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Gunmen Abduct Ohaneze Youth Council President

By
The Source
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Comrade Igboayaka O Igboayaka

By Charles Igbo

The Igbo National Council, INC, announced on Sunday, February 9, 2025, that Comrade Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, has been abducted.

Igboayaka is the President of Ohaneze Youth Council, (OYC).

The statement which announced the incident was signed  by Chilos Godsent, President of the INC.

According to the statement, Igboayaka was abducted by  about seven gunmen, who wore black, and drove in two vehicles – a Sienna and a Lexus  SUV.

The incident happened at about 7.00pm, at the Works Layout, Owerri, Imo State Capital.

Godsent said Igboayaka was was abducted in a Neo Mafia Gestapo manner. His whereabouts remain unknown. He is, also, unreachable as, according to the statement, his mobile phones are switched off.

Following, the full text of the statement.

“On Saturday, 8th  February 2025, at about 7.00pm, we heard the sad news that gunmen, dressed in black, and numbering up to seven, arrived on a Sienna and a Lexus SUV, and forcefully   arrested the President of the Ohaneze Youth  Council, Comrade (OYC) -Comrade Igboayaka O. Igboayaka in a Neo Mafia Gestapo manner at Works Layout, Owerri, Imo State.

“Since this sad news, attempts by teeming members, friends and associates to reach him through his Mobile lines  to ascertain his whereabouts have failed because all his Mobile lines were switched off immediately the ugly incident took place.

“On the foregoing the Igbo National Council (INC), wish to call on the Leadership of the Nigerian Police Force, Imo State Command, to immediately swing to action to determine the identity of the gunmen that forcefully took the President  of Ohaneze Youth Council (OYC) – Comrade Igboayaka O. Igboayaka captive on the evening of Saturday 8th February 2025 in Owerri Metropolis, and thus make same public.

“The Igbo National Council, (INC), notes that the followers, family, friends and associates have been thrown into confusion since the ugly incident, and would like to know his whereabouts soonest.”

The statement did not say if Igboayaka was abducted along the road or in a house. There is, also, no statement yet by the Imo State Police Command or the OYC.

“I Want Nobody To  Beg FG For My Release” – Nnamdi Kanu, IPOB Leader

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The Source
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Nnamdi-Kanu - IPOB Leader

By Charles Igbo

Detained Leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra, IPOB, has forbidden anybody to plead for his release from the Federal Government.

Kanu, who has been under the custody of the Federal Government since 2021 when he was renditioned extraordinarily by the FG, from Nairobi, Kenya, is being prosecuted at a Federal High Court, Abuja, on allegations bordering on sundry issues, including treasonable felony. But a couple of Courts, including the Federal High Court has discharged the IPOB Leader of those allegations and ordered for his release. That notwithstanding, the FG has continued with his trial, insisting that Kanu has not been discharged and acquitted of all the allegations made against him.

However, quite a number of notable  people and groups, including Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, SE National Assembly Members and more, have asked, and pleaded with the Federal Government to release the embattled IPOB Leader from custody. They insist that only a political situation would resolve the issues. Former President Muhammadu Buhari had made promises of Kanu’s possible release a couple of times, but failed to do so.

Now, Kanu has let it be known that nobody should beg anybody to release him. All he wants, he said, is for the FG to obey Court Orders and release him accordingly.

Kanu’s stand on his release was conveyed in a statement issued by his lead Counsel, Alloy Ejimakor on Saturday, February  8, 2024 after a visit to Kanu on Friday.

The statement released by Ejimakor reads:

“The matter of releasing Nnamdi Kanu is not act of mercy, pardon, executive clemency or even amnesty. Instead, it should be an act of complying with subsisting Federal High Court judgement that declared his detention as unconstitutional or even the extant international tribunal decisions that separately declared his detention as unlawful. Alternatively, the decision to free him from detention and discontinue his infamous prosecution can be made by simply resorting to the constitutional provisions that empower the Attorney General of the Federation (on the directive of the President) to discontinue any prosecution.

“Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is adamant that nobody should plead or beg anybody on his behalf because he  has committed no crime. Self determination, which is the real issue that got twisted to suddenly become a high crime, is an inalienable right guaranteed under the laws of Nigeria, the United Nations, the United Kingdom and Kenya. Thus, the perverse and unlawful criminalization of his exercise of this right should not be unwittingly be encouraged through some misguided appeals for pardon, clemency or mercy. Thus, releasing Nnamdi Kanu is not an act of mercy or pardon but an act of abiding by the rule of law.

“In as much as those calling for his release are sincere, their calls for pardon or clemency may be misconstrued as a green light to the executive branch, or even the Courts to violate the rule of law by continuing to subject Nnamdi Kanu to a prosecution or trial that does not comport with the tenants of the Constitution and Nigeria’s treaty obligations.

“Instead of begging, those desiring his release should emulate the language and tact used by Afenifere, Ohaneze, World Igbo Congress (WIC), ranking members of the National Assembly, American Military Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID), Ambassadors for Self Determination (based in America), the international community and a host of others who have made it clear that Nnamdi Kanu deserves to be released because he has committed no offence known to law. If truth be told, it is Nigeria’s executive branch which extraordinarily renditioned Mazi Nnamdi Kanu that should show contrition for resorting to extraordinary rendition, which is a State crime under international law and the common law. If any begging must be done, it should be directed to the Courts to conduct his cases, and that of IPOB with the utmost impartiality and adherence to the rule of law, equity and good conscience.”

Kanu was brought back from Nairobi, Kenya, during a visit  to that country, under  circumstances his legal team has described as extraordinary rendition. He has, since then, been under detention and prosecution by the Federal Government.

Recently, he asked the trial Judge, the Honourable Justice Binta Nyako, to recuse herself from the case. Nyako complied and returned the case file to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court. But the CJ refused the recuse and returned the file to Nyako.

On Friday, 7th February, 2025, Nyako’s Court asked Kanu to appear in Court on Monday 10th February.

It is to be seen if Kanu, having asked the Honourable Judge  to recuse herself, would agree to appear in Court, or, if he does, would cooperate and allow his trial to proceed.

Sacked Adamawa REC, Insists APC’s Binani, Won 2023 Governorship Election

By
Adesina Soyooye
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Sacked former Adamawa State INEC Hudi Ari

By Adesina Soyooye

The embattled, and now sacked former Adamawa State Resident Electoral Commissioner during the 2023 Governorship Election,  Hudi Ari, a Lawyer, has insisted that he did no wrong and the controversial result which he announced was authentic.

Ari had caused confusion and controversy and protests when he  unilaterally, announced the Candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Aisha Binani, as the winner of the Governorship election. But incumbent Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, and his Political Party, the Peoples Democratic Party, screamed blue murder. They said not only was counting of votes still ongoing, Governor Fintiri was comfortably in the lead. More important, it was not Ari’s job to announce the result. An embarrassed National Headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, put a lie to the result declared by Ari, and invited him to Abuja for briefing. It was an invitation Ari did not keep, as he made a disappearing act. When the result was finally declared, Fintiri was the winner.

Later, INEC suspended Ari, an action that was endorsed by then President Muhammadu Buhari.

On her part, Binani proceeded to challenge her loss at the Election Tribunal and Courts. She gave up when she, finally, lost at the  Supreme Court.

Last week, President Bola Tinubu sacked Ari, along with two others. But in a swift and defiance  response, Ari insisted that he did no wrong; that he has  enough evidence to support the result he declared; that he was not given the opportunity to present his case either at the Tribunal or in the Courts, or even before INEC; that all the letters he wrote were ignored; and that he stands by the result he declared that Binani was the rightful winner of the Governorship election.

