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Ondo LG Election: PDP Withdraws, Cites Electoral Body’s Partiality

By
Ayodele Oni
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Peoples Democratic Party - PDP

By Ayodele Oni

Less than 48 hours to the conduct of local government election in Ondo state, the people Democratic Party (PDP) has announced its withdrawal from the poll.

The PDP, Ondo State Chapter, stated on Thursday that it has withdrawn from participating in the January 18th, 2025 Local Government elections organised by the Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC).

The party, in a statement by its media director,  Leye Igbabo said “This decision is a product of several layers of consultations of party leaders, stakeholders and the National Secretariat of our great party.

“Our party fielded 15 Chairmanship Candidates in 15 Local Government Areas and 131 Councillorship Candidates. But, from all indications, ODIEC’s credibility, transparency, and impartiality have failed the integrity test.

“Recent observations and reports point to a troubling pattern of double standards by ODIEC, raising serious doubts about their ability to conduct a free, fair, and credible election.

“As a responsible political party committed to democracy and the rule of law, we can not, in good conscience, confer legitimacy on this compromised process by participating in the election.

“We have, therefore, resolved to withdraw our participation in this exercise to uphold the integrity of our party and our unwavering belief in credible electoral practices.

“We further assure our teeming supporters and the good people of Ondo State, that our commitment to sanitise the Electoral process is irrevocable.”

Meanwhile, ahead of the forthcoming Local Government Election in the State slated for 18th of January, 2025. The Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi, has announced restriction of vehicular movement within the period of 0600hrs – 1600hrs.

The command spokesperson, Funmilayo Odunlami, (CSP) in a statement urged

commuters who may have a reason to use the State as a passage are pre informed of the restrictions to help adjust their plans ahead of the D-day.

However, Security Personnel, Medics, Healthworkers, firefighters and other Essential Service Providers are  allowed free movements to carry out their duties. Cases of Emergency are considered also for movement.

“We urge all legible voters to abide by the rules guiding the electoral process while carrying out their Civic duty.

“Yhe Command is also using this medium to warn intending miscreants who may want to cause mayhem on the said day to stay clear as all machineries are in place to nip  any untoward act as they raise their ugly heads.

“Adequate security has been emplaced for both human and material resources to ensure smooth passage of the process.”

FG To Emir Sanusi: We Don’t Need Your Help; Your Attacks Based On ‘Personal Interest’

By
James Orji
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Emir Sanusi Lamido and Bola Tinubu

The federal government has taken a swipe at the Emir Of Kano over his recent remark that he was not prepared to ‘help’  President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration to change the country.

President Tinubu needs no assistance from the Emir on how to steer the ship of the country, the federal government said on Thursday.

The administration made the rebuttal in a statement issued by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Idris Mohammed.

Emir Sanusi had on Wednesday, during an event in Lagos, said he has decided not to ‘help’ the president in his quest to navigate the current challenges in the country because the administration is unfriendly to him.

Speaking on the state of the nation yesterday Sanusi said the administration has no credible people to explain to Nigerians what’s doing, he’s not prepared to help either, he said because the government did not value his past interventions.

What Sanusi said: “I can give a few points that are contrary, that explain perhaps what we’re going through and how it was totally predictable, most of it, and maybe avoidable. But I am not going to do that.

“I have chosen not to speak about the economy or the reforms or to even explain anything because if I explain, it would help this government, but I don’t want to help this government.

“You know they are my friends, but if they don’t behave like friends, I don’t behave like a friend. So, I watch them being stooges.

“And they don’t even have people with credibility who can come and explain what they are doing. I am not going to help.

“I started out helping, but I am not going to help. I am not going to discuss it. Let them come and explain to Nigerians why the policies that are being pursued are being pursued.

“Meanwhile, I’m watching a very nice movie with popcorn in my hands. But I will say one thing: What we are going through today is, at least in part, not totally, but at least in part, a necessary consequence of decades of irresponsible economic management. People were told decades ago that if you continue along this path, this is where you’re going to end up, and they refused to open their eyes.

“Now, is everything being done today correct? No,” Sanusi asserted.

Reacting, Idis in a statement titled “We Don’t Need Sanusi’s Stamp Of Approval For LG’s Laudable Policies’ said Sanusi was only attacking the president because of pecuniary gains and selfish interest.

