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To Reassure Jittery Governor Okpebholo, Oshiomhole Storms Election Tribunal

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Oshiomhole Storms Election Tribunal

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Barely 24 hours after the Independent Electoral Commission INEC reluctantly submitted to  the Edo State Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja no fewer than 148 BVAS machines used for the September 21,2024 off-circle gubernatorial contest, Senator Adams Oshiomhole stormed the Election venue. Accompanying him were Philip Shaibu, a former Deputy Governor and other All Progressive Congress APC stalwarts. They stormed the venue  on Friday January 31,2025  in solidarity and to shore up the, alleged, seemingly sagging confidence of Governor Okpebholo.

It is widely believed that the admission of the BVAS in evidence by the  Tribunal represents a remarkable headway for the PDP in its bid to upturn the outcome of the election.

Conversely, the development is believed to have unsettled many APC members in Edo state ,who fear the possibility of the worst case scenario.

The Source reports that Governor Monday Okpepholo of the  APC was declared the winner of the gubernatorial contest after scoring 291,667 votes .

His closest rival, Chief Asue Ighodalo, of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP, polled 247,655, according to the INEC.

But dissatisfied, the PDP and its candidate opted to approach the court  seeking a reversal.

The Party maintains that the  final figures of the election were manipulated in favour of the APC and its candidate,  Okpebholo.

The PDP has equally been adamant in its position that the number of votes announced were far in excess of the number of both registered voters and accredited voters at most polling units.

In all, PDP’s petition is heavily anchored on the allegation that there was general over-voting and allocation of results far above the accredited number of voters.

Not a few observers are of the strong belief that the decision of the Tribunal to admit the BVAS machines in evidence represents a turning point in the entire battle over the outcome of the election by the two contending parties.

Since the beginning of the legal brickbats, most of the APC bigwigs in Edo have not registered their presence at the tribunal venue.

This magazine gathered that the Friday visit of Senator Oshiomhole and others  was a kind of morale booster for the APC members  in the State who are said to be stunned  by the admission of BVAS.

For one ,the admission of the machines is said to be seen by many APC faithful as a major sect back.

So far, most independent reports and assessment of the polls tend to lend credence to PDP’s allegation of over-voting and outright allocation of results.

Although, Oshiomhole and other APC chieftains  did not volunteer comments on why they decided to be part of the Tribunal sitting, not a few believe that it was indeed a solidarity visit to reassure Governor Okpebholo and the Edo State APC family.

Notwithstanding the figures announced by INEC, the BVAS machines are expected to prove handy  in ascertaining the number of accredited voters during the election.

Kano Votes N2.5 Billion For Mass Wedding

By
Ayodele Oni
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Abba Yusuf - Governor of Kano State
Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State

By Ayodele Oni

Kano State Government has earmarked a whopping sum of N2.5 billion to conduct quarterly mass weddings in the 44 local government areas of the state in 2025.

The State Government had in 2023 conducted a mass wedding of 1,800 couples comprising widows, divorcees, and spinsters selected from the 44 local government areas costing over N800m.

The Commissioner for Planning and Budget, Musa Shanono, disclosed this while briefing journalists on the breakdown of the State’s 2025 budget passed into law by the State House of Assembly.

He said the state government planned to spend N91.32 billion in the governance and service delivery sector for programmes and services of which the mass wedding is included.

According to him the commitment was to further entrench responsibility, openness, and the defence of human rights as well as to promote a fair society for sustainable growth, as well as improve the living standards of citizens.

The commissioner explained that out of the amount, one billion naira has been earmarked for Ramadan feeding, N955,000,000 for manpower statistics survey, general household survey and out-of-school children statistics and N1,049,000,000 for purchase of printing machine, rehabilitation/repairs of general water system, purchase of library equipment at the Government Printing Press.

He also stated that the sum of N267.6 billion was budgeted for provision of infrastructure, production and printing of Islamic calendar and support for Islamic Da’wah programme/welfare package to new converts to Islam.

