Governor Hope Uzodimma has approved the immediate sack of the Imo State Attorney- General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. C.O.CAkaolisa.

The erstwhile Commissioner has been directed to hand over all government property under his care to the State Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, immediately.

This is contained in a statement issued yesterday by the state Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation, and Strategy, Declan MbadiweEmelumba.

The terse statement reads, “The Governor of Imo State, His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodimma, CON, has approved the immediate removal from the office of the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr C .O. C Akaolisa,

“The erstwhile Commissioner has been directed to hand over all government property under his care to the State Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, immediately.”

According to Emelumba, the exercise is a result of a minor cabinet reshuffle to rejig the administration of His Excellency.

The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria has launched a nationwide initiative to mobilize citizens at the state and community levels in support of the Reserved Seats for Women Bill currently before the Joint Constitutional Reform Committees of the National Assembly.

The initiative, backed by UN Women Nigeria and funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), is part of the broader Advancing Women’s Inclusion and Representation in Leadership and Political Processes in Nigeria project. It will be implemented across nine states: Anambra, Enugu (South East), Edo (South South), Oyo (South West), Kogi (North Central), Adamawa (North East), and Sokoto, Kano, and Jigawa (North West).

In a statement, FIDA Nigeria’s Country Vice President, Mrs. Eliana Martins, said the campaign seeks to foster public consensus and drive advocacy for constitutional amendments that will secure special reserved seats for women in Nigeria’s National and State Assemblies.

“Our aim is to engage stakeholders through regular consultations, co-create solutions, and consolidate community input into a draft memorandum to be presented during public hearings at the National Assembly,” Martins said.

The initiative targets the inclusion of 37 additional reserved seats each in the Nigerian Senate and House of Representatives, and up to 108 in State Houses of Assembly.

Mr. Fikih Obaro, Senior Manager for Programs and Partnerships at FIDA Nigeria, emphasized that the effort was focused on creating a gender-responsive legal framework through strategic collaborations with both governmental and non-governmental actors.

He noted that the project’s core objective is to strengthen advocacy for exclusive women’s representation, paving the way for inclusive and equitable governance across Nigeria.

“Increasing public awareness and support in advancing women political participation and representation through the constitution amendment process.

“Aggregating demands and advocacy asks through a draft memorandum from citizens towards improving women representation in governance and political process.

“Securing commitments from National and State Houses of Assembly by building a passage for 74 additional exclusive Special Seats for Women at the National Assembly and 108 Seats at the State Houses of Assembly through Constitutional Amendment/Review process”, Obaro added.

Mrs. Martins therefore encouraged the public to support all efforts to advance the representation and participation of women in Nigerian politics.

The Traditional ruler of Okahia autonomous community in Obingwa Local Government Area of Abia State, Eze Okey Ananaba, said that Governor Alex Otti increased the welfare package of traditional rulers in the state when he learned about the pittance they received as a monthly stipend.

Ananaba, who stated this while commending the governor for what he described as his modest achievements in less than two years in office, disclosed that some traditional rulers were receiving N10,000 as a monthly stipend.

He said the governor had increased the monthly stipend to N250,000 with other incentives and commended him for appreciating traditional rulers’ role in the state’s governance.

The monarch also urged traditional rulers in the state not to sabotage the governor’s efforts to bring development to all parts of the state.

He said, “Traditional rulers in Abia State have never had it this good since the return of democracy in 1999. Despite our roles as custodians of culture and traditions and maintenance of law in our communities, we were treated unfairly by previous administrations in the state. We supported each of them, and they completed their respective eight-year tenure. Our stipends under those administrations were nothing to write home about, revolving between N10,000 and N30,000. The leaders got N30,000 monthly, leaving us in excruciating pain. The past administrations hardened their minds against traditional rulers despite all pleas for them to have a rethink. But unexpectedly, Governor Alex Chioma Otti heard our complaints and reviewed our stipends to a minimum benchmark of N250,000 monthly traditional ruler, which we receive on the 28th of every month alongside civil servants in Abia State.

