Governor’s unapologetic intention to leave Imo State better than he met it after a fulfilled eight years on the saddle.
Nwachuku is Governor Uzodimma’s Chief Press Secretary/ Special Adviser, Media
It was a day of pride and cultural awakening as the Igbo Book of Records was unveiled Wednesday in Enugu, in a colourful ceremony attended by eminent personalities, scholars, traditional leaders, and cultural enthusiasts.
The highlight of the event was the address by the former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, represented by his Media Adviser, Mr. Valentine Obienyem. Obi described the book as “unique in many ways.” Unlike the usual autobiographies, biographies, or political commentaries that dominate book launches, Obi noted that the Igbo Book of Records stands out for its collective celebration of Igbo excellence and cultural heritage.
“I am somebody who loves records because they authenticate our viewpoints,” Obi stated. Drawing parallels with the “Guinness Book of World Records” and the “Indian Book of Records”, he said, “Such books celebrate the best in various fields of life. Among the Jews, it is through such records that we know that over 200 of them have won the Nobel Prize, mostly in medicine and sciences. Through these records, we learn about their great prophets, philosophers, and scholars who have contributed immensely to civilisation.”
He expressed hope that the Igbo Book of Records would not be reduced to celebrating one “Ukwaachinaka,” but would honour individual and the collective excellence of the Igbo people. Commending the authors, Obi called for widespread support to ensure the success of the publication.
The chairman of the occasion, Dr. Ben Nwoye, described the project as a “remarkable effort by the Igbos to tell their own story.” He urged all Igbo sons and daughters to obtain copies of the book, emphasising its importance in preserving cultural identity.
In his welcome address, Nze Sam Nwanze, co-author of the book and President of the Hall of Igbo Achievers Foundation, described the publication as “a compendium of authentic and well-researched insights into Igbo culture, tradition, events, and genuine achievers.” According to Nwanze, the Igbo Book of Records will be an annual publication, accompanied by an award for the best-performing governor, under the chairmanship of Archbishop Emmanuel Chukwuma (Retired). He also announced plans to introduce an online monthly publication, Igbo Digest, and to erect a building in Enugu that will house a library, gallery, and research centre dedicated to Igbo affairs.
The book, co-authored by Nze Sam Nwanze and renowned journalist Mike Ubani, has been lauded for its depth and cultural significance.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Rebecca Nnamani called the event a moment for deep reflection and an opportunity to reignite the Igbo Renaissance. She challenged the audience to consider whether they still uphold the values of their forebears, urging a return to the Igbo virtues of hard work, entrepreneurship, and community spirit.
Reviewing the book, Barrister Uche Maduemesi described it as “a collector of Igbo treasures,” highlighting its role in preserving cultural artefacts and stories for future generations.
Also in attendance was the traditional ruler of Amuri community, Igwe Charles Nwoye, who lent royal dignity to the occasion.
The unveiling of the Igbo Book of Records marks a significant stride in chronicling the achievements and cultural richness of the Igbo people, with high hopes that it will inspire future generations to uphold the proud legacy of their ancestors.
Kemi Olunloyo, Pharmacist, controversial investigative Journalist and daughter of Late Victor Olunloyo, former Governor of Oyo State, has announced her departure from the Olunloyo Family.
She renounced the family name and said she is no longer part of the family.
In a series of posts and videos shared on her Facebook and TikTok pages, Kemi declared that she no longer considers herself part of the Olunloyo family, and would not be accepting condolences over her father’s death.
“I am uploading video statements on my father’s death on TikTok. I am not part of the Olunloyo family anymore and told you that in 2024 that I will never return to Nigeria even if my parents died,” she said.
She added, “I am not accepting anybody’s condolences because I am not condoling with anybody.”
While she said she had forgiven her father, she described him as “two different people,” alleging that he presented a different image to the public and another at home.
“You don’t know what’s going on in my family, and I don’t know what’s going on in your family.
“My father, Victor Omololu Olunloyo, is two different people. He was one person to the world; he was another person to the family.
“My father destroyed our family unit; my father tortured us as kids. He tortured us emotionally and physically. My father ruined the family unit.
