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Tag: Anambra State

  • FG distributes bags of rice, 500 PoS machines, gas cylinders, others to less privileged in Anambra

    FG distributes bags of rice, 500 PoS machines, gas cylinders, others to less privileged in Anambra

    By Ovat Abeng

    The Federal Government of Nigeria, has distributed bags of rice, gas cylinders, others to less privilege people in Anambra State.

    The distribution exercise took place at the Ndi Ichie Hall, Umudioka Village, Awka in Awka South local government area of the state, on Wednesday.

    Addressing the beneficiaries while presenting the palliatives released to the State by Tinubu-led Administration.the Minister of Women Affairs, Barr (Mrs) Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, reassured the people of the President commitment to their welfare and security.

    She, however, urged the people to exercise patience with him to enable him clear the rots he met on assumption.

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    The minister spoke at the Ndi Ichie Hall, Umudioka Village, Awka in Awka South local government area of the state during distribution of palliatives released to the State by Tinubu-led Administration.

    It was gathered that the palliatives included 5,000 10kg bags of rice, over 500 bags of fertilizers, 500 PoS machines and 300 pcs of gas cylinders donated by Chief Executive Officer, Smart Gas, Yinka Okpeke.

    The Minister however assured that the era of diversion of palliatives were over, reason she decided to be physically present to ensure the items got to the targeted beneficiaries.

    She said: “My appointment was divinely orchestrated. I didn’t contest nor paid for it. I have offered myself to serve my people with all my heart. If they’re satisfied.

    “Mr President who found me worthy has insisted that the poor must have a breathe of fresh air. After October 15, we’ll be lunching our Integrity Ambassador and Brigade with the backing of the army.

    “I’ve also been empowered with mobile court to fight bad eggs in the society to ensure those things that were earlier done wrong were done right.

    “If you feel you can be part of this fight but don’t have the money, you can join the Brigade while the wealthy will be funding it through the Ambassador.”

    The minister promised further incentives in the coming days, including cash loans, agricultural inputs, among others.

    “You’ll be getting text messages, requesting for your BVN. Don’t be afraid to supply same as nobody will defraud you. Students and graduates are also captured, but must produce evidence.

    She added: “I decided to be physically present to ensure these items from Mr President is adequately distributed. The era of diversion is over. I monitored the entire process, all to ensure that nobody was cheated. Everything is transparent.

    “Those who are absent and those with red caps are not qualified for these palliatives. We must learn to do things right.

    “Just manage whatever you have. We appreciate the hardship you’re passing through but I assure that it won’t be long. Be patient with the President because he met rot and it will take a while to clear the mess.”

    The donor of the gas cylinders, Okpeke said her decision to partner with the Women Affairs Ministry was informed by hardship women were being subjected to, saying the gesture would go a long way in cushioning the sufferings.

    “We want to see how we can help our women who are homemakers so they don’t suffer going inside the bush looking for firewood.

    Governor Chukwuma Soludo, represented by Commissioner for Women Affairs, Ify Obinabo praised the Minister for her efforts targeted at improving the lots of women and children in the state.

    “Today, we’re here to welcome the working Minister to Anambra. You’re representing us well and we’re proud of you. We the women will continue to support you,” he said.

    State Chairman, All Progressives Congress, Basil Ejidike thanked President Tinubu for the choice of Anambra daughter as minister.

    “Umudioka you’re very lucky to have produced a minister who has not only been standing on truth and justice, but doesn’t discriminate. If she’s not doing well, we the party members wouldn’t have been here. She’s made a difference in the Ministry,” he added.

  • UNIZIK physically-challenged employees cry out over four-year unpaid salaries, seek Tinubu’s intervention

    UNIZIK physically-challenged employees cry out over four-year unpaid salaries, seek Tinubu’s intervention

    By Ovat Abeng

    The physically-challenged employees of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, under the aegis of ‘Association of UNIZIK Staff With Disabilities’, have lamented over their unpaid salaries since 2020 that they were engaged as employees by the institution.

