Paradise News

Tag: Anambra State

  • Philanthropist holds carnival to showcase culture in Anambra community

    Philanthropist holds carnival to showcase culture in Anambra community

    By Ovat Abeng

    It was a wild celebration of culture and heritage for illustrious sons and daughters in Ifite Ogbeadiji Ebenesi community in Nnobi, Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State, when the community went agog during her maiden carnival.

    The event, which showcased the rich socio-cultural existence of Ndi Nnobi, also drew people from neighbouring towns and the Diaspora to the St Theresa’s field, Nnobi, venue of the showpiece.

    The carnival, facilitated by a stakeholder of the community, Chief Hamilton Ezeonu, was said to be the first time such a large celebration was being held in the community.

    Speaking at the event, that took place on Thursday December 2nd, 2025, Ezeonu, said the carnival was targeted at showcasing the beauty and rich cultural heritage of Ndi Nnobi, talent exhibition, and harnessing potential among the community members.

    Read Also: Gov Soludo announces N10m bounty for each suspect of Ihiala burial attack

    Ezeonu added that he single-handedly sponsored the maiden carnival to strengthen love and peaceful co-existence among the people with a view to showcasing Nnobi as a prominent community.

    Currently, he is the CEO of Hamthel Holding and HEX Consulting LLC, USA, and serves as the Director of Zybs Medical Group USA, Ezeonu’s exceptional contributions have earned him numerous awards from Tesla and Cablevision.

    His successful single-handedly hosting of the biggest carnival is a testament to his commitment to community service which he said is unparalleled.

    Besides the carnival, he has empowered over 50 women in Nnobi to start their own businesses, roofed the Ifite Nnobi Town Hall, assisted Okada riders, renovated the Nnobi General Hospital, provided community security vehicles, and installed over 200 solar street lights in Nnobi.

    Before the carnival, he has installed solar power in the Nnobi General Hospital and Ifite Nnobi Town Hall, built and commissioned the first police tower in Nnobi, and completed three boreholes and a one-kilometer road in the community.

    In his remarks during the carnival, the Anambra State governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Ernest Ezeajughi, commended Ezeonu’s commitment towards human and community development.

    The governor noted that the event has added huge value to the administration’s vision of making Anambra a tourist and cultural destination in Africa.

    He said, “Making Anambra a cultural and tourism capital is core to our administration’s policy thrust  which is why the state government has invested heavily in the construction of the Solution Fun City, Agulu Lake Resort, remodeling of Ogbunike Cave, among others.”

    The traditional ruler of Nnobi, Igwe Nick Obi, said the cultural carnival was necessitated by the need to foster unity and love among community members, encouraging other villages and quarters to key into such initiative as a measure to sustain Igbo rich cultural heritage.

    The event was attended by the Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, Hon Don Onyenji; Chairman of Idemili South Council Area, Hon. Amaka Obi, the Chairman of Ifiteogbeadiji Nnobi, Comrade Stanley Izuegbunem, Co-Chairman of the event, Chief Tochukwu Okafor among other high profile dignitaries.

    It also featured different dances, masquerades performances, presentation of laptops, cheques, and empowerment.

  • Gov Soludo announces N10m bounty for each suspect of Ihiala burial attack

    Gov Soludo announces N10m bounty for each suspect of Ihiala burial attack

    By Ovat Abeng

    Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has announced a N10 million bounty for information leading to the capture of each of the gunmen responsible for an attack during a burial ceremony in Ihiala, in Ihiala local government area of the state last Monday.

    During a condolence visit to the family of the late Bridget Akanma Onuchukwu in Umuike, Ubahuekwem Ihiala, Governor Soludo expressed his deep sorrow over the tragedy that resulted in the unfortunate deaths of seven individuals, including two security personnel.

    The assailants opened fire at the gathering, targeting security operatives stationed near the Local Government Headquarters as they fled the scene.