“In celebration of Governor Alex Chioma Otti’s eventful and impactful administration in less than two years, I make this strong call on traditional rulers in Abia State to remain resolute and continue to support the governor’s efforts in bringing development to all parts of the state.

“As witnesses to the infrastructural changes ongoing in the state, especially in the areas of Road, particularly Port Harcourt Road, Aba, retrofitting of Health centers and schools, we have no other better position to take than to continue to support his administration . Politics, they say, is a game of interest, but let us continue to support Governor Otti, to avoid returning to those dark days of agony.”

…As wife receives award from Catholic women

The Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma has assured the people of Orlu of his administration’s resolve to restore the city as the business hub of the State.

He made the promise at the Holy Trinity Cathedral Orlu weekend, where the leadership and members of the Catholic Women Organization (CWO) of the Diocese honoured his wife, Barr. Mrs. Chioma Uzodimma with the prestigious Nneoma Nwereugwu Merit Award.

The CWO said the choice of the title for the First Lady of Imo State was in recognition of her outstanding motherly role since assuming that role.

Addressing the recent economic difficulties faced by the Orlu community, which he attributed to the  detrimental actions by those against progress, Governor Uzodimma emphasised that, “despite these obstacles, God has demonstrated His support for the  area and envisioned a future, where Orlu is recognised for its enterprise and community spirit.”

He, however, pledged support for the completion of the proposed N500 million Queen of Peace Female Hostel Complex, by immediately rallying support from his friends, who accompanied him to the venue of the event at the Cathedral to make appreciable financial commitments for the project.

The Governor, not only thanked the Orlu Diocesan CWO for the honour bestowed on his wife and other deserving mothers, but expressed gratitude over the support his family has received from the Bishop of the Orlu Catholic Diocese, Most Rev (Dr.) Augustine Ukwuoma, over the years.

Earlier in his homily, Bishop Ukwuoma emphasised the special role of mothers in society, noting that, “the Diocese recognises and rewards Catholic mothers, who have made significant contributions to the service of God and humanity, as well as those who exhibit exemplary behaviour in their homes, parishes, and communities.”

Bishop Ukwuoma referenced notable mothers in the Bible, who made positive impacts, but expressed concern that “many modern mothers are not living up to their roles, as societal role models.”

He congratulated all the mothers, who were honoured and urged all mothers to raise their children properly, asserting that “strong families are essential for a peaceful and secure nation.”

Bishop Ukwuoma, who also praised the wife of the Governor for her motherly virtues and societal status, affirmed that she deserved the award given to her.

He, however, encouraged Mrs Uzodimma to continue supporting her husband, in his efforts to work for the benefit of the State.

Wife of Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun and that of Ebonyi State, Mrs Mary- Maudline Nwifuru were among the dignitaries at the event.

A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered substituted service of court processes on the 2007 presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Patrick OkedinachiUtomi (also known as Prof. Pat Utomi) in relation to a suit pending against over his announced plan to establish a shadow government in the country.

In the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/937/2025 filed by the Department of State Services, DSS, through a team of lawyers, led by Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), the Service argued that, not only is the planned shadow government an aberration, it constitutes a grave attack on the Constitution and a threat to the current democratically elected government.

On Wednesday, Justice James Omotosho granted an ex–parte motion argued by Kehinde for and order allowing service of court documents on Utomi, listed as the sole defendant, in his Lagos address by means of courier service.

The plaintiff gave Utomi’s Lagos address while Justice Omotosho adjourned till June 25 for hearing, before which Utomi is expected to have filed his defence.

In the suit instituted on May 13, the DSS expressed concern that such a structure, styled as a ‘shadow government,’ if left unchecked, may incite political unrest, cause inter group tensions, and embolden other unlawful actors or separatist entities to replicate similar parallel arrangements, all of which pose a grave threat to national security.”

The plaintiff wanted  the court to declare the purported “shadow government” or”‘shadow cabinet” being planned by Utomi and his associates as “unconstitutional and amounts to an attempt to create a parallel authority not recognized by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).”

