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Stop wandering you have better option …APGA stalwart woos Emeka Ihedioha

In a passionate appeal, Mazi Ejimofor Opara, a political analyst and member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) from Imo State, has urged Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha to join the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

Opara emphasized that APGA is not just a political party but a symbol of hope and welfarism for the people of Imo State and the Southeast region.

He highlighted the party’s focus on the welfare of ordinary people, citing the successes of previous APGA administrations in prioritizing the needs of the people.

Opara cautioned against the dangers of Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) and pressure groups, which he believes are fleeting and lack the stability and commitment of a true political party like APGA.

He pointed to the example of His Excellency, Senator Rochas Okorocha, who rode on the “My people, my people” mantra but ultimately failed in his attempt to connect with the center.

Opara extended an invitation to Rt. Hon. EmekaIhedioha to join APGA, emphasizing that the party is the true voice of the Southeast and the only viable option for sustainable political progress in the region.

Many feared dead in Anambra road crash

A yet-to-be-specified number of people lost their lives when a trailer lost control and crushed two tricycles at Oba, along the Onitsha-Owerri Expressway, Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State, on Sunday.

Our correspondent gathered that the fatal crash occurred at about 9am and the victims were said to be on their way to attend a church service when the accident occurred.

Sources at the scene said the heavy-duty truck failed brakes, lost control and while the driver was trying to control the vehicle, It eventually rammed into the two fully loaded tricycles, thereby pushing it and some of the occupants into a ditch.

Some of the victims were said to be run over by the truck as some victims were stick stuck by the tyres.

An eyewitness at the scene who simply gave her name as Amaka, said, “The accident occurred this morning as the revenue collectors stopped the tricycles for money, while this was going on, the oncoming truck which had already failed brakes rammed into the two tricycles, thereby pushed them into a nearby ditch.

“While some of the victims fell into the ditch, others were run over by the truck. It was a terrible sight to behold. Emergency responders rushed to the scene to attend to the injured and retrieved the bodies of the victims. As of now, five individuals have been confirmed dead, while the search for any other potential casualties is ongoing.”

This was also corroborated by some gory videos already trending online showing some of the bodies of the victims littering the road, where a voice noted that the tricycles were hit in quick succession because they were driving close to each other.

As of the time of filing this report, a crowd had subsequently besieged the scene and gridlock took over the ever-busy road as people rushed to the accident scene while the affected vehicles were blocking a major part of the road.

Local authorities were seen investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident and are working to determine the exact cause of the brake failure and the actions of the tax collectors that may have contributed to the tragic incident.

The Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps in Anambra State, Adeoye Irelewuyi in a short statement, confirmed the accident.

He said, “Yes, there was a road traffic crash at Oba along the Onitsha -Owerri expressway earlier today. Details of the crash are still being gathered. Some youths in the town and others are allegedly protesting over the incident.”

Arodiogbu salutes 2nd Lt Owowohfor Graduating from Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst Berkshire, England

National Vice Chairman, South East Zone of All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. IjeomahArodiogbu, has saluted the 24-year old Imo born 2nd Lt. Princess OluchukwuOwowoh, for Graduating in the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS), in Berkshire, England, in flying colours.

Arodiogbu stated that, like General Yakubu Gowon and Lt. Col. ChukwuemekaOdumegwu-Ojukwu, 2nd Lt. Princess OluchukwuOwowoh, as a female soldier, has made Igbos and Nigerians proud.

Arodiogbu who gave the salute in a release signed by his Special Adviser, Engr. ChikeEmenike, on Sunday, in Abuja, the Capital Territory of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, described Owowoh as a true Igbo breed.

According him him, “I join His Excellency, Governor Hope Uzodimma, the Nigerian Arny and His Excellency and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to salute and congratulate this amazing young female officer who has done us proud.

“I also thank Her Excellency, the First Lady, Senator. Mrs. Remi Tinubu, who, on Monday, graciously hosted 2nd Lt. Owowoh, one of the 135 Officer Cadets that recently graduated, in recognition of her exemplary accomplishment.

“I would like to urge other young women in Imo State and, indeed, all over Nigeria, to emulate 2nd Lt. Princess OluchukwuOwowoh and aspire to be the best in their chosen career.”

Arodiogbu reflected that “the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst (RMAS) in Berkshire, England, has produced for the Nigerian Army, a long list of illustrious officers, the most prominent among which we recall just two – General Yakubu Gowon and Lt. Col. ChukwuemekaOdumegwu-Ojukwu.

“The several others not mentioned are no less prominent and had all served our nation meritoriously in various capacities. But that special breed of officers had all been male soldiers. Then came 2nd Lt. Princess OluchukwuOwowoh, the equation changer, a proud daughter of the land and a citizen of Imo State, who altered the tradition, to join the illustrious roll of RMAS produced army officers for Nigeria. She became the sole representative of the female gender within the RMAS alumni in the Nigerian Army.

“The 24-year old Owowoh, an indigene of Imo State, was one of the Officer Cadets to graduate during RMAS sovereign parade in London on April 12, 2024”.

PDP holds civic reception to celebrate senator Wabara 76th birthday, Board of Trustees chairman

By Henrietta Ashikodi…

Who is who including governors of Peoples Democratic Party has celebrated Senator AldophusWabara on his 76th birthday as well as honour him on his confirmation as the Party Board of Trustees chairman..

The grand reception was Orgarnised by PDP Abia chapter in collaboration with Peoples Democratic Institute, Abuja on Saturday at the trademore event centre Umuahia.

Speaking, governor, SeyiMakinde of Oyo state said the Southeast is important region to Nigeria, he encouraged the zone and advice that what ever they are passing through now they should not be discourage.

He commended senator Wabara for all his achievement in Nigeria including PDP.

He reiterated that the senator has restored hope in Nigeria. He regretted that Southeast used to be PDP state but today only Enugu is PDP state. He said hope is not lost yet.

Governor Makinde maintained that senator Wabara is important to the party as he has restore hope to their party. He said they have come to celebrate him on his birthday and his position as the chairman Board of Trustees.

Speaking also the governor of Enugu state, Dr Peter Mba lauded the celebrant for achieving alot in Nigeria politics adding that he held sway during the great days of their party.

He assured that they will surely reposition the party before the next general election assuring that the party will take it pride of place.

In his speech, the acting National Chairman of the party, Amb. Umar Iliya Damagun, said the gathering of PDP to celebrate Senator Wabara birthday and his new position as the Board of Trustees chairman is very significant. He said the party need him more now to draw from his loaded well of wisdom and seek solution to the nation’s political quagmire.

He said the celebration is well deserved considering his enormous contributions in the political jurisprudence of their party in particular and the nation at large.

“Your large mark achievements during your tenure as the highest ranking officer in the nation speaks volume and commitment to public service is a great inspiration to future generation”.

Speaking the governor of Abia state, Dr Alex Otti said his government is non discriminately adding that once you are residing in Abia you are seen as a citizen. He said because of this policy an Edo man attained the highest position as permanent secretary.

He revealed that senator Wabara is a good man and not tribalistic, he disclosed to the party that they did not make mistake by chosing him as their Board of Trustees chairman.

He said he was happy that he was invited by the party adding that even if he was not invited he would still have come because senator Wabara is a man he holds at high esteem.

He regretted the killing of soldiers in Aba said once he leave the venue, he will be going to visit the families of the slain soldiers.

Dr Otti maintained once again that the state was safe advising them to jettisoned the advice of those discouraging them from holding the event in Abia. He disclosed that his government would do all possible to smoke out the killers of the gallant soldiers.

Other governor present are Edo state, Bauchi state, some present and past senators, House of Representatives members and party faithfuls, including the state chairman of the party, DrAlwellAsiforo
Highlight of the occasion was the cutting of the birthday cake.
End

Imo Deputy Governor celebrates birthday with orphans, staff …Promises to reach out to more orphans, less privileged children

By Jude Onyenedogha…

Imo State Deputy Governor, Lady (Dr.) Chinyere Ekomaru has marked her birthday with a visit to Widows, Orphans and Destitutes Care Center, Owerri, where she celebrated with the orphans and less privileged children living at the Center.

The Imo number two citizen, who was full of appreciation to God for adding another year to her age, with numerous blessings; sang, danced and interacted with the children. She also fed them and cut her birthday cake with them.

The Deputy Governor was so passionate about the state of the children as she carried them one after the other.

In her speech, she stressed that Governor Hope Uzodimma cares for everybody in the state, without exception. That he cares for the children at the center and those at other similar places in the state.

“Today, in continued commemoration of my birthday, I cooked my birthday rice and decided to come and share with you. You are so dear to me, our Governor, Dist. Sen. Hope Uzodimma and his amiable wife, Barr. (Mrs) Chioma Uzodimma. God will keep protecting you while we continue to pray and provide for you. I came with my grandchildren, so they will know that there are children in need and without parents that demand our care, love, prayers and protection. I want to also inculcate in them, the spirit of charity”, the deputy overnor said.

To the staff of the Center, she thanked and encouraged them to continue making the children look decent and healthy.

“Because you care for them, they will live a fulfilled life and God will bless all of you. Some of my staff will come back here to ascertain the details of all you need to make the children happy and comfortable while I make efforts to reach out to other less privileged homes in the state”, the Deputy Governor added.

The elated children whose happiness was so obvious due to the visit of the Deputy Governor, sang and prayed for the Imo number two citizen, her family and Imo state government, while the Cordinator of the center, Mrs. Akunna Ngozi, thanked and appreciated the Deputy Governor for coming to share her moment of joy with the children.