    Read Also: Woman wanted for trafficking Nigeria girls to Dubai arrested on arrival in Abuja

    Speaking at the event, Governor Soludo extended his heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims and reassured the community that those responsible for this violent act would be brought to justice.

    “We will not rest until the perpetrators of this heinous crime are apprehended. All of them will pay for it” he stated.

    “We are on their trail as we speak. Anybody that will avail us information that will lead to their arrest will be appreciated. Ihiala security is currently being discussed and will be unveiled soon,” the Governor added.

  • Insecurity: Save Anambra from horrible deaths, Ebube Mounso urges Soludo

    Insecurity: Save Anambra from horrible deaths, Ebube Mounso urges Soludo

    By Ovat Abeng

    The Spiritual Director, Holy Ghost Adoration Ministry Uke, Anambra state, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Obimma (A.K.A, Ebube muonso) has urged the state governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo to address the security condition or resign for someone else to address it.

    Obimma, in a new year message for the 2025, described the condition of security in Anambra State as horrible, noting that urgent action was needed as people die on daily basis owing to insecurity.

    “Insecurity in Anambra State is horrible. And our governor must sit up. He can’t subject the masses to jeopardy. He is the Chief security officer of the State. He can’t be passive. Urgent action must be taken as people are dying everyday. I cannot be silent again. The heaven is not happy. The Holy Spirit is not happy.

    “As you can see, people are dying everyday and he is not doing anything. He should do the needful. It is a horrible situation. The situation is getting out of hand. I believe he collects security votes. Let him use it now to address the State security situation. Anambra State is turning to darkness under his administration.

    Read Also: Tinubu’s Administration To Spend N255million To Buy New SUVs For President, Vice President To Expand Car Unit Fleet

    “This is not time of using his media warriors to blow his trumpets. Whatever that worth doing is worth doing well. In all we do, we must remember that judgement day is coming. I do not need anything from him just for him to address the general well-being of the people. As a governor of Anambra State, he must come out because we voted for him to turn Anambra to Dubai as he promised.”

    The priest, however, appealed to some prominent individuals in the State to stop waiting for the government and convoke a security summit to proffer lasting solutions to ugly incident.

    “Our prominent individuals like Obi Cubana, Obijackson, Val Ozoigbo, Sen. Victor Umeh, Ada Umeoji, Arthur Eze n’ukpo, Flavour, among others are needed in this situation. Weak men run away when there is trouble. But strong men stay alone. They can come together now and contribute resources towards addressing the security situation in the State,” he added.

  • Amawbia community elects new President General

    Amawbia community elects new President General

    By Ovat Abeng

    Comrade Chukwuka Odomudu, has been newly elected as the President General of Amawbia Town Union (ATU), in Awka South Local Government Area.of Anambra State.

    Comrade Odomudu, was declared the winner after defeating his two rivals in a keenly contest election with 371 votes, Mr. Patrick Anayo came second with 302 votes while Mr. Udoka Ifimenuba came third with 47 votes respectively.

    The event which took place at the community town hall on Monday December 30th, 2024, also witnessed the presence of the Nigeria Army, Police, Civil Defence, DSS, Vigilante Group and the media.

    Other members of the newly elected executive include, Mr. Emeka Nworah, Deputy President General, Mr. Anayo Aniekwe, Treasurer General and three Auditors; Mr. Chukwuma Onyawuna, Mr. Orji Ginika Chukwu and Mr. Nzube Menuba.

    Read Also: Yuletide: Philanthropist distributes 40 cows to 10 villages in Anambra

    Speaking after receiving the certificate of return, Comrade Odomudu, called on the people of Amawbia to rally round him and his executive members to enable them actualize their vision for the community.

    He promised to run all-inclusive administration for the sake of oneness, peace and unity in the town

    He also commended the State Governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo for ensuring a conducive environment during the exercise.

    In their separate comments, Anambra State Deputy Speaker, Hon. Chukwuma Okoye and the Managing Director of Ocha Brigade, Comrade Celestine Anere, who highlighted the achievements of Governor Soludo in every sector, expressed Joy that the long awaited peace has returned to Amawbia community.