Others include N589 million for security research and empowerment development, street begging special intervention coordination activities while N200 million is being budgeted for procurement of office furniture, general maintenance of the accountant-general’s office and development of PFM software and reform activities, among others.

Why Regina Daniel’s Husband, Senator Nwoko, Dumped PDP

By
Adesina Soyooye
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Senator Ned Nwoko

By Adesina Soyooye

Forger the crisis in the PDP which he cited, sources say there are more believable, personal, reasons why Senator Nwoko dumped the PDP

Senator Ned Nwoko, Delta North Senatorial Zone, has dumped the Political Party under which he was elected to the Senate.  Stupendously rich, Nwoko, a lawyer, businessman,  former member of the House of Representatives,(1999-2003) Nwoko, popular Nollywood Actress, Regina Daniel’s husband,  contested for a seat to the Senate, in 2023, and won under the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

For months, Senator Nwoko’s relationship with a couple of high profile PDP members in his State, Delta, has been shaky. For instance, Nwoko did not always agree with his State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori on a number of issues. And not a few people had guessed, long before now, that he would dump the PDP.

On January 30, Nwoko, finally, found an easy way out of the crisis ridden PDP.

Citing the show of shame displayed at the National Headquarters of the Party in Abuja between Senator Samuel Anyanwu and Sunday Udeh-Okoye over the office of the National Secretary of the Party where supporters of both men went physical, Nwoko dumped the PDP.

In his resignation letter dated Thursday, January 30,  which he  addressed to the PDP chairman of Ward 8, Aniocha North Local Government Area of the State, Senator Nwoko said the state of the PDP has become suffocating to him, and has diminished his ability to render services, for which he was elected, to his constituency. Where there is no unity, there will be no peace, he said, and for the Senator, the well being of his constituency comes first.

He wrote: “My decision to resign is primarily due to the deep divisions and factionalisation within the party. Just this week, on January 29, top party functionaries degenerated into physical fights, exposing the irreconcilable differences within the PDP,”

The Senator heads  the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriations.

He, also, took a dig at the Delta State chapter of the party, in his resignation letter. He noted that the present state of the structure in the State was no longer good enough to enable him fulfill his campaign promises.

Nwoko: “During my campaign, I made solemn and actionable promises to my constituents. However, the current structure of the PDP in our state has not been conducive to realizing these commitments. After careful consideration, I have decided that stepping away from the party is necessary to fulfill my obligations to my people.”

But he went on to reassure his constituents of his commitment to their welfare.

He said: “While I bid farewell to my membership in the PDP, I remain dedicated to statesmanship, unity, and the advancement of our people. My decision is rooted in the best interest of those I serve.”

However, not a few people insist there are other reasons why Nwoko left the PDP. According to inside sources, Nwoko resigned from the PDP because he “is not sure he would get the PDP ticket to go back to the Senate for a second term.” The source cited his untidy relationship with the Governor and some top members of the Party in the State and said, nobody will allow him go back to the Senate.

Another source disclosed that the PDP ticket is already kept for the immediate past Governor of the State, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa. Okowa, a former Senator, was PDP’s Vice Presidential Candidate in the 2023 Presidential Election. “We, (PDP) have kept the Delta North ticket  for Okowa.”

The conclusion is that Senator Nwoko decided to look for the black goat before darkness sets in. Meaning he found it best to quit the PDP on his own, instead of being denied the ticket for a second term to the Senate by the Party.

Even though he did not, in his resignation letter, say where he would be headed to, indications are that it is to the ruling Party at the centre, All Progressives Congress, APC.  He is, alleged, to have already held a meeting with the leadership of the APC in the State already.

“He is definitely declaring for the APC in a matter if days”, a reliable source told this medium.