Earlier, the Imo Deputy Governor, celebrated with staff of her office, after their usual Saturday farming exercise at the Deputy Governor’s Lodge, Owerri.
She thanked the staff for their commitment to agriculture which she had identified as the panacea to the present biting food insecurity in the state and country.

“Today’s farming exercise is part of the activities marking my birthday, hence, I decided to celebrate with you. It offers us the opportunity to familiarize better, interact with ourselves, socialize, wine and dine together. I am celebrating my 58th birthday in the wake of all the eventful moments that have come my way recently, yet, I didn’t plan an elaborate party but will seize every opportunity to show gratitude to God for his love and blessings to me. I am so happy to be with you at this special period of my life.

While complying with the charge of the wife of the President, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu and the Imo First Lady, Bar (Mrs) Chioma Uzodimma, to go back to agriculture, we must also celebrate ourselves in a moment like this”, the Deputy said.

Speaking during the Deputy Governor’s happy moment with her staff was her husband, Chief (Bar) Chukwuma Ekomaru, SAN. Chief Ekomaru described his wife – the Deputy Governor as the ‘engine house of his “Obiaozuma”.

He submitted that his marriage to his wife has been a blessing all through, as their marriage produced three vibrant boys, one of whom is today, the Deputy Chief of Staff, office of the Deputy Governor.

The Apex Leader of Mbaitoli APC, Chief MarcellinusNlemigbo while speaking, asked all the staff of the deputy governor’s office and all Imolites to continue to support the deputy governor and the governor to succeed.

He also advised the staff to train their children well, as he made reference to the mother of the Imo Deputy Governor, MrsMaribe, whom he said, trained her children very well.

Adding his voice, was Dr. Cyril Okafor, who is an in-law to the Ekomarus. He described the marriage between the deputy governor and her husband as ‘divine and well designed by God’.

Abia Eze-elect fumes, threatens to invoke gods against those making community ungovernable

By Henrietta Ashikodi…

An eze elect of NsirimoAmaise autonomous community, in Umuahia South LGA of Abia state, High Prince Dr. Charles Chukwuemeka Amanze (PhD) who is also the Amadioha Nsirimo has threatened to invoke the gods of the land to few individuals who decided to make the community ungovernable.

Amanze made this known through a World Press Conference which he held at his country home at Nsirimo, he said on the 25th and 27th of March this year, his people presented him to the Mayor of Umuahia South LGA Chief Victor Ikeji and the Local Government Council as their Eze elect but regretted that a few opposing his Ezeship are doing all possible to frustrate him.

He said the Ezeship position has been vacant since eight years ago untill out of divine intervention, he offer himself for the Ezeship and his people accepted him, he however wondered why a few persons from the community is trying to frustrate the good intention.

“That day I announced to you that I have received a divine mandate to build the brightest nation on earth, starting with my immediate community of Nsirimo. This is an assignment I have committed myself to its executions by offering a leadership, not just of the head, but more of the heart. Within this period, my team and I have made significant strides in addressing our community’s challenges.

“It is deeply troubling and regrettable that after eight years we have not been able to install the pride of our Cultural Heritage in the community even when there is a constitutional procedure for the accreditations of aspiring Candidates yet the same people involved manhandled it”.

Amanze made it clear that they are in democracy and instead of causing crisis over the Ezeship they have the constitutional right to present their own candidate to the Local Government Council and they should allow the people and government to take their decision.

He urged those who believed in his ability to take the community to a greater height and who were part of those who presented him to the LGA Council not to identify with the likes of the President General and other collaborators, the village heads and urged that they should not allow this people to intimidate them or urge them to pay the fine they imposed on them.

He said as the son of Nsirimo who is in tune with the culture and traditions of the land and if such persons do not have a rethink or redress their steps he will be forced to invoking the Law of the land upon them.

He regretted that the community faces critical challenges that threaten the very fabric of the existence, at a time Nsirimo battle with economic hardship that leaves many household in pains, at a time the people in some parts of the community cannot go to their farms or go to sleep with their eyes closed, they need some form of reassurance from their leader the king to keep hope alive. They need to see concrete actions taken by those they have entrusted with power, but they were met with defeat of their expectations.

He commended Governor Alex Otti, for his giant strides in infrastructure and construction of roads noting that this will enhance growth and development of the various communities. He said because of the passion he has for his community he will use all within his disposal to bring growth and development.

Killing of soldiers: Markets, schools shut down as tension heightens in Aba

Markets and other public facilities have been reportedly closed down as tension heightens in parts of Aba, Abia State, following the gruesome murder of five military personnel by gunmen suspected to be members of the Indigenous People of Biafra, (IPOB).

The bloodthirsty gunmen, who have been wreaking havoc in the Southeast, attacked a military checkpoint at Obikabia junction, Ogbor Hill in Obingwa Local Government Area on Thursday.

The incident, which claimed the lives of five soldiers, occurred when suspected members of the proscribed secessionist group were enforcing sit-at-home in the region to mark the 2024 Biafra Heroes Day.

The daredevil gunmen also destroyed two patrol vans belonging to the military.

It was gathered that at least six civilians were also killed in the crossfire.

The soldiers who paid the supreme price are: Sergeant Charles Ugochukwu, Sergeant Bala Abraham, Corporal Gideon Egwe, Corporal Ikpeama Ikechukwu and Corporal Augustine Emmanuel.

Reacting to the incident, the Defence Headquarters on Friday vowed to fight back, saying it would be fierce in its response.

A statement issued by the Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba accused IPOB and its militant wing, the Eastern Security Network, ESN, of carrying out the heinous attack.

“The situation leaves more to be desired. Accordingly, it is absolutely imperative that the military retaliate against this dastardly act against troops.
The military would be fierce in its response. We would bring overwhelming military pressure on the group to ensure their total defeat,” the statement said.

Our correspondent gathered that hours after the military’s stance, the entire Aba was enveloped in palpable fear.

Reports emerged on Saturday that the tension was heightened as two military helicopters were sighted hovering over the Ogbor Hill area and environs.

Sources told our correspondent on Saturday that the city of Aba is currently under siege by the military, triggering fear of attacks.

It was also gathered that some schools were closed on Friday following the statement by the military.

President General of the Coalition of South East Youth Leaders, (COSEYL), Goodluck Ibem told our correspondent that the military has shut down four markets, including Ngwa Road Market, Alaoji Market, Cemetery Market and Enyimba Market since the incident happened.

“There is a serious tension in Aba right now. The presence of the soldiers alone is very intimidating. They have blocked any road that leads to their checkpoint. No vehicular movement in those places.

“Some markets are no longer functional because the military closed them down.
They have closed down four markets. Ngwa road Market, Alaoji Market, Cemetery Market and Enyimba Market are not functioning at the moment.

“Other markets are scanty because of fear of attack by the army”, the COSEYL’s President General added. When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer in the State, Chinaka Maureen declined speaking on the tension, saying “it is a military matter, I only speak for the police”.

However, a police source, who spoke to our correspondent on condition of anonymity, confirmed the development, saying people no longer step out of their homes.

According to him, the only solution to the impending face-off between the army and the community where the attack was carried out is for residents to fish out the assailants.

He said, “The Nigerian army will not back down until the perpetrators are apprehended.

“So the best thing the people of Aba will do to save the innocent people is to bring out those that carried out this attack.

WODDI honours, Kalu, Ambode ,Gewan, Nwosu others …As Kalu promises to host 2025 WODDI Summit In Abia

By Senator Onyekwere

The Deputy Speaker Federal House of Representatives, Rt Hon Benjamin OkezieKalu, the wife of the former Governor Lagos State, Mrs. Botanle Ambode, the speaker of Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Gabriel Gewan, the former Chief of Staff to Imo state Government, Hon. Uche Nwosu were among those that was honoured with a prestigious award during a Grand Finale of an event organized by Women Of Divine Destiny Initiative (WODDI) a Non -governmental organisation founded by the former first lady of Imo State, Dr. Mrs Nkechi Okorocha.

The Summit tagged ,”The Power of An Inspired Women” held at Rochas Foundation College of Africa, Owerri.

Speaking during the event, Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu expressed joy to be part of the closing ceremony of 2nd WODDI inspiring women summit.

Hon kalu noted that the WODDI summit 2024 has not only been a platform for sharing knowledge and experience, but a catalyst for self- discovery, confidence building and embracing the holistic well-being of women.

He pointed out that the House of Representatives was considering a bill to Improve the represention of women in legislative institutions which is chiefly sponsored by him.

He promised to host the 2025 WODDI summit in Abia State, to enable the women in Abia State participate fully in the programme.

Also Speaking the Plateau State Speaker, Rt Hon. Gewan Commended the founder of WODDI, Mrs. Nkechi Okorocha for organizing such a wonderful event.
Hon Gewan said that the Award will encourage him to contribute more towards the welfare of women in the society.

In her speech the Founder of WODDI ,Mrs. Nkechi Okorocha thank God for the success of the 2024 WODDI event and thanked the personalities who attended the event.

Mrs Okorocha said that she is passionate about women, adding that the 5 days event will go a long way in inspiring women in every area.

Adding his Voice, the former Governor of Imo State, Owelle Rochas Okorocha pointed out that women deserve more respect, recognition and empowerment in the society.

Woman smashes husband head with pestle over side chick in Ondo

A housewife, Omolara Oluwakemi, has allegedly smashed her husband’s head with pestle while he was fast asleep.
The incident occurred at the sleepy town of Akungba, Akoko southwest local government area.

It was gathered that the late husband, Seidu Jamiu, and his wife had an altercation the night of the incident over a side chick of the husband.

