Tag: Anambra State

  • Anambra: Umeh’s one year achievements, beyond expectations – aide

    Anambra: Umeh’s one year achievements, beyond expectations – aide

    By Ovat Abeng

    On February 27, 2023, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Senator Dr. Victor Umeh (Ohamadike Ndigbo), winner of the February 25 Senatorial Election in Anambra Central Senatorial District with a total of 103,608 votes, under the Labour Party—LP.

    Consequently, Senator Umeh joined other elected lawmakers from across the country in the inauguration of the 10th National Assembly held on the 13th of June 2023 in Abuja ( exactly one year ago). He was sworn in as Senator representing the good people of Anambra Central Senatorial District.

    In keeping with his campaign promises, Senator Umeh resumed office as ranking Member of the 10th Senate, retaining his ideologies and advocacy for equity and fairness in governance, justice for all, and honesty and transparency in public service.

    Recognizing his rare and unique potentials in driving positive initiatives towards achieving good results, and his wealth of experience, he was enlisted into 14 Adhoc Committees in the Senate namely: Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) – Chairman, Housing and Urban Development – Vice Chairman, Air Force, Establishment and Public Services, Agriculture Production, Services and Rural Development, Education. Employment and Productivity, FCT, Industry, Land Transport, National Security and Intelligence, Rules And Business, Agriculture Colleges/Institution and Ecology and Climate change.

    Read Also: Soludo’s wife flags off operation clean Anambra of substance abuse campaign

    Senator Victor Umeh was on March 13, 2024, elected as Vice Chairman of Southern Senators Forum together with Senator Adetokunbo Abiru representing Lagos East who is the Chairman.

    Nevertheless, he on February 7, 2024, received the notice of his Nomination by the President of the Senate as Member of the Standing Delegation of Nigerian Parliaments to the Pan-African Parliament.

    PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW:

    Motions and Contributions:
    As courageous, indomitable and eloquent as he always is, Senator Umeh without further ado, started making salient contributions in the Senate mainly focusing on bridging the gap between the government and the people, ensuring equal democratic dividends get to every part of the country without discrimination; making strategic efforts to mitigate the rising economic challenges, hunger and insecurity in the country as well as bringing to the awareness of the Senate (and the Federal Government by extension) the plight of the citizens both home and in diaspora.

    On Thursday July 20, 2023, he moved a Motion on “Urgent Need To Protect Local Meter Manufacturers In The Ongoing National Mass Metering Programme Of The Federal Government” following the approval of a $155 million loan from the World Bank for the National Mass Metering Programme (NMMP). Similarly, he moved the motion on “Urgent Need to Upgrade the Eastern Rail Line (traversing Port Harcourt to Maiduguri) from Narrow Gauge Rail to Standard Gauge Rail” on Wednesday, November 15, 2023. The motion was made to modernize and standardize the Nigerian railway system, including the Eastern Rail Line. The Motion co-sponsored by thirty four other Senators was scored high by the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio and described as patriotic and of national importance.
    Furthermore, on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, Senator Umeh also moved the motion on “Need to Investigate the National Social Investment Programme Cash Transfer during the last administration.” The motion sought to investigate the transparency and effectiveness of the cash transfer program, which was a flagship social welfare scheme of the previous administration.

    Nevertheless, he has remained punctual to plenary and very vocal on almost all critical issues brought to the Senate for debate for instance: with a sterling contribution, he graced the Motion on “Urgent need to Reconstruct/Rehabilitate the Onitsha-33-Otuocha-Adani Roads Boundary to Enugu State” presented by Senator Tony Nwoye. Affected by the sufferings of road users, he visited Oba Erosion/Landslide Site Along Onitsha-Owerri Road and called For Emergency Intervention. Consequently, he made a persuasive outcry in the Senate with a Motion on “Urgent need to control the erosion ravaging Onitsha-Oba section of the Onitsha-Owerri Federal Highway in Anambra State.”

    Other interventions by the Senator include: *Additional prayer calling on the Inspector General of Police to punish Police Officers involved in Harassment & Abuse of Commuters & Travellers.

    Sought Justice for embattled Igwe Chukwuemeka Cyprian, a final year student of University of Abuja from Ichida, Anambra State who was at the risk of losing his admission in the school.

    Resolution of the dispute in the Abule Ado area of Festac, Lagos state where 677 houses were marked for complete demolition and 744 houses marked for partial demolition. However, with his interventions at the national headquarters of the Federal Housing Authority—FHA, and encounters with the Federal Minister of Land, Housing and Urban Development as well as his strategic engagements in the Senate through the Senate Committee on Housing and Urban Development where he is the Vice Chairman, the disputes were resolved and demolitions suspended.

    Visitation of the Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg, South Africa, on March 26, 2024, where the Consul General, Andrew Idi, received him, and he met and interacted with Nigerian representatives from South Africa and Swaziland discussing their challenges particularly immigration issues.

    Unprecedented increment in the budget allocation for the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission ( NIDCOM): Considering the high number of tasks to be executed through NIDCOM for the welfare of Nigerians in Diaspora, and bothered over the paltry sum being allocated hitherto to the Agency, Senator Umeh deployed his wisdom in upgrading the budget of the Commission which used to be one of the least funded agencies of the federal government.