    They appeal to the newly elected executive to carry every member of the community along.

    The election was monitored and supervised by government officials from the State Ministry of Local Government/Chieftaincy/Community Matters Affairs.

  • Yuletide: Philanthropist distributes 40 cows to 10 villages in Anambra

    Yuletide: Philanthropist distributes 40 cows to 10 villages in Anambra

    By Ovat Abeng

    In the spirit of yuletide season, a US-based philanthropist, Chief Okechukwu Agurd, has  distributed about forty cows to ten villages in Neni community, in Anoacha local government area of Anambra State.

    The ten benefitting villages were; Umuabani, Umukabia, Ugwudunu, Okofia, Umunri, Ezineni, Umueze, Eziaja, Umudioka and Etitinabo.

    Speaking shortly after the distribution, Chief Agurd, said the gesture was part of his family mandate to give back to his community for their continue support and prayers.

    The gesture, according to him, is aimed at touching lives of the less privileged people as part of his family God’s given responsibility.

    Read Also: Obi’s assessment misleading, aimed at getting cheap political points – APC

    “My family belief is that any well-to-do individuals should endeavour to touch lives of people in their immediate community.

    “This is why I and my wife adopted this to takes care of the less privilege people in the society, particularly, in my Neni community.

    “In 2022, I shared 20 cows and this year 2025, I have just distributed 20 cows also and by God’s grace next year I will do more.

    “The gesture cut across ethic and region affiliations.

    “We also  intervened in offering scholarships to Neni students and empowering of artisan youths and women across the ten aforementioned villages.

    “We encourage other well-meaning individuals in our dear community to participate in the act of giving, for it is in giving that we brighten smiles and keep the light of our faith glowing.”

    The Philanthropist used the event to advised Nigerians to always used celebration such as the New year, to promote unity in the country, saying all hands should be on deck to put smiles on the faces of everyone irrespective of tribe, ethic and region affiliations.

  • 2025: PDP aspirant pledges to tackle insecurity in Anambra South

    2025: PDP aspirant pledges to tackle insecurity in Anambra South

    By Ovat Abeng

    The People’s Democratic Party PDP, aspirant in the forthcoming Anambra South Senatorial District bye-election, Prince Samben Nwosu, has pledged to tackle insecurity in the zone, if elected.

    Nwosu, who is contesting the position to replace late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah at the National Assembly (Senate) Abuja, disclosed this in his New year message to the people of the Senatorial District, on Wednesday.

    According to him, “As we bid farewell to 2024 and welcome a new year, I am filled with hope and determination for a brighter future for our beloved constituency.

    “In the face of recent challenges, including the abduction of our revered former Archbishop, Most Revd Prof G.I.N. Okpala, and the tragic killing of a Roman Catholic priest in Ihiala, Rev. Fr. Tobias Okonkwo. I pray that God grants us the strength and resilience to overcome these difficult times.

    Read Also: Anambra Deputy Speaker Advocates Regular Walk Exercise for Healthy Living

    “As your senatorial aspirant, I pledge to tackle the pressing issues of insecurity, youth unemployment, and women’s empowerment head-on. With God on our side, I am confident that we will overcome these challenges and reach the promised land in 2025.

    “Together, let us march into the new year with hope, faith, and determination. I wish you all a happy and prosperous New Year,” Nwosu concluded.

  • Anambra Deputy Speaker Advocates Regular Walk Exercise for Healthy Living

    Anambra Deputy Speaker Advocates Regular Walk Exercise for Healthy Living

    By Ovat Abeng

    The Deputy Speaker Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon. Chukwuma Pious Okoye has advocates for regular walking as a deliberate exercise that keeps people healthy.

    Hon. Okoye stated this on Tuesday December 31, 2024 at Amawbia Primary school field at end of the yearly Amawbia Walk exercise.

    He disclosed that part of the reason for embarking on the yearly exercise in not only for sports but unity of the town.

