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APM Group Roots For Gov. Makinde As Opposition Consensus Candidate

By
Ayodele Oni
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Seyi Makinde

By Ayodele Oni

 

A political pressure group pushing for opposition parties to field a single candidate against President Bola Tinubu has advised opposition presidential candidates to forget personal ambition and support Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde of the Allied Peoples Movement  (APM) as consensus candidate in the 2027 election.

 

This is as positions emerging from the camps of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra state governor, Peter Obi indicate that they are not prepared to surrender their ambitions in support of single opposition presidential candidate for the election.

 

Speaking in Abuja on Monday, the APM National Publicity Secretary, Abubakar Yusuf, confirmed that talks on single presidential candidate is still ongoing among opposition parties.

 

He however asserted that Governor Makinde is best positioned as opposition consensus Presidential candidate given his political credentials and territorial advantage, and urged all stakeholders to demonstrate the spirit of sportsmanship in the overall interest of the nation.

 

Yusuf acknowledged the pervading sentiment across the country in favour of a southern candidate to replace President Tinubu so that the region can complete the remaining four years tenure after which the presidency is expected to return to the northern region.

 

“I can confirm to you that discussions and consultations among opposition parties are going on well and reaching advanced stage on the issue of a single Presidential candidate.

 

“It is a delicate issue that touches on interests. But most importantly we, especially in the APM are listening to Nigerians.

 

“What Nigerians want is for opposition parties to come together, form a strong front and defeat President Tinubu in the 2027 elections.

 

“Moreover, there is also this pervading sentiment that the south should produce a replacement for Tinubu in 2027, so that the region can complete the remaining four years tenure after which the presidency is expected to return to the northern region. You cannot overlook that.”

 

Yusuf however stated that Governor Makinde is best positioned to emerge as the opposition consensus Presidential candidate due to his growing acceptability by Nigerians as the face of a national new beginning especially among the younger generation and other active age brackets who form the greater bulk of the voting population.

 

“Without prejudice to the outcome of the consultations, Governor Makinde comes clearer as the best opposition consensus Presidential candidate and this is due to his sound record of performance as state governor coupled with his strong connection and popularity among the younger generation, the professionals and indeed the masses all of who form the greater population of voters across Nigeria.

 

“Go across the country and ask questions. You will notice that Nigerians want a new beginning. They want a leader with new and practical ideas not theories and figure-pointing; a leader with answers and solutions and Governor Makinde fits into the frame.

 

“He is the only candidate with the blueprint to secure the nation, revamp the economy, create new jobs and revitalize our comatose infrastructure. This is a fact that you can verify.

 

“Also, don’t overlook the fact that Makinde is from the South, that is having regard to the sentiment that the South should be allowed to replace President Tinubu to complete the remaining four years tenure after which power will go to the north.

 

Reacting to why the Obi and Atiku camp are not agreeable to a single opposition candidate, Yusuf said he cannot speak for them but added that “what is important now is for all stakeholders to set aside their personal interests” and support Governor Makinde who he insisted is best positioned to defeat President Tinubu at the election.

Gov. Okpebholo Assents To Edo Assembly Funds Management, Judiciary Autonomy Laws

By
Ayodele Oni
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Governor Monday Okpebholo

By Ayodele Oni

 

Edo State has set the path for full autonomy of the legislative and judicial arms of government with the signing by Governor Monday Okpebholo the state House of Assembly Funds Management Bill 2023 and the Judiciary Financial Autonomy 2023 Amendment Bill into law.

 

Under the new laws, the Assembly and judiciary will submit proposals to the executive for approval before accessing funds for capital projects.

 

The governor signed the bills on Monday at Government House, Benin City, while receiving the Speaker of the Edo House of Assembly, Prince Yekini Idiaye.

 

He commended the lawmakers for the swift passage of the legislation, saying he was pleased that the issue had been resolved.

 

“I am indeed delighted because this has become like a controversial law, I must confess to you.”

 

He explained that the three arms of government — the executive, legislature and judiciary — had distinct responsibilities and should operate within their constitutional mandates.

