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Imo, Home Of Journalists, Says Uzodimma.. Editors Insist Governor Is Their Friend

By
The Source
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Hope Uzodimma with Editors

Governor Hope Uzodimma has said that Imo State remains home to all journalists in the country, noting that the State can proudly classify the journalists as her indigenes.

He spoke Friday when the executive members of the Nigerian Guild of Editors who were in Imo State for their strategy meeting paid him a courtesy call at Government House, Owerri.

Led by her President, Mr. Eze Anaba, the Guild also had kind words for Governor Uzodimma’s lovely disposition towards journalists, insisting that he is their friend.

In his remarks, the Governor called on Nigerian Guild of Editors to encourage responsible journalism which he said supports democracy and national development.

He highlighted the crucial role the media play in shaping public opinion and promoting good governance, and urged editors, as gate-keepers, to pursue with patriotic zeal, the tenets of developmental journalism, focusing on constructive criticisms that promotes national cohesion and development.

He raised concern over the unchecked influence of social media which, as a double edged sword, has in most cases, been deployed to spread damaging falsehood.

The Governor who called for measures to regulate the social media and prevent its reckless use, challenged the Guild and Nigerian Union of Journalists to rise to the occasion of ensuring that social media reckless use does not cause harm to individuals and society.

Governor Uzodimma assured that his government will remain committed to supporting journalists to bring sanity and order to the society and appealed for collaboration and partnership between the government and the media to drive development in Imo State in particular and Nigeria at large.

Assuring the Guild that Imo is safe for residents and visitors alike he urged them to feel free to visit the numerous projects that have been executed recently in the State, such as the Assumpta Flyover and reconstructed Control Post Roundabout, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Convention Centre, among others.

He also encouraged them to interface with the management of the Orashi Electricity Company so as to be properly guided on the plan of his administration to light up Imo State in few months to come.

Governor Uzodimma’s speech read:

“It is indeed my great pleasure to welcome you to Owerri once again. This marks your third official visit here, and we are always glad to receive you.

“I recall that the current President of the Guild, Mr. Eze Anaba, was elected right here in Owerri two years ago. A few months before that, I had the privilege of hosting the Guild to its biannual conference. Not long after your election, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) also held its own election here in Owerri, during which the current President of the NUJ emerged.

“So, in a manner of speaking, both the President of the Guild and the President of the NUJ are Imo products. By extension, we can proudly claim you as indigenes.

“It would therefore not be out of place to declare Imo State the home of journalists. And on that note, I say: welcome home.

“Having said that, let me begin by warmly congratulating the newly elected Executive of the Nigerian Guild of Editors. I also extend my congratulations to all members of the Guild for conducting what was clearly a free, fair, and credible election in Enugu.

“Through your conduct, you have renewed confidence in the democratic process. As a microcosm of Nigeria, you have demonstrated that credible elections are possible and pointed the way forward as we approach 2027.

“Indeed, as we move closer to the next general elections, the role of the media becomes even more critical to the stability of our democracy. As I’ve said before, we rely on you to show us the path to follow. As gatekeepers of public information, what you choose to publish will shape how Nigerians interpret and respond to unfolding events.

“You have the power to permit divisive and inflammatory content that could lead to hatred, unrest, and disunity. But you also have the power to amplify voices of peace, unity, and reason. The choice is yours, but I trust that your patriotism will guide you to make the right call.

“That said, I must once again raise a concern I’ve expressed before: the unchecked influence of social media. While social media can be a powerful tool, it is also a double-edged sword. It competes with traditional platforms in speed and reach, but not necessarily in accuracy or responsibility. We must all ask: what safeguards exist to prevent individuals from sitting behind screens and spreading damaging falsehoods, without any regard for verification or fairness?

“This is a challenge for the Guild. And while I commend the steps you’ve recently taken to sanction members who breach your codes, particularly your action against those who violated confidentiality, it must not stop there. I believe the Guild, working in synergy with the NUJ, has both the authority and the responsibility to address the broader issue of the reckless use of social media. I hope to see even more decisive actions in that direction.

“I’ve taken note of your concerns and suggestions. Let me assure you that this government remains committed to supporting the journalism profession in fulfilling its role as the Fourth Estate of the Realm. My doors remain open, and so do those of my officials, many of whom are your professional colleagues. We are ready to work with you and make your job easier.