    Concerned over the incarceration of Nigerian citizens in Ethiopian Prisons, Senator Umeh has made concerted efforts in the Senate, through the Senate Committee on Diaspora and NGOs which he is the Chairman, and in collaboration with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission—NIDCOM to facilitate their freedom or repatriation.

    With an open door policy, he has continued to welcome constituents seeking job opportunities and has been using his office to facilitate lots of employment opportunities for many graduates within Anambra Central.
    8. Facilitated Conditional Cash Transfer of ₦50,000 to 1400 Beneficiaries from Anambra Central. A project sponsored by the federal government.

    Called for ban on migrant grazing: concerned over the killing of innocent people by armed herdsmen, he called for an enactment of Migrant Grazing Prohibition Law to compel livestock farmers/herders to adopt ranching against open grazing in order to save lives and property.

    Supported A Bill To Establish Federal Polytechnic In Ebonyi State (South East).

    Oversight Functions:

    Senator Umeh on Friday July 7, 2023 visited the dreaded Oba Erosion Site which nearly splitted the Onitsha-Owerri expressway where he urged the federal government to declare a state of emergency on the erosion menace ravaging many communities in the south east especially in Anambra state. A gesture that yielded quick results as the fast spreading erosion was quickly contained and repressed.

    On January 18, 2024, Senator Umeh distributed over 124 metric tons of rice totaling 129,000 kilogram of rice (surpassing the 124000kilogram provided by the federal government by 5,000 kilogram), and this happened after he had shared 40milion naira worth of rice (626 bags of 50kg and over 600 bags of 25kg) and matched it with cash support as palliatives to cushion the effects of the economic recession on the good people of Anambra Central Senatorial District.

    CONSTITUENCY PROJECT:

    Scholarship/Student Support Programme:
    There’s no gainsaying Senator Victor Umeh’s love for education among the Youth as he has created a template for education support initiatives through his over a decade of sole sponsorship via VUMEF (Victor Umeh Education Foundation). However, sustaining the Student Scholarship Programme which was his initiative while in the 8th Senate, 223 students have been selected from all the communities in Anambra Central as beneficiaries of the scheme whose tuition in their tertiary institution of choice shall be the prerogative of the Senator, through the Anambra Central Scholarship Scheme.

    Human capacity and infrastructural development;

    Senator Victor Umeh has earmarked several strategic projects allotted to various communities in the seven Local Government Areas in Anambra Central under the 2024 constituency project and zonal intervention project appropriation. The Senator has also outlined skill acquisition programmes and financial empowerment exercises for women and youths within the Constituency.

    Finally, it is adequate to say that Senator Victor Umeh is working hard to surpass his campaign promises. He is not resting on is oars in ensuring that the people of Anambra Central are perfectly represented in the 10th Senate and that all their entitlements are brought to them.

    It is just one year largely affected by litigations and post-election activities, down the line, ndị Anambra Central will have more Causes to be proud of voting for Senator Victor Umeh and Labour Party on February 25, 2023.

    The informations were contained in a statement signed and made available to Paradise News in Awka on Thursday by his media aide, Engr Charles Obi.

  • Soludo’s wife flags off operation clean Anambra of substance abuse campaign

    Soludo’s wife flags off operation clean Anambra of substance abuse campaign

    By Ovat Abeng

    Wife of the Governor of Anambra State, Mrs Nonye Soludo, has urged youths in the state to shun drug use, for the sake of their personal health and the society at large.

    She gave the advice while flagging off Operation Clean Anambra of substance abuse campaign, held at Cichotel Hotel Awka, on Thursday.

    Mrs Soludo who noted that many youths had found a new past time in the consumption of illicit drugs, warned of the profound negative health and social consequences of drug addiction.

    In her words, “Drug abuse globally, according to an academic study, has resulted in increased violence and crimes, higher prevalence in Hepatitis B and C virus, HIV/AIDS, and collapse in the social structure.

    Read Also: Onitsha building collapse: COREN commence investigation

    “Our homes are losing the sacredness of culture and moral traditions.

    “Our communities have become havens for drug peddlers and manufacturers who use the element of fear and intimidation to silence the people who are willing to assist local authorities with valid information.

    “Unemployment, deprivations, and social crisis have also played their part in heightening the danger. It is now time to take the bull by the horn and approach the problem with the seriousness that it deserves.

    “We are launching what would be known as “The Healthy Living Overwatch.” The Healthy Living Overwatch will play inter-dependent functions alongside local authorities like the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA) Brigade, security agencies, and, of course, our great partner, the World Health Organization (WHO). Other key partners include the Ministries of Health, Women and Social Welfare and Education.

    “Our job description is to monitor and provide information about manufacturers and peddlers of illicit substances and assist government agencies in tracking drug-related cases in a 179 communities in the state.

    “At Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, we have identified mental health as a key part of our education and social movement. We have included it among the six pillars of our programme to help our people understand its critical place in complete human wellbeing. It is where we stand to declare that drug abuse must be kicked out of Anambra State.

    “As a War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) Ambassador, I’m approaching this task with every sense of commitment and passion. I’m dedicating my time and energy to this movement.

    “I implored the churches, schools, markets and all well-meaning Ndi-Anambra to play meaningful roles in separating the youths from drugs.

    “As I conclude, I wish to commend all those who have volunteered to lead this important task. I urge you all to see yourself as a driver of the solution that we seek. It is you who will determine if this task stays alive or dies on the way,” the governor’s wife added.