On his dismissal by President Tinubu, he waxed philosophical and  noted that it was not a problem to him, but reminded all concerned parties about the last day.

Ari: “The dismissal is not my problem. The civil service is governed by civil service rules, procedures, and services. In law, there is what we call the golden rule of natural justice which says that you must be heard. Even God will never punish anybody without sending the messages, the prophets, and the scriptures.

“The refusal of INEC to collect my letters and then the Tribunal said they are not using my evidence. Even as an ordinary judge, what do you say to that?”

With a copy of the Holy Quran in one hand, Ari said:

“Wallahi, whatever I do, I do it within the bounds of the Quran. We have to remember the last day.”

Insisting he has no regrets for declaring Binani winner, he said given same circumstances, he would still do the same. He accused some INEC staff of compromise, and revealed that some of them were, also, beaten physically. Ari described himself as a victim of  Media trial.

He, however, hinted that his dismissal may not go unchallenged as he was consulting with family and friends for the way forward.

From Aguobu-Owa to Isuaniocha

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The Source
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Valentine Obienyem
Valentine Obienyem

By Valentine Obienyem

Due to the security situation in the country, travelling has become one of the most disturbing challenges. However, there are some places one must figure out how to attend. We faced such a dilemma today as the Saturday Editor of Vanguard Newspaper, Mr. Onochie Anibeze, was burying his mother at Aguobu-Owa in Eziagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.

His Excellency had earlier spoken to the Editor, informing him of his overseas trip while assuring him that he would be represented. However, beyond this, the greatest concern was security.

As we planned for the trip, His Excellency, whose wealth of humour is known only to those close to him, humorously remarked that if security became a serious issue, I should look for a disused car to take me. He suggested I wear shorts and turn my shirt inside out so that, if stopped by kidnappers, I could claim to be a petty trader transporting goods to the bereaved. He further advised that I should change into proper clothing upon arrival at the venue.

In spite of all concerns, I arrived at Aguobu-Owa before the Mass began. However, another challenge arose: how to also attend the feast day of my alma mater, St. John Bosco Seminary, Isuaniocha. It was an event I had to be present at, as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of our Old Boys’ Association, with important roles to play. The President and I had discussed it, and as we visited the school on the eve of the feast to assess preparations, the thought of attending both events troubled me. What struck me with nostalgia  during the visit was the Rector’s remark that the main generator used in the seminary was donated by Mr. Peter Obi. The same applied to their buses.

Eventually, I left Aguobu-Owa  immediately after Mass to make it to Isuaniocha. Having inquired about the security situation in Enugu – which had considerably improved – we decided to take the Umumba-Ndiagu / Agba-Umana road, exiting at Ebenebe, and thenceforth  to Isuaniocha.

As we drove, I regretted to note that South-East Governors need to cooperate more and work as a team. I pointed out, for instance, that the Ebenebe-Agba-Umana-Umumba/Ndiagu road should, by common agreement, be undertaken jointly by both state governments each  to cover his own state. This would significantly reduce travel time from Ebenebe to that part of Enugu to just a few minutes. As it stands, the journey from Aguobu-Owa to Awka via that route took us about 40 minutes. Were the road in good condition, it would take less than 20 minutes.

Upon arrival at Isuaniocha, the Mass was already over. However, I joined our Old Boys in the staff room for refreshments. Ostende whispered to me that the only thing I had missed was the choir performance. As a former choirmaster, his commendation of another choir’s performance suggested that it must have been a truly heavenly rendition, worthy of St. Cecilia.

The seminary is a place where Old Boys feel at home. Reflecting on our Spartan training, which instilled discipline in us, one cannot help but appreciate the seminary’s enduring influence.

As we settled down for the feast, many thoughts crossed my mind. In the midst of the present hardship in the country and the Church’s determination to train priests while collecting only basic fees from seminarians, one wonders how they are fed. This is why the proprietor of the school, Bishop Paulinus Ezeokafor, needs continuous support. It is also why we, the Old Boys, are determined to assist.