“Now that you are here again, I encourage you to enjoy the warmth and hospitality of our people. Contrary to the alarmist claims of those who do not wish us well, Imo is safe, for both residents and visitors alike.

“Take time to move around the state and see for yourselves the progress we have made in building Imo into a model of excellence. As you do, you will notice that the flyover at Assumpta Roundabout was not there when last you were here. You will also see that the world-class International Conference Centre at Orlu Road junction has since been completed. Indeed, you will be delighted by the additional infrastructure we have put in place to support the development of our state.

“But above all, I urge you to interact with the management of the Orashi Electricity Company, so you can be well apprised of how far we have gone in our determination to provide 24/7 electricity across all 27 local government areas of the state in the coming months. I am confident that by the time you conclude your visit, you will agree with us that a new Imo is truly on the rise.

“Welcome once again, and thank you for making Imo State your home. May God lead you safely back to your respective stations.”

Earlier in his address, the President Nigerian Guild of Editors, Mr. Eze Anaba said that the group was in Owerri for their first meeting since after the inauguration of the newly elected executives.

Anaba said it is traditional they seize the opportunity of the visit in the State for such meeting to see some projects within hence the members will do the same while in Imo State.

He appreciated Governor Uzodimma for his cooperation and support to the media in the country, not just the Guild, and described him as “the friend of Journalists.”

Anaba used the opportunity to invite the Governor to the Guild’s annual editors conference holding in Abuja in October 2025. At the event, he said the Governor is expected to speak on his achievements in Imo State and what the Federal Government has done to improve democracy in Nigeria.

The Secretary to the State Government, Chief Cosmas Iwu, the Chief of Staff, Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie, Commissioner for information, Strategy and Public Orientation, Hon. Declan Emelumba and some members of State expanded Executive Council were present at the event.

2027: Election Rigging Will Lead To Revolution – Charly Boy

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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Charles Oputa - Charly Boy

Septuagenarian entertainer Charles Oputa, aka Charly Boy has cautioned politicians in the country not to rig the 2027 election, saying death awaits those who do so.

Oputa widely described as Area Father said any attempt to subvert the will of Nigerians during the election can also spark to revolution in the country.

The musician who recently had a face-off with the Lagos State government for renaming the ‘Charly Boy Bus Stop’, gave the warning during an  interview with Rudolf Okonkwo on 90MinutesAfrica, describing the 2027 election as a ‘defining Moment” for the country because it’s “rig and die”.

Oputa:“The 2027 election will be a defining moment for Nigeria. Anybody that plans to rig should be ready to die. It is rig and die.

“Because by that time, our eye go clear well well. E don clear small o. What we are about to see in 2026 will make Nigerians decide whether to continue in this manner or to cause a revolution to happen in this country.”

While reacting to the renaming of Charly Boy Bus Stop to Olamide Badoo Bus Stop, Oputa described the exercise as a futility, saying the action of the state government was incapable of destroying his legacy.

He argued that the action was meant to counter his fight against oppression and injustice in the country.

“This is not just about a bus stop. This is about fear. Fear of a boy who refused to bow. Fear of a man who challenged the oppressors. Fear of a man who didn’t beg the system to be accepted,” he said.

“So what do timid people do? They change the name like e go wash away their shame. Bariga, Gbagada, the entire Lagos knows the truth.

“That name Charly Boy Bus Stop was not given by politicians. It was named by the people — the same people Fada fought for, walked with, and empowered.

“They may change the signboard. They may pretend not to remember. But let me remind them Area Fada no dey Finish.

“He didn’t need to sing sweet songs to be accepted. He didn’t need to wear agbada to beg for titles. He’s a movement. He’s an institution. He’s a warning.

“So to all the small minds and timid hearts. You may change the name. But you will never kill the legacy.

“This name Charly Boy is carved into the history of Nigeria, Written boldly in the streets of Bariga, Etched into the minds of those who still dare to question authority.

“Legacy isn’t on a signboard. It’s in the hearts you changed, the voices you awakened, and the fear you planted in corrupt souls.

“So go ahead, change the name. But remember, You can’t change the truth. You can’t erase fire. Area Fada no dey finish. Still here. Still standing. Still fighting. His legacy? Will outlive yaall.”