    It was gathered that their inability to be captured into the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System since 2020, is the cause of their predicament and the reason they have not been receiving their salaries since 2020.

    The group, therefore urged President Bola Tinubu and other relevant agencies to intervene into their plights and help them remove the bureaucratic bottlenecks, saying that life has become unbearably difficult as a result.

    In an open letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu and made available to our correspondent in Awka, on Monday, the group urged the President to use his good offices to compel IPPIS to capture them into the payment platform.

    Read Also: FEATURE: Sokoto school struggles for attendance despite free education

    The letter signed by the Coordinator of ANAUSD, Onukwue Chijioke, read in part, “Mr President, we are pleased to write you, owing to the bureaucracy of Nigerian politics, we decided to write you an open letter, not to disrespect you. We, the ten(10) physically-challenged persons that were offered employment at UNIZIK in 2020.

    “Your Excellency, it might surprise you to note that since 2020, that we have been discharging our duties, we are yet to be remunerated as a result of failure from IPPIS to capture us into the payment platform.

    “Probably, the school authority might have made attempts to bring IPPIS staff to enroll us on the payment platform, but to no avail. In addition, IPPIS conducted capturing exercise in December 2020 and May 2023 respectively.

    “However, none of the physically-challenged employees was considered. Perhaps, the school management might have a better explanation to that.

    “On our part, we found it heart-breaking. The situation has gotten to the breaking point owing to the fact that some of us who have underlying illnesses are finding it difficult to purchase medications for our health management. At this point, we are helpless.

    “Sir, we humbly appeal for you to use your good offices to compel IPPIS and the management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University to facilitate our enrolment into the IPPIS database for the commencement of our remuneration to enable us serve our dear nation much better.

    “We beckon on you considering the fact as a father, you have shown interest on the physically- challenged citizens following your nationwide broadcast on October 1, 2023 marking the 63th independence anniversary of our great country. We wait in anticipation for your response. We can be reached out to on these telephone numbers 07036947658 08066418546. Thank you for your co-operation.”

    They, however, lamented that despite their several complaints and visitations to the office of the Accountant-General of the Federation in Abuja, Office of SSA on Disability Matters to the President, National Commission for People with Disabilities, no tangible efforts have been made to help their plights.

  • Anambra 2025: Moghalu intensifies consultative visits to LP stakeholders, Anambra Assembly caucus

    Anambra 2025: Moghalu intensifies consultative visits to LP stakeholders, Anambra Assembly caucus

    By Ovat Abeng

    The immediate past Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, (NIWA), Chief George Moghalu has sustained his consultative visits to Labour Party’s stakeholders in Anambra State.

    Chief Moghalu who recently joined the party aims to use the visits to inform them that he has formally joined the Labour Party and also his intention to contest the state’s 2025 governorship election on the platform of LP.

    As part of his efforts to engage with all critical stakeholders of the party, Chief Moghalu visited the eight-member caucus of the Labour Party and other 2023 general election candidates of the party.

    During the visit, Moghalu appreciated them for their efforts in strengthening the party in State. He also formally informed them that he has now joined the party, and also his intention to contest the coming 2025 Anambra Gubernatorial primary of LP.

    Read Also: Anambra LP lawmaker, Mbachu, urges Soludo to withdraw bill on LGA funds

    According to him, “I have come here today to seek your friendship, support and partnership because you are part of the critical stakeholders in this party.

    “On October 1st, 2024 after a careful evaluation, considerations and consultations with my family, community, supporters and other critical stakeholders of the state, i resolved to join Labour Party because it is better suited to champion my ideals and principles as the party aligns with my core values and commitment..”, he stated.

    He emphasised on his experience and knowledge in governance, and his achievements in both the public and private sectors, all which will contribute very positively to his marketability to Ndi Anambra.