According to the minister, the traditional ruler is expected to uphold the truth at all times considering the lofty position he’s occupying but had chosen to “antagonize” the administration of president Tinubu because of “personal interest”.

Idris said President Tinubu has chosen to take the country through a difficult reform and economic process because of its belief that it’s the country will benefit on the long run, noting that the current pains Nigerians are going through are due to irresponsible past leadership in the country.

He said Sanusi alluded to this when he admitted that the reforms are “ necessary consequence of decades of irresponsible economic management.”

Following, FG’s Statement:

WE DON’T NEED SANUSI’S STAMP OF APPROVAL FOR FG’s  LAUDABLE POLICIES

The Federal Government notes the recent remarks by His Highness, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, regarding the economic reforms introduced under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, at a public event in Lagos. We note the emir’s acknowledgement of the noble initiatives which, he said, he could explain away but for his decision “not to help the government”.

First, we acknowledge that Sanusi, and indeed any Nigerian, has the inalienable right to express an opinion either in the form of commendation or criticism on how the government is being run. However, we find it amusing that a leader, more so one from an institution that ennobles forthrightness, fairness, and justice, would publicly admit to shuffling off telling the truth because of personal interest hinged on imaginary antagonism.

It is pertinent to state that Nigeria is at a pivotal juncture where bold and decisive actions are necessary to tackle entrenched economic challenges. This administration has implemented transformative reforms not because they are easy, but because they are essential for securing Nigeria’s long-term stability and growth, as Emir Sanusi had consistently advocated.

The temporary pains currently experienced from these inevitable decisions, as Sanusi himself acknowledged, are a “necessary consequence of decades of irresponsible economic management” more than anything else.

These reforms are already delivering measurable progress. The unification of exchange rates has bolstered investor confidence, which has contributed to increased foreign reserves and strengthened Nigeria’s ability to shield itself from external economic shocks. The removal of the fuel subsidy has freed up significant resources, allowing for greater investment in critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Projections from respected institutions, including the World Bank, show an upward trajectory in Nigeria’s GDP, signalling that our economy is firmly on the path to recovery. Additionally, by addressing inefficiencies, the country has reduced its debt service-to-revenue ratio, creating a more sustainable fiscal framework for future generations.

It is deeply disappointing that reforms widely recognized as essential by global experts—including by Emir Sanusi II himself—are now being subtly condemned by him because of shift in loyalty. His Highness, given his background in economics, has a unique responsibility to contribute constructively rather than undermine reforms aimed at collective progress because he feels estranged from his “friends” in government.

We urge the Emir to rise above personal interests and partisan undertones and prioritize the greater good of Nigerians.

Rebuilding Nigeria requires unity, focus, and sacrifice from all stakeholders. As a government, we urge esteemed leaders to refrain from rhetoric that undermines public trust. Instead, they owe it a duty to champion the collective goal of a prosperous Nigeria. This is a critical time for our country, what is needed is collaboration, not unnecessary distractions.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration remains resolute in its mission to lead Nigeria towards economic inclusivity, sustainability, and shared prosperity. The challenges we face demand courage and collective effort, not divisive narratives. This administration is open to constructive dialogue with all well-meaning stakeholders while remaining steadfast in putting the interests of Nigerians above all else.

Let history record this moment as a turning point—when leaders and citizens alike choose to prioritize the nation’s destiny over personal gain. Together, we will deliver on the promise of renewed hope and a better Nigeria for all.

Mohammed Idris, fnipr

Minister of Information and National Orientation

January 16, 2025

Gov Slams Tinubu For Taking Nigeria On ‘Road To Perdition And Destruction”

By
James Orji
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0
Bala Mohammed and Bola Tinubu

Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi state has intensified his attacks on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The governor who appears not letting down in his acerbic criticisms of the administration, according to analysts, is a potential presidential hopeful in 2027.

Mohammed has also confirmed that he will contest the next presidential election under the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

Even though the presidential election is still more than two years ahead, the Bauchi governor has launched another verbal attack against President Tinubu saying he’s taking the country on the road to ‘perdition and destruction”.

The governor made the assertion on Wednesday when the fiery Nigerian pastor, Apostle Suleman paid him a courtesy visit at the state government house.

According to the state’s helmsman the country deserves a better leader at this time, not President Tinubu, who according to him has no solutions to the challenges facing the country.

For instance, the governor cited the Tax Reform Bill President Tinubu sent to the National Assembly last year, saying it will have a negative impact on the country.