FG Fumes After Canadian Court Designates APC, PDP Terrorist Orgs

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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Yusuf Tuggar - Foreign Affairs Minister
Yusuf Tuggar

The Federal Government has demanded a retraction of the ruling by a Canadian court designating the All Progressives Congress, APC and Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP, as terrorists organisation.

According to the federal government it’s wrong for the Canadian court to describe the two political parties which have produced elected presidents for Nigeria as terrorist organisations, adding that the roiling represents an unnecessary interference in the country’s internal affairs.

The government’s position on the issue is contained in a statement issued by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which also described the classification as totally baseless and “unacceptable”.

The reaction, the magazine reports comes on the heels of the June 17, 2025 judgment by Justice Phuong Ngo of the Federal Court of Canada, while ruling on an asylum’s suit involving a Nigerian, Douglas Egharevba.

The federal government said, the ruling “constitutes an unacceptable interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs and democratic processes.

Adding that “The Court made a sweeping accusation against the entire membership of a political party that has produced three democratically elected presidents, instead of focusing on individuals found wanting. The larger ramification of the decision is that every member of the mentioned political parties is a potential terrorist, and that is completely false and unacceptable.”

“Nigeria is a sovereign nation with a robust legal and constitutional framework governing political activities. Our political parties operate within the ambit of the law and are integral to the country’s vibrant democracy. To associate legitimate political entities with terrorism without credible evidence is a grave misrepresentation that undermines Nigeria’s democratic institutions and could incite unnecessary tension.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria, therefore, calls on the Canadian authorities to immediately retract this erroneous designation and refrain from actions that could be misconstrued as endorsing politically motivated narratives against Nigeria. Diplomatic channels remain open for constructive dialogue, and we urge the Government of Canada to engage with the relevant Nigerian institutions to rectify this error.

“Nigeria remains committed to the global fight against terrorism and has made significant strides in countering extremist groups within its borders; therefore, called on the international community to disregard this misguided ruling and reaffirm its confidence in Nigeria’s democratic governance and rule of law.

“The government further urges Nigerian nationals to refrain from making unfounded allegations against Nigeria under the pretext of seeking asylum or favours from foreign entities.”

LP: Court Seals Abure’s Fate, Says He’s No Longer Chairman

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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Julius Abure

The tenure of Julius Abure as the National Chairman of the Labour Party, LP , has expired, according to a ruling by a federal High in Abuja, the nation’s capital.

The court gave the judgment following a suit filed by the Abure-led LP faction, in trying to assert himself as the authentic National Chairman of the party, following a protracted leadership crisis.

The magazine reports that another faction of the party led by Senator Nenadi Usman,a former Minister of Finance is also laying claim to the leadership of the party.

The unending crisis has forced INEC to exclude the party’s candidates from the nationwide bye-election slated for Saturday , August 16 2025.

Ruling on the matter brought by Abure, the federal high court ruled that his tenure has expired since June 2024, and he can no longer preside over the affairs of the party.

The court said it based its judgment on the Supreme Court ruling of April 4, 2025, which affirmed that Abure’s tenure alongside the National Executive Committee, NEC, has expired over a year ago.

In her reaction to the judgment, Senator Usman said the “lingering doubt” that has hitherto existed over the tenure of Abure as the National Chairman of the nparty has now been finally put to rest by the court.

She stressed that the judgment is binding on the parties involved in the crisis, adding that “unambiguous” pronouncement of the nation’s apex court is the affirmation of the Constitution.

“This is another unambiguous affirmation of the rule of law and the Supreme Court’s binding pronouncements.

“The chapter is closed — we must put distractions behind us and rebuild the Labour Party into the disciplined, people-centred movement Nigerians deserve.

The Source earlier reported that Abure, while reacting to the exclusion of LP candidates from today’s bye-election across the country, warned that the INEC was embarking on a fruitless exercise, as the elections could be canceled.

In a statement on Tuesday, Obiora Ifoh, factional national publicity secretary of the Abure-led LP, said it will challenged the outcome of the election in court, as a way of protecting the image of the party.

Ifoh had cited the Electoral Act 2022 allowing any political party excluded from an election to approach the court for a remedy.

“The leadership of the Labour Party has advised that if the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) goes ahead to conduct the August 16, 2025, bye-election without publishing the names of its candidates and ensuring that its logo appears on the ballot, it will seek the nullification of the election in line with the provision of the law,” the statement reads.