Why I Want Soludo Out Of Office – Professor Obiora

By
The Source
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Professor Obiora Okonkwo
Professor Obiora Okonkwo

By Gideon Njoku

Professor Obiora Okonkwo, accomplished entrepreneur,   Chairman of United Airlines, Nigeria, and a couple more companies, wants Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, out of office. Okonkwo thinks, believes, and says Soludo has done a bad job of the responsibilities given to him by the good people of Anambra State.

Disappointed, Professor Obiora thinks he is the right man for the job, given the situation on Anambra State and his own accomplishments.

On Friday, January 31, Obiora, after a lot of underground work and consultations, took the first bold step.

At a well attended ceremony, Obiora inaugurated a Provisional Campaign Council. Using the occasion, he let the people know he is running and is prepared for the job and its challenges. He told them why he thinks he is better than Soludo. He reeled out his manifesto, almost, and how he would tackle Anambra’s multitude of problems, especially, but not limited to insecurity and unemployment, and underdevelopment.

Obiora will run under the All Progressives Congress, APC, a party which has consistently failed to clinch the Governorship seat of the State. He hopes to break the shackle if he clinches the ticket of the Party at the Primaries.

Following is the full text of his speech during the inauguration ceremony.

SPEECH BY PROF. OBIORA OKONKWO, OFR (DIKEORA) AT THE INAUGURATI9N OF PROVISIONAL CAMPAIGN COUNCIL FOR THE 2025 ANAMBRA STATE GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION PRIMARY  AND DECLARATION OF INTENTION TO CONTEST ANAMBRA GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION UNDER THE ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS (APC) BEFORE APC GRASSROOTS MEMBERS ON JANUARY 31, 2024 AT IRE VILLAGE, OGIDI, IDEMILI NORTH LGA, ANAMBRA STATE

  1. My fellow Anambrarians, distinguished guests, party faithful, esteemed elders, members of the All Progressives Congress, and all lovers of progress,
  1. I stand before you today, humbled, honoured with a deep sense of responsibility, and unwavering commitment to the future of our dear Anambra State to declare my intention to contest the forthcoming governorship election and to inuagurate a provisional campaign council for the party primary.
  1. I have made this decision as a proud son of Anambra state, driven by a deep sense of responsibility, to contribute my quota to the development of our beloved state. This is a decision I have made after deep reflection, extensive consultations with stakeholders, and a profound desire to serve.
  1. Anambra is a land of limitless potential, blessed with some of the brightest minds, the most industrious entrepreneurs, and the most resilient people in Nigeria. But for too long, our great state has not lived up to its full promise. We have watched with concern as opportunities have been lost, governance has fallen short of expectations, and the pains and horror of insecurity have left our people living in the bondage of fear. Today, our people earnestly cry for real security and progress.
  1. I step forward because I believe Anambra deserves the best. I believe that, together, we can build a state that truly works for everyone; a state where governance is about service to the people and not to self; a state where opportunities are created, and where prosperity is shared by all.
  1. My fellow Anambrarians, as I step forward, I make bold to say that this is not just about a campaign; rather, this is a movement to reclaim our state from stagnation and place it on the path of sustainable development. However, I cannot do it alone. I need your support, your ideas, your participation, and your prayers. Together, we can make Anambra a shining example of excellence and good governance. Together, we can re-write the story of Anambra state. Together, we can reclaim Anambra from insecurity and return it to its pre-eminent place in the history of our country.
  1. My vision on this movement is clear: ours is to build an Anambra that is prosperous, secure, and globally competitive; an Anambra that harnesses the potential of its people and resources to become the economic powerhouse of the Southeast. An Anambra that gives its children the freedom to develop and become what God has planned out for them.
  1. Ndi Anambra, to achieve this, I present to you a brief of agenda for the renewal, reclamation and rejuvenation of life in our dear state. If you say yes, then, together with you, this movement will focus on these key pillars:

o   Security and Good Governance

o   Economic Transformation and Job Creation

â—‡ Infrastructure Development

â—‡ Education and Human Capital Development

â—‡ Agriculture and Rural Development

â—‡ Technology and skill acquisation

â—‡ Value reorientation, reclaiming of our heritage and reversing the negative trends