    Expressing his satisfaction Hon. Obu Paul Chukwuka, representing Orumba North at State Assembly  and Hon. Humphrey Iloelunachi Anunobi (Eselu Njikoka) said that they were excited to hear that Chief Moghalu has officially joined the party and  hailed him as a man with many impressive credentials to his name.

    That as the Managing Director of National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) that he clearly demonstrated his ability to lead and manage complex organisations, his educational background was also solid which is a significant plus and he has a proven track record of empowering Anambra youths and women through various skill acquisition training programs put together by his Zimuzor Foundation. More so that his commitment to human resource/ community development were essential for someone who wants to make a real difference in the lives of his people.

    The party stakeholders pledged their total support and wished him success in his ambition.

    Distinguished personalities accompanied him on the visit, including Chief Okechukwu Chukwuogo, Engr. Chiedozie Okoye, Barr. Izuchukwu Unegbu and Chief Alaoma Nzeocha among others.

  • Anambra LP lawmaker, Mbachu, urges Soludo to withdraw bill on LGA funds

    Anambra LP lawmaker, Mbachu, urges Soludo to withdraw bill on LGA funds

    By Ovat Abeng

    The member representing Awka South 1 State Constituency, Hon. Henry Mbachu, has urged the governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Soludo, to withdraw an executive bill he submitted to the Anambra State House of Assembly to share in local government council funds for passage.

    He expressed concerns about the bill, which requires newly “selected” local government chairmen to contribute a portion of their funds to a consolidated account of the state.

    Hon. Mbachu highlighted its potential negative impacts on the Affairs of the local government council administration.

    According to him, this directive would restrict local governments from managing their allocations from the federal government.

    Read Also: Community mourns as gunmen kill five in Anambra

    Hon. Mbachu said that the bill could compromise Governor Soludo’s integrity and adversely affect the democratic environment in Anambra State.

    He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to monitor governors who undermine progress in local government elections by compelling elected chairmen to divert funds to the state government.

    He said his concerns are rooted in the landmark Supreme Court judgment granting financial autonomy to local governments. According to Mbachu, the executive bill appeared to counter that progress and could undermine the achievement of compulsory local government elections.

    He said his public disagreement and refusal to support the bill demonstrate his commitment to core democratic values.

    “It is imperative for Governor Soludo to consider Hon. Mbachu’s plea and the potential consequences of this bill on democracy and future governance in Anambra State,” he said.

  • Community mourns as gunmen kill five in Anambra

    Community mourns as gunmen kill five in Anambra

    By Ovat Abeng

    Nawfia community in Njikoka local government area of Anambra State was on Sunday, October 6th, 2024 thrown into mourning after the brazen actions of men of the underworld, regionally known as gunmen killed five persons in the town.

    According to the community’s President General, Chief Daniel Okoye who disclosed this in a statement he signed and made available to Journalists in Awka on Tuesday, narrated that the criminals came into the town and opened fire on innocently and defenseless citizens, killing five. Many people were also injured, including a small child.

    “The victims include two indigenes, Samuel Onyebuchi Nnatuanya (26 years old) and Chukwuebuka Ifeanyichukwu Nwonukwue (29 years old). Both hailed from Adagbe Mmimi village, Nawfia.

    The three other victims lived in Nawfia. One was from Ukwulu, one was from Ebonyi State, while the last victim was from the Northern region of the country.

    Read Also: Cherwell District Council, UK Celebrates Okeke As first Black Councillor, Chairman

    “From early investigations, it was found that around 8:00 PM on Sunday, a Lexus RX and a Toyota Sienna came to the Umukwa-Umuriam axis of the town and opened fire on the unsuspecting youths before speeding away. An AK-47 and a shotgun were used in the cowardly attack.

    The leadership of Nawfia mourns their kin that were senselessly murdered in the prime of their lives. They also bemoan the killings of their residents who had deemed Nawfia a place worth inhabiting. Nawfia Progressive Union and town leaders will do everything in their power to expose the animals who did this.

    We also urge for calm and patience from our people. Many stories and theories have been formed despite a lack of evidence to prove them. As of now, there is no indication that the killers were sent from a neighboring town.