“My father marketed me as his favourite daughter and child to the world; he also marketed himself to me as that. But I was far from being his favourite.
“My father used me for a lot of things. My father did a lot to all of us. When I said he used me, he took advantage of my own positive energies.”
Kemi further alleged that the former governor was involved in occult practices until later in life when he became born again.
She added, “My father was into ‘juju’ heavily. My father was into occult practices and I called my father out on his 80th birthday. After I called him out, he went to Pastor E.A. Adeboye that he wanted to become born-again, and he did.”
According to her, a major source of conflict within the family stemmed from her father’s relationship with Aderonke Omololu Olunloyo, formerly known as Ronke Sonaike, whom he met during his 1983 governorship campaign and later married.
She claimed the union triggered a rift in the family, especially after Ronke became pregnant, a development she said devastated her mother.
“My mother married an intellectual, a man who got his Ph.D at 26 years old. And he turned into a polygamist. Not that polygamists are not good, but the way it happened to my family,” she said.
It would be recalled that the former governor, a renowned Mathematician and politician, died on Sunday, April 6, at the age of 89.
Following Kemi’s declaration, the family was yet to officially respond to her at the time of filing this story.
Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has explained reason why his administration waged war against “traditional healers” in the State. Soludo said that 23 citizens of the State are currently facing the death penalty in Indonesia for drug-related crimes.
He made this disclosure while speaking to a group of All Progressives Congress, (APC), members who had defected to the All Progressives Grand Alliance, (APGA), to support his re-election campaign.
“Go to Indonesia, 23 Ndi Anambra are on death row there for drug-related offences.”
Governor Soludo attributed this situation to the influence of fraudulent traditional healers who mislead young individuals into believing that they can bypass security checks when smuggling drugs by using charms.
“These native doctors will deceive you that they will prepare a charm that when you carry drugs and enter the airport, the white man’s scanner will go blind.
“These young people believe them, and today, many of our people are languishing in jail across the world.”
The Governor warned that anyone found making such deceptive claims would be arrested, pointing out that many of these self-proclaimed traditional healers are unable to use their alleged powers to improve their own living conditions.
He added, “One of the native doctors who is in detention, his son is a waiter in a hotel in Nnewi. If it was that simple, why didn’t he make his son a millionaire?
“One of them that we arrested has sworn that he is just a content creator, yet he has used things like these to deceive our young people that you can become rich without doing any work, as far as you have done oke Ite (money rituals).”
The Governor said such beliefs were damaging the mindset of youths in the State.
“That is why you see young people who wake up in the morning and retire to beer parlours drinking, hoping to get rich later in life.”
Soludo clarified that while the State Government does not oppose traditional religion, it is committed to cracking down on individuals who promote harmful practices under the guise of spirituality.
“We are not against traditional worshippers; what we are against is people who are doing dangerous medicines and charms.
“We have always known those who are into traditional practices, they have things they believe in, and they were about the most upright people then.
“Those were people who believed that if you did the wrong thing, you could be killed by the gods of the land. But what these new crop of criminal native doctors are doing is deceit, and we will not allow that to continue.”
Governor Soludo reiterated his Administration’s determination to continue its crackdown on promoters of “Oke ite” and other quick-wealth schemes.
People’s Democratic Party (PDP), in Ondo State has reacted to the sudden resignation of its Publicity Secretary, Kennedy Peretei. The Party said his failed chairmanship ambition led to his action.
Peretei had, on Wednesday evening, tendered his resignation letter through his Arogbo Ward 1 in Ese Odo local government, saying “The PDP in Ondo State is now on its way to the morgue.”
Reacting in a statement on Thursday, Leye Igbabo, Director of Media and Publicity, PDP Ondo State, stated that the desecration of PDP by Mr Kennedy Perertei, its erstwhile Publicity Secretary, smacks of misguidance, malice, mischief, and unfortunately, robs him of decorum.
“While it is within the right of any person to freely belong to any association of his or her choice or quit any association at any time as he or she pleases, the vulgar description and desecration of PDP by Mr Kennedy Perertei, its erstwhile Publicity Secretary smacks of misguidance, malice, mischief, and unfortunately, robs him of the decorum and decency expected from an individual who has immensely benefited from same organization which he now despises.