  1. As you know, no society can thrive without security and accountable leadership. For this reason, if you say yes, we will work closely together with security agencies, invest in community policing, and ensure transparency and efficiency in government.
  1. We will also use good governance structures to unlock the industrial and commercial potential of Anambra by creating a business-friendly environment that attracts investment, supports local entrepreneurs, and generates employment for our youth.
  1. Working together with our experts, we shall ensure that our roads, markets, schools, and hospitals get the attention that they deserve to make them serve the people. We will embark on massive infrastructural renewal to connect our communities, enhance trade, and improve the quality of life for all Anambra people.
  1. We shall not fiddle with the education of our children. For this reason, education and human capital development will become once again, the foundations for the regeneration of Anambra. We will prioritize quality education, vocational training, and skills development to ensure that our young people are equipped for the future. In addition, we shall take strategic and collaborative steps to institutionalise Nkwado Ogaranya (Igba Boi) so that we may re-invigorate the entrepreneurial spirit of Ndi Anambra.
  1. We all know that Anambra is blessed with fertile and arable land and hardworking farmers. For this, we will revolutionize agriculture, empower farmers, and create an agribusiness ecosystem that ensures food security and wealth creation. Don’t tell me that we do not have massive lands for agriculture. China doesn’t either. However, it is the world leader in agriculture and food production with only 10percent of its total land area good enough for farming.
  1. In a nutshell, if you wave the green light, I pledge to prioritize the welfare and well-being of our people, particularly the youth, women, and vulnerable populations. I will champion policies and programs that would make for inclusive and transparent government, where every citizen has a voice and a stake in our collective prosperity.
  1. I will foster a culture of accountability, integrity, and excellence in governance, ensuring that our state resources are utilized efficiently and effectively.
  1. Ndi Anambra, it is for this movement and for the good of our collective future that I intend to pursue this vision on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
  1. The APC has shown, at the national level, that with the right leadership, transformation is possible. I am ready to bring that transformation to Anambra. I am ready to serve. I am ready to lead.
  1. To my fellow APC members, I pledge to uphold the values and principles of our great party, promoting unity, discipline, and loyalty. Together, we will work tirelessly to ensure that our party emerges victorious in the 2025 governorship election in November.
  1. To the good people of Anambra State, I ask for your support and trust as we embark on this journey towards a brighter future.
  1. Let us work together to build an Anambra State that is secure, safe, prosperous, peaceful, and proud of its heritage.
  1. Let us rise, together, and Make Anambra Happy Again!

God bless Anambra State!

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

Thank you!

Dikeora

Police Launches Manhunt For Abducted Abia Electoral Commissioner

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Professor George Chima

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Imo State Police  Command on Friday, January, 31,2025,  informed that it has commenced moves to track down suspected kidnappers of the Chairman of Abia state Independent Electoral Commission ABSIEC, Prof George Chima

The Source reports that Prof Chima ,whose Commission late last year conducted the Abia State Local Government Council polls, was  abducted at his residence in Okigwe area of Imo state on Thursday January 30 ,2025.

He was in company with some guests and

lecturer-colleagues from the  Abia State University in Uturu ,when the hoodlums numbering four, stormed his residence and whisked him away.

Although the University is located in Uturu, Abia state, most of the institution’s staff are resident in Okigwe, Imo State, a less than 15 minutes drive.

The suspected kidnappers are yet to establish any contact with the family members.

It is not yet also known  the motives ,behind the development .

Henry Okoye, the Imo state Command spokesperson, while confirming the unfortunate incident, assured that all efforts are being made to locate and rescue the victim unhurt .

” Yes, we are aware of the kidnap of the Professor, and we have commenced investigations.