Speaking on behalf of the Old Boys before our presentation of a ₦5, 000,000 donation – which we also plan to extend to our sister seminary, St. Dominic Savio Seminary, Akpu, during their feast next month – I commended the proprietor, Bishop Paulinus Ezeokafor, for his paternal guidance of the seminary.

I also commended our President, Comrade Celestine Ostende Oguegbu, for his outstanding leadership. His dedication to the Old Boys’ Association is so passionate that one would think his very existence depended on it. He has continued to encourage and mobilise many Old Boys in various ways.

Furthermore, I commended the Rector, Fr. Daniel Eduzor, and other formators. Each visit to the seminary brings fresh delight, as development is always evident. I took the liberty of recognising Dr. Dominic Nwankwo as the highest benefactor among the Old Boys. He single-handedly donated a jeep to one of our revered formators, Msgr. Sylvester Mgbemful, when he celebrated his 50th priestly anniversary. Additionally, he has renovated buildings and provided vehicles to both seminaries. With some humour, I remarked that if anyone desires to be recognised like him, they should do as he has done.

In his opening speech, the Rector quoted from the Book of Lamentations. As far as I am concerned, even without knowing the exact passage, the mere mention of Lamentations suggests that they are indeed lamenting their many needs and seeking help.:

The Old Boys are delighted that, despite the seminary’s zero tolerance for examination malpractice, it remains one of the best academic institutions in the country. The Rector proudly announced that the seminary participated in the inaugural Nigerian Mathematics and Science Olympiad Examination, securing 1st, 6th, and 18th positions among 400 participants. In summarising Catholic education, the Rector encapsulated its essence “Our pedagogical approach is based on the Catholic faith, which integrates and balances human, psychological, spiritual, and intellectual formation, embracing a holistic education.”

As the Old Boys continue to rally behind their alma mater, their contributions serve as a reminder that true success is measured not just by personal achievements but by the legacy of support and mentorship left behind. The seminary remains a beacon of academic and moral excellence, and with continued dedication from its alumni and benefactors, its mission of holistic Catholic education will endure for generations to come.

Obienyem, a Lawyer and Obi’s Associate, writes from Awka

Continental Body Applauds Contributions Of ICCO, WCF To Cocoa Business

By
Ayodele Oni
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Cocoa Farmers

By Ayodele Oni

The Cocoa Farmers Alliance Association of Africa (COFAAA) a Continental body which aims at promoting Cocoa business, has commended the leadership of the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) and the World Cocoa Foundation (WCF) for their commitment and collaboration to the development of the global cocoa economy and farmers.

COFAAA noted that the dedication of the two bodies continues to illuminate the path for cocoa farmers across Africa, unlocking transformative opportunities and fostering sustainable growth.

This was contained in a statement signed by Adeola Adegoke

President & Global Coordinator, COFAAA (Nigeria) and Nana Yaw Reuben, PRO, COFAAA, Ghana.

The statement added that “We commend both organizations for their invaluable contributions to African cocoa farmers economy and the global cocoa industry sustainability.

“Their tireless efforts have driven stability, sustainability, governance and progress, profoundly improving the lives of countless farmers, strengthening communities’ development, and fueling economic growth.

“Through their pragmatic leadership, they are shaping a more prosperous future for cocoa-producing nations worldwide.”

According to the Continental body, “Key areas of impact include: Enhancing Cocoa Farmers’ Prosperity: Through various programs and initiatives, WCF and ICCO have played a pivotal role in improving the living standards of cocoa farmers, ensuring their long-term sustainability in the sector.

“Advancing Traceability in Cocoa-Producing Countries: Their efforts in promoting traceability have strengthened the credibility and transparency of the cocoa supply chain, fostering trust and ensuring compliance with international standards.