“Our Party wonders how an unrealized personal ambition of an individual could have, suddenly, driven a whole organization to an intensive care unit from where it is allegedly being taken to the morgue.
“The Party finds it extremely amusing that Mr Kennedy Peretei who knew that an organization was on its way to the morgue, could mindlessly seek and recklessly scheme to take the Chairmanship position of such a ‘dead’ Party!
“We, therefore, believe that Mr Kennedy Peretei may have slumped into the state of hallucination by saying a lively Party is on its way to the morgue when he actually meant to say that his chairmanship ambition has been taken to the morgue!
“Let it be known that our Party, the Peoples Democratic Party, is alive and bouncing very well in Ondo State and the reason that everyone is jostling for its headship.
“As a matter of fact, the Party is rapidly becoming the darling of the good people of Ondo state, having seen that the present Ondo State Governor has not prepared himself for governance in any slightest manner, resulting into governance morbidity and worsening security situation.
“The good people of Ondo state are only waiting for another golden opportunity to correct the past mistakes.
“We wish to advise individuals to always accept the outcome of an event when it favours them and when it does not, rather than crying wolf where none exists, especially when such outcome is based on popular majority.”
The federal government’s plan to ban the importation of solar panels into the country has been rejected by the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria, REAN. If implemented, it would attract several consequences for the nation’s power sector, particularly for Nigerians currently transiting from the epileptic national grid to solar power option.
Recall that the Minister of Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji had recently revealed the federal government’s plan to substitution the importation of solar panels with local production.
Nnaji disclosed that, the ministry is working on the Executive Order 5 recently signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to achieve the plan, which it implemented, according to energy analysts will make the adoption of solar power adoption too expensive for not a few Nigerians.
The Minister said, “With NASENI here, you know that we have panels. It has a factory that has started producing solar panels, and other private individuals are also producing solar panels as we speak. So, all we need to do is, even through science and technology, through our Presidential Executive Order No. 5, we will stop all these importations of solar panels. We will support our local industries to grow,”
According to a statement signed by REAN President , Ayo Ademilua, the association supports the government’s plan to encourage local production of solar panels, but urged that the policy should not be rushed to avoid negative consequences for the renewable energy sector.
Ademilua said solar power has become a beacon of hope for many Nigerians due to the epileptic power supply in the country, that banning the importation of panels, will lead to discouragement as the cost of acquisition will become more expensive.
He urged the federal government to encourage healthy competition by ensuring that local production and importation of solar panels go side by side, until local manufacturers have the capacity to support demand.
Victor Ogene: Chairman, House of Reps Cmte On renewable Energy
“Solar energy has become a beacon of hope for millions of Nigerians who remain underserved by the national grid. Businesses, communities, and individuals rely on solar solutions to power homes, schools, hospitals, and enterprises. The renewable energy sector has grown significantly, attracting investment and fostering innovation. A ban on solar imports, without first strengthening local production capabilities, risks derailing this progress,“ Ademilua said.
Adding that, “Manufacturing is not built overnight. For local production to scale and compete globally, manufacturers need access to finance, infrastructure, technology, and skilled labour.
“Restricting imports too soon could lead to unintended consequences. Prices may rise, making solar solutions less accessible for ordinary Nigerians.
“Rather than an outright ban, a phased approach that nurtures local manufacturing while keeping the market open to necessary imports would be more effective. Incentivising local producers through tax breaks, grants, and infrastructure support would build the foundation needed for long-term sustainability. Encouraging partnerships between international companies and Nigerian firms would facilitate knowledge transfer and technology exchange, strengthening the industry from within,” he said.
The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, has disclosed that personal remittance inflows into the country hit an all high of $20.93 billion in 2024, saying the rise represents 8.9 percent compared to the previous 2023.
Personal remittances, according to the World Bank comprise personal transfers and compensation of employees, it also consists of all current transfers in cash or in kind made or received by resident households to or from nonresident households.