“The party has also called on well-meaning Nigerians to prevail on the Prof. Mahmood Yakubu-led INEC to respect the Nigerian Constitution and the Electoral Law by discharging its duties as specified by the laws of the land and avoiding waste of taxpayers’ money.

“It accused INEC of working for interests that are anti-democratic and of wasting taxpayers’ money.

“INEC is gambling with the huge resources the country is spending on conducting the bye-election scheduled for August 16, 2025.

“We will not be helpless, as the law provides adequate remedies for any act or omission by the commission that shortchanges a political party or damages its image.

“A political party is expected to guard its image and reputation jealously, and the Labour Party will not take lightly any conduct by any agency or regulatory body intended to tarnish its reputation,” Ifoh stated.

Veteran Nollywood Actor, ‘Chief Kanran’ Dies

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Chief Kanran'

By Akinwale Kasali

Veteran Nollywood Actor of Yoruba genre, Segun Remi, popular as Chief Kanran is dead.

His death was announced on Friday by Film Producer and Convener of Best of Nollywood, BON, Award, Seun Oloketuyi in an Instagram post.

The cause of death is still unknown.

His colleague and Veteran actor, Yemi Solade also shared a video featuring himself, Chief Kanran and actress Jayeola Kuti, writing in the caption, “I am yet to believe he is no more.”

The 72-year-old was an Actor, Director and a Priest.

He began his acting career in the 1970s, appearing in stage plays such as; Kurunmi by Ola Rotimi and later played a role in Langbodo, Nigeria’s official entry for FESTAC’77.

He however became popular in 1988 for portraying Alaafin Kanran in a Lagos Television drama, a role that earned him the nickname Chief Kanran.

Over the years, he appeared in numerous Yoruba-language films including Vigilante, Ose-Sango, Eri Okan, Itunnu, Eewo, Idunnu, Orire, Ofa Oro, Ajaka Oko, Ayanmo, Great Bird of Eternity, Shattered Bridge, Oba Oluaiye, Bibi Ire, Ilu le and I50 Million.

He was often cast as wealthy or authoritative characters, which became a hallmark of his career.

In addition to acting, Remi directed films and was open about the challenges in the Nigerian film industry, particularly for veteran actors.

He once revealed that his office and production equipment were destroyed by fire on three separate occasions, a situation that stalled his ability to make movies.

His death comes years after he spoke publicly about the neglect faced by older Nollywood actors, a cause he championed in his later years.

His colleagues have however taken to the Social Media platform to pay tribute to the legendary actor.

Edo Central Bye-elections: APC ,PDP Fight Dirty

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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APC and PDP

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, on Friday, August 15, 2025, vehemently rejected claims that it is planning to disrupt the conduct of Saturday’s State and National Assemblies by-elections in Edo State .

The Source reports that the All Progressive Congress, APC, Chairman Edo state chapter Jarret Tenebe had, in a statement alleged that a prominent PDP chieftain Chief Francis Inegbeniki has engaged the services of thugs and miscreants to unleash violence in Edo Central Senatorial District with the aim of disrupting the polls.

The Independent National Electoral Commission INEC is scheduled to hold by-elections in Edo Central Senatorial District and Ovia Federal Constituency  on August 16 ,2025, owing to the vacancies created by Governor Monday Okpebholo’ and his Deputy

Both were at the National Assembly before their election in the September 21 2024 off-circle gubernatorial polls.

The APC Chairman also called on security agencies in the to arrest and probe Inegbeniki over the murder of Police  Inspector Unor Akor .

But, in a statement on Friday, Chief Inegbeniki dismissed Tenebe’s allegations as not only malicious and false but also totally misleading.

He stated that he was not surprised at the laughable and mischievous allegations by the APC Chairman, noting that he is only behaving true to   his character, as someone who talks before thinking.

This is as he urged voters and members of the general public to ignore the APC Chairman’s unfounded claims and go about their normal activities.

“My attention has been drawn to a press release signed by Emperor Jarret Tenebe ,where my name was mentioned as one of those mobilizing thugs to disrupt the Saturday election in Esan land (Edo Central Senatorial District).

“I take exception to that reckless statement . It is clear Tenebe should not be taken seriously. Jarret is known for talking before thinking.

“Once again, I deny any involvement in the death of the Police man, Inspector Unoh Akor. I was not at Airport Road on the day of the incident, neither did I plan or conspire with anyone.