He asserted that he will continue to attack the administration except it abandons some of its reform, which the governor said would not serve the interest of Nigerians.

Mohammed said, “Tinubu’s policies don’t have a clear vision and are taking us to the road to perdition and destruction. That is why when I talk about tax reforms, it is not because I don’t want reform, but because I want reform that will have a national impact. I don’t have anything against the president but respect.”

The magazine reports that  the Tax Reform Bill sent to the National Assembly by the president in August last year has received mixed reactions from Nigerians.

State Of The Nation: Nigerians Made A Bad Choice In Tinubu – Apostle Suleman

By
James Orji
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Apostle Sulaiman

Nigerian Pentecostal pastor Apostle Johnson Suleman has blamed Nigerians for making a bad choice by electing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2023. He said their decision is responsible for the hardship Nigerians are now going through.

The cleric said he is not surprised that the economic situation in the country has nosedived since Tinubu came to office, saying it’s impossible for the president who has no ‘manifesto’ to turn the country around.

He said Nigerians were warned that Tinubu will not perform, that they made the choice even though “we cried out, we screamed, we yelled” that he had no capacity to take the country out of the woods, adding that Nigerians have another opportunity to end the administration in the next election.

The Man of God, MOG, spoke in Bauchi on Wednesday when he paid a visit to Governor Bala Mohammed, after a programmed organised by his church, Omega Fire Ministry tagged ‘Recovery Conference 2025”.

According to Suleman, he knew that Tinubu had nothing to offer, adding that the nation’s economy has gone from bad to worse since he came to power, citing the nation’s oil sector which he said had taken a hit under the administration.

He said it will take a while for the sector to recover from the damage it has suffered under the watcher eyes of President Tinubu.

Suleiman: “What Nigerians are going through is partly what they deserve. Before the election, we cried out, we screamed, we yelled. The man (President Bola Tinubu) who came into leadership had no manifesto—just a sense of entitlement with his ‘it’s my turn’ mantra.”

He added:“The oil sector has been plundered. In the next 10 to 15 years, I don’t think Nigerians will recover from the damage. Now, all we can do is pray.”

Many Nigerians pastors, including Suleman did not support President Tinubu aspiration to lead the country in 202.

The Sad End Of Reuben, An Expatriate, In Rivers State

By
Adesina Soyooye
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0
Mr Gibson Reuben

By Adesina Soyooye

Mr Gibson Reuben, an expatriate, was faced with a choice between the devil and the deep blue sea. Obviously in panic, and faced with a life and death situation, he hardly had the time to weigh between the two which was more dangerous than the other.

So, in panic, and with no time to think, he chose the deep blue sea. And paid with his life. If he had chosen the devil, perhaps, just perhaps, he could have been alive today. Atimes, a devil in human form, if given what he wants, could have a change of heart, and be lenient on his victim.

Following, is Ruben’s tragic end, an end that is bound to continue to tarnish Nigeria’s image and expose how dangerous our roads still are, and how lives in Nigeria  have been reduced to nothing, almost, no thanks to the unprecedented insecurity the country is battling.

A native of Netherlands, Reuben lived in Port Harcourt. He was not a parasite like a number of expatriates who live in some States are. He was in Rivers State where he was helping Nigeria, particularly, Rivers State, to attain food sufficiency, increase its Cassava output, export some and make the much wanted  and needed foreign exchange.

Mr Reuben was the Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of Rivers State Cassava Project Ltd.

But on Monday, at about 20.30 hours, according to the Police, all that ended.

Accompanied by Mobile Police Personnel to protect him, given the terrible situation in the country, he was his own driver in his vehicle, a hilux van. He drove himself, just like they do in his own country. In his country, just like in the USA, and other countries, only very few people can afford drivers. It’s expensive.  And in Netherlands, bicycle is the in-thing. Even the Prime Minister rides his bicycle to work.

So, Reuben was driving himself this Monday. When he and his escorts got to the Aleto Eleme Bridge, they ran into Nigeria’s many bad boys who lay in wait to attack. What happened next, how his Police escorts who were in same(?) car with him escaped has not been quite explained. But according to the Police and  eye witness accounts, Reuben, in a bid to escape his attackers veered off the bridge, and plunged into the River with his vehicle.

The whole of that day, the marine police and local divers looked for him and his van. Initially, they said they were on a rescue mission. But when it extended to the next day, it became a recovery mission.