“As i speak to you now ,the Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, personally led a team of Police to the scene in Okigwe.

“The Police are assuring all that the kidnappers will be apprehended”, Okoye stated.

PDP Governors’ Forum Backs Udeh-Okoye As National Secretary

By
Ayodele Oni
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SKE Udeh-Okoye

By Ayodele Oni

The Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) Governors’ Forum has affirmed the former National Youth Leader of the party, S.K.E Udeh-Okoye, as the authentic National Secretary of the party and advised the  National Working Committee (NWC) to implement the court decision accordingly.

The governors rose from its first 2025 monthly meeting held in Asaba, Delta State capital, on Friday, with a resolution backing the judgment of the Court of Appeal.

The Forum equally advised the NWC to reschedule to 13th March 2025 the National Executive Council, (NEC), meeting of the party earlier fixed for February.

This was even as the party rued the hardship in the land and called on the President Bola Tinubu-led All Progressives Congress, (APC), Federal Government to revisit its macroeconomic policies to mitigate the sufferings of the Nigerian masses.

These were contained in a communique issued at the end of the meeting, which had in attendance the Chairman of the Forum and Governors of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed,  Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, Peter Mbah of Enugu State, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State.

Others are Diri Duoye of Bayelsa State, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State, Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, Muftwang of Plateau State, Agbu kefas of Taraba State, Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, and the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Bayo Lawal.

The communique read by the Forum’s Chairman states “The Forum employed the occasion to review the performance of member states in particular and the state of the nation in general, as well as developments in the party, as at the end of 2024.

“The Meeting noted that the macro-economic policies of the Federal Government had inflicted hardship and pain on the polity; therefore, the Forum calls on the Federal Government to either revisit or rejig its macro-economic policies to ameliorate and stop the hardship/pains that they have inflicted on Nigerians as no meaningful/impactful achievements in the states will be achieved until the harsh policies are addressed.

“The Forum noted with delight the ongoing efforts at resolving the crisis in the National Working Committee, NWC, on the position of the National Secretary, and has reaffirmed its support for the Court of Appeal judgment.

“Consequently, the Forum advised the NWC to set up the machinery for the effective implementation of the court judgment.

“The Forum having examined all the notices required by law to be given to validly convoke NEC advised NWC to reschedule NEC to the thirteenth (13th) of March 2025.”

The Forum went further to express concerns over what it termed the resurgence of non-state actors and called for the strengthening of the nation’s security architecture.

It enjoined Nigerians not to despair over the hardship in the land, as it would soon return to power to fix the nation.

“While commending the country’s valiant and patriotic Armed Forces and security agencies for maintaining the frontline in securing the country and the gains of our gallant personnel against bandits in parts of the country, the Forum viewed with deep concern the resurgence of brazen non-state actors.

“It therefore calls for the strengthening of the nation’s security architecture.

“Finally, the Forum enjoined Nigerians not to despair in the face of the prevailing hardships with the firm assurance that the PDP will remain committed to returning our great nation to the glorious days of pre-2015 era of manageable costs of living, security of lives and property and greater unity and prosperity for all citizens.”

The Forum commended governors of member states “for pursuing policies and programmes that not only ameliorate the plight of the people, but are also aimed at creating the foundation for sustainable development in their various states.

It lauded Governor Oborevwori for the giant strides recorded by his administration in the areas of infrastructure, environmental remediation, people empowerment and combating insecurity in Delta State.

Uzodimma: Imo Gets Chief Judge Soon.. Inaugurates JSC, Others,  Five New Commissioners

By
The Source
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Governor Hope Uzodimma Inaugurates JSC

Governor Hope Uzodimma has given the hint that a new Chief Judge will emerge in Imo State soon.

Speaking Friday at the New Exco Chambers, Government House, Owerri, he demonstrated resolve to ensuring adequate and most effective justice dispensation in the State,  charging the newly inaugurated Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to commence, immediately, the process of selecting a substantive Chief Judge for the State.