The DSS is also seeking a declaration that “under Sections 1(1), 1(2) and 14(2)(a) of the Constitution, the establishment or operation of any governmental authority or structure outside the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended). is unconstitutional, null, and void.”

The plaintiff wanted  the court to issue an order of perpetual injunction, restraining Utomi, his agents and associates “from further taking any steps towards the establishment or operation of a ‘shadow government,’ ‘shadow cabinet’ or any similar entity not recognized by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).”

Among the grounds on which the plaintiff is hinging its prayers includes that Section 1(1) of the Constitution declares its supremacy and binding force on all persons and authorities in Nigeria.

It added that Section 1(2) prohibits the governance of Nigeria or any part thereof except in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution.

According to the DSS, Section 14(2Xa) states that sovereignty belongs to the people of Nigeria, from whom government through the Constitution derives all its powers and authority.

It is contending that Utomi’s proposed shadow government lacks constitutional recognition and authority, thereby contravening the aforementioned provisions.

The plaintiff further stated, in a supporting affidavit, that it is the principal domestic intelligence and security agency of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, statutorily mandated to detect and prevent threats to the internal security of Nigeria, including subversive activities capable of undermining national unity, peace and constitutional order.

The DSS added that it is statutorily empowered to safeguard the internal security of Nigeria and prevent any threats to the lawful authority of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Its constituent institutions.

It stated that it has monitored, “through intelligence reports and open source material, public statements and interviews granted by the defendant, Professor Patrick Utomi, in which he announced the purported establishment of what he temed a ‘shadow government’ or ‘shadow cabinet,’comprising of several persons that make up its ‘Minister.’

“The ‘shadow government’ or ‘shadow cabinet’ is an unregistered and unrecognized body claiming to operate as an alternative government. contrary to the provision of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).

“The defendant (Utomi), through public statements, social media, and other platforms, has announced the formation of this body with the intent to challenge the legitimacy of the democratically elected government of Nigeria.

“While inaugurating the ‘shadow cabinet’, the defendant stated that it ls made up of the Ombudsman and Good Governance portfolio to be manned by Dele Farotimi; the policy Delivery Unit team consisting of OgheneMomoh, ChetaNwanze, Daniel Ikuonobe, Halima Ahmed, David Okonkwo and Obi Ajuga: and the council of economic advisers.

“Based on the intelligence gathered by the plaintiff, the activities and statements made by the defendant and his associates are capable of misleading segments of the Nigerian public, weakening confidence in the legitimacy of the elected government, and fuelling public disaffection,” it said.

The DSS further stated  that it is particularly, concerned that such a structure, styled as a ‘shadow government,’ if left unchecked, may incite political unrest, cause intergroup tensions, and embolden other unlawful actors or separatist entities to replicate similar parallel arrangements, all of which pose a grave threat to national security.

“The plaintiff, in the discharge of Its statutory duties, has gathered intelligence confirming that the defendant’s actions pose a clear and present danger to Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.

“The defendant’s actions amount to an attempt to usurp or mimic executive authority, contrary to sections 1(1), 1{2), and 14(2Xa) of the 1999 Constitution (As Amended), which exclusively vests governance in institutions duly created under the Consttution and through democratic elections.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria has made several efforts to engage the defendant to dissuade him from this unconstitutional path, including statements made by the Minister of Information, but the defendant has remained defiant.

“It is In the interest of justice, national security, and the rule of law for this honourable court to declare the existence and operations of the defendant unconstitutional and illegal,” it said.

Senate President GodswillAkpabio said there will be no political parties in AkwaIbom state come the 2027 general election.
He said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) umbrella had been severely damaged, hence it can no longer safeguard the populace.
Akpabio, who serves as the representative for AkwaIbom North West Senatorial District in the Senate, spoke on Friday during his midterm empowerment briefing at the IkotEkpene township stadium.
He said: “As I speak with you, there is nothing like a political party in 2027 in AkwaIbom State again. For the Senate of Ikot-Ekpene Senatorial District, all political parties have collapsed to vote for Senator GodswillAkpabio.
“For the office of the governor in 2027, all political parties have agreed to vote for Governor UmoEno. AkwaIbom has moved to vote for President Bola Tinubu, Eno for governor of AkwaIbom State, and Senator Akpabio for Senate.
“The Peoples Democratic Party is in shreds and the umbrella can no longer protect.”