Witnesses said they were surprised when the wife called for help at night and they rushed in to see the gory sight of her husband.

One of the witness who gave his name as Chief Awesu said he was among those who saw unconscious Jamiu in the pool of his blood.

The deceased was confirmed dead at the hospital he was rushed to.

His wife has been detained by the police and transferred to the police headquarters for further investigation.

Sympathisers said the deceased recently bought a car for the suspect.

Ondo Police spokesman, Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, said it was the deceased’s wife that reported at the police station in the morning that some people killed her husband in the midnight of Saturday.

She said the wife was the complainant of the incident adding that no arrest has been made.

According to her , “I can’t confirm that the victim’s wife killed him because it was the woman that reported the matter at police station. We have not made any arrest now but investigation has commenced into the incident “

Kano Varsity workers kick over refusal of govt to pay withheld entitlements

THE Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, SSANU, has called on the Kano State government to pay its members their entitlements, saying that life has become so unbearable for the affected members in the midst of economic hardships in the country.

The North West Zone of SSANU, lamented that the Kano state government is owing members of two State owned universities entitlements ranging from promotions arrears; hazard arrears; arrears of earned allowance as well as 2018 consequential adjustment on the minimum wage arrears.

According to the union, the two universities being owed their entitlements are Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, ADUSTECH, formally, Kano University of Science and Technology, Wudil and Yusuf Maitama Sule University, YUMSUK formally, Northwest University, Kano.

A statement issued at the end of its 6th Regular Executive Council Meeting, held at Federal University Birnin Kebbi, signed by the National Vice President, Comrade Aliyu Adamu and the zonal Ag. Secretary Comrade Hauwa Abdullahi Danbatta, stated that “its surprising that Kano state government is yet to pay SSANU members at ADUSTECH, Wudil the 2021 and 2022 promotions arrears; hazard arrears; arrears of earned allowance as well as consequential adjustment on minimum wage arrears.”

The statement further explained, “At YUMSUK, our members are yet to receive the outstanding six months consequential adjustment arrears. Even the palliative paid to civil servants in Kano state was not given to our members of the two state owned universities.”

While describing the action of government as “absurd”, the North West zone of SSANU said, “Our understanding and belief on the Kano State administration’s priority to education is put to check by the inability of the government to settle our members entitlements as well as the absence of governing council for more than a year in the two state owned universities.”

The statement added that the neglect meted out to workers in the two universities leaves much to be desired and called on the state government to immediately reconstitute the governing councils of both universities and without further delay pay all the arrears of salaries and allowances being owed the workers.

FG rejects labours’ N494,000 minimum wage demand, says it’s unsustainable

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has said the sum of N494,000 national minimum wage being demanded by organized labour, which cumulatively amounts to the sum of N9.5 trillion bill, is capable of destabilizing the economy and jeopardizing the welfare of over 200 million Nigerians.

Idris stated this at a news conference in Abuja in response to the threat by the organized labor to embark on strike if their demands were not met.

He said the offer of N60,000 minimum wage by the Federal Government, which translates to a 100% increase on the existing minimum wage of 2019, has been accepted by the organized private sector, which is a member of the tripartite committee of the negotiations team.

“The Federal Government’s New Minimum Wage proposal amounts to a 100% increase on the existing minimum wage 2019. Labour, however, wanted N494,000which would increase by 1,547% on the existing wage.

“The sum of N494,000 national minimum wage which Labour is seeking would cumulatively amount to the sum N9.5 trillion bill to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

“Nigerians need to understand that whereas the FG is desirous of ample remuneration for Nigerian workers, what is most critical is that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not encourage any action that could lead to massive job loss, especially in the private sector, who may not be able to pay the wage demanded by the OrganisedLabour,” he said.

The Minister said even though Labour is keen on the take-home pay of about 1.2 million workers, the Federal Government is concerned with the welfare of over 200 million Nigerians based on its Guiding Principle of Affordability, Sustainability, and the overall health of the nation’s economy.

Idris appealed to the OrganisedLabour to return to the negotiating table and embrace reasonable and realistic wages for their members.

He said because of the commitment of the Tinubu administration to the welfare of workers, the wage award of 35,000 for Federal workers would continue until a new national minimum wage is introduced.

JAMB reschedules UTME exam for 24,000 candidates, releases more results

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, (JAMB), has rescheduled its 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, (UTME), for 24,535 candidates.

JAMB rescheduled the UTME due to the substantial non-compliance with its standards in the centres of the affected candidates.

The board also directed affected candidates to print their supplementary Examination Notification Slips from Tuesday, 4th June, 2024, to ascertain their designated examination centres.

In a statement he signed on Sunday, JAMB’s spokesman, Dr Fabian Benjamin, said the Board has also released additional 3,921 withheld results.

The statement reads in part: “The Board has painstakingly analysed the process and conduct of the 2024 UTME in some centres where there are strong proofs of substantial non-compliance with the Board’s standards.

”Consequently, 24,535 candidates have been rescheduled to retake the examination in their chosen Examination Towns on Saturday, June 22, 2024.
”Meanwhile, 3,921 outstanding 2024 UTME results that had been cleared have now been released.

”Therefore, concerned candidates are urged to check their results from Saturday, 1st June, 2024 by sending RESULT to 55019 or 66019 to ascertain their status as those cleared would have their results while those rescheduled would be told that they had been rescheduled.

”This release brings the total results released to 1,883,350. The rescheduled examination, which is taking place on Saturday, 22nd June, 2024, two weeks from now, is to give affected candidates adequate time to prepare for the exercise.”

Governor Uzodimma commended for the installation of street Lights in the State Capital And Its environ

The Deputy Chief of Staff (General Services) Hon. Chief Ferdinand Uzodimma has commended His Excellency Senator Hope Uzodimma, the Executive Governor of Imo State for the installation of street lights in all the major roads in the Urban areas and urged the drivers and commuters to make good use of them for their safety.

The Deputy Chief of Staff made the commendation when the Leadership and Members of the Imo City Transport Drivers led by the President Elder AnaelechiUkanwune paid a courtesy visit on him in his office at Government House, Owerri.

He recalled how the Government embarked on urban road renewal to ease the movement of commuters within the city, as well as elongate the lifespan of city transport vehicles which helped the transporters to earn more money and improve their economic well-being.

The Deputy Chief of Staff (General Services) further thanked His Excellency the Executive Governor for the necessary empowerments and assistance he has been giving to the City Transport Drivers and appealed to the Governor to continue to support them, saying they are very important in the economic growth of the State through their contribution to the State Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

Responding to their presentation, Chief Uzodimma appreciated them for remembering that the 3R administration in Imo State has been favourable to them in many ways for the past four years.
Furthermore, he reminded them of how the Government reduced the taxes and rates they pay on daily basis and at times gave them tax holidays as a palliative to cushion the effects of economic challenges the City Drivers faced.

The Deputy Chief of Staff (General Services) thanked them for coming and advised them to continue to be law-abiding, observe traffic rules and urban neatness by ensuring that their commuters do not liter the streets of the City and urged them to ensure they worked together to reduce to minimum, Urban/City accidents.

In the address of the President, Elder AnaelechiUkanwune read by the General Secretary, Comrade Andy Ekezie said their mission was to congratulate the Deputy Chief of Staff (General Services) Hon. Ferdinand Uzodimma on his meritorious appointment, saying that his appointment was never an accident, considering his past track records in politics and administration.

They thanked the Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, specifically for the appointment, in addition to his transformational leadership qualities in Imo State in the past 4 years in the State, as is significant in the areas of road revolution that have made both commercial bus drivers and commuters in Imo State to enjoy ease of transportation.

They recalled the nightmare drivers passed through, crossing Ekemele in Ikeduru LGA along Owerri/Okigwe road where most of their members constantly had accidents that led to loss of lives and properties of Imo Citizens.

They recalled how Governor Uzodimma made them proud in December 2021 and 2022 respectively by given them 25 Litres free fuel as Christmas bonus which they described as the first of its kind in the history of Imo State. On the above basis they sincerely commended, applauded and appreciated the Governor for his magnanimity and benevolence.

Again they reassured the Deputy Chief of Staff (General Services) of their loyalty, cooperation and dedication to the 3R led administration in Imo State and said “Imo Transport System is sanitized for equity, justice and fair play to reign supreme’’.

Like Oliver Twist the Imo City Transport Drivers solicited for the intervention of the Deputy Chief of Staff (General Services) to ensure their group benefit from any future palliatives distributed by the State Government, as well as improved welfare packages to their members inform of grants.

Be good ambassadors in Saudi Arabia, Uzodimma charges Imo Muslims on Hajj

Governor Hope Uzodimma has charged Muslims from Imo State going for Haji in Saudia Arabia to be good ambassadors of the State through their behaviour in the Holy Land.

Addressing the intending pilgrims at the Sam Mbakwe Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Owerri on Sunday, June 2, 2004 preparatory for their departure the Governor said least he expects from them on return is an award on good behaviour in Saudi Arabia.

He enjoined them to be “peaceful, cooperate with one another and be united in the Holy Land and avoid anything that will bring shame and ridicule to the State, the Muslim Community and the Nation in general.”

He mandated them to “strive to bring honour and pride back home.”

Governor Uzodimma promised, that on their return and settling down, that “government will set up the Imo State Haji Commission that will take responsibility for the planning and organisation of future Muslim pilgrimages.”

He appealed to them to focus on the primary objective of the Hajj, adding, “pray at Saudi Arabia for the well being of Imo State, her growth and development, as well as increase in the State revenue that will engender increased number of people going for Hajj in the future.”