“I am innocent of the allegations. It is now clear that it was Jarret Tenebe that framed up the allegations against me just to smear my hard earned reputation . I was not involved”, the PDP chieftain  stated.

Reps Member To Face Ethics Committee To Prove Bribery Allegation To Sponsor Bills

By
Ayodele Oni
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Ibrahim Usman Auyo

By Ayodele Oni

The House of Representatives has said it will invite one of the lawmakers, Ibrahim Usman Auyo to substantiate allegation that Members of the House receive payments to sponsor Motions, Bills, and Petitions.

Auyo, representing Hadejia, Auyo, and Kafin Hausa Federal Constituency of Jigawa State, is reported to have made the allegation in a viral video.

Reps spokesman, Akin Rotimi, in a statement on Friday stated: “When the House reconvenes, Rep. Auyo will be invited to substantiate his claims before the House.

“Should he be unable to provide evidence, the matter will be referred to the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges for appropriate consideration, in line with parliamentary procedure.

“The insinuation that sponsoring a Motion or Bill is a ‘contract job’ involving bribes is inconsistent with these processes and must be clarified.”

Members of the Green chamber are currently on vacation.

The statement reads “The House of Representatives has taken note of a viral video in which Rep. Ibrahim Usman Auyo, Member representing Hadejia, Auyo, and Kafin Hausa Federal Constituency of Jigawa State, alleged that Members of the House receive payments to sponsor Motions, Bills, and Petitions.

“These allegations are unsubstantiated and, if left unclarified, risk undermining public confidence in the National Assembly. Statements of this nature must be backed by verifiable facts and presented through the appropriate parliamentary channels.

“As the 10th Assembly recently crossed its midterm mark, stakeholders nationwide are rightly demanding accountability from their elected representatives, a legitimate and essential expectation in any thriving democracy.

“The House remains focused on delivering its mandate under the Legislative Agenda (2023–2027), which emphasizes transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to the people.

“The leadership of the House has consistently encouraged Members to engage with their constituencies during recesses and report on their stewardship.

“This commitment is reflected in frequent town halls and public hearings, including a series of midterm engagements held in June and July, presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, GCON.

“In just two years, the People’s House has introduced 2,263 Bills, passed 237, and moved over 1,100 Motions, generating significant interventions across critical sectors such as education, health, infrastructure, security, and economic development.

“These efforts have triggered substantive executive action and positively impacted the lives of constituents nationwide.

“The National Assembly is an institution of records, with well-established and transparent procedures for introducing Bills, Motions, and Petitions, governed by the Constitution, House Standing Orders, and parliamentary ethics.

“The House remains committed to fostering mutual respect among Members while upholding the dignity of Parliament.

“All Honourable Members are encouraged to engage constructively, address concerns through due process, and work together in the collective interest of the Nigerian people.”

Imo First Lady, Mrs Uzodinma, Felicitates With Lady Ihedioha On Fmr. First Lady’s Birthday

By
The Source
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Lady Ebere Ihedioha and Mrs Chioma Uzodinma

By Charles Igbo

Rising above political differences, between their husband’s, Imo State’s First Lady, Her Excellency, Barr. Mrs Chioma Uzodinma, has congratulated her predecessor in office, Her Excellency, Lady Ebere Ihedioha, on her Birthday.

The later’s husband, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, was sworn-in as the Governor of Imo State, on the ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in May, 2019, after he was declared the winner of the Governorship Election by the IndependentNationalElectoralCommission, INEC. But January 16, 2020, eight months into his four-year tenure, the Supreme Court annulled his election, and declared Senator Hope Uzodinma, Candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, the duly elected Governor of the State.

Since then, especially, politically, things have not quite been the same between both prominent sons of the State.

Naturally, not a few people would think, and actually assume, that the differences extended to their wives. That wouldn’t be a surprise.

But Mrs Uzodinma has just rubbished those thoughts by rising above petty political talks and thoughts.

On Mrs Ihedioha’s Birthday, August 13, 2025, the wife of the Governor extended warm birthday wishes to her predecessor in office, and even had same publicised.

In the personally signed wishes she wrote:

“Happy Birthday to Her Excellency, Lady Ebere Ihedioha, former First Lady of Imo State.

“May this new year of life bring you blessings, and continued success in all your endeavours.