The Governor breathed the circumstances that led to the removal of the former Chief Judge by the Nigeria Judicial Council (NJC) and stressed that Judicial Service Commission has a significant role to play in managing the conduct of Judges in the State and to sanitize our judiciary.

Uzodimma further warned against falsification of age in the system, stressing that those involved in such acts should desist as it brings disrepute to the State and the justice system.

The Governor therefore mandated the Commission to show integrity and courage by ensuring that only Judges with credible records are nominated for positions of trust.  “Fasten your seat belts and weather the storm,  no matter whose ox is gored,”  he charged the members.

Members of the JSC include: Barr. Louis M. Alozie, SAN; Eze Duruiheoma, SAN; Hon. Barr. Paul Obinatu and Hon. Lady M.M.Anyanwu.

Uzodimma told them  to find courage to sanitise the judicial process in Imo, saying, “ensure we have credible records, sincere and honest people who will oversee the affairs of the judiciary.”

He advised them to take government’s support for their assignment for granted, and that he will not appoint a Chief Judge who will ridicule his administration, adding, “fasten your seatbelt and weather all turbulence no matter whose ox is gored.”

In the same vain,  the Governor inaugurated five new Commissioners, Chairmen and members of Civil Service Commission and that of Local Government Service Commission.

Same day, Uzodimma inaugurated nominees for the Board of the Imo State University, Owerri (IMSU), Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC), and the Imo State Road Maintenance Agency (IROMA).

He said the idea is to strengthen the capacity of his administration towards the endowment of more democracy dividends to Imo people, and enjoined the appointees to

demonstrate highest  ethical standard in the discharge of their duties.

Addressing the five Commissioners- designate – Prof Boniface G. Nworgu, Chief Kenneth Okafor, Barr. Enyinnaya Onuegbu, Dr. Anthony Mgbeahuruike and Dr. Elias Emedom, the Governor said they were brought on board to help strengthen the capacity of his administration to deliver on the mandate of call to serve the people.

He warned against toying with the call and honour to serve, reminding them to comport themselves in high ethical standards, devoid of any form of bickering with their Permanent Secretaries and the existing government bureaucracy.

To the members of the Civil Service Commission – Dr. (Mrs) Julie Onyeukwu (Chairman), Dr. Uche Edomobi, Goddy O. Dike and Dr. Romanus Ezeogu – the Governor expressed delight over the Commission’s performance in his first tenure, saying it informed the reason most of them were reappointed.

However, he urged them to do better than they did before by show casing their capacity, and adding more value to the development of Imo State.

Uzodimma urged them to take his reforms in the Civil service seriously, sustaining them as far as ongoing digitalisation is concerned, and even align the Service with the current global emphasis on Artificial intelligence.

He cautioned against the temptation of meddling in matters that will lead to compromising the integrity of the Policy of government with regard to promotions, management of the Civil Service, and called on them to remain transparent, comply with best practices, and align themselves with ideas that will promote digital economy, social order in the system.

“If you fail to do the needful and choose to compromise the integrity of the policy, you will pay dearly for it, and you will regret it.”

Uzodimma told members of the Local Government Service Commission (LGSC) – Dr. Nick Obinatu (Chairman), Chief Ethelbert Nwachukwu, Chief Chukwuemeka Anukam and Hon. Engr. Stanley Chibueze Okwuosa – to discharge their duties without fear or favour, and to ensure that the new Imo he promised is given adequate attention even at the local level.

He also warned them against acts that will lead to compromising the processes of engagement of personnel at the local government areas.

For the nominees of the Board of Imo State University, Owerri – Prof Fr. Philip Anyaehie Ogbonna ( Chairman), Mr. Leo Stan Eke, Rt. Hon. Chuma Nnaji, Hon. Godwin Esom Obodo,  Pharm. Chuks Okoronkwo and Princess Nkechi Mbachu – the Governor urged them to recall the reason the founding fathers of Imo State fought for the establishment of the institution, and the need to restore her honour.