Also, he challenged them to “pray fervently that enemies will no more see Imo State and that Imo State will, henceforth, experience unstoppable prosperity,” noting that “God already knows our problems, what He expects from us is speaking to him through prayers.”

The Governor acknowledged that their prayers during last year’s Hajj were positively felt in the State as “Imo returned to peace, the elections were peaceful and the State has been growing and developing tremendously.”

Concluding, he promised that next year’s Hajj will be better than that of this year and urged the coordinators of the programme to coordinate well.

In his remarks, the Sarki Hausawa, HRH Suleiman Awal thanked the Governor for his “magnanimity to the Muslims in Imo State, the show of fatherly love that have made them indigenes, not political but true citizens of the State.”

He informed that in 2023 the Governor sponsored 200 Muslims to Mecca and that this year, despite the economic challenges, he “has provided for 100 Muslims for Hajj in Saudi Arabia,” and described it as “a show of all promises fulfilled.”

He described the Governor as a man of large heart who shows benevolence to both Christians and Muslims in Imo State, without being political and described him as “the best Governor in Hajj sponsorship and freedom of worship in Nigeria.”

He assured the Governor that as the Ammiral Hajj for Imo State, he will remain loyal and that the Muslims in the State will not be a distraction to the Governor.

He prayed that God will bless the Governor and make peace to continue to reign in Imo State.

In her address, the National Commissioner representing South East at the National Muslim Commission, Hajia Aisha Obi, thanked the Governor for his support to the Muslim Community and the special interest he has in ensuring that Muslims in Imo State participate in the Pilgrimage.

She recalled how the Governor had cleared backlog of debts owed by Imo Muslims to the National Commission by the past administrations which she said “has facilitated their participation in the Hajj operations and they will never forget the gesture in a hurry.”

Hajia Obi said the Commission was very appreciative of the Governor’s gesture and will continue to pray for the success of the Governor and his government.
She promised that they will ensure that her team does not bring disrepute or shame to Imo State in particular and Nigeria in general.

Presenting the Contingents to the Governor, the Secretary to the Government of Imo State, Chief Cosmas Iwu described Governor Uzodimma as “an ecumenist and a detribalised Nigerian who does not discriminate between Christians and Muslims.”

He joined the Muslim community to thank the Governor in particular for his magnanimity and in general,all Imo Citizens.

Those present at the programme were the Deputy Governor, Lady (Dr) Chinyere Ekomaru and her husband, Chukwuma, the Senator representing Okigwe zone, Senator Patrick Ndubueze, the APC Deputy National Chairman (South), Chief Emma Enukwu, the Chaplain Government House Chapel who is also the Chairman Imo State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Rev. Fr. Dr. Gilbert Alaribe and members of Imo State Expanded Executive Council.

Minimum Wage: NASS moves to avert strike, to mediate between Nigerian Govt, Labour

The National Assembly has said that it will engage the organised labour as part of moves to avert the industrial action due to commence on Monday.

To this end, it urged all stakeholders to remain patient and co-operative as it works diligently to find a mutually acceptable resolution in the best interest of the country.

The legislative arm said its decision to intervene followed the deadlock between the Federal Government and the labour unions in ongoing negotiations for a new national minimum wage and reversal of the recent hike in electricity tariffs.

A statement issued Sunday, jointly signed by the spokesperson of the Senate, Senator Yemi Adaramodu and the spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Akin Rotimi, revealed that the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, are taking proactive steps to mediate and avert the impending industrial action.
The National Assembly stressed that both parties, labour and the Federal Government, have tenable reasons for their respective positions.

The National assembly added that the strike action would have severe repercussions on the populace and economy.

Parts of the statement read: “The National Assembly acknowledges the announcement by Organised Labour, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), to commence an indefinite strike action from Monday, June 3, 2024, nationwide.

“In view of this, the National Assembly Leadership and the Chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Labour, Employment and Productivity respectively, Senator Diket Plang, and Rep. Adegboyega Adefarati, are looking to engage both parties in constructive dialogue and explore a variety of solutions in addressing the issues at hand.”

It added that the 10th National Assembly was committed to ensuring that the interests of all parties are fairly represented.

Human Trafficking: NAPTIP arraigns arrow of God Orphanage owner

Crying child after defilement

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has arraigned Clara Chinwe Deborah Ogo, an 83-year-old woman and founder of the renowned Arrow of God Orphanage, in Anambra State.

The arraignment was held at the Federal High Court, Awka Judicial Division, presided over by Hon. Justice Hauwa Yilwa, for alleged buying and selling of human beings for any purpose.

Clara Ogo, a retired Nigerian Army Lt. Col and a nurse, owns the orphanage, which is located at Nkwelle-Ezunaka, Oyi L.G.A., Anambra State, with branches in Lagos State.

The Arrow of God Orphanage came under scrutiny in 2023, after an investigative journalist exposed alleged illicit activities related to illegal adoption and sales of babies linked to the orphanage.

Following these revelations, NAPTIP launched a comprehensive investigation, resulting in Ogo’s arrest on October 3, 2023, at 15:10hrs within the premises of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Awka, Anambra State.

The defendant was arraigned on a one-count charge, which states: “That you Ogo Chinwe Clara Deborah (F) 83 Years old, of 66 Awka Road, Onitsha, Anambra State and others (at large), on July 6th, 2023 at the above address within the jurisdiction of this honourable court, did buy and sell a baby, female, 5(Five) months old, and thereby committed an offence punishable under Sections 21 of the trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015”.

Clara Ogo pleaded not guilty to the charge. The presiding judge granted her bail with a bond of N1.3 million and two sureties in like sum. She was subsequently remanded at the Onitsha Correctional Facility pending the fulfilment of her bail conditions.

The case has been adjourned to July 10, 2024, for trial. Meanwhile, the orphanage has been sealed.

There were plans to frustrate us, but we triumphed -Fubara

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has thanked God for the grace given to him to pull through the troubling political crisis, steadied governance, and celebrate first year in office.

The governor thanked all Rivers people for their trust, support, and various levels of contributions that strengthened the capacity of government to achievethe successes that have been recorded.

This was as he said there were plans to frustrate his government.

Fubara expressed gratitude at the special thanksgiving service to mark his first year in office at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Garrison Junction in Port Harcourt on Sunday.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Nelson Chukwudi.

He said, “I still don’t believe that this administration is truly marking one year in office.”

Specifically, Fubara recalled that a few months ago, nobody had believed that it was going to be possible for them to come to church in gratitude

He said, “You won’t understand. I can tell you in good authority that even before we started this programme, there was every plan to frustrate us. But to the glory of God, we are all gathered here to say ‘God, thank you, that you have carried us and led us to this point’.

“Now, if we have God by our side, do we have any problem? I want to thank every one of you that are here to support us.
“I want to thank you especially, on behalf of my family and the government, you have given us honour, and you have made us proud. Without you, there wouldn’t have been any record of success. So, I want to thank you.”

Delivering the sermon at the service, Bishop of Diocese of Niger Delta North, Rt. Rev, Wisdom Ihunwo, preached on the importance of people having grateful hearts when coming to God for thanksgiving.

Ihunwo said more than just being alive, God gives desired victories over the most troubling life challenges people face, and advised that they should always attribute their success to Him because without Him, nothing can be achieved.

The cleric assured that God will continue to crush those who are troubling Rivers people and strengthen the Federal Government to improve the national economy and reduce hunger in the country.

Police arrest boy, 19, for kidnapping minor, collecting N700,000 ransom

The Edo State Police Command has arrested a 19-year-old, Godstime Abhulime, for alleged kidnapping a four-year-old pupil and collecting a ransom of N300,000.

The State Commissioner of Police, Funsho Adegboye, who confirmed the incident, said the suspect kidnapped the minor, a primary school pupil at Emaudo in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State.

Adegboye said the suspect would soon be arraigned in court.

It was gathered that the suspect, who related to the victim, lured the minor out of the house and whisked her away on a motorcycle to an unknown destination.

An anonymous source close to the family, who spoke to newsmen, explained that the suspect and his accomplices kept the minor in captivity for two days before reaching out to her parents for ransom negotiation.

The source said one of the suspect’s accomplices, Destiny, popularly known as ‘Paulo’, who reached out to the victim’s family members, demanded for N7 million ransom.

He added that the family of the victim, however, reported the incident at the Ekpoma divisional police office who went on the trail of the suspect.

According to him, after much negotiations and out of fear that the kidnappers may harm the victim, the family paid N300,000 for the release of the girl.

“One of the suspects, Godstime who is relation of the victim was later arrested and confessed to the police they kidnapped the baby in order to get money to bail themselves from some cult members who threatened to kill them,” the source said.

TUC Planned Nationwide Strike Won’t Affect Ongoing Exams – WAEC

June 1, (THEWILL)- The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) says the planned nationwide strike by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) scheduled for Monday, June 3, will not disrupt its ongoing examination in Nigeria.

WAEC Branch Controller in Ekiti, T.A.Y. Lawson, disclosed this in a letter late Friday.

THEWILL reports that the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE), which commenced in Nigeria on Tuesday, April 30, will end on Thursday, June 20, 2024.
Titled, ‘Notice of Commencement of Indefinite Strike by NLC and TUC’, with reference number EK/BC/SC/EXAM/07/Vol.1/89, the letter addressed to Principals and school heads in Ekiti State reads: “The attention of Management has been drawn to a notice of the Commencement of Indefinite Strike by NLC and TUC effective, Monday, 3rd June 2024.

“Please be formally informed that the conduct of WASSCE SC 2024 goes on as scheduled.