The Yemi cardoso-led CBN made this known On Wednesday in a statement issued by Sidi Wakama, the bank’s Acting Director of Corporate Communications.
The apex bank also stated in the statement that Nigeria’s balance of payments surplus has hit $6.83 billion for the same year.
According to the details provided by the CBN, The figure marks a significant leap from deficits of $3.34 billion compared to $3.32 billion recorded in 2023 and 2022, noting that the development was as a result of mix of macro economic reforms by the Tinubu’s administration, which it said has restored confidence in the economy. .
According to the statement, remittance inflows remained resilient throughout the year, with inflows through International Money Transfer Operators increasing by 43.5 per cent to $4.73bn, up from $3.30bn in the previous year.
The statement read, “Remittance inflows remained resilient, with personal remittances rising by 8.9 per cent to $20.93bn.
“International Money Transfer Operator inflows surged by 43.5 per cent to $4.73bn, up from $3.30bn in 2023, reflecting stronger engagement from the Nigerian diaspora. Official development assistance also rose by 6.2 per cent to $3.37bn.”
Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia, CFR, has been admitted to the prestigious Freedom of the City of London in a distinguished ceremony which held at the Mansion House, City of London on Monday, April 7th, 2025. This prestigious accolade is a testament to Ovia’s exceptional contributions to the global financial landscape, unwavering commitment to fostering economic development, and dedication to philanthropic endeavours that have positively impacted countless lives.
The Freedom of the City of London, a time-honoured tradition dating back to the 13th century, is one of the oldest surviving ceremonies in the United Kingdom. Historically, it granted freemen certain rights and privileges within the city. Today, it stands as a symbolic recognition of individuals who have made outstanding contributions to London or the wider society. This honour places Ovia among a distinguished group of recipients, which includes notable figures from various fields such as Nelson Mandela, Bill Gates, Sir Winston Churchill, Desmond Tutu, Harry Kane, Morgan Freeman and Ian Wright.
Commenting on his new status as a Freeman of the City of London, the distinguished Ovia, said “It is indeed a great honour to be admitted to the prestigious Freedom of the City of London. This is not just a recognition of my personal achievements, but also a testament to the tireless efforts of the entire Zenith team who have worked diligently to establish our institution as a leading force in global finance. I am proud to be part of a legacy that celebrates innovation, excellence and the spirit of entrepreneurship. I dedicate this to the people of Nigeria and Africa who continue to inspire me with their resilience and determination. I look forward to continuing to play a role in shaping the economic landscape of our great continent and beyond.”
Joining the nation in congratulating Ovia, President Bola Tinubu, through a press statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, commended Ovia for being a distinguished ambassador of the nation’s private sector. He described the honour as a fitting recognition of his exceptional contributions to business, innovation, and technology, as well as for his role in shaping Nigeria’s financial landscape and strengthening economic ties between Africa and the rest of the world. According to him, “This honour is a testament to your unwavering commitment to excellence, your pioneering role in the growth of the financial services sector in Nigeria, and your visionary leadership that continues to inspire generations. As an accomplished entrepreneur and advocate of innovation-driven development, your recognition in the City of London affirms the global relevance of Nigerian excellence and enterprise”.
Dignitaries at the ceremony include Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-olu; Governor of Delta State, Rt.Hon. (Elder) Sherrif Oborevwori; Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah; President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, GCON; Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, MFR; Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; Oba of Oniru, Oba Abdulwasiu Lawal; Group Managing Director, TGI Group of Companies, Rahul Savara; Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, CFR, and His Eminence John Cardinal Onaiyekan, who joined Zenith Bank Executives in celebrating this significant milestone.
This well-deserved recognition rides on the back of many other prestigious awards that Mr. Ovia has received for his outstanding contributions to banking, education and philanthropy including conferment of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) & National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM) Award in 2022 by the Federal Government of Nigeria. He was also named the Banker of the Year in 2007 and Titan of the year in 2024 by ThisDay Newspaper, and received the African Business Leader Award from the Africa-America Institute. He received honorary degrees from the University of Lagos as well as from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and was recognized by Forbes Africa as one of the most influential figures in banking.