“Encouraging Collaboration on Sustainable Practices: By facilitating cooperation among cocoa-origin countries, WCF and ICCO have contributed to the promotion and implementation of sustainable cocoa farming practices.

“Agroforestry Intensification and Partnerships: Their commitment to agroforestry has enhanced biodiversity, soil conservation, and climate resilience, promoting sustainable agricultural practices among farmers.

“Supporting Cocoa-Producing Countries in Adopting EUDR Compliance: Recognizing the importance of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), both organizations have provided vital support to cocoa-producing countries in aligning with these regulatory requirements.

“Advocacy for Human Rights Protection in the Cocoa Value Chain: WCF and ICCO have actively championed human rights protection, working towards the eradication of child labor and ensuring fair working conditions for all stakeholders in the cocoa sector.

“Providing Governance and Stability in the Cocoa Industry: Their leadership and governance efforts have strengthened the cocoa industry, fostering resilience and equitable participation across the value chain.

“Promoting Value Addition and Cocoa Consumption: By advocating for local value addition, both organizations have encouraged industrial growth in cocoa-producing nations, contributing to job creation and increased revenue streams.”

It assured that COFAAA remains committed to working closely with ICCO and WCF to build a thriving, sustainable, and prosperous cocoa industry.

Oluwatuyi, Late Ondo Scribe, Laid To Rest, Gov Aiyedatiwa Lauds Contributions

By
Ayodele Oni
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Tayo Oluwatuyi is dead

By Ayodele Oni

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has described the late Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Temitayo Oluwatuyi, as an exemplary public servant whose life was dedicated to service, leadership, and community development.

The Governor stated this in his remarks during the outing and thanksgiving service held for the late Oluwatuyi at the Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Isegun, Akure, on Saturday.

Governor Aiyedatiwa reflected on the inevitability of death, quoting Ecclesiastes 3:2 and Job 14:5 to emphasize that every life is predetermined by God.

The Governor acknowledged the painful reality of Oluwatuyi’s passing, but urged the congregation to take solace in the impactful life he lived.

“Hon. Oluwatuyi, fondly called Tuykana, has paid his own debt. His contributions to the development of Ondo State and grassroots politics were remarkable.

“He was a compassionate leader who worked tirelessly to uplift those around him. His unwavering commitment to public service earned him the love and respect of his people.”

He described the late Oluwatuyi as a political giant and a unifying figure who was deeply involved in the affairs of the state, having served as a local government chairman, commissioner for natural resources, and twice as Secretary to the State Government.

The Governor recalled their time working together, emphasizing the deceased’s wisdom, leadership qualities, and ability to bring people together for the common good.

“His passing leaves a huge void, but as we celebrate his legacy, we must remember his dedication to the growth and progress of Ondo State. His legacy should inspire us all to serve with integrity, compassion, and excellence.”

In a sermon titled “Prepare to Meet Your Appointment with Your Maker,” the President of the Christ Apostolic Church, Nigeria and Overseas, Pastor Henry Ojo, delivered a thought-provoking message on the certainty of death and the need for spiritual preparedness.

He stressed that death is the inevitable vehicle that transports every human either rich or poor, regardless of status, race, or background to their final appointment with God.

Speaking on behalf of the family, the deceased’s daughter, Mrs. Jumoke Adeola, expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stood by them during their time of grief.

She thanked Governor Aiyedatiwa, the Ondo State Government, political and religious leaders, friends, and well-wishers for their support, prayers, and presence.

Nigerian Army Alerts On Fake COAS

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Major General Onyema Nwachukwu

By Ayodele Oni

The Nigerian Army has warned members of the public about the activities of some persons parading themselves on social media as the Chief of Army Staff, (COAS) now operating in the country.

The Army said so far several telephone numbers with which the fake army chiefs are operating have been collated and being investigated.

Director Army Public Relations , Major General Onyema Nwachukwu in a press statement on Saturday noted that the imposters have continued to perpetrate this mischief using the official portrait of the COAS, as profile picture on their various social media platforms.