    “There’s also no proof to support that the murders were cult-related. We will not rule out any party at this point and will not jump to any conclusions. We plead with Ndi Nawfia and the general public to do the same.

    “We call on the Nigerian Police to do a proper and thorough investigation. So far, they response and approach have been inadequate. They should do all in their power to seek out and apprehend these serial killers and bring peace back to our environs,” the statement concluded.

  • Cherwell District Council, UK Celebrates Okeke As first Black Councillor, Chairman

    Cherwell District Council, UK Celebrates Okeke As first Black Councillor, Chairman

    By Ovat Abeng

    In celebration of Black History Month, the first black councillor and chairman of Cherwell District Council, United Kingdom Dr. Chukwudi Okeke has been recognized for his historic achievements.

    Dr. Okeke who hails for Amaokpala Community in Orumba North Council Area was elected as the council’s first black councillor in 2022 and becoming chairman in 2024.

    In an interview, Dr. Okeke expressed his pride and honor in serving Cherwell District, stating that his role represents a lifelong ambition to foster a healthy and cohesive society where all are valued, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, or social background.

    He noted that growing up in Amaokpala shaped his strong sense of empathy and leadership, guiding him into public service and has been a voice for the black community who championed greater representation within local government.

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    He highlights the importance of diverse leadership in promoting more informed decision-making, while adding that under his leadership, the council saw the election of Councillor Becky Clarke MBE, its first black female councillor and Councillor Frank Ideh.

    Dr. Okeke encourages others not to see their background as a barriers in taking part in leadership roles, reminding them that participation is the key to achieving representation.

    He describes Black History Month as a time to celebrate black values, talent, and achievements in an inclusive, multicultural society. It also gives him the opportunity to reflect on how he has made his mark on the district’s history. Dr Okeke is thankful to those who have paved the way for him to be where he is today.

  • Dunukofia newly elected council boss, Ozumba holds special thanksgiving service to celebrate victory

    Dunukofia newly elected council boss, Ozumba holds special thanksgiving service to celebrate victory

    By Ovat Abeng

    Newly elected chairman of Dunukofia local government area of Anambra State, Hon Barrister Chijioke Ozumba, has held a special thanksgiving service to celebrate his landslide victory Gov Mbah’s tribunal victory

    The State Independent Electoral Commission ANSIEC, has on Saturday, September 28th, 2024, conduct a local government election that gives victory to the State ruling -All Progressive Grand Alliance APGA in all the 21 council areas of the State.

    The thanksgiving service, which began with the Holy Mass on Sunday, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church and All Saints Anglican Church, both in Akpu village, Ukpo, had in attendence the newly elected deputy chairman of the council, Mrs Ujunwa Chinweze and other APGA supporters across the council area.

    In his victorious speech, Barrister Ozumba, thank God for the victory during the electoral exercise.

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    According to him, he held the Thanksgiving service  to pray for the Anambra government, people of Dunukofia and to specially appreciate God Almighty for seeing him through before, during and after the election.

    The council boss used the service to also called on those in opposition to support the present administration of governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, stressing that  Anambra “belongs to all of us, and they should join hands together with the governor to enable him actualized his vision of making Anambra a livable and prosperous state in Nigeria.”

    Other APGA stakeholders, Ichie John Olibie, Ichie Ezeh Karian Justin, Chief Daniel Ezeobi and Chief Vincent Ezennie, who also spoke while commending Soludo on his achievements recorded so far within a space of two years in office, urged the newly elected chairman to run all-inclusive government irrespective of political affiliations.

  • Hoodlums invade teacher’s house, vandalize 2 diesel generating plants, armored cables

    Hoodlums invade teacher’s house, vandalize 2 diesel generating plants, armored cables

    By Ovat Abeng

    About two diesel generating plants and armored cables were reportedly vandalized by hoodlums in Anambra State Teacher’s house Awka.