The Senate has begun moves to criminalise the continuous unwholesome practices of chemical ripening of fruits among fruit sellers in Nigeria, as against the natural way of allowing the fruits to ripe by coming up with stiffer punishment for anyone caught in the act to save lives.

Consequently, the Senate has mandated its Senator AdeniyiAdegbonmire, SAN, APC, Ondo Central led Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters to as a matter of urgency have a cursory look at the extant laws in order to carry out an amendment that would incorporate the stiffer punishment for those involved in the act of chemical ripening of fruits.

The Senate has summoned the Director General of National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, Prof. MojisolaAdeyeye to appear before its Committees on Health and Agriculture to explain what the agency has done so far with the Chemical ripening of fruits and how to ensure that it does not continue henceforth.

Resolutions of the Senate yesterday were sequel to a motion titled, “Urgent need to investigate with an intention to halt the continuous unwholesome practices of chemical ripening of fruits among fruit sellers in Nigeria.” It was sponsored by Senator Anthony Ani, APC, Ebonyi South.

The Upper Chamber has urged NAFDAC, Ministry of Agriculture & Food Security, and Federal Competition and Consumer protection Commission to investigate the practice of chemical ripening of fruits in Nigeria.

It has also asked NAFDAC, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, National Orientation Agency, NOA and FCCPC to increase the level of awareness by continuous sensitization and public enlightenment on the hazardous implications of chemical ripening of fruits

The Senate has further urged NAFDAC, Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service and Nigerian Custom Service to ensure that imported fruits especially apples are not preserved with harmful chemicals.

The Upper Chamber equally urged NAFDAC and FCCPC to commence regular visits to fruits markets to check the practice of chemical ripening of fruits.

In his presentation of the motion, Senator Ani said, “The Senate: Aware that ripening of fruits is a natural physiological process that makes fruits sweeter, more palatable, edible, nutritious, softer and attractive. Fruit ripening is a highly regulated irreversible process that involves highly coordinated, complex biochemical and physiological changes;

“Also aware that artificial ripening of fruits involves the external application of chemicals and other agents to achieve faster and more uniform ripening of fruits;

“Informed that among the widely used artificial ripening agents, are ethylene and methyl jasmonate which have been reported to be non-toxic for human consumption; however, they are relatively expensive. In many developing countries, low-cost chemicals such as calcium carbide, ethylene glycol, and ethephon are reported to be commonly used to artificially trigger the ripening processes of fruits;

“Also informed that the cosmetic quality of artificially ripened fruits will increase but organoleptic qualities (taste, colour and smell), nutrition value and shelf life are depreciated when fruits are subjected to treatment without considering maturity status;

“Worried that nutrition experts and regulatory agencies such as NAFDAC, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, etc, have warned against fruit ripening with calcium carbide, describing it as a harmful practice that endangers human lives;

“Also worried that Calcium carbide contains impurities such as arsenic, lead particles, phosphorus, etc., that cause several health hazards such as cancer, heart, kidney and liver failure, neurological disorders, intestinal problems, skin damage, mouth ulcers, etc;

“Saddened that the practice of ripening of fruits with dangerous chemicals have been on the increase among fruit sellers in Nigeria;

“Also saddened that many of these fruit sellers are ignorant of the health hazards posed by the consumption of artificially ripened fruit but driven by the incremental profit made as most customers prefer to patronize the artificially ripened fruits due to its enhanced cosmetic appearance not knowing that they are buying poison; and

“Notes that the use of some of these chemicals has been banned in many countries of the world, but they are still being used indiscriminately in Nigeria.”