The statement reads “The Nigerian Army has warned the public to be cautious of impostors claiming to be the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede on various social media platforms.  These scammers often use social media platforms to deceive unsuspecting individuals, seeking financial gain or sensitive information.

“It is imperative to state that this is not the first time imposters have attempted to impersonate the person of the COAS on social media platforms to dupe unsuspecting members of the public in one form or the other.

“A new trend observed however, is the fixing of online/ vitual meetings on zoom, WhatsApp, Facebook and other online engagements with demand that participants share specific numbers which appear on their screens during such meetings with which the imposters then engage individually with the participants and subsequently defraud them.

“While the Nigerian Army, like other sister services of the Armed Forces have peculiar ways of communication known to all officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, members of the general public must be wary of the danger posed by these imposters and are therefore urged to refrain from engaging in any online meeting organised on social media platforms especially using the official portrait of the COAS as the display picture.

“Members of the general public are enjoined to report such mobile phone numbers used to fix such online or virtual meetings through the Nigerian Army toll-free call centre number 193 for appropriate follow-up actions.

“The Nigerian Army entreats personnel and non personnel alike to be circumspect in engaging in any social media online, virtual meeting, or call, as official means of communication with the Nigerian Army hierarchy. Established protocols and procedures should be relied on while being vigilant against the wiles of scammers.

“To avoid falling victim to these scams, it’s essential to verify the authenticity of the Chief of Army Staff’s identity. Here are some *Red Flags to Watch Out For:

“Unofficial social media accounts: Be wary of accounts that are not officially recognized by the Nigerian Army.

“Suspicious requests: Be cautious of requests for financial assistance, personal information, or sensitive data.

“Poor grammar and spelling: Official communication from the Chief of Army Staff would typically be professional and free of errors.

“If you suspect an imposter, report them immediately to the relevant authorities. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!”

Imo To Become Home For Medical Tourism –  Uzodimma …Inaugurates IMSUTH, IMSUBEB Boards

By
The Source
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0
Hope Uzodimma Inaugurates IMSUTH and IMSUBEB Boards

The Governor of  Imo  State, Senator Hope Uzodimma has described health and education as critical sectors that directly impact on the life and well-being of the people.

He said that necessitated the urgent intervention of his administration in the sectors on assumption of office in 2020.

Senator Uzodimma spoke weekend, while inaugurating the the Board of Imo State University Teaching Hospital (IMSUTH) and that of Imo State Universal Basic Education Board (IMSUBEB).

He noted that since the inception of his administration in 2020, concerted efforts have been made to restore and revamp the only State owned tertiary hospital,  IMSUTH, Orlu, which had hitherto remained comatose.

He expressed delight that today “the institution can stand among the league of effective teaching hospitals in the country.”

The Governor regretted that about 70% of deaths occurring in the country were preventable, and due mainly to poor or lack of health care delivery system, and maintained that “much of such deaths would have been avoided with the presence of good primary,  secondary and tertiary health care institutions.”

He hinted that his administration has invested over N4billion to rehabilitate faculties and procure equipment at the University Teaching Hospital, as well as attracted professionals with proven record of local and international medical practice to the institution.

The Governor therefore encouraged the Chairman, Dr. Emmanuel Ogueri, and other members of the Board – Prof Kelechi  Uwakwe (Chief Medical Director), Rev.Fr.bDr Emeka Emekaraoha, Anyaehie Okameme, and Dr Osita Kingsley Uzoma – to bring to bear their wealth of knowledge and experience in medical practice abroad, and replicate same to make Imo a centre for medical tourism.

“This is your own. Help to stop the medical tourism in Imo. Bring back here your wealth of knowledge and experience. Unless we are healthy there won’t be development,” the Governor said.

He advised for synergy between the Board and the management of the Institution, and noted that the current CMD has enough information that the Board can rely on to work.