    He insisted that it will people to see and meet members of the town they have not seeing for long.

    Read Also: Nigerian Forest Security Service To Partner Soludo Against Insecurity

    ”There are people I have not seen for the past three years and I am seeing them today, I thank God for this.

    ”We also use the opportunity to discuss the general good of the town, tackle social menace issues as it affects the youths in particular,” he said.

    Hon. Okoye who represents Awka 2 constituency in Anambra State House of Assembly called on other towns and communities to put up such exercise as it will go a long way in uniting them.

    ”The exercise is also in line with the healthy living program of Anambra State governor’s wife, Mrs. Nonye Soludo,” he remarked.

    Comrade Ebele Nwufo, the former President General of the town in his remark thanked the Deputy Speaker for sponsoring the walk for five years.

    He described this year’s exercise as successful with the massive turnout of people both indigenes and non indigenes.

    ”We were expecting about three hundred people but you can see we have not less than five hundred people. But it is all for good towards our initial goal of starting the Amawbia Walk exercise,” he said.

    He also stated that the exercise is to enable them be healthy to usher in 2025.

    It was gathered that this years Amawbia Walk exercise is the 5th in the series that sees both residents and indigenes of the town take part in the 20km walk.

  • Nigerian Forest Security Service To Partner Soludo Against Insecurity

    Nigerian Forest Security Service To Partner Soludo Against Insecurity

    By Ovat Abeng

    Weeks after the kidnap of Anambra lawmaker coupled with the abduction of an Anglican clergy and the killing of a Catholic priest as well as the most recent brutal massacre of eight persons in Chigbonu village Umuike Ubahuekwem Ihiala on 30th December 2024 by daredevil gunmen alongside other heinous crimes being perpetrated across Ànambra, the Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS) has declared that it is ready to partner and collaborate with the government of Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo to comb all the forests in Anambra State where killers and kidnappers of innocent citizens have their camps and territories.

    Anambra commander of the Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS) Destiny Jonas who spoke to Journalists about the exploits of the organization, said that NFSS is ever willing and ready to offer its expertise in securing the forests and bushes both for economic reasons and security purposes, adding that their operations are mostly in the forests and bushes because they know the terrain very well.

    The NFSS state commander noted that NFSS would be most obliged to join forces with other security agencies to ensure the success of the Operation Udo Ga Di Na Anambra Security Initiative of the state government intended to rid the hinterlands off criminal elements unleashing terror and mayhem on the people.

    Read Also: Anambra 2025: APC Aspirant, Paul Chukwuma, Meets With Campaign Council, Others

    He said that NFSS can gather intelligence to demobilize any kind of force in the forest. That all that is needed is the collaboration of government agencies and government itself including recognition of the Nigerian Forest Security Service.

    The security expert maintained that officers of the NFSS are ready to rescue Anambra forests from unknown gunmen and other criminal elements but the need for recognition and roundtable discussions are of paramount importance.

    He was worried and concerned that investors are fleeing from Anambra to invest in other states  because of insecurity In the land. Although he pointed out that officers and men of the Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS) assisted the Police and other security agents to ensure safety of those who returned to Anambra State for the festive season but still emphasized that a lot more have to be done to redeem Anambra forests from the tutelage of daredevil gunmen and other criminal minds.

    Jonas stated that impassible remote areas like Achala, Igbariam, Nsugbe and some others were hitch free because men of the NFSS were stationed in those places. He also disclosed that NFSS has identified some flashpoints (bushes)  across Ànambra State where it will declare total war on criminal camps from January 2025.

    He said all that is required now is permission from the authorities to enable them launch massive operations in the identified black spots even as he stated that some kidnapped victims were rescued by the operatives of the Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS) this yuletide season.That the plan of NFSS is to make sure that Anambra forests are free from criminal activities like deforestation, kidnappings and all manner of criminalities.

    The Anambra State NFSS commander however expressed gratitude profound to the Deputy Commander-General (Intelligence) of the Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS) Amb. Dr. John Metchie for his monumental supports to the service describing him as an enigma.