And, as expected, on Tuesday, Ruben’s body was recovered in the river. He had drowned after a heart-rending battle  with death. His van too has been recovered.

Confirming the incident, the Spokesperson, Rivers State Police Command, while expressing sadness at Reuben’s fate, said: “Fortunately, the Mobile Police Personnel accompanying him managed to escape but he and his hilux van were submerged in the water.”

Fed Ministry Of Agriculture Flags Off Training Programme On Rice Production

By
Ayodele Oni
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Abubakar Kyari - Minister of Agriculture and Food Security

By Ayodele Oni

Participants from five Northern States are attending a two-day training programme, organized by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS) aimed at equipping 20 extension workers with advanced rice production techniques to enhance yield and address the impact of climate change.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria, (NAN), the programme, held in Kano on Wednesday, the “train-the-trainers” was organized in collaboration with the System of Rice Intensification (SRI-2030). Participants were drawn from Kano, Jigawa, Kebbi, Bauchi, and Adamawa states.

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, underscored the initiative’s objective to boost farmers’ productivity and minimize greenhouse gas emissions.

Represented by Mrs. Iyabo Lawal-Mustapha, Desk Officer in the Environment and Climate Change Management Department, Kyari emphasized rice production’s role in mitigating climate change.

“The issue of climate change is a global concern. Many states in Nigeria are involved in rice production. It is believed that climate action can be achieved through rice production, thereby achieving sustainable outcomes.

“We are now using the Agricultural Transformation Programme phase one (ATAPS) under the ministry to extend innovative practices and technologies to smallholder farmers.”

Abdulrahman Danbaba, master trainer for SRI-2030, highlighted the importance of reducing production costs through improved rice cultivation methods.

Representing James Dahlgreen, Program Director at SRI-2030, Danbaba stated, “We have trained over 45,000 farmers. By tomorrow, participants will embark on a field trip to Kura Local Government Area to practice the step-by-step implementation of SRI.

“Rice cultivation practices provide people around the world with nutrition while improving farmers’ livelihoods, conserving resources, and aiding in climate mitigation and adaptation.”

Dahlgreen further explained SRI’s goal to expand Nigeria’s rice cultivation from the current 6.7 million hectares to 50 million hectares by 2030, potentially reducing emissions by 8.5 billion tonnes of CO2e by 2050.

“SRI will help feed the world with less water, less climate impact, and without taking more land from nature,” he noted.

Kano state Governor, Abba Kabir-Yusuf reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to agricultural development.

Represented by Dr. Faruk Kurawa, Managing Director of the Kano State Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (KNARDA), he said, “We have improved irrigation facilities with over 22 dams and opened up more lands to boost agricultural production. We are always open to partnerships and committed to capacity building for our extension workers.”

“I Can Help Tinubu, But I Will Not” – Emir Sanusi

By
Adesina Soyooye
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1
Emir Sanusi Lamido and Bola Tinubu

By Adesina Soyooye

“This Government has nobody with pedigree to explain to the people what it is doing”

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Lamido Sanusi 11, has given reasons why he is looking the other way while the President Bola Tinubu Government struggles with Nigeria’s economy.

Sanusi, an accomplished banker, economist and financial expert was a former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, and before then, the Group Managing Director of one of Nigeria’s flagship banks, First Bank Plc.

But inspite of his vast experience in world economies, Sanusi said he will not lift a finger to help his home country, Nigeria, in its struggles to overcome an economy trying to come out of coma by way of offering advice. He said he will offer no advice at all even though he knows what to say, and how to help.

Sanusi spoke on Wednesday at the 21st Memorial Lecture of accomplished Lawyer, Chief   Gani Fawehimi. He was the Chairman of the occasion.

He disclosed that initially, he was helping the Tinubu Government, but has since decided not to lift a finger again. Stating why he took the decision not to help, he said that even though he regards himself as a friend of the Federal Government, the Federal Government has not treated him as its friend. In other words, for the Emir,  it is a “do me I do you” situation.

Emir Sanusi, as quoted by Punch: “I can give a few words here about what we are going through and how it was predictable and avoidable. But I am not going to do that. I have chosen not to speak on the economy or reforms or to explain anything because if I explain it, it will help this Government. But I don’t want to help this Government. They are my friends, but if they don’t behave like friends, I will not behave like a friend.

