The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Security: Uzodimma inaugurates crime-fighting initiative

    Security: Uzodimma inaugurates crime-fighting initiative

    Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma has inaugurated Imo State Vigilance Services Organisation (ISSO) , a new initiative aimed at eradicating crime and criminality in the state.

    The newly launched security outfit is made up of 7,000 trained young men and women, tasked with tackling crime and criminality across the state.

    Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held at the Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu Square, Owerri, on Friday,  Uzodimma said the initiative was part of his administration’s efforts to create a safe and secure environment for residents.

    “We are committed to creating a safe and secure environment for all residents of Imo State,” Uzodimma said.

    The governor who disclosed that the security outfit was backed by the Imo State Security Organisation Amendment Law No. 3 of 2025,  said  it was also  a proactive measure to protect the state’s developmental gains. “We must work every day to keep the peace we have earned,” he stated.

    Uzodimma affirmed the crucial role traditional rulers play in community safety.

    “You are the fathers of your communities. You know your children, and it is upon you to expose criminality in your domains,” he urged.

    He called for collaboration between the vigilance organisation and local leaders.

    While calling on the newly trained members of the Vigilance Services Organisation to nip insecurity in the bud,” Uzodimma warned that the era of violence was over in the state.

    “We have worked too hard to build this new Imo. Any attempt to incite violence will not be tolerated. The era of constant fear is gone and now behind us.”

    He, therefore, called on the citizens to support the newly inaugurated security officers, emphasising cooperation as vital for maintaining public safety.

     “When the right hand washes the left and the left washes the right, both hands become clean,” he explained, urging community engagement in the fight against insecurity.

    Uzodimma emphasized that the inauguration sends a strong message to investors and visitors that Imo State prioritizes a safe environment for growth and development. “Imo is open, Imo is safe,” he declared, inviting all to explore opportunities in the state.

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    He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for endorsing community policing and the establishment of local security initiatives, emphasising that this approach would allow communities to take ownership of their security, which is vital for enhancing national security.

    In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Homeland Security and Vigilante Affairs, Hon. Modestus Osakwe, said the launch of the Imo State Security Organization (ISSO) was a major milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to strengthen safety and security.

    The commissioner commended the governor for his proactive leadership and unwavering commitment to prioritizing the security and wellbeing of Imo people.

     “Security remains a critical foundation for sustainable development and economic growth,” Osakwe emphasized.

    He expressed optimism that the new security organisation would strengthen collaboration between conventional security agencies and local communities, improve intelligence gathering, and enhance rapid response to security threats.

    The commissioner therefore called on residents to cooperate with the Imo State Security Organisation and actively participate in community safety initiatives, stressing that security is a collective responsibility.

    Senator Izunaso praised the governor’s initiative, saying: “We will support the governor’s efforts to ensure Imo State becomes a safe and prosperous place for all.”

    The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Deputy Governor Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, Senators Osita Izunaso and Patrick Ndubueze, members of the House of Representatives, and other government officials.

  • TCN, ADB sensitize Abia, Imo, Anambra on transmission upgrade

    TCN, ADB sensitize Abia, Imo, Anambra on transmission upgrade

    The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), in partnership with the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Federal Ministry of Finance have carried out a sensitization programme for Project Affected Persons (PAPs) on the proposed reconstruction and upgrade of the Alaoji–Onitsha 330kV Single Circuit Transmission Line line.

    The sensitization exercise, which took place from January 6 to 8, 2026, covered twelve local government areas along the transmission line corridor in Abia, Imo and Anambra States.

    Speaking during the programme, the Project Manager, Engineer (Mrs) Omobola Sobo explained that the AfDB-funded project involves upgrading the existing Alaoji–Onitsha transmission line to a quad circuit configuration using advanced quad conductors.

    She noted that the upgrade would more than double the line’s capacity, thereby improving electricity supply reliability and meeting growing consumer demand.

    This was made known in a statement at the weekend, signed by the TCN Public Affairs General Manager, Ndidi Mbah.