“In as much as we share the concerns of the unions and the generality of Nigerians, the WASSCE SC is going on across the member countries of WAEC and the Nigerian Child should not be put to a disadvantage of missing the exam.

“For the aforesaid reason, WAEC will conduct the exam and School Principals, supervisors, parents and the general public should please take note and make adequate arrangements for their candidates to sit the exam.

“Kindly be guided accordingly.”

Senate President, governors summon emergency meeting with Labour

In a bid to avert the planned nationwide strike, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and the leadership of the Nigeria Governors Forum have invited the leadership of the Organized Labour for an emergency meeting Tonight, sources familiar with the matter told our correspondent on Sunday Afternoon.

“A meeting has been summoned by the senate president and the Nigeria Governors Forum. The meeting will be held Tonight,” a highly knowledgeable source said.

On Friday, the Nigeria Labour Congress declared an indefinite nationwide strike, starting on Monday, June 3, 2024, due to the Federal Government’s refusal to increase the proposed minimum wage above N60,000.

The President of the NLC, Joe Ajaero, announced that the strike followed failed negotiations between the government and organised labour.

Despite the government’s final offer of N60,000, which included a recent increase from an initial N57,000, the labour unions found the proposal insufficient.

At the meeting, labour revised its demand, reducing it by N3,000 from the initial N497,000 proposed last week, setting the new proposal at N494,000.
Despite this concession, the negotiations remained deadlocked as the government maintained its offer of N60,000, leading to the declaration of a nationwide indefinite strike.

Trump says prison sentence could be ‘breaking point’ for supporters

Donald Trump warned in an interview aired Sunday that if he is sentenced to prison after his historic conviction it could mark a ‘breaking point’ for his supporters.

In an interview aired Sunday on Fox News, the former president and current Republican White House hopeful acknowledged the possibility that he could be handed jail time or a period of home detention at his sentencing on July 11.

“I’m ok with it,” Trump said, but added he was “not sure the public would stand for it.”

“I think it would be tough for the public to take. You know at a certain point there’s a breaking point,” he added.

The warning will resonate in a country already concerned about the prospect of political violence in the increasingly heated run-up to the November 5 presidential election.

Trump will now be running as a convicted felon, and he has repeatedly made it clear he will not accept the result should he lose to President Joe Biden.

A New York jury on Thursday convicted Trump on all 34 felony charges of falsifying business records in the final stages of the 2016 presidential campaign to cover up a sex scandal involving porn star Stormy Daniels.

It was the first criminal conviction of a former president in US history.

Although each charge carries a possible four-year jail term, experts say it is extremely unlikely that the judge will actually hand down a custodial sentence.

Trump faces three other criminal trials, including one related to efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election he lost to Biden.

Trump’s supporters stormed the US Capitol on January 6, 2021 after he delivered a fiery speech urging the crowd to “fight like hell.”

Breaking her silence following Trump’s conviction, Stormy Daniels said the former president should be put in prison.

“I think he should be sentenced to jail and some community service working for the less fortunate, or being the volunteer punching bag at a women’s shelter,” Daniels said in an interview with the British tabloid The Mirror published late Saturday.

After years of exchanging insults with Trump on social media, Daniels now says she finally has been “vindicated,” although she admitted she was “shocked” at how quickly the jury rendered its verdict.

Daniels also accused the White House hopeful of being “completely and utterly out of touch with reality” and compared him to a child at one point in the interview.

The former adult film actor and director helped bring Trump down in court with her gripping testimony, which included graphic descriptions of what she says was a casual sexual encounter in 2006.

“Being in court was so intimidating with the jurors looking at you,” she said in the interview, adding that she was glad it was proved that she had been “telling the truth the entire time.”

“It’s not over for me. It’s never going to be over for me. Trump may be guilty, but I still have to live with the legacy.”

Trump has continued to deny the sexual encounter, which prosecutors at his trial said had taken place shortly after his wife Melania had given birth.

In his interview with Fox News, Trump said the criminal trial had taken a toll on his wife, who was notably absent as other close family members attended the court proceedings in support.

“She’s fine, but I think it’s very hard for her,” Trump said.

“She has to read all this crap.” Melania Trump has barely engaged with her husband’s current White House campaign, failing to appear at a single Trump rally and rarely joins him in public.

Man beats girlfriend, kills bystander who attempted to intervene

A Georgia man, Jordan Talley, 27, from the United States of America, has been arrested for beating his girlfriend and killing a man who attempted to intervene in the altercation.

According to Fox News, Talley has been charged with manslaughter and domestic battery.

The report said the incident happened on March 31 in downtown Orlando.

Orange County deputies said a video captured Talley hitting a woman in front of a law office near the intersection of Robinson Street and Magnolia Avenue.

Talley allegedly pulled the woman by her hair and forcefully threw her to the ground

A bystander, Donald Storie, 64, was walking nearby with his wife, daughter and her fiancé when he heard the woman screaming for help.

The deceased family informed authorities that he headed in the direction of the screaming woman and, when he approached the couple, Talley punched him.

Storie died on April 23 after being taken off life support.

More surveillance video shows Talley and his girlfriend entering a car, which detectives were able to trace back to Talley’s home in Georgia.

He was taken into custody by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.

Talley admitted to detectives that he punched Storie, claiming he was concerned for his girlfriend’s safety.

Present economic challenges have rendered our husbands figureheads – Nigerian women cry out

Some Nigerian women have narrated the huge economic challenges confronting them in sustaining homes.

The women expressed their views in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Sunday.

A Mother of four, Mrs Abiola Dipeolu, said that presently, the family spent a lot of money to keep the home going.

Dipeolu said that when she newly got married, she usually saved some money from the monthly allowance she received from her husband.

She said that the reverse was the case now, saying that what she received as feeding allowance hardly sustained the family for two weeks.

“I have to wake up as early as 4.00 a.m. to begin the hustle for the day and close by 6.00 p.m.

“Marriage is boring and uninteresting because the time for husband and wife to be together has been put into hustling” she said.

A Mother of three, Mrs Ronke Adu, said that she could not remember the last time she got financial support from her husband.

Adu said that the financial responsibilities had been shared and each of them took up his or her responsibilities.

She said that the present economic challenges had rendered some husbands mere figure heads in spite of the energy they put up on daily basis to make ends meet.

She noted that she had to do menial jobs like sweeping of compounds, cooking soup for the elderly and home cleaning on daily basis to make ends meet.

Expressing her views, a Mother of two, Mrs Busayo Adamolekun, said that she was a fashion designer by profession but when the reality dawned on her, she dropped her working tools and ventured into food selling.

Adamolekun said that food was one of the businesses now thriving.

She said her husband had to join the food business and closed his business centre because he no longer received patronage.

She said that some women took up the main financial expenses at homes, while their husbands only rendered support.

A Civil Servant and a Mother of three, Mrs China Okeke, said that it was a pity that the economy turned this way.

Okeke suggested that managing the home financially needed prudence.

“As a civil servant, I had to obtain loans to keep the home going,’’ she said.
She explained that the take-home pay was not enough.

A Grandmother and Pastor, Mrs Adefunke Clement, said that many women came to the church for financial help.

Clement said that there was no day a woman would not come to the church soliciting for meal.

She said that before now, the church used to have philanthropists who donated voluntarily, saying that now the church authorities had to announce before getting few donations”

“Women are going through a lot to put food on the table.

“Some go into four or five menial works on daily basis to keep the home going,’’ she said.

Your proposed strike against FG unlawful – AGF tells NLC, TUC

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, (AGF), Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN, has notified the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) that their June 3 planned strike action is illegal, unlawful and unconstitutional.

He has therefore warned them to shelve the strike and return to the negotiation table, so as not to run foul of the law guiding labour dispute.

In a letter to the leadership of the two workers’ umbrella bodies on the consequences of their actions in respect of the planned strike, the AGF faulted the mode of its declaration as being in gross violation of the labour laws.

The AGF, who cited various relevant laws, insisted that both the NLC and TUC ought to have served a 15-day notice on the federal government before contemplating any strike action.

He said the two bodies also violated the International Labour Organization, (ILO), laws because the conditions precedent for declaration of strike action were neither employed nor met.

He said the order of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria which barred the NLC and TUC from going on strike is still in force and binding on all parties in the labour dispute.

The letter personally signed by the AGF emphasized that the order of the court had not been appealed by the NLC and TUC neither was it stayed or set aside and counselled the worker’s leaders to respect the subsisting court order.

He declared the planned strike action as premature, illegal, unlawful and unconstitutional and pleaded with the workers not to proceed with it.

The AGF, however, suggested that the two labour unions proceed to the negotiation meeting already adjourned to a date that would be communicated to them.

The letter is copied to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief of Staff to the President, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, National Security Adviser (NSA), Inspector General of Police IGP and Director General, State Security Service SSS.

IGP sued over failure to release probe report on pregnant woman’s deat

A civil society organization, Global Integrity Crusade Network, (GICN), has dragged the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, before an Abuja Federal High Cout over failure to release the probe report on the killing of a pregnant woman identified as Mrs Shitua Aso.

In an earlier petition forwarded to the IGP, dated May 2, 2024, GICN alleged that one Asabe Waziri, a staff of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, (NNPCL), hit the pregnant woman with her car in front of the Federal Capital Terrritory, (FCT), Police Command, Garki 2, Abuja, on or about May 30, 2010.

According to petition, the Police immediately commenced investigation into the incident but it yet to release its findings, 14 years after. GICN, in the petition, demanded the release of the report of the said investigation. However, following the failure of the Police to release the report as demanded, GICN has dragged the IGP before an Abuja Federal High Court, asking the court to compel the IGP to release information.