 

According to him, the executive is responsible for administration and implementation, while the legislature makes laws and performs oversight functions and the judiciary interprets laws and punishes offenders.

 

“For me, deviating from these is totally out of the field of play, changing the goal post. I saw danger in it and the way things were going.”

 

Okpebholo revealed that he was concerned that funds meant for capital projects were no longer reaching the people, adding that such projects were the most visible way government could improve the lives of residents.

 

He commended the lawmakers for what he described as standing by the people, saying their action demonstrated their commitment to the development of Edo State.

 

Earlier, Idiaye stated that the legislation did not remove the financial autonomy of the House of Assembly or the judiciary.

 

He explained that recurrent expenditure would continue to go to the Assembly and judiciary, while the amendment addressed the management of capital funds.

 

“It is the capital part of the funds that has issues. It was badly abused,” the speaker added.

 

Idiaye said the governor’s position was aimed at preventing further abuse of capital funds by ensuring that the executive handles the capital component through the appropriation process.

 

“The autonomy is still in place, there is no fear on any side, and the unions should not have any fear,” Idiaye said, adding that workers’ salaries were not affected by the amendment.

 

“I believe they have not been properly briefed, but the autonomy is still in order and the workers’ salaries are not touched.”

Ondo: Gov. Aiyedatiwa Says New Akure Flyover Will Ease Facilitates Economic Growth

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Lucky Aiyedatiwa

By Ayodele Oni

 

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has explained that Akure, the state capital, deserves another flyover to tackle persistent traffic congestion and boost investment and economic growth.

 

The governor spoke on Monday while flagging off the construction of a 2.38-kilometre, 94-span flyover along the Oyemekun–Oba Adesida Road corridor in Akure, describing it as a strategic intervention.

 

The flyover will run from Adegbola Junction through Ojaoba and Adegbemile-Omi eja to St Mathias/NNPC Filling Station, Alagbaka, as part of the administration’s urban renewal and infrastructure development agenda.

 

Governor Aiyedatiwa explained that the intervention was designed to provide a modern transport solution that would improve mobility, safety and the movement of people and goods along one of Akure’s busiest corridors.

 

“This is a long-awaited moment and we are proud of the singular honour and privilege to formally flag-off the construction of the Flyover Bridge along the Oyemekun Oba Adesida Road Corridor, from Adegbola Junction to St. Mathias/NNPC Filling Station, Alagbaka, Akure, covering 2.38 kilometres.”

 

The governor said the project followed careful planning, technical appraisal and extensive stakeholder engagement.

 

He described the Oyemekun–Oba Adesida axis as a major commercial, administrative and social artery linking markets, financial institutions, schools, places of worship and densely populated residential areas.

 

“It is the corridor through which the economic life of Akure pulses daily. Yet, with growth has come considerable strain.

 

“Increasing population, rising vehicular movement and expanding commercial activities have created persistent congestion and heightened the risk of road accidents.”

 

He noted that the congestion has affected productivity, discouraged investment and compromised residents’ safety and well-being.

 

According to him, the flyover and associated road improvements would ease congestion around Adegbola, Oba Adesida and Alagbaka, while reducing travel time, vehicle operating costs and air pollution caused by prolonged traffic delays.

 

Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized that the project would strengthen Akure’s position as a competitive, investor-friendly capital capable of attracting businesses, retaining talent and creating opportunities for young people.

 

“When traders at Oba Adesida Market can move their goods with ease, when students can get to school on time, when patients can reach hospitals without delay, and when workers can return home safely, then, we would have succeeded in translating policy into tangible benefits.”

 

The governor charged the contractor to execute the project according to the approved design, specifications and timelines, while maintaining high standards of professionalism, quality, safety and integrity.

 

He also appealed to residents, traders, transport unions and other stakeholders to cooperate with the government and contractor during construction.

Edo People Love You, Chukwu, Edo Gov. Aide To Davido, Recants Earlier Remark

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Davido

By Ayodele Oni

 

Apostle Kassy Chukwu, an aide to Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, has clarified that his comments on Afrobeats Star, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, was personal and never represented government’s position.