Eleven nominees were inaugurated for the ISOPADEC Board. They are: Prof Eze Dele Odigbo ( Chairman), Chief Austin Onyedebelu ( Managing Director), Hon. Cassidy Ohamara, Hon. Nkeiru Ihesie, Dr. Mrs. Nina Nwulu, Hon. Mrs. Ijeoma Joy Ikegwuruka, Mrs. Esther Enoch, Hon. Bernard Nwanana, Chief Valentine Okere, Hon. Mrs. Ify Obi and Chief Kelechi Onuoha.

The Governor challenged them to use the God’s given resources of the people to alleviate their suffering.

He regretted that in the past money accruing to the area was shared by the leaders, a situation that left the place without basic infrastructure and amenities befitting a people whose area is rich in oil.

He called on the Board to join hands with his government to change the tide, particularly as his administration has already started intervening in the health, road, education, electricity and other needs of the people of the area.

Overall, Sen. Uzodimma used the opportunity to solicit support of Imo people to the industrialisation programme of his government and the ongoing economic reforms and programmes that have placed Imo on the threshold of industrial revolution.

He urged all to join the moving train to ensure that a “new Imo” is realised. ” We know our target and by the grace of God we will meet our target,” the Governor concluded.

In their respective vote of thanks, the Chairman Judicial Service Commission, Barr.  Louis  Alozie (SAN), on behalf  members of his Commission, pledged to uphold integrity in their duties, and to work to sanitise the judiciary in Imo State.

Barr. Enyinnaya Onuegbu who spoke for the Commissioners thanked the Governor for finding them worthy of such positions of trust, promising that they will not disappoint his expectations of them.

Also, Prof Fr. Ogbonna who spoke for the IMSU and ISOPADEC nominees thanked the Governor for finding them worthy of the appointments and promised that they will do their best to live up to the reason they were found worthy for the assignment.

The inauguration was attended by top government functionaries from the three arms of government as well as critical stakeholders in the State.

“I Will Witness Proceedings At Ondo Election Petition Tribunal,” – Gov Aiyedatiwa, Confident Of Victory

By
Ayodele Oni
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Lucky Aiyedatiwa

By Ayodele Oni

Ondo State Governor, Lucky  Aiyedatiwa, has reiterated his confidence in the credibility of the November 16, 2024 governorship election, stating that the people of Ondo State voted overwhelmingly for the right candidate.

Speaking after attending the inaugural sitting of the Ondo State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal in Akure, on Friday, the Governor described the election as historic, emphasizing that his victory across all 18 local government areas was a true reflection of the people’s will.

The Governor said: “The election was free, fair, and credible. The people of Ondo State made history by ensuring that, for the first time, a candidate won in all 18 local government areas.

“That alone speaks volumes about the trust and confidence they have in my leadership,”

The tribunal, presided over by Justice Nelson Ugubu, is set to hear petitions filed by three opposition parties—the Social Democratic Party (SDP), the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)—challenging Governor Aiyedatiwa’s victory.

The PDP, which emerged as the main petitioner, has lined up 43 witnesses to substantiate its claims of alleged electoral malpractices.

Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed his interest in following the tribunal proceedings, noting that it was an opportunity to observe the judiciary at work.

“And, you know, learning is continuous. Even though I’m the governor, I still also want to hear what is going on in the judiciary arm of government, particularly in this election petition.

“Having the legal professionals and the very competent justices on this panel, it’s an exercise for me. I just want to witness it and be part of it. There’s nothing to worry about.”

Legal representatives from both the petitioners and respondents engaged in preliminary submissions, setting the stage for the hearing of the petitions over the coming weeks. The tribunal has adjourned to February 10th for further proceedings.