“They don’t even have people with pedigree that can come and explain to the people what they are doing. I am not going to help. I started by helping, but I am not going to help. Let them come and explain to Nigerians why they are pursuing the policies that they are pursuing. But I will say one thing though.

“What we are going through today is, at least,  in part, a necessary consequence of decades of irresponsible management.  People were saying that if we continued the way we were going, this is where we will end up, but they refused to listen.

“Now, is everything being done correctly? No. When I am ready to talk, I will talk.”

Not a few people think that the relationship between the FG and Sanusi broke down over the struggle for the throne of the Emir of Kanu. Sanusi’s re-installation as the 46th Emir of Kano by the Kano State Government led to the deposition of Emir Bayero, the 45th Emir of Kano. Sanusi had earlier been deposed by the immediate past Governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, now the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, who appointed Bayero the Emir. But with a new Government in the State, the Governor, Abba Yusuf, deposed Bayero, the 45th Emir, and re-installed Sanusi as the 46th Emir. The case is still in Court, with both Sanusi and Bayero laying claim to the revered stool, and each holding court in separate Palaces – Sanusi at the massive City Palace, and Bayero at a mini Palace, Nasarawa Quarters.

Both Sanusi and the Kano State Government believe that the FG is, allegedly, in support of Bayero and would rather have him as the Emir than him, Sanusi.

IGP Approves Establishment Of Anti Money Laundering Units In Police Commands

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Hyacinth Azuka Edozie

By Ayodele Oni

CP Azuka Edozie is in charge

A renowned financial expert,  Hyacinth Azuka Edozie, has been appointed to head the newly created Nigeria Police Anti-Money Laundering Unit.

The Unit has, also, been approved to take off in states’ command with officers of the rank of Chief Superintendents of Police (CSPs) to lead the units in all State Criminal Investigation Departments (SCIDs).

Force spokesman, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement on Wednesday, announced that the Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, has given approval for the take-off of the unit.

He explained that “the initiative is a strategic move to strengthen the Police’s role in national security, specifically in combating financial crimes. It is also critical in countering the sophisticated methods used by terrorist organizations and other criminal entities to finance their activities.

“The establishment underscores the Force’s commitment to safeguarding national security by preventing and detecting illicit financial activities that could undermine the country’s stability.

“It also enhances the operational capacity of law enforcement agencies, especially the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) in furtherance of its global oversight functions, to address various security threats.

“As a testament to the zeal to curb financial crimes and boost national security, the Police recently made significant arrests in Kano and Nasarawa States.

“On December 8, 2024, at Gwale, Kano, operatives, acting on credible intelligence, apprehended Nura Ibrahim and discovered counterfeit currency, which included the sum of N129,542,823,000 in counterfeit currencies, with a breakdown of 3,366,000 in Counterfeit US Dollars, 51,970 in Counterfeit CFA franc, and 1,443,000 in counterfeit Naira.

“The arrest led to further arrests of accomplices Muhammed Muntari and Usman Abdullahi.

“Similarly, on January 13, 2025, the Force arrested 53-year-old Ephraim Barde in New Karu, Nasarawa State, with counterfeit U.S. dollar notes totalling $160,000.

“Following the arrest, further investigations are underway to determine the full scope of Barde’s involvement and identify any accomplices. The Police are committed to preventing further threats to the nation’s financial system.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its efforts to combat financial crimes and ensure a secure economic environment with a view to promoting national security for the safety of all Nigerians and residents. The establishment of the Anti-Money Laundering Units is a vital step in this mission.

“The IGP calls on all citizens to play an active role in national security by reporting suspicious activities related to counterfeit currency and financial crimes.”

“You Cannot Overlook Kanu’s Detention, It’s Injustice” – Abia Group

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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0
Abia Group on Kanu

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

A coalition of Civil Society Groups in Abia State,  has called for the prioritization of dialogue over  violence to resolve the festering insecurity in the South East region.

The Coalition also urged the immediate dismantling of most of the security checkpoints in the region, insisting that they have become a veritable tool for mindless extortion and dehumanization of innocent people of the South East.

This is even as they insisted that the unconditional release of the leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, from detention holds the key to the ultimate resolution of the region’s security challenges.

At a media briefing in Aba on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, jointly addressed by  Chuka Peter Okoye, Eunice Egbuna ,Obina Nwagbara ,Onwuka Glory and Cassius Ukwuegbe,to mark the 55th anniversary of the end of the Nigerian civil war, the coalition of major civil societies in Abia state regretted the weight of the crisis that has engulfed the South East region in the last few years.