    The State Chairman of Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Comrade Chika Grace Chukwudozie disclosed this in her address presented on the occasion of this year 2024 World Teachers Day celebration, held at the Teacher’s house Awka, on Saturday.

    She said the hoodlums gain entrance through the lower part of the fence behind the secretariat conference hall and that it happened early last month at the night hours.

    She noted that they have raised up the fence after the ugly robbery incident.

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    The Chairman, who appeal for replacement, however, expressed optimism that in spite of the challenges in society, teachers have cause to celebrate.

    She appreciated the State Governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo on the landmark achievements in all sectors including, massive infrastructure development, revamping of the education sector, overhauling of the health sector, strides in the agriculture sector, one youth, two skills empowerment, war against criminality, among others, pledging the support of teachers for the governor.

    Governor Soludo in his remarks at the occasion, acknowledged the pivotal role of teachers in society and the importance of their contribution to shaping the future of the nation.

    The Governor praised the efforts and dedication of teachers, especially when they had little or no support before he came, and they had to adapt to new teaching methods, ensuring that education continued despite the challenges.

    “It is our responsibility to value, respect, and celebrate the contributions of our educators. Their role in guiding and mentoring the children of our society cannot be overstated. We owe them our appreciation and gratitude for their selfless service,” said the Governor.

    “In Anambra, in terms of education and learning outcomes, we are still at the top of the league. As a result, enrolment in all public schools has gone up to 18 percent.

    “Anambra ranks number one in the lowest out of school children in Nigeria. We will continue to excel.

    “Education is the bridge to the future. Education is the key, but the teachers have the padlock and the keys.

    “Very importantly, the message I leave with you is to be the change that you want to see. Continue to be the example. The children entrusted into your care are watching. They learn more from what you do than what you say.

    “I can remember all my teachers today because they left some lasting impressions on me. As teachers, the impressions you leave on your pupils and students will live with them. Some of them will forget, but some will remember. The examples that you give are impressionable, especially those teaching the very little ones. Always remember that.

    When some unpatriotic people say that Nigeria is bad, do your own bit. Don’t say and lose faith that things have gone bad.

    “For teachers, yours is a vocation, not just a job. It is a call. Persist, persevere, and keep on giving value.

    The Governor equally took the opportunity to interact with teachers and understand the challenges they face daily, assuring them of the State’s support and commitment to providing an enabling environment that will allows them to thrive in their career.

    The event with the Theme; Valuing Teachers Voices: Towards A New Social Contract For Education,” was attended by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, Chairmen of Anambra State Universal Education Board and Post Primary School Service Commission, Dr. Nkiru Nwadinobi and Prof. Nkechi Ikediugwu respectively, State NLC Chairman, Comrade Humphrey Chukwuemeka Nwafor, Majority leader at the State House of Assembly, Hon. Ikenna Ofodeme, House Committee Chairman on Education, Hon. Anayo Okpalaeke and a large gathering of teachers from different schools in the state.

  • Anambra 2025 Labour Party Aspirant, Nwibe promises to address youth unemployment, energy shortage if elected

    Anambra 2025 Labour Party Aspirant, Nwibe promises to address youth unemployment, energy shortage if elected

    By Ovat Abeng

    A Labour Party aspirant in the 2025 Anambra governorship election, Chief Barth Nwibe, has promised to address youth unemployment, energy shortage in the state, if elected.

    He said youth unemployment and harsh business environment were responsible for the growing insecurity in the state.

    Nwibe disclosed this while addressing  political stakeholders of Anambra South Senatorial District extraction in Igboukwu community in Aguata local government area of the state on Sunday.

    He said the Anambra economy was in steady decline with zero nightlife, constant outward migration of businesses and the shutting of diaspora communities which could no longer come home for fear of their  lives and property.

    Read Also: Community clashes with police over land

    “The root cause of our insecurity is unemployment, we need a government that can create opportunity, which is why I am offering myself as a viable alternative to the present government,” he said

    Nwibe, Founder of Ugo Igbo Foundation and philanthropist said he would not have aspired to be governor if the current administration was doing well adding that he would complete all ongoing projects.