By Jude Onyenedogha

The wife of Imo State Governor, Lady (Dr) Chioma Uzodimma has asserted that the Renewed Hope Initiative of President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, down to state Governors and their wives was changing the narrative of limited access to agricultural inputs, especially among youths and women farmers.

Dr. Uzodimma made this assertion in her address during the empowerment of 300 farmers made up of students (100), youths (100) and women (100), at the Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu Square (former Heroes Square), Owerri, recently.

The beneficiaries were empowered with agricultural inputs and implements such as; Wheelbarrows, fertilizers, poultry feeds, feeders, drinkers, improved/high yield maize grains, improved/early maturity cassava stems, machetes, rakes, among others.

They were also handed envelopes said to be containing cash of twenty five thousand naira (N25, 000) each.

According to the Imo First Lady, the Renewed Hope Initiative, through the Agricultural Support Programmes is changing the narrative, by providing targeted support for the special groups.

She said, “Women bring resilience and expertise, while youths bring energy. Together, they are essential to achieving food security and sustainable development.

Barr. Uzodimma said, having trained the beneficiaries on modern method and technics in agriculture, “today we take a bold step forward, by distributing agricultural inputs to our beneficiaries. These resources are catalyst for transformation, tools to enhance productivity and create sustainable livelihood.

She urged the beneficiaries to use the inputs diligently, share the knowledge, to inspire other members of their communities.

“Today is your day, you are the torchbearers of a new agricultural era in the state. Go forth, cultivate, innovate and prosper. Let us work hand in hand to build a Nigeria where no one is left behind, where food is abundant and hope is renewed in every household.

“By empowering women and youths, we are fostering entrepreneurship, reducing poverty and strengthening Imo State economy.

The Governor’s wife said the initiative of “every home a garden” programme and young Farmers’ Club will promote self-sufficiency and agricultural innovations.

She disclosed that national winner of Every Home a Garden competition was rewarded with twenty million naira (N20, 000,000), and other finalists also received various prices, including Dike Maryjane from Imo State who received one million naira (1,000,000), announcing that the next batch of the competition has started.

She asserted, “Beyond agriculture, the Renewed Hope Initiative addresses health, education and social welfare, through programmes like the elderly support scheme and triple elimination campaign against HIV/Aids, Syphilis and Hepatitis”

On Monday, the Nigerian Bar Association said it would establish an anti-corruption committee in each of its 130 branches to address corruption-related issues.

The Chairman, NBA National Anti-Corruption Committee, Prof. Babafemi Badejo, made this known in a statement made available to newsmen in Lagos.

Badejo said that the NBA National Executive Committee, at its meeting in Ilorin recently, passed the motion for all NBA branches to set up an anti-corruption committee mandatorily.

“An anti-corruption committee shall be established in all NBA branches to address corruption-related issues within their jurisdictions.

“They shall work closely with local stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, the judiciary, and community organisations, to reduce corruption at their respective levels.

“They shall collaborate with the NBA National Anti-Corruption Committee towards a robust NBA coordinated abhorrence of corruption.

“The national-level body shall coordinate anti-corruption efforts across all branches,” he said. The chairman added that the NBA, under the leadership of Mr Afam Osigwe, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, had already put in place the NBA national anti-corruption committee earlier this year. Badejo also said the branch-level committees would design their respective activities to boost anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria.

“With the freedom of each branch and national coordination mechanism in articulating what can be done to curb corruption, the NBA will be delivering a clear message that corruption is not a normal way of life.

“The NBA is boldly engaging in its expected role as the bastion of accountability and the rule of law. “Proactive NBA on anti-corruption is not just a professional necessity, but a national imperative.“NBA is promoting the rule of law through the promotion of anti-corruption, and the promotion of the rule of law is the guiding principle of the NBA,” he said.

…Reaffirms commitment to release 2022, to 2025 result soon

By Fredrick Njoku

The Imo State Government has announced the release of the 2020 and 2021 First Leaving Certificate results of the Universal Basic Education Assessment Test (UBEAT), also known as the Post-School Leaving Certificate Examination.