LP Bleeds: Edoga Set To Return To PDP, As Its Imo 2023  Dep. Gov. Candidate Resigns

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Chijioke Edoga

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Labour Party, LP, Gubernatorial Candidate for Enugu State, in the 2023 General Elections, Chijioke Edoga, has pleaded for more time from hierarchy of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to consider their request for a defection

This is just as Tony Nwulu, the LP Deputy Governorship flag bearer in the November 11, 2023 off-circle election ,on Friday, January, 31, 2025, formally announced his resignation from the party.

In a video of a PDP meeting posted by  Dan Nwomeh, the media aide to the Enugu state Governor Friday , the party appealed to Edoga, to return to its fold.

The Source reports ,that before joining forces with LP, Edoga ,was a member of the Enugu state chapter of the PDP.

He, also, served as a Commissioner, in the administration of former Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.

Speaking at the meeting, the Enugu State PDP Chairman, Martin  Chukwuwike, urged Edoga to seriously consider returning to  the party.

But responding, Edoga informed that he will consult some stakeholders before arriving at a final decision.

” I will consult .I will consult widely because I am a product of several men of good will.

“I will have to take back the message from the chairman and his team. I have enormous respect for the team and chairman

“It is not in the nature of Igbo people to hear such a weighty thing and respond immediately. I am going to take it home. As quickly as possible, I will get back to the Chairman. Then my position on the issue will be known”, Edoga stated .

The Source  reports that before now,  about six LP State Lawmakers had left the party for the PDP in the State.

It is strongly believed that Edoga will be following the path of the legislators in the days ahead .

In a letter dated January 30, 2025, addressed to the LP leadership,Hon, Nwulu a former Member of the House of Representatives, while appreciating the vision and mission of the LP, however explained that his decision to quit was carefully considered.

The resignation letter has since been acknowledged by the LP through its Administrative Secretary, Tijani Sandra Ayomide

“I write to formally resign my membership of the Labour Party effective immediately.

“This decision comes after careful consideration, and while I appreciate the opportunities and experiences gained during my time with the party, I believe it is in my best interest to move in a different direction at this time.

“I remain grateful for the vision and commitment of the party to social justice, democracy and good governance”, Hon Nwulu stated.

It will be recalled that before contesting in the  last Imo State Gubernatorial election, Nwulu had represented the Oshodi/Isolo II  Lagos, Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives.

PSC Approves Immediate Retirement Of Senior Police Officers Above 60 Years/35 Years in Service

By
The Source
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DIG Hashimu Argungu - PSC Chairman

The Police Service Commission rose from its first  extraordinary Meeting with the approval for the immediate retirement of  senior Police Officers who have spent more than 35 years in service and those above 60 years of age.

According to a statement signed by Ikechukwu Ani, Head, Press and Public Relations, on Friday;  the Commission  at its 24th Plenary Meeting  of 27th and 28th September  2017  had approved that the Force Entrants should have their date of appointment  in the Force against the date of their enlistment.

The Commission  has passionately revisited their decision and has come to the conclusion  that the said decision, in its intent and purpose contradicted the principle of merger of service in the Public service and it is in violation of

Public Service Rule No 020908 ( i & ii) which provides for retirement  on attainment of 35 years in service or 60 years of age.

Accordingly, the Commission at its 1st  extraordinary meeting of the 6th Management Board held today, Friday, 31st January 2025, approved the immediate retirement  of those officers  who have spent more than 35 years in service and those above 60 years of age.

The Commission Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu, rtd, presided over the extraordinary Meeting and had Justice Adamu Paul Galumje,  retired Justice of the Supreme Court, Hon Commissioner representing the Judiciary; DIG Taiwo Lakanu  rtd, Honourable Commissioner representing the Police and Chief Onyemuchi Nnamani, Secretary to the Commission in attendance.

The Commission’s decision has been conveyed to the Inspector General of Police for implementation.

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