 

Chukwu, in a withdrawal of his earlier threat, apologised to Davido.

 

Chukwu had criticised Davido after the singer reacted to comments made by Okpebholo about Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke during the state’s governorship election.

 

Davido had said Okpebholo’s children should be ashamed of their father following the governor’s remarks about Adeleke.

 

In a viral video, Chukwu clarified that his response to Davido was not made on behalf of the Edo State Government.

 

He also said he did not act on the instruction or approval of Governor Okpebholo.

 

Chukwu explained that he reacted personally because he was offended by Davido’s comment about the governor’s children.

 

 He apologised to Okpebholo for any embarrassment his comments may have caused.

 

Chukwu also begged the people of Edo State, stressing that his comments represented his personal opinion and did not reflect the views of Edo residents.

 

 “I want to apologise to every good-meaning Edoite. And to my brother Davido, I love you. Please disregard my earlier comment.”

 

Chukwu further assured Davido that he was welcome in Edo State.

 

“Edo love you and of course you are welcome home anytime, any day in Edo State.”

 

The governor’s aide also described Edo people as loving and accommodating.

He apologised to residents who considered his earlier video disrespectful or unacceptable.

 

Chukwu added that Okpebholo was a peace-loving governor who did not tolerate violence or disrespect.

 

He also praised the governor’s efforts in improving roads, infrastructure, education and security across the state.

 

According to him, Edo is safe for investors and the state’s nightlife should be revived.

Chukwu again stressed that Okpebholo did not ask him to make the controversial statement.

 

He stressed tbat he had spoken based on his personal opinion and was withdrawing the statement while apologising to the governor, Edo residents and Davido.

IGP Vows More Onslaught On Bandits, Honours Fallen Officers

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Tunji Disu at Memorial Parade for the dead police

By Ayodele Oni

 

The Nigeria Police Force has assured Nigerians that the loss of its personnel will not weaken its resolve to confront violent criminal groups.

 

The force also vowed to bring to justice those responsible for the killing of 10 police officers during a gun battle with suspected bandits in Kebbi State.

 

The Inspector-General of Police, (IGP) Olatunji Rilwan Disu, gave the assurance on Monday at a memorial parade held at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, in honour of the fallen officers of the Special Intervention Squad.

 

The officers were killed on August 10, 2026, during an encounter with suspected bandits along the Rafin Makuku axis of Sakaba Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

 

According to Disu, police personnel had intercepted a heavily armed group of suspected bandits moving between Zamfara and Kebbi states when the confrontation occurred.

 

Ten officers were killed in the ensuing gun battle, while two others sustained injuries. Two civilians also lost their lives.

 

The IGP said the police, however, inflicted significant casualties on the attackers, with at least 17 suspected bandits neutralised and four motorcycles belonging to the group destroyed.

 

Disu described the deceased officers as gallant personnel who paid the supreme price while carrying out their constitutional duty to protect lives and property.

 

“These gallant officers died doing what they swore an oath to do — to serve, to protect, and to defend lives and property.”

 

He maintained that their sacrifice reflected the risks routinely undertaken by police officers across the country to ensure that Nigerians could live, work and sleep in relative safety.

 

The IGP acknowledged the pain suffered by the families of the deceased, noting that every fallen officer represented the loss of a husband, father, son, brother or loved one.

 

He assured the families that the Police Force would not abandon them and would continue to support them in honour of the sacrifice made by their relatives.

 

“To the families of our fallen heroes, I extend, on behalf of the Nigeria Police Force, my deepest condolences. We grieve with you, we stand with you, and we will not abandon you,” Disu added.

 

He also called on Nigerians to remember the 10 officers and thousands of other police personnel who continue to risk their lives in the line of duty.

 

According to him, the sacrifices of security personnel should remind Nigerians of the human cost of confronting banditry, terrorism and other forms of violent crime across the country.

 

Disu assured Nigerians that the police would remain committed to its constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property, stressing that the Force would strengthen collaboration with the Armed Forces, sister security agencies, state governments and communities.