According to it, the time is now ripe for stakeholders, civil society groups, Government and non-state actors to weigh-in on the prevailing security situation in the region.

” In the face of escalating tensions, dialogue must replace violence, and understanding must triumph over conflicts.

“South East Nigeria is currently facing a crisis marked by escalating tensions and violence. The region has been plagued by unrest ,with clashes between security forces and non-state actors, and attacks on citizens becoming increasingly frequent.

“The people of the South East Nigeria are living in fear and uncertainty with their security and welfare hanging in the balance .The situation has reached a critical point ,necessitating urgent attention and converted efforts to address the root causes”,  the Abia coalition stated.

According to the body, the rising conflict and unrest in the region are undoubtedly a fall-out of the separatist movements, and calls for session in the South East.

It maintained that the  renewed calls for Biafra since 1999 when the Movement for the Actualization of Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB was formed are attributed to historical  grievances, resulting from marginalization of the zone since the civil war ended in 1970.

The Coalition noted that the situation is not also helped by the dearth of visionary, honest and purposeful leadership in the region at all levels of governance .

It explained that the problem of lack of focused leadership has in turn brought about discontent and dissolutionment arising mainly from poverty among the majority of the populace .

“The situation in the South East is complex and multifaceted as the region has become a powder keg of discontent.

The proscription of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra, IPOB, and continued detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu ,the declaration and enforcement of the numerous sit-at-home orders in protest against his trial ,and the quest to have May 30 as a Day of Remembrance for Igbo who died during the civil war have immensely contributed to the tensions leading to a cycle of violence and unrest in the region”,  the Abia Coalition noted.

The group lamented that rather than address the issue of alleged marginalization which the people have been  crying out against, the Federal  Government is seen to be responding with intimidation and even more marginalization.

“In Nigeria today, the South East has the least number of number of States, Local Governments Areas representatives, Political appointments and Federal Government presence .

“Nnamdi Kanu’s continued incarceration and no attempt by the Federal Government of Nigeria embrace other diplomatic approaches rather use of force to address the issue in a country where people from other regions have engaged in crimes against the state, but were engaged in dialogue is a testament to the marginalization of the People.

“Rather than engage in meaningful dialogue with the agitators for Biafra and stakeholders from the South East, Nigeria Government has chosen the use of force.

“Historical patterns show that the use of force has failed to resolve underlying grievances .Open dialogue will foster understanding and create an opportunity for lasting solutions to challenges faced in the region. It is essential that the Government acknowledges the voice of the people of the South East and addresses their concerns in a constructive manner.

“Amidst the conflicts, the people of the South East of Nigeria are bearing the brunt of the crisis ,facing threats to their safety ,livelihoods ,and basic human rights,and from our observation, the Federal Government of Nigeria in nonchalant about the plights of the citizens of the South East.

“Reports of human rights violations ,extra judicial killings ,and arbitrary arrests have raised alarm bells both within the country and on the international stage .The need to protect the civilian population and uphold their fundamental rights is paramount in any efforts to restore peace and stability to the region”, the group stated.

According to the coalition, drastically reducing the number of military, police and other security checkpoints will greatly assist in equally reducing tensions and violence in the region.

It described, as unprecedented and brazen, the extortion of the civilian populace in the South East.

” The extortion of motorists and young people by the personnel of the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Police , and every other security agency on the roads in the South East is brazen and unprecedented.

“This has been going on despite the hues and cries by citizens ,including complaints on the floor of the Senate and House of Representatives by National Assembly members from the South East.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria appears to have continued to look the other way ,while security agencies intimidate and extort citizens at every checkpoint in the South East,

“The reactive and kinetic approach/conducts of security agents in the South East ,aimed at suppressing and exploiting people ,has further exacerbated the crisis in the region”, the body stated.

To this end,the coalition insisted that the situation in the region urgently calls for a national healing .

According to  it, the healing process should begin with the unconditional release of Kanu the IPOB leading ,a development which it strongly believes will serve to separate the genuine agitators from those merely building an economic capital out of the misery of the people ..

“The detention of a prominent leader only serves to deepen the wounds of division and mistrust in society.

“To overlook the detention and unending trial of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is to turn a blind eye to a serious case of injustice and endorsement of the continued marginalization of a people . Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s release is not just a mere request, but a necessity for the restoration of peace and stability in the South East”, the Coalition noted.