In the originating summons of the suit numbered FHC/ABM/CS/742/2024, the plaintiff, GICN, prayed the court for an order of mandamus compelling the IGP to immediately release the Final Investigation Report on the incident.

The suit, dated May 29, 2024, asked the court to declare that the failure, refusal and or neglect by the IGP to release the information and documents requested for by the plaintiff amounts to violation of sections 4 and 5 of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011, and is therefore unjustifiable, wrongful and illegal.

The plaintiff also prayed the court to declare that that by a true interpretation of Section 1 of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011, the respondent, being a public official cum custodian of information at Nigeria Police Force, which is a Public Institution within the meaning of Section 31 of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011, is obligated to furnish on request by the applicant a comprehensive, just and fair information and documents, as requested in the May 2, 2024 letter.

Listing facts in support of the suit, the plaintiff noted that “Section 4 of the Police Act, 2020, gives the Nigeria Police Force power for the prevention and detection of crime, the apprehension of offenders, preservation of law and order, the protection of life and property and the due enforcement of all laws and regulations with which they are directly charged; amongst other duties within or outside Nigeria.

“On 2nd May, 2024 the applicant (GICN) wrote a letter to the respondent (IGP) requesting for a comprehensive and detailed FINAL INVESTIGATION REPORT of the case involving Asabe Waziri who hit a pregnant woman named Mrs Shitua Aso with her car in front of the FCT Police Command, Garki 2, Abuja, on 30 May, 2010.

“Till date, the respondent has failed, refused and or neglected to avail the applicant access to the information and documents requested vide their letter dated 2nd May, 2024, which was received at the office of the Respondent on 3rd May, 2024.

“The 7 (Seven) days within which the respondent is required by Section 4 (a) of the Freedom of Information Act. 2011 to furnish the applicant with the information and documents sought began to run from 4th May, 2024, and elapsed on 10 May, 2024.

“However, the respondent did not comply with Section 4 (b) of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011, by giving notice to the applicant that access to all or part of the information sought will not be granted, stating reasons for the denial and the Section of the Act under which the denial is made.

Ohanaeze demands justice for mechanic’s death in police custody

The dust being generated by the death of a motor mechanic, Chukwudi Abraham, while in detention at the Octopus Strike Force of the Rivers State Police Command in Port Harcourt is yet to settle, as the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohaneze Ndi Igbo has staged a protest demanding justice.

The members of the Ohaneze Ndi Igbo gathered at the spare parts market in Ikoku, Mile two axis of Port Harcourt on Saturday afternoon where the deceased shop is located and marched around the place after they had paid a condolence visit to his family.

During the protest, they insisted that Chukwudi’s death in January this year was suspicious and called on the Inspector General of police to order a thorough investigation to ascertain the circumstances of his death, unmask the perpetrators and make them face the law.
Speaking to newsmen, the Eze Ndi Igbo in Rivers State and Bayelsa State, Sam Nwokolo, said the deceased was arrested by the tactical police unit led by a senior officer under what he described as a vendetta mission and was detained illegally.

Eze Nwokolo debunked claims by the police that Chukwudi was a kidnapper and detained him illegally, saying a close examination of the deceased body shows that he was tortured and resulted in his death.

While noting that a Pathologist had been consulted to conduct an autopsy on his body in collaboration with the police, he stated that a situation where an arrested suspect dies in detention, especially in the said circumstances leaves much to be desired.

He stated, “We visited the market where the deceased carried out his business to have firsthand information because one of our subjects, an Igbo son was murdered by the Nigeria police men Octopus, Rivers State.

“So we came to interface with the people, the spare parts dealers in Port Harcourt where he operated his business, the Igbo community and the family of the deceased. From our observation, we discovered that with the kind of business the deceased was into I don’t think he has a history of crime.”

Continuing, Eze Nwokolo, said, “You cannot just allege that the deceased is a kidnapper because you have personal problems with the man. Taking a personal vendetta is not tantamount to the person being tagged as a kidnapper.

“We want justice to take its cause. We have a government here in Rivers State and a Governor who listens to us. So we wouldn’t want to do something that might be tantamount to disrupting the peace in the state, knowing full well that we are over five million in Rivers State as a people.

“You cannot just kill somebody and go scot-free. So we have spoken to our people to remain calm and law-abiding that we will get justice for him. I have also spoken to the Governor and he has assured me that we will get justice.
So believing the state Governor, those that are responsible for his death will be brought to book no matter who, no matter what nomenclature he carries being him a police officer or whatever.”
Eze Nwokolo further said, “We have seen the corpse and from our observation, he was murdered. We have also contacted a Pathologist to carry out an autopsy to verify the cause of his death.

“He has two small children. His wife is in the village now, and he has an aged father and mother. He was the breadwinner of the family and took care of his family and his siblings.
“You cannot just come and switch off the bulb of a family. We won’t allow that to happen.”

Also speaking, the deceased younger sibling, Chibueze Abraham, expressed bitterness that his brother was arrested on 11th January 2024, but that the police denied the family and their lawyer access to him.

Coups can’t take place without politician’s assistance – Abdulsalami

Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, has said that military coups cannot take place without the assistance of politicians and civilians.

Abdulsalami stated this on Sunday. He noted that it is the political field that allows any military man to take over power.

Abdulsalami in his words: “You see, whatever happens, it must be the political field that allows any military man to take over. When you are in government and there is no equity and justice, certainly this brings problem.

“You have a political party and even in the political party one belongs to, there is no democracy. So, certainly, you will expect some quivers, some quarrels to come out and if they are not handled amicably, certainly, this will result to military takeover.

“Remember there is no military man that takes over without the connivance and assistance of politicians and civilians”.

I‘ve no regret handing over to a democratically elected leader – Abdulsalami

Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, has said that he has no regret handing over power to a democratically elected president.

Recall Abdulsalami handed over power to former president Olusegun Obasanjo in 1999, after the country had experienced different military coups.

Speaking during an exclusive interview, he said “…I am happy with what is going on. Yes, everything is not perfect, but here we are today, celebrating 25 years of unbroken democracy.

“Well, we thank God and I am very happy that it is now 25 years ago I handed over. And we thank God that Nigerians and Nigeria are enjoying the dividends of democracy.

“We are not yet there, but we have come a long way since 1999. The only drawback we have in the system is people still sell their votes and they do all types of things, they allow the politicians to use them in ballot box snatching here and there – unnecessary things that we should have overcome at this age. But gradually and thankfully, yes, Nigerians are gradually coming out of this menace, they are realising that their vote counts and they are making sure that their vote counts.

“Unfortunately, I still maintain, there are some very few people who abuse the process and they allow their votes to be bought. And if they are buying these votes, certainly they cannot be called to be accountable, the people who are being so elected”.

2023 elections showed Yorubas don’t hate Igbos – Peter Obi

The 2023 Labour Party, (LP), presidential candidate, Peter Obi has said the last general election showed that Yorubas don’t hate Igbos.

This was as Obi noted that the election was not a Christian or Igbo agenda.

Obi said the 2023 general election saw Nigerians unite across tribe and religious lines, adding that the poll corrected the impression that Yorubas hate Igbos.

The former Anambra State governor spoke while receiving the 2024 Courageous Citizen Award from the Nigerian-American Coalition for Justice and Democracy (NACJD) in Abuja on Saturday. Obi noted that the massive turnaround was an indication that Nigerians desired a change from the status quo.

“It was a time that Nigerians united and spoke with one voice regardless of tribe, tongue or religion. The 2023 election wasn’t a Christian or Igbo project.

“It was a Nigerian project. I saw our legends and elder statesmen come together for the first time. I was glad to see people like former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Pa Ayo Adebanjo and others stand their ground.

“I am saying this to correct the impression that the Yorubas hate Igbo people. A lot of people made certain sacrifices because we just wanted to say ‘Enough is enough’ in Nigeria. Imagine those who had lost their lives for the cause of a new Nigeria,” he said

Obi came third in the 2023 presidential election after trailing his counterpart from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Atiku Abubakar and the winner, President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress, APC. Prior to the election, a lot of Nigerian youths bought into Obi’s ideology and voted massively for him.

Coming under the name Obidient, Obi’s followers cuts across the length and breadth of Nigeria.

NAFDAC bans use of sniper for food preservation

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, has banned and emphasised the dangers associated with dichlorvos, a chemical commonly used by traders to safeguard food from spoilage.

The agency, therefore, warned Nigerians about the hazardous practice of using dangerous chemicals to preserve food items.

In a statement on Sunday issued by Resident Media Consultant to NAFDAC, Sayo Akintola, the agency expressed concerns over the recent viral video showing individuals using dangerous chemicals to preserve food items like beans, stockfish, and crayfish.

It noted that the sale of small volume dichlorvos (100 ml or less), sold as Sniper has been banned since 2019 while the sale of the large volume (one litre) is limited to certified agrochemicals outlets, pointing out that NAFDAC underscores the toxicity of dichlorvos to human health, cautioning that its use can have fatal consequences.

The Director General, NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, according to the statement urged traders and merchants to desist from using unauthorised chemicals on food meant for human consumption.

She said that the misuse of dichlorvos poses significant risks to human health, manifesting in both short-term and long-term consequences, saying that long-term exposure can result in severe health implications, including developmental abnormalities in offspring, memory loss, reduced fertility, and potential carcinogenic effects.

She added that the adverse effects highlight the importance of adhering to safety guidelines to mitigate the risks associated with dichlorvos exposure.