    Speaking earlier, the State Commissioner for Health Dr Afam Obidike, said that the campaign is the responsibility of all Ndi-Anambra to save the youths from degenerating into a generational tragedy with drug addictions.

    In his speech, the State Commandant of NDLEA, Mr. Daniel Onyishi said intensifying the campaign to the grassroot remain the only major way to curb the menace.

    He noted that the campaign will be possible in the state with the Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative.

    The National President of Anambra State Association of Town Union (ASATU), Barrister Titus Akpodu, who also spoke on the development, while commending the governor’s wife for initiating what he described as “wonderful” said the association under his watch with partner with the Healthy Living campaign to further sensitized all the communities so that the youths will be completely free of all forms of drugs abuses.

    He assure the first lady that whatever decision taking at the end of the event will be minutes to all the traditional rulers, President generals and youth leaders across the 179 communities for onward implementation.

    He appealed to Mrs Soludo not to relent in her effort to better the society.

    The event was also grace by the State Commissioner for Local Government/Chieftaincy/Community Matters, Hon Tony Collins Nwabunwanne, Managing Director of Ocha -Brigade, Comrade  Celestine Anere, women groups, among others.

  • Onitsha building collapse: COREN commence investigation

    Onitsha building collapse: COREN commence investigation

    By Ovat Abeng

    Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria(COREN), Anambra State branch, has commenced investigation to unravel the true cause of the collapse five storey building at Onitsha, the commercial city of the State, on Wednesday.

    The State Chairman of COREN, Engr Victor Metu, who disclosed this to Journalists in Awka, on Thursday said the three trapped workers were successfully rescued alive before midnight of Wednesday.

    According to him, the three construction workers, who were initially trapped at the five-storey building collapsed at the premises of Dennis Memorial Grammar  School in Onitsha, the commercial hub of Anambra State, have been rescued alive.

    The building, under construction, caved in at about 7:15am on Wednesday, trapping about three of the workers.

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    As of 5:15pm on Wednesday, one person was rescued alive during rescue operations carried out by Anambra State government officials and members of the Red Cross Society.

    Metu said that investigation to unravel the true cause of the collapse had commenced immediately, adding that the rescued team left the scene of the building collapse around 12:00am on Thursday.

    He stated that it was a full collapse and not a partial collapse noting that the collapse could be traced to a faulty foundation and substandard materials.

    He said, “We rescued the first trapped person around 6pm on Wednesday, the second person around 9:30pm and the third around 11:45pm.

    “As the chairman, I am going to write a letter to the state governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, to set up panel of enquiry consisting of professional experts engineers to carry out final analysis on the collapsed building.

    “Looking at the caliber and qualified engineers that were attached to the project, you will have no fear, but until this report comes to me because I perceiving a lot of things yesterday, some were saying that the building was designed for two floor.

    “They said the old boys who were the initiator of the building project saw the need to push it further, but that was a mere speculation, until I see the drawing.

    “I will also write to the chief consultant to provide me with the drawing, I will then know if it was designed for four, three or two storeys.

    “From the nature of the collapse, it was a complete collapse, if it were a partial collapse, we will know that the foundation is strong. It is likely that the beams and columns are weak, probably there is a compromise of the standard.”

    According to the chairman, the situation call for concern, while assuring that that the agency would dig to find out the level of foundation if it was designed for the five-storey building.

    He assured that an integrity test would be carried out, before he can now come holistically to tell the public if it was a human factor or natural factor.

    “Someone said it was initially a tunnel where some people hide while another person said it was a dumping ground. If all these were correct, it means there was a hole there before it was converted to a dumping ground in other to fill it up, if after my analysis and I find out that it is correct, the implication is that the foundation is faulty.

    “In other words, they ought to have done not just 1.5 dip, but at least up to six or seven and then, it would also be wrong for that type of building to be positioned there,” Metu added.

  • Journalists threaten to boycott Anambra govt activities

    Journalists threaten to boycott Anambra govt activities

    By Ovat Abeng

    The Anambra State Correspondents’ Chapel( external journalists) has threatened to boycott the activities of the Anambra State Government due to the nonchalant attitude of government officials.

    In a statement signed by the chapel’s chairman, Chuks Ilozue, and secretary, Tochukwu Ifejika, the group announced its decision after reviewing its relationship with the government.

    According to the statement, “Despite several correspondences over the past two years, we have observed a serious lacuna in the relationship between the chapel and the government.

    “This includes the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Commissioner for Information Sir Paul Nwosu, and Press Secretary to the Governor Christian Aburime.

    Read Also: EEDC decries sealing of company’s offices by Enugu Govt without notice

    The correspondents’ chapel, which comprises journalists covering the state government activities, expressed frustration over the government’s lack of cooperation and responsiveness to their requests.

    The statement highlighted several instances of disregard by government officials, including the failure to respond to inquiries, ignoring requests for interviews, and excluding journalists from important events.

    The chapel also lamented the lack of access to information, which has hindered their ability to report accurately and effectively on government activities.

    The statement accused the government of showing disdain for the media, citing instances of unconscionable attitude.

    The correspondents’ chapel emphasized that their role is to hold the government accountable and provide a platform for the voices of citizens to be heard.

    However, the government’s actions have made it challenging for them to perform their duties, leading to the decision to boycott government activities.