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    According to the statement, the Assistant General Manager (HSE), Mr. Aromeh Adole emphasized that the sensitization exercise was a critical step ahead of the planned payment of compensation to Project Affected Persons (PAPs) and the clearing of the Right of Way (RoW) for the safe execution of the reconstruction project.

    This, he stressed, is to ensure public safety within the transmission line corridor during the construction exercise.

    He further assured that all the affected property owners would receive appropriate compensation in line with approved guidelines, following the completion of the final verification process.

    To ensure smooth project execution, TCN will collaborate with PGM Nigeria Limited (The RAP Implementation Consultant) to implement the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) for PAPs and facilitate the clearing of the transmission RoW under the AfDB-funded initiative.

  • Otti assures early delivery of Abia ultra-modern bus terminal

    Otti assures early delivery of Abia ultra-modern bus terminal

    Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Otti, has expressed his hopes that the ongoing construction of the Umuahia Central Bus terminal would be delivered at a record time.

    Speaking to journalists at the end of the inspection of the ongoing work at the bus terminal, Otti explained the reason behind his decision to embark on the mega project, saying that it was better to centralise transport terminals, instead of having motor parks scattered across different parts of the state.

    The governor, who disclosed that his administration was simply replicating what was obtainable in most civilised countries, said, “It is nothing new; it has been done elsewhere. When you go to the UK, Paddington Terminal ensures convergence of the railway and other means of transportation.

    “And of course you have a shopping plaza, cinema, hotel, everything is there.

    “So, we thought we should concentrate all those transport terminals in this place instead of having different terminals at different places in the town,” Otti stated.

    The governor, who appreciated the quality and level of progress of the work done by the contractor, expressed the hope that, by the end of January, the project, if not completed, would be close to completion.

    “The work is going on very well, the consultants are very, very up to the task. I’m happy with the progress of the work. I’m glad with the level of progress and with the quality of work.

    “Hopefully, before the end of this month, they will have gone far. But what I see here gives me the impression that by the end of the month, if they haven’t completed it, they would be very close to completing it.

    “But, even if they need more time, I’ll give them more time because it’s better done right the first time,” Otti stated.

    He disclosed that the Aba Central Bus Terminal would soon begin immediately after the completion of the Umuahia terminal.

    Also speaking, the Commissioner for Transport, Dr Chimezie Ukaegbu, said that the essence of building the bus terminal was to centralise all motor parks in Umuahia, the state capital.

     “We just wanted to centralise all transport activities, and that was why His Excellency, in his wisdom, decided to build a central bus terminal to stand as a one-stop transport hub for all commuters, passengers, and travellers.

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    “Whatever mode of transport you want to use to travel, once you come into the central bus terminal, you’ll be able to get it.

    “We planned on citing the railway station there. Then, you have the bus station and all the parks.

    “All the parks in Umuahia will be brought in here. We are going to have a centralised park system in Umuahia and Aba.

    “You know, we are also building the same in Aba, which will be completed hopefully by May,” Ukaegbu stated.

    Otti also inspected the ongoing road project works around Cooperatives, Ahiaeke-Okwuta-Bende road, among others.

    At the Ahiaeke-Okwuta-Bende road, Craneburg representative, Engineer Yousef Tawk, received Governor Otti and explained the details of the work done so far, as the governor engaged him meaningfully, with both of them agreeing on what should be done to ensure a long-lasting solution to a part of the road that has a valley by the side.

    Otti urged the contractor to target completing the road project before the rainy season sets in.

    Otti equally used the opportunity to interact with passengers and members of the crew of the Abia Electric Buses, which have been offering free service to Abians and visitors since it was launched last December, to ensure that things are working well, as he directed during the launch.

  • Delta: ADC Coalition leadership dismisses purported closed-door meeting

    Delta: ADC Coalition leadership dismisses purported closed-door meeting

    The leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Coalition in Delta State has dismissed reports of an alleged closed-door strategic meeting of the party’s State Executive Committee, describing the report as misleading and not reflective of the party’s current realities in the state.