 

He reiterate that the objective was to disrupt criminal networks and prevent them from threatening communities and innocent citizens.

 

The IGP vowed that the loss of the 10 officers would not deter the police from confronting the criminals responsible for attacks on security personnel.

 

“We shall not be intimidated, we shall not relent, and we shall not allow the sacrifices of our fallen heroes to be in vain.”

 

Disu added that the police would continue to pursue criminal elements, disrupt their activities and ensure that those responsible for attacks on police personnel and civilians were brought to justice.

 

The memorial parade, he said, was not only an occasion to mourn the fallen officers but also an oppoIGP rtunity to renew the Force’s determination to strengthen security across the country.

 

He urged police officers to remain resolute in the discharge of their duties and called on Nigerians to support security agencies in the fight against violent crime.

 

Disu said building a safer Nigeria required sustained cooperation among security agencies, government institutions and communities, particularly in areas affected by banditry and other forms of insecurity.

 

He prayed for the peaceful repose of the 10 officers and for God to grant their families the strength to endure the loss.

 

The IGP reiterated that the Police Force would continue its operations against bandits and other criminal groups until they were brought under control, stressing that the sacrifices of fallen officers would remain a source of renewed determination for the Force.

Nigeria Is Not An Islamic Nation – Bishop Oyedepo; “I Was Misquoted” – Jingir

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Bishop David Oyedepo

By Ayodele Oni

 

The President and founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, popular as Winners, Bishop David Oyedepo, has challenged Islamic cleric Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir over comments reportedly suggesting that Nigeria belongs to the Muslim community.

 

Jingir was said to have made the remarks at a political gathering in Kano State, while explaining his support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket ahead of the January election.

 

The cleric reportedly argued that Muslims constitute the majority in Nigeria and described Christians as a minority.

 

Reacting in a sermon captured in a video circulating online, Oyedepo urged Nigerians to consider the size and influence of major Christian congregations across the country.

 

The Living Faith Church founder referenced prominent Christian ministries, including Redemption Camp, Salvation Ministries and Dunamis, while questioning the basis for describing Nigeria as an Islamic nation.

 

Oyedepo expressed strong disagreement with the claim, arguing that the presence and size of Christian congregations across the country contradict such a description.

 

The cleric also issued a warning about events he said could unfold in Nigeria over the next 12 months, urging Nigerians to pay attention to developments in the country.

 

Meanwhile, Jingir, who is Chairman of the Izalatil Bid’a Wa’ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), has denied claims that he harbours hatred towards Christians, describing such allegations as false and insisting that his recent comments were misunderstood.

 

 Jingir made the clarification while speaking at a one-day national symposium in Jos themed, “Enhanced Political Participation and Social Justice as a Panacea for Unity and Development in Nigeria.”

Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir
Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir

Addressing the controversy, Jingir said his comments were not intended to portray hatred towards Christians or people of other faiths.

 

He explained that Islam promotes love, fairness and justice, regardless of religious affiliation, adding that Muslims would be held accountable for mistreating non-Muslims.

 

Jingir also cited the example of Prophet Muhammad’s peaceful relationship with people of other faiths, urging Nigerians to embrace peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.

 

The cleric further called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors and other political leaders to govern with fairness and justice, regardless of religious or political differences.

 

He urged the President and other leaders to ensure that both Muslims and non-Muslims receive fair treatment while discharging their responsibilities.