    The chapel called on the government to address their grievances and engage in a more constructive relationship with the media.

    If the issues are not resolved, the correspondents’ chapel vowed to extend their boycott to all government activities, including press conferences and official events.

    The development has sparked concerns among media stakeholders, who fear that the boycott could lead to a breakdown in communication between the government and the public.

    As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the correspondents’ demands and whether a resolution can be reached to restore a positive working relationship between the media and the government.

  • EEDC decries sealing of company’s offices by Enugu Govt without notice

    EEDC decries sealing of company’s offices by Enugu Govt without notice

    By Ovat Abeng

    The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company EEDC has decried the sealing of its corporate headquarters and others in Enugu by the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority ECTDA without prior notice.

    EEDC had last week penciled down Enugu State government offices as some of the organisations to be disconnected in its debts recovery move in South East.

    EEDC in a statement released by
    itss Head, Corporate Communications, Emeka Ezeh on Tuesday said they were surprise by ECTDA sealing the company’s corporate and others without any information or reason for the action.

    According to the statement,the company has not been communicated on the reason or reasons their offices were sealed in Enugu
    The statement reads:

    Read Also: Anambra Community Honours Deputy Speaker, Okoye

    “On arriving for work this morning, we were surprised to meet our Corporate Head Office sealed by the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority ECTDA.

    This development is strange because there was no notice of any sort by the agency to our organisation.

    We were informed by the Security Men on duty that in the early hours of today (Tuesday), at about 1.53am, a group of men came and locked up the gates, claiming that the State Governor directed the action.

    Our Abakpa, Awkunanaw, and Ogui District offices were not spared as their gates were equally sealed and locked.

    As at now, there has not been any clear information/ communication from ECTDA explaining their action.

    We however suspect that this action might not be unconnected to the notice of disconnection published by EEDC informing indebted customers of intention to commence disconnection today, Tuesday 11th June, 2024.

    Enugu State Government happens to be one of the indebted customers with over N1 Billion owed to EEDC. It is important to state that majority of the state government’s facilities are metered (so, it is not a case of estimated billing).

    EEDC has about N180 Billion as debt owed the company and has concluded plans to commence disconnection of indebted customers.”

  • Anambra Community Honours Deputy Speaker, Okoye

    Anambra Community Honours Deputy Speaker, Okoye

    By Ovat Abeng

    The Deputy Speaker of Anambra State House of Assembly, Honourable Chukwuma Pius Okoye has been honoured by Umuada Amawbia, popularly known as “Ugbogiliga” in Awka South Council Area of the State.

    The event which was held at Amawbia town hall field, on Saturday was attended by dignitaries from across the state and beyond including past and present members of the House of Assembly, top government functionaries, and captains of industries.

    Honourable Okoye who is also the member representing Awka constituency two, is a distinguished son of Amawbia, known for his philanthropic and exceptional representation of the constituency and vibrancy in the seventh and eighth Assemblies.

    The State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo who was represented at the event by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi described Honourable Okoye was one of the engine houses in the development of the state.

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    The leader of Umuada Amawbia, Mrs. Ekene Nwanna who spoke through Mrs. Ngozi Obiajulu said that the event was organized by the women to welcome, appreciate and encourage their son for all the dividends of democracy he has attracted to the community and across all the communities in the constituency.

    Mrs Nwanna said this was the reason they gathered to shower him with prayers and blessings so that he will continue to succeed and progress in all his endeavours.

    The traditional prime minister of the town, Chief Nnaemeka Mmaduka who spoke through Chief Felix Nzeamalu said the testimonies of Honourable Okoye’s quality representation resonate in the communities that make up Awka constituency two.

    A former Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs. Josephine Anenih and a woman leader in the town, Chief Mrs Cecilia Anaekwe said that the event proved the silent acknowledgements and love for their children and community in supporting and encouraging good morals and excellence in the society and assured the lawmaker of their continuous support and prayers upon him and his household.

    Responding, Honourable Okoye expressed gratitude to Umuada Amawbia and his community for their unwavering support and pledged to continue serving the state with dedication and excellence.

    He called for unity of purpose in the town, urging them to stop-escalating internal politics so as to move the community to greater height.

  • Anambra govt flags-off tree planting, urban forestation campaigns

    Anambra govt flags-off tree planting, urban forestation campaigns

    By Ovat Abeng

    The Anambra State Government has flagged off its tree planting and urban forestation campaigns to beautify road networks across major cities in the state.

    The State Commissioner for Environment, Engr Felix Odimegwu while declaring the campaigns open also said the initiative will help to fight erosion since most of Anambra communities are erosion-prone.

    According to Engr Odimegwu, “It is only through tree planting that we can ensure that we have some lands still left for generations yet unborn.

    “The essence of the exercise is also to ensure stability of the soil because roots of trees help to hold the soil together,’.

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    “Since the inception of this administration, we have launched the “one house, two trees” campaign. This initiative mandates that every land owner plant at at least two trees within his compound.

    We are committed to enhancing the ecological and climate resilience of Anambra and by launching this tree planting and urban forestation initiative, we aim to revive eroded lands and beautify our environment.

    The 35% green spacing initiative of this Government is mandate that every land developer dedicates 35% of their land to green areas, including gardens and tree cover. The cut-one-plant-three initiative ensures replacement of every tree cut down for whichever purpose.