    In a statement by the Chairman of the Delta State ADC Coalition Leadership Team, George Timinimi, said the report which portrayed Mr. Barbar Ebimowei as substantive state chairman presiding over a meeting ahead of the forthcoming party congress, does not reflect the true position of the party.

    Timinimi said the Delta ADC is currently undergoing a coalition-driven reorganisation process based on inclusiveness, wide consultation, and consensus among stakeholders. He pointed out that any meeting convened without critical stakeholders, coalition partners, and recognised leadership structures cannot be considered the true official position of the party.

    “The leadership of the Delta State ADC at this critical stage is not a one-man affair or a closed-circle arrangement. It is an ongoing effort to reposition the party through the involvement of coalition leaders, elders, and stakeholders committed to building a credible political platform in the state.”

    Timinimi also expressed concerns over claims that the purported meeting was restricted to “duly elected state executive members,” noting that such approach contradicts the party’s commitment to internal democracy, transparency, and fairness. He asserted that secrecy and exclusion have no place in the ADC, particularly at this time that the party is anchored on the unity and reconciliation process.

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    The coalition leadership further warned that no congress process would be considered valid or credible if it is based on unilateral actions, exclusion, or disregard for existing coalition arrangements and engagements with the national leadership of the party. That any attempt to preempt or manipulate the congress process will not be acceptable and contrary to the ADC’s constitution.

    Reaffirming the coalition’s commitment, Timinimi stressed that the ADC Coalition Leadership Team remains dedicated to a transparent, inclusive, and constitutionally guided process that involves all stakeholders across Delta State. He assured party members that the coalition would resist any move that could plunge the party into confusion or undermine the sacrifices of its members.

    He also called on party faithful, the media, and the general public to treat unverified reports with caution, urging them to rely only on officially recognised communications from coalition-backed leadership structures. “The Delta State ADC belongs to all its members, not just a select few,” Timinimi concluded, expressing confidence that the party’s future would be shaped through unity, dialogue, and genuine internal democracy.”

  • 2027: Retired DIG Ekpoudum leads support for Tinubu, Akpabio, Eno’s reelection

    2027: Retired DIG Ekpoudum leads support for Tinubu, Akpabio, Eno’s reelection

    •Empowers over 500 women

    Dig Udom Ekpoudum (rtd) has mobilised massive grassroots support for the reelection of President Bola Tinubu, Senator Godswill Akpabio and Akwa Ibom state governor, Umo Eno.

    Ekpoudum, who is the political leader of Etim Ekpo local government area of the state, urged his people to reelect Tinubu, Akpabio and Eno for a second term, saying they have shown visible evidence of democratic dividends.

    He said this when he empowered over 500 women with wrappers and millions of naira.

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    The annual event which took place at his country home Uruk Ata Ikot Ebo in Etim Ekpo, was targeted at rural women.

    Ekpoudom said Tinubu, Akpabio and Eno have performed credibly well and deserved another term, which he said will be another window for more life-touching projects and programmes.

    The former police boss further stated that his empowerment programme started many years ago out of his deep desire to ensure that people, especially women are happy during the Yuletide.

  • DESOPADEC: Ndokwa group lauds Oborevwori for reinstating representative

    DESOPADEC: Ndokwa group lauds Oborevwori for reinstating representative

    Ndokwa Forward, a frontline political pressure group in Ndokwa land, has lauded Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, for reinstating the Ndokwa representative on DESOPADEC, Dr. Charles Olise.

    The group described the move as timely and statesmanlike, saying it reflects the governor’s commitment to fairness, reconciliation and inclusive governance.

    In a statement signed by Sam Osasa, Dr. George Ugbomah and Chief Isaac Onyesom, NdokwaForward said the decision had been widely welcomed by Ndokwa people and thanked the governor for responding to their appeals.

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    The group pledged continued support for Oborevwori’s administration and the MORE Agenda, while also commending Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme, FCA, for his steady representation of Ndokwa interests.

    The group welcomed Dr. Charles Olise back to office and urged him to discharge his responsibilities with renewed dedication, humility and commitment to the development of Ndokwa land and Delta state as a whole.