Minimum Wage: Accept NLC’s demands – NANS urges FG

The National Association of Nigerian Students, (NANS), has called on the Bola Tinubu-led administration to align itself with the demands of Organized Labour.

In a statement at the weekend by its president, Pedro Obi, NANS stood in solidarity with the labour unions in their call for an increase in the national minimum wage.

While citing current economic hardship, the student body noted that NLC demand is justified.

The statement reads: “We urge the Federal Government to respond promptly and favourably to the legitimate demands of Nigerian workers. The current economic realities have significantly eroded the purchasing power of the average Nigerian worker. Inflation, the rising cost of living, and the continuous devaluation of the naira have made it increasingly difficult for many families to meet their basic needs.”

Minimum wage: N494,000 demand by organized labour will cripple economy – Nigerian Govt

The Nigerian Government has said the N494,000 new minimum wage proposed by the organized labour is capable of crippling Nigeria’s economy.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris disclosed this during a press briefing in Abuja while reacting to organized labour demand and indefinite strike action. The minister lamented that the N494,000 minimum wage demand would amount to a N9.5 trillion expenditure burden to the government.

According to him, they had agreed to increase the country’s minimum wage by 100 percent to N60,000 from N30,000, in line with the current economic realities.He frowned at the 1,547 percent new minimum wage proposal by the organized labour.

He noted labour’s N494,000 minimum wage demand will make the federal government downside its 1.2 million workforce which does not portend any good for the country’s economy.

“The sum of N494,000 national minimum wage which Labour is seeking would cumulatively amount to the sum N9.5 trillion bill to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

“Nigerians need to understand that whereas the FG is desirous of ample remuneration for Nigerian workers, what is most critical is that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not encourage any action that could lead to massive job loss, especially in the private sector, who may not be able to pay the wage demanded by the Organised Labour,” he said.

The organized labour is billed to embark on indefinite strike on Monday, June 3, over the government’s failure to implement a new minimum wage and reversal of the April 3 electricity tariff hike.

Recall that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on January 1 signed the 2024 N28.7 trillion appropriation bill with projected revenue of N19.7 trillion and a budget deficit of N10 trillion.

Otti gives automatic scholarship to children of five slain soldiers

Governor Alex Otti of Abia state has awarded automatic scholarships to the children of the five soldiers, who were killed during an attack at a checkpoint in Obikabia, Ogbor Hill, Aba.

Otti made the promise when he paid a condolence visit to the Headquarters of the 144 Battalion, Asa, in Ukwa West Council, to commiserate with the widows of the five slain military personnel.

“Let me start by sending out words of sympathy to the Nigerian Army, the Brigade Commander himself, and most importantly, the families of the five fallen heroes.

“It’s as if General Diya was with me at the last place that we went to, where I had promised everybody that was listening to me, that we would smoke out whoever is remotely connected to this killing, whoever they are, wherever they are, wherever they run to,” he said.

To support the families of the slain soldiers, the governor announced an automatic scholarship for the deceased’s children to University level, and promised that he would ensure that the scholarship was legalized by the State House of Assembly.

He explained that the legalization of the scholarship to the children of the dead soldiers is to ensure that successive governments continue to fund the scholarship.

Speaking earlier, the Brigade Commander, 14 Brigade Ohafia, Brigadier General Olusola Diya, said they were not relenting in their efforts to arrest those behind the criminal act, stressing that they had been gathering intelligence, to bring whoever that is connected to the killing, to justice.

He disclosed that two vehicles belonging to the Army were burnt, weapons carted away while five personnel lost their lives during the attack.

Aba residents in fear over army’s killings: Decision to retaliate as CP condemns killing

From Henrietta Ashikodi, Umuahia

Abians has expressed sadness, shock over the killing of five soldiers in Aba.

They said this is coming at a time when Governor Otti has done a lot to improve the security of the state while further appealing to the army to look for the killers and spare innocent persons.

Reacting over the killing last Thursday, Labour Party in strong terms condemned the attack, describing the killing as the heinous activity of an unidentified gunmen who maimed and took the lives of five soldiers in Abia, while burning their hilux vans and carting away their rifles.

The Southeast National Vice Chairman of the party, Hon. Ceekay Igara, in a statement made available to newsmen in Abia said the constant killing of military personnel in the state leaves much to be desired.

He described the action as dastardly and must be condemned re-emphasizing that the Igbo race is known for value for human lives and wondered what the intents of the assailants were.

Hon. Igara who called for calm among Abians, especially those in Aba commiserated with the family of the deceased and prayed God to grant their souls eternal rest while giving the families the fortitude to bear the loss.

The former Abia State Labour Party Chairman also called on the military to, by all means conduct the necessary investigations and ensure that culprits are brought to book while also appealing to them not to trade the innocent for the crimes of others.

In the same vein the State Chairman of the Abia PDP, Rt. Hon. Dr. Allwell Asiforo Okere, on behalf of the members of the State Working Committee, (SWC), members of the enlarged State Executive Committee, (SEC), stakeholders and the entire Abia PDP family commiserates with Abia state Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, the government and good people of Abia state, the Nigerian Army, and the families of the slain soldiers, on the sad incident which happened at Obikabia, in Aba area of the State on Thursday.

He said the information available to them, has it that two of the soldiers are worthy sons of Abia State, adding that the incident is quite regrettable, especially coming at a time when officers and men of the Nigerian military are working tirelessly to rid the society of tension and anarchy and set up the country for forward movement towards development.

The Abia PDP called on the governor to engage peacefully with the Nigerian Army, to ensure that this sad incident does not escalate and consume more souls as they have already seen some innocent citizens caught in the crossfires between the Army and non-state actors.

“We also call the good people of Abia State to be cautious and remain peaceful and law abiding during this sad period, and at other times, and avoid actions capable of fueling the already tense situation.

“And to the Nigerian Army, we condole with you on the loss of your gallant soldiers and plead with you to be discerning in fishing out the perpetrators and ensure that innocent citizens do not fall victims of your efforts to give your slain colleagues justice”.

A traditional ruler, Eze, John Ibezim said the killing of the gallant soldiers was highly Provocative and painful.

He sympathized with the army and families of the slain soldiers while appealing to the army to trade with caution and not to arrest or kill those who knows nothing about the incident.

Imo govt, Egyptian firm sign pact on power supply

Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma (right), watches as the Acting General Manager of Orashi Electricity Company of Imo State, Engr Valentine Obumeyan (left), and Chairman/CEO of Madkour Group, Dr. Mostafa Madkour, exchange Memorandum of Understanding documents on partnership for power generation and transmission in Imo State after signing same at the Government House, Owerri... Saturday

The government of Imo State has signed a pact with an Egyptian power generation, transmission and distribution company, Madkour Group, for the purpose of solving the perennial epileptic power supply in the State.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Egyptian firm, Madkour Group, which was signed in Government House Owerri on Saturday was the highpoint of months of partnership discussions between the management of the Egyptian firm and those of the Orashi Electricity Company of Imo State, coupled with days of tour of facilities in the State by both parties.

While the President of the Egyptian firm, Dr. Mostafa Madkour signed for Madkour Group, Engr. Valentine Obumeyan, the Acting General Manager of Orashi Electricity Company of Imo State signed on behalf of the State government, with both parties committing to doing everything humanly possible to “set Imo State on fire” by January next year.

Addressing the audience at the signing ceremony, which included top government officials and key management officers of Madkour Group, the Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma said in pursuit of the development of Imo State, his administration has already “assented to a law on power generation for the State and the law created Orashi Electricity Company Limited for Imo State.”

Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma (right), watches as the Acting General Manager of Orashi Electricity Company of Imo State, Engr Valentine Obumeyan (left), and Chairman/CEO of Madkour Group, Dr. Mostafa Madkour, exchange Memorandum of Understanding documents on partnership for power generation and transmission in Imo State after signing same at the Government House, Owerri… Saturday

The Governor noted that the Federal Government supported the State in the establishment of the Company and to find technical and financial partners.

Governor Uzodimma added that “the need for partners became necessary because the business of power generation, distribution and transmission is capital intensive and it is not what the State can carry alone.”

“This informed the coming of Madkour Group to partner Orashi Electricity Company Limited of Imo State as both technical and financial partners.”

The Governor emphasised that “as part of the deliverables, by January next year (2025) we will be able to generate, transmit and distribute our own power,” noting that it was to consummate the partnership that the signing of the MOU became inevitable.

Responding on behalf of the Madkour Group, the President, Dr. Madkour, thanked the Governor for trusting in their capacity and accepting to engage them in the partnership.

He assured that they will provide all that is needed in the power generation, transmission and distribution in the State in line with the pact they have entered into with Orashi Electricity Company of Imo State.

Dr. Madkour further promised that they will not only work hard “to support and stabilise the source of power supply in Imo State,” but “will work hard to make it happen.”

He thanked the Governor very sincerely for the trust and promised that they will not disappoint his expectations.

The Secretary to the State Government, Chief Cosmos Iwu, and other members of the expanded State Executive Council witnessed the signing ceremony which took place in the Governor’s Conference Room.

APGA commences membership digitisation nationwide

APGA National Chairman of the party, Sly Ezeokenwa

They all Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), has commenced its membership digitisation nationwide.

The National Chairman of the party, Sly Ezeokenwa disclosed this at the regional office of the party in Awka, Anambra State Capital, on Friday, during a press briefing to mark his one year in office, alongside other national officers of the party.

He said the launch is dedicated to fostering ICT skills and innovation among the youth and the society at large and has become the first political party in Nigeria to implement the complete digitization of its membership database.