    “We have distributes and plants over one million hybrid Malaysian coconut trees and oil palms seedlings annually across all 21 Local Government Areas by sustainably empowering her citizens with these seedlings to plant.

    “We also gift trees as birthday souvenirs to important personalities to encourage personal involvement in nurturing the environment.

    “Our key reforestation projects include the Unizik Forest Reserve, Enugwu Ukwu erosion site, Ekwueme Square, and the Anambra State House of Assembly.

    “Recently, the Federal Government planted 3,000 oil palms on erosion-prone sites in Nibo Awka as phytocontrol bioremediation measure to check erosion.

    “The launch of greening projects at Amazon Estates being developed by Senatorch and others further buttresses the deliberate intention of the State Government to make Anambra a Green State.

    We are also committed to enhancing the ecological and climate resilience of Anambra and by launching this tree planting and urban forestation initiative, we aim to revive eroded lands and beautify our environment.

    We have equally designated June 10th as Anambra Tree Planting Day, which is included in the environmental bill before the State House of Assembly.

    “Our vision is to see Anambra’s streets, roads, and highways adorned with trees, creating a green canopy.

    “Today, we will plant 200 trees: 100 Strep trees, 50 Tujar, 50 Queen Palms, and 50 Asoka trees. The planting will start from Revenue House to Book Foundation Awka and will extend to Onitsha and other towns over time.

    “What we are doing to the forests of the world is a reflection of what we are doing to ourselves and to one another.

    “He who plants a tree, plants hope.

    “I urge Ndi Anambra to join us in this greening journey to transform Anambra State with nature. Gold is a luxury; trees are necessities. Man can live without gold, but we cannot survive without trees, the commissioner added.

    The State Governor’s wife, Mrs Nonye Soludo who also speak at the event, enjoined all Local Government Areas, LGAs, Churches, Schools and individuals to key into the campaigns to help combat the erosion and other environmental challenges facing the state.

    It was gathered that the flagged off ceremony that took place at the popular Agu-Awka junction Awka on Monday also have in attendence, the acting Vice Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Igbariam, Prof Kate Azuka Omenugha, the state commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike and other Government functionaries.

  • Real Estate Developers in Anambra debunks false sexual harassment report on female employees

    Real Estate Developers in Anambra debunks false sexual harassment report on female employees

    By Ovat Abeng

    The Anambra State Real Estate Developers Union has debunked a claim credited to one of it’s alleged former female employee that she has slept with 95 percent of her male employers to survive and to assist them sells their properties.

    The State acting Chairman of the Union, Nwafor Chisom Martin, who briefed journalists in Awka on Monday, appealed to the public to disregard the information, describing it as plot to create misunderstanding between their clients (both home and abroad), the state government and the general public.

    The Paradise News gathered that the Union was reacting following a video circulating online, where a content creator (name withheld) alleged that about 95 percent of Anambra estate developers have had sex with her severally and her attempt to stop the act has lead to automatic lost of her job.

    Reacting further, the acting chairman who is also the CEO, Chukwusomaga Properties Limited, said the development is a big slap to the industry in Anambra State and beyond.

    Read Also: June 12: Ndigbo still very much marginalized in Nigeria – Obidigbo tells Tinubu

    According to him, the lady promoted indiscipline in the social media space because she couldn’t even prove the company she is working for as the developers all denied ever working with her. This is an act of encouraging young female realtors to get involved in prostitution via the industry.

    The allegation is a big fallacy, it is a devilish plot to tarnish the image of the Industry that  happens to be one of the biggest sector in Nigerian economy and in Anambra State most especially as well.

    “We are totally debunking this lies from the pit of hell. It is absolutely impossible for the kind of personalities like us to engaged in sex-play with our female employees or realtors.

    “How can she claim that she slept with 95: percent Estate Chief Executive Officers, Clients and Managing Directors to be able to sell properties.

    “We as a Union does not know her nor recognized her as realtor in any of our companies, neither have we engaged her in any real estate business transaction

    We don’t know her and the allegation of sleeping with us, MDs and our clients for real estate transactions in Anambra State is completely false and should be disregard.

    “This Union respect women and we never treated them as sex tools for any reason or any business transactions as been speculated online.

    The real estate industry in Anambra State is currently the highest employer of labour with thousands of direct and indirect employees, mostly students who sponsors their education and other welfares through the proceeds they made from real estate business.

    “As a respectful industry with great respect to  rule of law and for the sake of our business which is greatly affected by this allegation and the content, we shall follow every legal means necessary to ratify the situation and equally protect the image of many hardworking ladies and individuals working in the real estate in general.

    The lady is just a content creator and we have given her 24-hours to shut down the content or face a severe legal action, the Chairman stated.

    Also present during the briefing includes; Hon. Gabriel Chukwunwendu, CEO POOL KING ESTATE LIMITED, Collins Igwe, Managing Director and CEO, Afrihedge Properties Limited and Acting Secretary, Hon Anowai Stanley Excels, CEO, PASVIC HOMES AND SERVICES and Acting Publicity Secretary, Aneto Samuel Onyema, MD, Dynamo Group Ltd, Chief Obika Kingsley, Pioneer President and CEO ROCK-LINK REAL ESTATE COMPANY LIMITED, Wonder Obi, MD, N-UNIQUE HOME CONSULT, Managing Director, EJISON GLOBAL PROPERTIES LTD and Anthony Precious, CEO Lexxon Group Limited.