    “Anambra cannot be a liveable homeland when our economy has collapsed, people no longer come home to spend time and celebrate because of insecurity and ecological disaster.

    “I am from Igboukwu and Gov. Chukwuma Soludo is from Isuofia, the next community, if he is doing well, I will not have reason to contest but we must take a decision to rebuild our state.

    *If elected, I  will complete all ongoing projects and do more. I will ensure that local governments have the power to decide their priority and executive them,” he said.

    Nwibe said he would prioritise energy  for its importance to Industrialisation and that he would collaborate  with Orient Petroleum and key businesses  to activate Anambra gas resources.

    He said he would remove the government’ interference in the affairs of the people by ensuring they developed their various communities and select their leaders without politicising the process.

    “Even the  Local Government election for selection of councilors and chairmen  was hijacked,  they are strangulating the communities and meddling in the selection of traditional rulers, President-General and kindred heads.

    “We have Orient Petroleum that is partly owned by the Anambra Government, we can support them to drill more wells to produce gas, we have  businessmen who will be willing to finance the reticulation.

    “We do not need Memorandum of Understanding with  a distribution company to achieve this,” he said.

    Chief Gaius Ezeh, the Coordinator of Barth Nwibe for Governor Movement, said the 2025 governorship election was crucial to Anambra as it would be an opportunity to return the state to her days of glory.

    Ezeh said the nation, especially the Southeast was looking towards Anambra for transformational leadership and that who occupied Anambra Government House in 2025 would be the starting point.

    He commended the Anambra South Senatorial District political stakeholders for honouring the invitation and committing to support the course.

    On his part, Chief Emeka Umeakuka, a Chieftain of the Labour Party described Nwibe as an accomplished private sector player and a meticulous administrator.

    Umeakuka called on Labour Party faithful to consider him for the ticket as he had the capacity to fly the party’s ticket because he was the best candidate.

    Nwibe had earlier met with stakeholders in Anambra Central where he assured them that he was running for a term of four years to complete the eight years of South district.

  • Community clashes with police over land

    Community clashes with police over land

    By Ovat Abeng

    Some women of Ezinano ommunity in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra state have raised an alarm over alleged threats to their lives as the police from the defunct Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) Awkzu besieged a disputed land.

    The women who spoke through their spokesperson, Mrs Gloria Chiama, alleged that the police on Friday invaded and occupied the disputed land between people of Ezinano and Umuzuocha communities in Awka both in the same council area and vowed to shoot at community leaders who included youth, women and elders.

    Trouble was said to have started when the people of Ezinano arrived at their land on hearing that members of Umuzuocha have started erecting buildings indiscriminately on the disputed land.

    According to Chiama, if not for the quick intervention of the State Commissioner of Police, CP Obono Nnaghe Itam, who ordered all the parties to leave the scene when contacted on phone, there could have been possible bloodbath.

    READ ALSO: Bandits k!ll one, kidnap district head and eight others in Kebbi

    It was gathered that Ezinano people on arrival to the land were ordered by the SARS Operatives to leave or be sent to their early graves, a development which prompted them to raise the alarm and urgently called on CP Obono Nnaghe Itam for their rescue and to wade into the matter.

    Elders and leaders of Ezinano community had in a petition dated September 11, 2024 to the chairman, Police Service Commission (PSC) which was copied to the Presidency, Inspector General of Police (IGP) and others, accused a senior police officer of meddling in the same land.

    But reacting in a phone interview, the State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, urged the leaders and people of Ezinano to come forward with their complaints to the police in the state.

    He said, “You know the truth, you and me have been in this Anambra for many years. This particular group (Ezinano people), if they have any issue they should come straight to the command. If they have any issue, they have the numbers of the Commissioner of Police and they have my own number; if they have any issue they can come to the command and lay their complaints.”