“This transformation has set a benchmark for other political parties and solidified APGA’s position as a trailblazer in embracing technology for political engagement.”

He noted that with the rebranded national outlook of the party under his watch in the past year, APGA is better positioned to intensify efforts in doing things differently in the country.

According to him, the party has through their “Drive APGA” agenda succeeded in cultivating a disciplined culture within APGA by setting clear guidelines and expectations, upholding the supremacy of the party, thereby promoting accountability and transparency, as well as ensuring that all members uphold APGA’S values without dictates from the hierarchy.

APGA National Chairman of the party, Sly Ezeokenwa

Ezeokenwa spoke about the efforts of his leadership in the party to increase its visibility by introducing novel programmes such as the APGA foundation, APGA next generation, APGA digital hub, APGA manifesto and APGA membership digitisation which was officially launched on June 1, 2024, offering membership digital cards with an array of features.

He explained that as a constructive opposition, the party has been offering a strong voice for the Nigerian people and advocating for positive changes in crucial areas such as security, economy, inclusive governance and electoral reforms, and suggesting alternative solutions to the ruling national party.

While stating that the party has always advocated stronger institutions, anti-corruption measures and policies that empower marginalized groups, ensuring that no one is left behind in the nation’s progress, Ezeokenwa stressed that it is at the heart of what Governor Charles Soludo was doing in Anambra as the national leader of the party, setting new standards for governance in areas of free education without hidden charges, free antenatal care and child delivery service, construction of roads, renovation of schools, new health facilities, economic growth and stability, among others.

On the party’s position on the conduct of local government elections in Anambra, the National Chairman noted that APGA believes in the local government as an important structure, stressing that the APGA government in Anambra State is deeply committed to the conduct of local government elections.

‘Be rational’ – Presidency tells NLC, TUC on minimum wage demand

Organised Labour

The special assistant to the president on media and publicity, Mr Temitope Ajayi, has urged labour leaders in the country to be rational in their demands for a new minimum wage.

In a tweet on Saturday, June 1, Mr Ajayi noted that the demand by president of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero and Festus Osifo of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), may further depress the economy and create needless confusion.

The presidential aide maintained that only a few state in the country can pay a minimum wage above N50,000, adding that minimum wage was not designed to make workers rich.

“In the face of the rising cost of living, I believe there is need for a higher national minimum wage,” he wrote.

“However, the negotiation for a new national minimum wage by the Labour Movement should be rational and tempered within economic realities and capacity of both the government and private employers to pay.

“Aluta approach of the Labour Movement won’t solve any problem. It will rather further depress the economy and create needless confusion.

“There should be a rational conversation around the debate. Save for Lagos and probably 3 other states, I don’t think there is any state in Nigeria today that can conveniently pay above N50,000 minimum wage.

A recent media report says Zamfara State government will begin to pay the N30,000 expired minimum wage from next month.

“As it is, our economy can not support N615,000 minimum wage. It means we will all have to pay our drivers, gatemen, cook, shop attendants, office assistants, waiters etc N615,000 every month. How much is the salary of the Labour leaders as unionists per month and will Joe Ajaero pay his own driver N615,000 per month from his salary as NLC President?

“The idea of a minimum wage everywhere in the world is not to make workers rich and be in a position to afford everything they want.

“In US, Canada and Europe, those who earn minimum wage keep two to three jobs at the same time to be able to pay their bills. Remaining on a minimum wage band is not a desirable position or life anyone wishes to have. Minimum wage simply means the minimum any worker should earn. Those who fall within the minimum wage band always aspire to exit the quadrangle by acquiring better education and other skills that can make them earn more to live more comfortable life.

“After negotiating a reasonable and realistic minimum wage, the focus of the NLC/TUC should be how government will address the cost of living challenges through cheaper public transportation, affordable food and housing. Labour should also collaborate with government to boost industrial capacity so that manufacturing firms can employ more people to earn good wages.”

Meanwhile the organised labour, on Friday, announced an indefinite nationwide strike beginning from Monday, June 3.

Politics Nigeria reports that the NLC and TUC have been in negotiation with the federal government over a new minimum wage since the government policies announced last year by President Bola Tinubu led to an astronomical increase in the cost of goods and services.

Surveyor General of Imo State offers thanksgiving …felicitate with Uzodimma on court victory

By Fred Njoku…

The premises of Nigeria Institute of Surveyors (NIS), Imo State chapter was agog with activities of the thanksgiving service of the Surveyor-General of Imo State, Surv. Bob Uzodimma Odidika.

The programme took place with the presence of the members of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

In his sermon during the service, Pastor Olotomo Olamiji, stressed the need for Christians to always reflect on God’s faithfulness in their lives in order to appreciate Him, adding that the Lord whose mercy endures forever is always moved to do more wonders whenever He is honoured, as he commended the family of Surv. Uzodimma Odidika for putting together the thanksgiving service.

Delivering his remark, Pastor Joshua Ogbabeyi who is in-charge of the Province, while rejoicing with the celebrant family, hinted of God mercy to them which he said gave them the reason to celebrate.

The celebrant Surv. Odidika in his message to the people stated.

“God helped us to choose a day like this to thank him for his infinite mercy and his goodness towards us. What we did today and what we pray to always do is a family thanksgiving. Whereby we shall be thanking God not for one particular thing that he did but for so many things he has done all over the years to this present time. We are praying as well that he will continue to do more, so that we will have many more reasons to thank him”.

The celebrant flanked by his wife, Mrs. Christiana Odidika and his Mother, Mrs Regina Odidika and children while still expressing their joy and gratitude to God over the gift of his family and his livelihood including other numerous blessings, encouraged participants at the occasion to always place God first in all they do inorder to attract his mercy and blessings.

He used the occasion to appreciate all those who found time to rejoice with them.

The Surveyor General prayed to God Almighty to release upon them his blessings. While lauding Gov. Uzodimma for giving him the opportunity to serve under his administration.

He congratulated the governor for his victory at the Imo State Election petition Tribunal which he added has underscored his popularity at the grassroot.

Meanwhile, the Chief Political Adviser to the Governor and Head, Imo State Government Political Bureau, Hon. Barr. Enyinanya Onuegbu, remarked that the radiance exuded by Odidika’s family testified of how far God has led them.

He used the opportunity to extol Surv. Bob Uzodimma as a hardworking diligent, and faithful professional. While the Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning, Dr. Mrs. Angela Ohiri echoed the same testimony concerning Surv Odidika.

Earlier in his address, the Chairman of the occasion and the immediate past NNDC Director, Imo State, Engr. Tony Okanne, while appreciating the gathering, expressed his delight chairing the event, adding that his encounter with Surv. Odidika revealed his amiable qualities, as he charged participants to emulate the celebrant diligence, sincerity and dedication towards attaining great heights. Similarly, Mr. Uju Nwogu of the Nigerian Police Force, showed praises on Surv Odidika.

Many other speakers took turns to eulogize Surv Bob Uzodimma for his humility, calmness, dedication to responsibilities, unassuming and welcoming disposition. They included: Imo State Chairman of University of Lagos Alunmi Association, Barrister Tony Amadi; his Government Collage Owerri counterpart, Mr. Casmir Nwoga.

Group organizes “hang out” for aged persons in Imo

The Coalition of Societies For The Protection Of Older Persons Rights (COSROPIN), Imo state chapter has celebrated the senior citizens by providing them indoor games, free medical outreach and health talk.

Speaking in Owerri, during the event that was tagged: “Older Persons ‘s Handout” , organized by COSROPIN for the senior citizens, the state coordinator of COSROPIN, Barr Mrs Ngozi Njoku, noted that is was necessary to celebrate and appreciate the efforts of the senior citizens.

She advised them to stick to their medication and exercise their body so as to look healthy and safe.

Barr Njoku, appreciated who that graced the occasion. She prayed God for blessing and strength upon the senior citizens.

In his welcome address, the state chairman of Nigerian Union Of Pensioners (NUP), Dr J . B Ugochukwu, thanked the organisers of the event for remembering the senior citizens. He maintained that the efforts of the pensioners cannot be over emphasized.

He advised the senior citizens to always visit the state secretariat to enjoy the free medical care and the indoor games.

Flagging off the free medical care, the Imo Commissioner For Health, Barr Prosper Ohayagha, Commended the past efforts of state government to the senior citizens. He assured them that their welfare and benefits was sure as far as the 3R government was concerned.

He advised them to indulge in physical exercise and take their free medical outreach and health insurance scheme serious .

Killers of soldiers in Abia must face justice –FG

The Federal Government has described as barbaric and abominable, the killing of five soldiers on lawful duty at Obikabia Junction in Obingwa Local Government Area of Abia State, vowing that the perpetrators must face justice.

Earlier, the Defence Headquarters declared that five soldiers and six civilians were killed on Thursday, during the attack by suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and their armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

Condemning the sad incident, Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, vowed that those responsible for the heinous act would be brought to justice.

The Minister, in a statement by the Director, Ministry of Defence, Henshaw Ogubike, said the killing of the military personnel was totally reprehensible and disheartening.

“The brutal assassination of the soldiers in Aba was without any provocation while on a lawful duty, protecting innocent citizens against the threat of non-state actors,” he said.

The Minister condoled the families of the deceased personnel and the Nigerian military, urging the troops not to be deterred by the attack.

Emphasising the role of local communities in counterterrorism, Matawalle urged citizens to provide information that could aid military operations against terrorist groups and keep faith in Nigeria.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the military in their efforts to defeat IPOB, ESN and other criminals in other regions of the country to ensure total security in the nation.

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