    Others are; Hon Udegbunam Charles of Charlessudi and Partners, Nwagu Spencer of Transparent Global Properties Limited.

  • June 12: Ndigbo still very much marginalized in Nigeria – Obidigbo tells Tinubu

    June 12: Ndigbo still very much marginalized in Nigeria – Obidigbo tells Tinubu

    By Ovat Abeng

    An elder stateman Dr. Chike Obidigbo has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to focused more of his renewed hope agenda towards addressing the continues’s cry of marginalization in the south east region of the country.

    Obidigbo made the appeal in a press released he signed and made available to Journalists shortly after a media conversation in Awka on Tuesday, where he also extensively discus the position of Ndigbo in Nigeria/remarks on the 2024 democracy day celebration (June 12), among other national issues.

    He wrote, “In the spirit of the June 12 democracy day celebration in Nigeria, let me begin by sincerely thanking all of you my beautiful friends, and great media associates for finding time to honour this invitation, even at very short notice.

    I do not intend this to be a press conference, rather,an occasion to meet with you my old and new media friends,and to share my personal views on the current dilemma of the Igbo Nation, with the prevailing socio-political and economic challenges defying Nigeria’s continuing search for economic stability, social harmony and political unity.

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    “Before I proceed, can we humbly observe one-minute silence in honour of the over four million people that lost their lives during the Nigeria Biafra civil war as well as the five soldiers killed in Aba, Abia State recently.

    “Continue; Obidigbo lamented that the most painful thing about all these deaths, whether of our security personnel or of our civilians, youths or women, is that they are all our people being destroyed;our youths, our so called leaders of our tomorrow. When we wilfully and ignorantly wipe them off today, who then will lead our already bleak tomorrow out of the current darkness we created through our ignorance and foolishness?

    “This is the only country I know that does not value the lives of her youths, infact of anyone ,infants, youths, men and women. Our people are killed anyhow, everywhere, on the streets,inside praying houses,in their farms, in the markets,inside their houses. Infact, one can meet brutal death anywhere.

    I have therefore called the media to this meeting to share my pains and ideas about the current situation in our country, especially as it concerns our dear Igbo community.

    “Renewed attention has been focused on the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who, in 2014, started calling for the highest level of democracy, which is referendum.

    “Most commentators and critics have tried to condemn the IPOB methodologies, especially the suggestion for the possible secession of Biafra from Nigeria in protest against the continued Igbo marginalization . Even the worst enemies of Ndigbo acknowledge that we are still very much marginalized in this country. There is no doubt about it.

    “Needless to say that the IPOB agitation gave room to a lot of attention to Southeast from both allies, friends and enemies of Igboland.

    “Either out of distaste for the methods adopted by IPOB or as a continuation of both social and economic blockade against Igbo, attention shifted away from the self help efforts of NdIgbo to renewed plots for subjugation of the people.

    “No attempt was made to evaluate the level of implementation or otherwise of the General Yakubu Gowon’s promise of the Three Rs-Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Reconciliation- which was made to the Eastern Region immediately after the civil war. Rather, a semblance of renewed war is still  being waged against NdIgbo and even the entire former Eastern Region,but with particular emphasis on Igbo land.

    “The orgy of violence and bloodshed in Igbo land began on a massive scale, putting a seeming lie to the famed Igbo respect for the sanctity of life.

    “There have been allegations of false flag operations and fifth columnists using the cover of the agitation by the mainstream IPOB for a referendum to determine the basis of Nigeria’s unity, to cause mayhem, violence and criminality in the Southeast.

    “Let me state here that I condemn unequivocally any attack on security agencies and indeed, violence of any kind.

    The assassination of five soldiers in Aba Abia State some days ago is unwarranted, stands condemnable, and I agree that it is right for the military authorities to thoroughly investigate the matter. But, that should not be taken as excuse or impetus for rash martial actions in the name of reprisal.

    Recently, the members of the National Assembly celebrated 25 years of democracy in this dispensation. But no motion was made about the issue of equitable distribution of political powers or spread of social amenities and economic opportunities.

    “The killing of the soldiers at Obikabia in Abia State reminded of the breach of Owerri Maximum Security Prison in Imo State,which led to the massacre of several innocent youths of Igbo extraction.

    The enthronement of insecurity on otherwise secure and peaceful South East geopolitical zone comes as part of a broad plan of economic strangulation of the region. Businesses that tried by every means to thrive, despite official intimidations, multiple taxations, infrastructural deficits, very hostile business environment, and several other forms of economic disincentives are now being  literally forced to migrate in droves out of South East to nearby states and elsewhere,  otherwise to close down their operations in South East.

    “On the political terrain, it is worrisome that despite the creation of six geopolitical zones, which was expected to provide equal opportunities and inclusive leadership, the Southeast has not been supported to produce the president of this country. This imbalance in the leadership of the country underscores the other sore political points of lopsided allocation of number of states per zone. While other zones have as many as seven and six states each, Southeast is being punished with just five states. This is sad when you consider that National Cake is shared out  on state by state basis.

    The Nigerian state has continued to behave in such a way as if isolating the Igbo is the best policy option to guarantee the country’s unity. You must have noticed from the recent reconstitution of Governing boards of federal tertiary institutions and Polytechnics how one state produced as many as 25 candidates while the entire Southeast was allocated only 12.