This development was confirmed by the Honourable Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, Prof. Bernard Thompson O. Ikegwuoha.

According to the Commissioner,  the Governor, Senator (Dr) Hope Uzodimma  graciously approved the release of the long-awaited results.

Speaking with journalists in his office in Owerri, yesterday,  Professor  Ikegwuoha said: “I am pleased to inform the general public that His Excellency, the Governor, Dist. Senator (Dr.) Hope Uzodimma, CON, GSSRS, has approved the release of the 2020 and 2021 UBEAT results.”

“Parents and guardians can now visit the centers,  where their children/wards  took the examinations to access their  results.”

The Commissioner expressed regret over the delay in releasing the results, acknowledging the concerns of parents and guardians, who frequently visited the Ministry for updates. He also  thanked them for their patience and understanding.

Similarly,  ProfessorIkegwuoha revealed that efforts are in top gear to expedite the release of the remaining certificates for the years, 2022, 2023 and 2024, within  two months. He reassured parents and guardians  that their concerns are being addressed, adding  that Imo state  government remains committed to ensuring the educational progression of their children and  wards.

“With this approval, we are assuring that the outstanding results will certainly be made available soon,” he said.

The Commissioner  expressed  appreciation to His Excellency, Distinguished Senator (Dr.) Hope  Uzodimma, the Executive Governor of Imo State foe  commitment in the education sector, and for safeguarding the future of the youths of Imo State.

By Sunday Abah, Abuja

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, is partnering with Nizamiye Hospital, a private medical facility, to organise free medical outreach in the month of June and during its upcoming Press Week.

The initiative aims to promote public health awareness and provide free healthcare services to journalists within the Federal Capital Territory.

During a recent courtesy visit to Nizamiye Hospital in Abuja, the NUJ delegation, led by its Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, discussed potential areas of collaboration, particularly in health advocacy and community service.

The hospital, represented by its Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Mohammed Abubakar, expressed readiness to support the Press Week and series of medical outreach for journalists

“We welcome this kind of partnership,” Abubakar said. “All we need is a formal letter outlining the outreach plan, and we will proceed together.”

Abubakar urged the media to highlight the quality healthcare options available locally to help reduce the increasing trend of medical tourism.

He also shared the hospital’s successful outreach programs, which have served thousands of Nigerians in Nasarawa, Katsina, Bauchi, Owerri among others

“In Kefi, we treated about 2,500 patients over two days. In Katsina, around 2,250; in Bauchi, approximately 2,700; and in Owerri, about 1,700. Just last week, we attended to about 800 people, including those from neighboring areas who rushed to the venue.

We initially planned to see between 1,500 and 2,000 patients. We also left remaining medications at the local facility for continued use,” he explained.

Abubakar added, “Our outreach covers multiple specialties including cardiology, orthopedics, pediatrics, gynecology, ophthalmology, and dentistry.”

According to him , the outreach programmes are part of their corporate social responsibility to assist the less privileged in the society as well as promote well being of people.

He further commended the federal government for taking off import tariffs on pharmaceuticals, noting that this policy would significantly improve access to essential medicines.

“It’s not all about business but also helping people. For instance we pay so much on electricity and keep our foreign doctors” he added

He said medical tourism remains one area the media should tackle and create more awareness on treatments in Nigeria

In her remarks, Comrade Grace Ike praised Nizamiye Hospital’s dedication to quality healthcare and its ongoing community support efforts.

She reaffirmed the union’s commitment to raising awareness about local healthcare solutions and improving the welfare of its members through strategic partnerships.

“We look forward to a stronger partnership beyond this medical outreach.

“For example, issues like supporting internally displaced persons (IDPs) in partnership with states are not well publicised. Our platform can help amplify such causes across the country, given that we represent all journalists in the FCT,” Ike said.

She added, “We also have our own news platform and website, which can be used to further promote these initiatives. This collaboration is just the beginning of a broader partnership beyond the medical outreach.”

Both parties confirmed their commitment to working together, with the medical outreach set to be a key highlight of the NUJ FCT Council’s Press Week.