    He said that Dr. John Metchie is not only interested in the security and safety of Anambra citizens but also interested in the protection of lives and property of Nigerians across the federation, adding that if there are more John Metchies in Anambra, the state will definitely turn around for good.

    He also extolled the efforts and giant strides of the Commander-General of the Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS) Amb. Dr. Joshua Osatimehin for ensuring unity of purpose and cohesion in the service.

  • Anambra 2025: APC Aspirant, Paul Chukwuma, Meets With Campaign Council, Others

    Anambra 2025: APC Aspirant, Paul Chukwuma, Meets With Campaign Council, Others

    By Ovat Abeng

    The frontline aspirant of the All Progressives Congress APC for the November 8th, 2025 governorship election in Anambra State, Sir Paul Chukwuma has meeting with his Primary Election Campaign Council and women groups to strategies ahead of campaign.

    The meetings commenced with the Primary Election Campaign Council meeting which  was attended by the Director General, Hon. Ifeanyi Ibezi, Deputy Director General Central, Uzu Okagbue, Deputy Director General South, Chief Jude Osude, Deputy Director General North, Hon. Ralph Okeke and Barr C.J Chinwuba,  Secretary of the Campaign Council.

    Other principal members of the Council in attendance includes, Mr. James Eze, Campaign Council spokesman, Hon. Ngobidi Divine, Director of the Youth Coalition, Barr Nonso Nwaebili, Deputy Director of Protocol, amongst other Campaign Council members.

    Addressing the Council, Sir Paul Chukwuma thanked members on  how far they have gone, reiterating that there is still more to be done ahead of election as well as charged the members to remain focused on the goal which is to rescue Anambra State from the clutches of mediocre leadership.

    Read Also: Catholic priest arrested for shooting teenage boy d3ad over knockout during New Year mass in Imo

    Also in his speech, the DG of the Campaign Council, Hon. Ifeanyi Ibezi, commended Sir Paul Chukwuma for his sound leadership and also members of the Campaign Council for their commitment.

    He also expressed confidence on campaign journey, assuring that the Campaign will take a new leap from this January till the end of the Primary Election phase till November, 8 when the General Election shall be held.

    See also  Anambra govt explains why Soludo’s one-week-old road got washed away. Interfacing with the women and youth groups, Sir Paul Chukwuma equally eulogized group, urging them to be at their best in the coming days, weeks and months even as the groups vowed to remain even more committed to the cause till the goal is reached.

    Members of all the groups that attended the meeting that took place at the aspirant residence, Umueri in Anambra East Local Government Area of the State, on Tuesday, 31st December, 2024 were presented with Christmas and New year packages.

  • Anambra Govt To Prosecute People Burning Tyres On Tarred Roads

    Anambra Govt To Prosecute People Burning Tyres On Tarred Roads

    By Ovat Abeng

    Anambra state government has condemned in strong terms, burning of tyres on tarred roads across the state this festive season.

    In a public statement jointly signed by Commissioners for Environment and Works and Infrastructure, Dr Felix Odimegwu and Engineer Ifeanyi Okoma respectively, government noted that burning of tyres release a significant amount of toxic pollutants like Sulphur dioxide, Nitrogen oxide among others into the atmosphere.

    The statement explained that when tyres are burnt on tarred roads, the heat of the fire which emanates from them causes the binding molecules of the tarred roads to disintegrate, hence affecting the bitumen or coal tar used for the construction of the roads, with potholes developing at the spots.

    According to the release, the state government spends huge resources to construct these roads and cannot afford to have the roads to be destroyed over obnoxious practices as a result of over excitement.

    Read Also: Anambra North Takes Delivery Of 5 General Hospitals As Senatorial Aspirant Odili Empowers 7 Council Areas

    The release warned that relevant enforcement agencies attached to the Ministry of Environment will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute any person caught burning tyres on any road in Anambra State henceforth.