He promised that government will support the team to deliver on the assignment given to them.

To the State Universal Basic Education Board, Hon Chidiebere Egbo (Chairman), Arc. Mrs Amaka Onu, Hon Chuks Metu (Secretary), Hon Vitalis Obioma, Hon Edward  Obinna, Mrs Nzeoma Lucy Nkeiru, and Mrs Leticia  Amandianeze, the Governor enjoined them to show prudence and accountability in the management of funds, and pledged to publish their monthly reports for Imo people to see.

“Your failure is our collective failure; and your success, our collective success. Be wary of those who will tell you it is now your turn, because it is not your turn, but the turn of Imo people. Change the story, rebuild the schools, and go and serve as servants,” he cautioned.

Senator Uzodimma called for sacrifice on the part of the Board, noting that his administration has made efforts to pay all the outstanding counterpart funding obligations and saved about N20billion which he said will be used to give face lift to primary/secondary schools and also provide qualitative basic education that will include qualitative teaching personnel, materials and environment in the State.

In their separate acceptance speeches, the Board Chairman, Imo State University Teaching Hospital, Dr.  Emmanuel Ogueri thanked the Governor for the confidence reposed on him and his members and vouched that they will do their best to provide the much sought after medical services that people seek outside the shores of the country such as complicated surgeries and organ transplant.

On his part, the Chairman of Imo State Universal Education Board (IMSUBEB), Hon.  Chidiebere Egbo commended the efforts of the Governor in ensuring that the status of the education sectors in Imo is restored, and pledged that the Board will align with the vision of the Governor and make polices that will improve the quality of basic education in the State, while also carrying out their task with utmost sense of responsibility.

The inauguration ceremonies were witnessed by key government officials like the Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe, Secretary to the State Government, Chief Cosmos Iwu, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr Nnamdi Anyaehie, Head of Service, Mrs. Chikaodi Emenalor, Commissioners, and stakeholders like, Barr. Marcelinus Nlemigbo, Chief Charles Amadi, Chief Tony Chukwu, HRH, Eze Oliver Ohanwhe, among others.

EFCC Honours Officer Slain By Suspected Fraudsters, Visit Family In Sokoto

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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EFCC Honours Officer Slain By Suspected Fraudsters

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Economic and  Financial Crime Commission, EFCC, on Saturday announced a posthumous award/honour to its late operative Aminu Sahabi. He was tragically shot during an operation in Anambra State.

The Source reports that Sahabi was gunned down during an operation aimed at apprehending some suspected internet fraudsters in Awka Anambra state on January 17. 2025.

In an official statement posted on its site, the anti-graft agency informed that  its Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, approved the conferment of the ” Bravery Medal Award” on the fallen officer.

The honour, according to the statement, was conferred on the late operative during a condolence visit to the  family in Sokoto by the Commission

“The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crime Commission EFCC, Mr Ola Olukoyede, has conferred a posthumous Award of Bravery on a slain officer of the Commission Assistant Superintendent of the EFVC ASE II, Aminu Harisu Sahabi.

He disclosed this in Sokoto on Friday February 7, 2025, when he paid a condolence visit to the family of the late officer at the Gawon Nama area of Sokoto metropolis Sokoto state.

“Sahabi was killed in cold blood in Awka, Anambra State, on January 17, 2025, while on an official assignment to apprehend suspected internet fraudsters”,the EFCC wrote.

The  Chairman was accompanied on the visit by some top officials of the agency including the Director of Finance and Accounts, Ahmed Pate, Ag.Director of Sokoto Donal Directorate ,Nwanneka Nwokike and the Management Staff of the Sokoto Zonal Directorate .

The Chairman also commiserated with the family over the sad loss.

“As a Commission, we share in the pains and grief of the loss,but we cannot question that the Lord calls us home.

“The late Aminu was a gallant officer,full of promise and in the services of his fatherland when he met with the tragic incident .Indeed ,Allah gives and Allah takes .