Islamic Cleric To Tinubu: Treat Christians And Muslim Equally

By
James Orji
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0
Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir
Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir
Controversial Islamic cleric, Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, who recently received flacks from Nigerians, over his comment that Muslims are more in numbers than Christians in the country, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that Christians are well treated in his government.
Sheik Jingir also urge the president  to ensure fairness and justice for all Nigerians, irrespective of their religious, ethnic or political affiliations.
The cleric spoke in Jos at a one-day national symposium themed “Enhanced Political Participation and Social Justice as a Panacea for Unity and Development in Nigeria,” where he dismissed allegations that he harbours hatred for Christians.
The cleric said recent comments he made at a mass wedding ceremony organised by the Kano State Government for 1,500 couples had been misunderstood and misrepresented by some Nigerians.
“I don’t hate Christians”
Addressing the controversy, Jingir said his remarks were never intended to portray Christians or other non-Muslims negatively.
“A lot of people are saying I dislike Christians. I didn’t say I dislike Christians. It is a lie. My remarks were misinterpreted,” he said.
According to him, Islamic teachings emphasise justice, compassion and peaceful coexistence, rather than discrimination against people of other faiths.
He maintained that Muslims would be held accountable for acts of injustice committed against non-Muslims, stressing that Prophet Muhammad lived peacefully with people of different religious backgrounds.
Jingir appealled to political leaders, urging them to rise above partisan, ethnic and religious considerations in the discharge of their responsibilities.
“I call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to cheat non-Muslims and Muslims alike. I also call on you not to cheat those who are not in the same political party with you. You should lead with justice and fairness to all Nigerians,” he said.
His message comes amid continuing debates over religious and political divisions in Nigeria, with the cleric insisting that governance must be anchored on fairness rather than the identity or political affiliation of citizens.
Jingir also defended the right of Nigerians to freely choose their preferred candidates during elections, stressing that political choice should remain a fundamental right.
“Everyone has the right to vote for whoever he feels is okay with him to vote for during an election,” he said.
The JIBWIS chairman further called on Nigerians to embrace peace, unity and mutual understanding, warning that meaningful development would remain elusive in an atmosphere of insecurity and division.
“Without peace, there will be no development,” he said, urging Nigerians to strengthen peaceful coexistence among the country’s diverse ethnic and religious communities.

Niger: Gunmen Raid Five Villages, Kill 40, Abduct 100 Persons

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Gunmen

By Ayodele Oni

 

Coming few hours after gunmen invaded a mosque in Niger state on Friday, suspected bandits in military-style uniforms stormed four villages in the State’s remote Borgu Local Government Area moments after Friday prayers, leaving more than 40 people dead and over 100 abducted in what residents are calling the deadliest attack in the area this year.

 

The rampage tore through Dekara, Gidan Zana, Sabon Gida, and Masaka — communities tucked along the border with Kebbi, Kwara, and the Republic of Benin.

 

Witnesses told the BBC that the attackers rode into Dekara right after worshippers left the mosque.

 

“They gather people in the open, picked out men, women and children, and marched them into the forest,” a resident said. From there, the gunmen fanned out to neighbouring villages, shooting, burning, and abducting.

 

Police spokesman Wasiu Abiodun confirmed the toll: “More than 40 people were killed. Over 100 were abducted. We suspect these are bandits, but the pattern is getting worse.”

 

Local lawmaker Jafar Muhammad Shetiman also confirmed the attacks, warning that the scale and audacity point to something—darker.

 

Officials say Borgu has become a corridor for armed groups — bandit gangs, jihadists, and cross-border fighters — who exploit vast forests and weak security presence.

 

Shetiman raised a chilling alarm: “There are fears that some of these gunmen are now trying to recruit young people in the communities they attack.

 

In recent months, residents say jihadist fighters have entered villages and imposed religious restrictions. The area’s proximity to Benin makes it a safe haven for groups fleeing military pressure in the North West.

 

Earlier this month, 145 people were rescued from kidnappers in Konkoso, Kasuwan-Daji, Tungan-Makeri and Shafachi. Authorities said they were part of 308 people rescued nationwide, including over 160 from neighbouring Kwara. Last week alone, more than 20 people were killed.

 

And in November 2025, gunmen abducted over 200 pupils from a school in Papiri. They were freed about a month later after negotiations.

 

Despite repeated military and police operations, large swaths of Niger State remain inaccessible. Armed groups operate from forested hideouts, striking isolated communities and vanishing before reinforcements arrive.

 

The latest massacre underscores the collapsing security architecture in North Central Nigeria.