    “It is gladdening to note though,that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu refused to endorse that obvious slight, but the development goes far to reveal the reality of continuing marginalization of NdIgbo in the Nigeria project.

    “Not long ago, Mr. Sunday Adeyemo, alias Sunday Igboho, regained his freedom and re-joined his fellow Yoruba people after the Federal Government dropped all charges of treasonable felony against him for calling for the separation of the Yoruba nation from Nigeria due to the murderous activities of Fulani herdsmen in Yoruba land under President Muhammadu Buhari.

    Also, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, the former Presidential candidate of African Action Congress (AAC), was allowed to breathe the air of freedom after the Federal Government dropped charges against the young man for calling for Revolution Now in Nigeria to address poor governance and bad leadership in the country.

    Just last week, the President of Myetti Allah, Bello Badejo, was declared innocent from the charges of terrorism after the Federal Government withdrew charges against him for setting up a nationwide Fulani vigilante to secure the country despite the existence of Nigeria security agencies.

    In all these gestures of peace and reconciliation, the Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN, came out boldly to declare that the only way the leader of mainstream IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, can regain his freedom is through the court.

    “As an elder statesman, all these and more are  agitating my mind and I decided to invite you so that through you I will make my feelings and opinion known to Nigerians and others elsewhere.

    *Nigeria Democracy And Ndi-Igbo

    “There is a popular saying that absolute vigilance is expected from any sane person surrounded by enemies. Like Chinua Achebe stated in his great work, ‘There was a Country’, “Nigerians will probably achieve consensus on no other matter than their common resentment of the Igbo.”

    “Very soon Nigeria will be celebrating Democracy Day. Going by what happened recently in the presidential elections in Senegal and South Africa, Nigeria’s celebration of democracy comes as another example of official deception. June 12 as Democracy Day is a reminder of the abortion of hope and desecration of the people’s will.

    “Some observers have drawn a parallel between what happened on June 12, 1993 and the recent events of February 25, 2023. The annulment of the 1993 election was not different from rigged or violent elections. The question that arises is, when will Nigerians truly say that they elect their leaders,as happened recently in Senegal and South Africa ?

    ” In the South East, despite the 25 years of unbroken civil rule, elections have always provided opportunities for those who are interested in the internal subjugation of Igbo land to impose leaders on the people. This undemocratic programme, which started from Anambra State and manifested in Imo State has always defined elections in the South East zone.

    “I say this of a fact because I contested governorship elections in Anambra State and I knew the level of interest shown by powerful individuals from outside the zone on who becomes governor of every Igbo state.

    The political emasculation of Igbo seems to be the most proficient political strategy handed down by the British to ensure their continued influence on the socio-political life of its former West African colony.

    “Britain has remained steadfast in intervening in Nigeria’s affairs as if Nigeria is her entitled source of livelihood,and NdIgbo her major obstacle to drawing her entitled benefits. This undue antagonism against Igbo is not limited to politics, but goes down to economic activities, especially trade, commerce and industry.

    What to do as way Out

    Having identified some of the various obstacles to Igbo progress, it behooves on our leaders, particularly  Igbo political leaders, (which I doubt genuinely exist); Igbo Socio-Cultural Organisations and Igbo Think Tanks, to sit down and fashion out a workable course of action to free us from these heavy man made burdens.

    “First, we must realize that the progressive nature of Ndigbo elicits envy, jealousy,suspicion and outright hatred,which could culminate in deaths. The British sees the growth of Igbo economy as detrimental to theirs and so are ever prepared to do all in their power to arrest it,and at all cost.

    “While the British tends to believe that it is only Ndigbo that are opposed to their complete takeover of Nigeria’s economy, the Fulanis have been schooled into nursing similar interest. The Fulani has recently shown interest to overrun the entire country, introduce Islamic religion as a ploy to enthrone their oligarchy over Nigeria.

    “Sadly, Ndigbo have been identified as the only stumbling block and so deserve to be decimated, and if possible, wiped off the face of this earth. Interestingly, both British and Fulani are joined by a common objective, which is the elimination of their common enemy – Ndigbo. This has made it easy for both to partner to checkmate all prosperous activities of Ndigbo in Nigeria.

    “As Britain and Fulani work out their plans, other Nigerians watch helplessly in the false belief that Igbo marginalization and mistreatment is in the best interest of the country they are all forced to belong.

    “Sometimes these other ethnic nationalities get manipulated into believing that the Ndigbo are their problems and so they get co-opted to join forces with the Igbo haters.
    Unfortunately, it has not yet occurred to them  that total silencing of Ndigbo will render them vulnerable and prostrate before their overlords. Its only a matter of time. Yakubu Gowon, T Y Danjuma and several others of their type are now realising the futility of their past actions against Ndigbo.

    “Every move by Fulanis is dictated by the British. All the dangerous economic plots against Ndigbo are intended to benefit both parties. All the immoral politicians being supported into top political positions by the duo  are there to do their biddings at the detriment and total disadvantage of Nigerians, especially Ndigbo.

    The planned Constitutional review would produce another master plan to further delay Igbo emancipation in an open society and egalitarian country. The suggestion of one single term of six years for the Presidency, unless it is clearly stated that the rotation will begin from South East would mean that another pathway for violent confrontation and continued friction in the country has been created.