Armed Forces Remembrance Day: Award Scholarships To Fallen Heroes’ Wards, Uzodimma Pleads

By
The Source
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0
Hope Uzodimma- Governor of Imo State

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has appealed to the civil populace, especially private school proprietors, to assist the children of deceased soldiers by awarding scholarships to them as a way to cushion the effects of the loss of their bread-winners.

The Governor made the request on Wednesday in his remarks at the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration at the Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu Square, New Owerri, Imo State.

He said, “beyond the annual observance there is need to focus on the significance of the fallen heroes who scarified and laid down their lives for others for the peace and continued existence of our country, Nigeria as one entity,” noting that “the sacrifice is the highest form of patriotism for which we can never repay them enough.”

“Patriotism is the love of one’s country. These Nigerians we are remembering today love Nigeria unto death,” he added and asserted that “we have various contributions to make to demonstrate our love for Nigeria.”

Uzodimma said: “Nigerians need to do all within their powers to support the families of the departed gallant soldiers. The support could be physical, through monetary assistance; emotional, through kind words of consolations and encouragement, hence the need to be with them, to reassure them that their husbands and fathers did not die in vain.”

He saluted Faith-based organisations and other Non Governmental Organisations who have been faithful in offering support, assistance and succour to the families of the departed soldiers and appealed that they should not limit their assistance to the Armed Forces Remembrance Day only, “but rather extend help whenever we have the resources.”

Uzodimma said that such selfless responsibilities are always rewarded by  God who sees in the secret.

On the side of his administration, Uzodimma assured of continuing assistance to both the families of the departed and serving personnel, saying that “Imo people owe the security agencies immense gratitude for helping us to battle insecurity.”

He regretted that some of them have died in the course of maintaining peace in the State, and assured that his government will continue to honour the memories of such heroes.

Again, he appealed to Imo people not to hesitate in volunteering helpful information to the security agencies in the fight against insecurity,  using the occasion to remind those who have been stoking the fires of insecurity in the State, and indeed, Nigeria, to see the solemn event of Armed forces Remembrance Day as a sober opportunity to reflect on the consequences of war and violence as an ill-wind that blows no one any good.

“They should repent and turn a new leaf for peace to reign in our land.”

Uzodimma used the occasion to extend Imo State’s support and appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support, assistance, encouragement and funding of the Nigerian Armed Forces in the fight against insecurity in the Country.

He equally thanked the Armed Forces for their gallantry, and assured them that they are not alone and will not be abandoned as his administration will continue to support them.

He also prayed for the Armed Forces as a whole, the people of Imo State and Nigeria in general for peace and unity of the country.

During the event, Governor Uzodimma had laid a wreath as the Special Guest of honour, signed the Register and performed the symbolic release of pigeons to signify peace in the land.

The ceremony was attended by the Wife of the Governor, Barr. (Mrs.) Chioma Uzodimma, the Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, the Speaker, Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe and members of the House of Assembly.

Others include the three Senators of Imo State extraction, members of the Federal House of Representatives, members of the Judiciary, members of the State Executive Council, the leadership of APC at the national, zonal and state levels, local government Chairmen and councillors.

Others were the former Governor of the State, Chief Ikedi Ohakim, former Deputy Governors of Imo State (Dr. Jude Agbaso and Chief Mrs. Ada Okewulonu), traditional rulers, all Service Chiefs serving in Imo State, captains of industries and others too numerous to mention.

Earlier in the day, Governor Uzodimma attended the Thanksgiving Church Service of the first year of his second tenure administration at the Maria Assumpta Cathedral Owerri where he recommitted his administration to the service of the people and enjoined all to join hands with him to ensure that Imo State is made the envy of other States in the country.

He thanked the leadership of the Church for their prayers at all times, and pleased with them to appreciate the efforts good people who are in government make to ensure that the society is served well.

The Catholic Archbishop of Owerri Ecclesiastical Province, His Grace, Most Rev Lucius Ugorji thanked and prayed for the Governor for all he has done to provide good leadership in Imo State since assuming office and urged him not to loose focus so that he can do more.

Bishop Ugorji also prayed for the repose of the souls of the fallen heroes in the spirit of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day Thanksgiving Service, and urged the people to show love and kindness to the families of the deceased soldiers who died in the course of serving the Nation.

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