 

From kidnapping for ransom, to looting, to alleged ideological recruitment, the Borgu attacks show how criminal gangs and jihadist elements are merging into one deadly force.

 

Governor Umar Bago has yet to make a public statement on the latest killings. Residents say they are living in fear, with many now fleeing to bigger towns.

 

“The forests have become their barracks. Our villages have become their hunting ground,” a community leader in Dekara said.

 

As burial preparations begin and families wait for news of the abducted, one question echoes across Borgu: Who will stop the next attack?

Kogi Probes Death Of Four After Amala Meal

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Poisoned Food

By Ayodele Oni 

 

Following the death of a family of four after a meal of Amala, the Kogi State Government has launched an investigation into the sad incident.

 

The four members of the same family, reportedly died after consuming flour(amala) in Ihima, Okehi local government area of the state.

 

The family’s dog was also reported to have died after eating the same meal, raising concerns about possible food poisoning or contamination.

 

In a statement, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, confirmed that Governor Ahmed Ododo has directed the Commissioner for Health to immediately commence a comprehensive investigation into the tragic incident.

 

Fanwo stated that the governor was deeply concerned and has ordered health authorities to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the deaths.

 

“The investigation must establish the facts and determine whether the food consumed by the deceased was contaminated or whether any other medical or environmental factor contributed to the deaths,” the statement said in part.

 

He added that relevant food samples and other available evidence would be examined in line with established public health procedures.

 

The commissioner said the reported death of the family’s dog after consuming the same food would also form a key part of the investigation.

 

According to Fanwo, the governor has directed the Ministry of Health to collaborate with relevant agencies and stakeholders to ensure a thorough investigation and implement appropriate public health measures based on the findings.

 

He urged residents to remain calm and avoid speculating about the cause of the deaths until the investigation is concluded and verified facts are made available.

 

“The government urges members of the public to remain calm and avoid drawing conclusions about the cause of the deaths until the investigation is concluded and the facts are established by the relevant authorities.”

 

Governor Ododo also commiserated with the bereaved family and the people of Ihima, praying for strength and comfort for those affected by the tragedy.

 

The Kogi State Government assured residents that further information would be released as soon as verified findings emerge from the investigation

Anambra SSG: Gov Soludo Nominated Me As Member Of ‘Fake Agency’

By
James Orji
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0
Charles Soludo
Professor Charles Soludo
The Anambra State Government has  distanced itself from the controversy surrounding a purported Federal Government agency that has been described as fake, explaining how the state became involved in an initiative it believed was an official federal programme.
The Secretary to the Anambra State Government, Chiamaka Nnake, whose photograph and name appeared in connection with the so-called “Made-in-Nigeria Agency,” made the clarification in a statement.
Nnake explained that her involvement began in February 2026, when Governor Chukwuma Soludo nominated her as Anambra State’s focal person for an office that presented itself as operating under the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
According to her, the process initially appeared entirely legitimate.
In January, the state government had received a letter from the purported Made-in-Nigeria Office requesting the nomination of a state focal person.
 Following the governor’s approval, Nnake was nominated, after which she joined a WhatsApp group comprising focal persons from the 36 states.
The group, she said, was used to discuss activities and plans attributed to the purported federal office.
The controversy deepened when the same office approached the State government with a request to host the South-East Made-in-Nigeria Fair.
The request was approved by the state, and an inaugural meeting was subsequently held in Anambra, with the purported national coordinator in attendance.
Preparations then began for the event, which was scheduled for December 2–5, 2026.
But what appeared to be a legitimate Federal Government initiative soon unravelled after the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission raised concerns and discovered that the office was purportedly fake.
The revelation left the Anambra Government in an embarrassing position, having already committed itself to preparations for the proposed fair.
Seeking to put the controversy to rest, Nnake said her participation was limited strictly to the official engagements initiated through the state government.
She maintained that she had no knowledge of, involvement in, or connection with any other activities, claims or developments associated with the purported office.
Her clarification effectively draws a line between her legitimate role as a state-nominated focal person and whatever activities may have been carried out by those behind the alleged fake agency.
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