“Wishing you a wonderful celebration Your Excellency”

Not a few people in the State have applauded Mrs Uzodinma for not only her polish, but for her maturity in rising above politics to give a shout out to her predecessor in office, Lady Ebere Ihedioha.

Stay Away From Bye-elections Centres, Police Warns Anambra Vigilantes, Quasi-security Groups

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Police Officer

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Anambra State Police Command has announced the ban of all vigilante groups, quasi-security outfits and all other non-state actors from participating in Saturday’s bye-elections in the state.

The Source reports that the blanket ban on all security outfits outside the conventional security agencies ,is coming on the heels of the alarm raised by the, Labour Party, LP  Anambra State National Assembly caucus, alleging plans to intimidate voters and manipulate the exercise.

In a statement on Friday, August 15, the two Senators and six House of Representatives members from the State pointedly accused Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo and his All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA, of planning to deploy the services of the state-controlled security outfits to intimidate and harass the opposition, during the by-elections.

The   caucus alleged that credible intelligence at its  disposal suggests that Governor Soludo and APGA have concluded plans to use personnel of “Operation Udo Gachi ,the State’s Crude Revenue Enforcers” Ndi Aka Odu”, and other non-state actors to manipulate the exercise.

They, therefore, appealed to the National Heads of all security agencies in the country, particularly, the Police to create a conducive atmosphere for voters to exercise their civic obligations without any fear of intimidation and molestation.

Addressing Heads of Police formations in Anambra State on Friday shortly after arriving the State , Godwin Eze, an Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG, stated that  only personnel of Nigeria Security Agencies will be allowed to provide security before, during and after the by-elections.

A statement from SP Tochukwu Ikenga ,the spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, informed that AIG Eze who was drafted to the State to supervise security during the election, also, ordered the restriction of vehicular movements in the affected areas from 6.00am to 6.00 pm on the election day.

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, is billed to conduct by-elections in Onitsha North I State Constituency and Anambra South Senatorial District on Saturday August 16, 2025, to fill vacancies created by the death  of their previous occupants – Hon Justice Azuka and Senator Ifeanyi Uba, respectively.

According to the police statement ,AIG Eze who assumed duty on Friday ,has taken full control of the security situation in the state ahead of the polls.

” All vigilante operatives ,hunters and other quasi-security groups are strictly prohibited from any form of engagement during the election .

” Furthermore, to ensure a safe ,and hitch-free election ,there shall be restrictions on vehicular movement from 6:am to 6 pm ,in the affected areas ” the police stated.

State Of The Nation: Obi Of Onitsha Says Policy Somersaults, Institutional Neglect Affecting Nation’s Growth

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Obi of Onitsha - Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe

By Akinwale Kasali

Revered Monarch, the Obi of Onitsha, HRH Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, has stated that the nation’s growth and development is facing setback due to  institutional neglect, policy somersaults, and poor implementation, despite Federal Government’s efforts in changing the narrative.

Achebe made the remarks while speaking at the Nigerian Academy of Letters, NAL, 27th Convocation Ceremony.

He noted that the situation predicted by former National University Commission, NUC, Executive Secretary, Professor Peter Okebukola, 20 years ago has become more pronounced today.

He stated that  institutional neglect and policy summersaults  have hindered the nation’s ability to develop necessary human capacity, while other African countries are rapidly advancing with digital technology.

Corroborating the Monarch, NAL President, Prof. Sola Akinrinade, stated that it was necessary for the Federal Government to synergise for national development.

“The wellbeing of every society depends on its effective management, the importance of humanities in guiding the digital revolution and promoting societal wellbeing cannot be overemphasized.

“The humanities community must work with technologists and regulators.

“Humanists can help craft policies on digital ethics, teach digital literacy in cultural contexts, and ensure technology serves African values”, Akinrinade stated.

He, however, listed challenges facing Nigeria, as underdevelopment, economic instability, socio-political problems, infrastructure deficit, poor electricity supply, road networks, inadequate water supply, poor healthcare system, food insecurity, environmental challenges, poor education and corruption.

Speaking further, Akinrinade also noted a rapidly declining value system in Nigerian society, evident in Leadership challenges, poor attitude to work, declining civic responsibilities, lack of patriotism, loyalty and commitment to national goals and aspirations.

He urged the Federal Executive Council to institute a programme of Value Re-orientation to avert a pending descent into a valueless society.

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