    “Both the constitution review and planned national census would test the leadership acumen, historical understanding of the present crop of Igbo leaders, if only  they could limit their appetite for primitive accumulation and engage themselves in deep and creative thinking about the enthronement of a just society,especially for Ndigbo.

    “Unfortunately, Igbo has allowed itself to be demystified by internal wranglings and ungodly behaviours. The involvement of our young people in get rich quick,at all cost schemes, including yahoo yahoo, rituals, drug trafficking, sex trafficking and other anti-social practices have helped to redefine Igbo identity.

    We seem to have forgotten our resolute belief in God and the primacy of love for neighbour.

    “It was this total belief and faith in the Almighty that enabled us to survive three years of agonizing genocidal civil war,the degree of which has neither been seen nor known elsewhere. . That spirit was captured in the theme song of Biafrans during the war: Bia nulu onu anyi nna bia nulu onu anyi, onwero mgbe ike mmadu ka akali ike Chukwu, nna bia nulu.

    “Nigeria’s history of being a country is usually traced to the amalgamation by lord Lugard, of the Lagos, Southern and Northern protectorates, which took place in 1914.

    “Unlike the northern protectorate, the Southern protectorate had two large and distinctive ethnic nationalities that were subdivided into Eastern and Western Regions.

    The Igbo is one of the about 250 ethnic nationalities in the country. Found majorly in the Southeast and neighbouring geopolitical zones, Igbo have been credited with hardwork and enterprise.

    But, amid those special gifts of industry, it has been discovered that Ndi-Igbo have some shortcomings and experienced some setbacks in Nigeria. It is therefore necessary to review some additional problems that confront the Igbo nation, especially in their attempt to make positive contributions in the Nigeria’s development.

    The prominent challenge that Igbo face is the issue of self-imposed mediocre political leadership as well as outside influence on leadership recruitment.

    After achieving political independence in 1960, Nigeria had three Regions; the North, the East, and the West. It was in 1963 that the fourth, Midwest Region, was created through a plebiscite.

    The Eastern Region was predominantly Igbo with neighbors comprising Ibibio, Anang, Efik of Akwa Ibom,and Cross River, including Ijaw and Ikwere of today’s Rivers and Bayelsa States, in addition to few other minor ethnic groups.

    The West was predominantly Yoruba with some of them mischievously carved out,and joined to the North, as could be found especially in the present Kwara and Kogi States. The North was a motley of ethnic nationalities and nation states lumped together principally to protect, enlarge, and prosper British interest in the political creation called Nigeria.

    The Igbo-dominated Eastern Region under the premiership of late Dr. Michael Okpara prospered so much economically to the point of being considered as one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, and the fastest-growing economy in the entire Sub-Saharan Africa.

    This Prosperity of Eastern Region raised so much animosity against Ndigbo. This bitter animosity lasted all through the war period,and has unfortunately not subsided  even till date, clear Fifty Fours years after the war. States were created in such a manner to cause mutual distrust between Igbo and her closest neighbours, especially  former members of the same Eastern Region.

    The height of the siege on Igbo is that even ethnic nationalities with their roots in Igbo land began to alienate and even distance themselves from Igbo. This goes a long way to prove the saying that while success has many siblings, failure remains an orphan.

    Although the civil war officially ended 54 years ago, it continues to rage against the Igbo in very subdued but very aggressive manner, giving the clear impression that the war may not after all has ended. Or has it ended in your consideration? Dr Obidigbo asked.

  • Ojukwu Varsity to host 2024 tree planting, climate action summit July 17

    Ojukwu Varsity to host 2024 tree planting, climate action summit July 17

    By Ovat Abeng

    In a bold initiative to combat climate change, promote environmental sustainability and advance the cause of a livable and prosperous society, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Anambra State is set to host her maiden Tree Planting and Climate Action Summit.

    The event with its theme as Tree- mendous Strategy for a Sustainable Future, which will take place on Wednesday, 17th July 2024 at the Igbariam Campus of the university will feature Keynote Addresses and Panel Discussions on climate change mitigation strategies and environmental stewardship, the unveiling of the COOU 5-Year Strategic Plan for Tree Planting and Climate Action, investiture of COOU Climate Action Ambassadors and symbolic tree planting activity by dignitaries, stakeholders, volunteers and members of the university community.

    According to the Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Kate Azuka Omenugha, who disclosed this in a statement, on Sunday, noted that the initiative not only aims to beautify the university campus but also contributes to a healthier environment by absorbing carbon dioxide, improving air quality, providing natural shade, promoting the green economy and advancing climate literacy.

    She said the 5-Year Strategic Plan for Tree Planting and Climate Action to be powered through the university’s One Staff One Tree, One Student One Tree campaign and collaborative partnerships with external vision-sharers seeks to ultimately deliver 1,000,000 native trees across the three campuses of the university and various parts of Anambra State.

    Read Also: NANS Demands Sanction Against EFCC Officials Over Alleged Maltreatment Of Students During Raid

    “As an action rally that seeks to leave no one behind, the Acting Vice Chancellor, on behalf of the Management, Staff and Students of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University invites all beneficiaries and benefactors of the Earth to join this pivotal event and become part of the solution for a greener and prosperous tomorrow,” Omenugha further noted.