“I am personally here to  assure that his sacrifices will never be forgotten, nor will those accused be allowed to go free. They must, and they will face the full wrath of the law”, Olukoyede vowed.

Foundation Urges Tinubu To Pay $100b To Niger Delta Oil Communities

By
Akinwale Kasali
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0
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

By Akinwale Kasali

A Foundation under the aegis of Clean Ecosystem Foundation, has urged President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly to work out modalities for the payment of $100 billion to Oil Producing Communities in the Niger Delta.

The fund, it said, is compensation for years of oil exploration and exploitation, which the group said has led to irreversible damages to the livelihood and the ecosystem.

The group said the fund will douse raging tension, hopelessness, and should be paid into a special account to be administered by Oil Producing States in collaboration with local and international environmental groups.

The Clean Ecosystem Foundation which was registered in 2019, in the report issued at the weekend, said the recommendation came after a month long tour of nine oil producing states in Niger Delta.

The fact-finding tour made up of seven environmental experts began in early January and ended this week.

“There is the urgent need for the Presidency and the National Assembly to pay $100b to oil producing communities in the Niger-Delta.

“This fund is needed very urgently, specifically to address provision of health facilities, replenishment of floundering rare animals, plants and fish species which have been devastated for the past 65 years.

“The fund should also focus on reviving fishing and agriculture and should be worked out urgently before it is too late,”

The statement was signed by the Group’s Executive Director, Mr Isaac Onome. He said he would work with local and international organizations to exert pressure on the Nigerian Government to make payment of the $100b this year.

He recalled that the leadership of the group led by Onome once met the former Vice President of the United States, Al Gore, who indicated deep interests in the challenges faced by people from oil producing communities in Nigeria.

The group said the oil producing communities are currently not feeling enough the direct impact of Government’s  various interventions due to bureaucracy and the existence of local and national cabals that have taken over funds allocated through the various state-driven agencies.

The organization said the experts conducted extensive medical, biological and carbon emission tests which indicated that life expectancy in oil producing communities in the Niger Delta have been reduced to half of what it used to be 65 years ago.

Onome decried the absence of medical facilities, lack of access of oil producing communities to healthcare, lack of access to drinkable water, significant loss of absence of protein which is essential for growth and the abundance of carbon monoxide and other gas and oil related emissions which combine to destroy livelihood of the people in the oil producing communities.

“We met no fewer than 5000 people and conducted medical tests on thousands of people and soil test in several communities. The conclusion is that the Niger Delta is a walking corpse,” the group said.

While it acknowledges the creation of the Niger Delta Development Commission, (NDDC), the existence of the Petroleum Industrial Act,(PIB) but said they are not retroactive to deal with historical injustice that bedeviled the Niger Delta prior the creation of those institutions.

The Group said the FG has consistently given special grants to the North East and North West even with the existence of Development commissions in the two regions.

This is the reason why the Federal Government needs a multi-dimensional approach that directly address the needs of oil producing communities in Niger Delta, the group said.

Clean Ecosystem said millions of people from oil producing communities are exposed to cancer, skin and eye irritations, low birth weight, preterm birth, decreased immunity, reproductive problems, neurological impairments, heart problems, asthma and dizziness arising from oil and gas exploration.

The group said, “it was the first time in recent time that any civil society organization visited all the oil producing communities without exception to conduct soil and blood tests on a large scale, meeting with the people, sharing their experiences and documenting them for posterity”.

He said the NDDC and the Petroleum Industry Act cannot address the affliction of the past, whereas the injustice of the past 65 years are monumental and can never be wished away. The group said apart from obstacles associated with political interference, the current instruments do no reach majority of people in oil producing communities.

The Niger Delta Development Council, NDDC was established by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo on the June 5, 2000, with the sole mandate of developing the oil rich Niger Delta Region. As of November 2024, Nigeria’s oil production was 1.8 million barrels per day.

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