  • Ibeno condemn attempts to stall Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project

    Ibeno condemn attempts to stall Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project

    Natives of Ibeno local government area in Akwa Ibom State have condemned the alleged attempt by its Ekid neighbours to block the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.

    In a solidarity march yesterday, youths and elders of Ibeno said that they would resist any attempt to stop the project from passing through the disputed Stubb’s Creeks Forest land.

    The Ekid comprising Eket and Esit Eket local government areas had penultimate week published a caveat emptor warning against the use of the Stubb’s Creeks, claiming ownership of the area.

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    But the Ibeno people insisted that Stubb’s Creeks Forest is their ancestral heritage, hence the Ekid people cannot stop the Federal Government from building the coastal highway on it. They displayed placards with various inscriptions some of which read, “You cannot claim what you never owned”, “Build the Coastal Highway through Ibeno”, “Infrastructure brings prosperity”, and “Peace over false claims.”

    Others included, “Ibeno is the true Host of Stubb’s Creeks”, “Ibeno is investors-friendly”, “Landlords don’t make noise”, “Host status is not by proximity but by history”, among others.

    Spokesperson of Ibeno Elders Forum, Mr. Diamond Akpanika, a lawyer, who spoke with reporters said Ibeno people are solidly in support of the coastal road project and would resist any attempt to stalk it.

    “First of all you have seen the Ibeno people come out in white attires and white signifies peace. So we have come out to display the peaceful character and nature of every Ibeno person.

  • Delta High Court voids DESTMA’s power to arrest, fine motorists

    Delta High Court voids DESTMA’s power to arrest, fine motorists

    The Delta State High Court sitting in Warri has declared the power of the Delta State Traffic Management Authority (DESTMA) to arrest traffic offenders and impose fines illegal and unconstitutional.

    In a judgment delivered on Wednesday in Suit No. W/348/2016: Chuks Christian Ofili v. Attorney-General of Delta State & Anor, Hon. Justice Ejiro Emudainowho struck down Section 18(1) of the Delta State Traffic Management Authority Law, 2013, holding that it conflicts with the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

    The court held that DESTMA and its officials lacked the legal authority to impose fines, penalties or sanctions, or to confiscate vehicle number plates without first charging and securing a conviction before a competent court.

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    Justice Emudainowho ruled that the seizure of the claimant’s number plate and the imposition of a N30,000 fine without trial amounted to a “flagrant violation” of the claimant’s right to fair hearing and freedom of movement under Sections 36(1) and 41(1) of the constitution.

    Among other reliefs, the court set aside the “Notification of New Traffic Offences and Penalties” issued against the claimant, ordered the refund of N30,000 paid for the release of the number plate, awarded N500,000 as legal costs and N300,000 as damages, with 10 percent interest per annum.

    Reacting to the judgment, the claimant’s counsel, Olukunle Ogheneovo Edun, Esq., said the ruling affirms constitutional supremacy.

    “The court was clear that only a competent court of law can impose penalties. Administrative agencies cannot assume judicial powers,” he said.

  • DSS denies personnel involvement in alleged abduction, defilement of minor

    DSS denies personnel involvement in alleged abduction, defilement of minor

    •Confirms arrest of serving officer over forced marriage

    The Department of State Services (DSS) has denied reports linking one Ifeanyi Festus to its personnel in connection with alleged abduction, defilement of a minor and abuse of office, stating that the Service has no record of such a person in its employment.

    In a statement issued yesterday, the DSS, however, confirmed that a serving officer, Ifeanyi Onyewuenyi, has been arrested over allegations of forceful conversion and marriage of a woman identified as Walida Abdulhadi.

    The statement was signed by the Deputy Director, Public Relations and Strategic Communications, DSS National Headquarters, Abuja, Favour Dozie.

    The Service said the suspect is currently under investigation, stressing that the alleged acts are against its regulations and code of conduct.

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    It added that the outcome of the investigation will be made public.

    The statement reads, “The attention of Department of State Services (DSS) has been drawn to reports alleging involvement of a staff of DSS, one Ifeanyi Festus, in a case of abduction, defilement of a minor and abuse of office among other offences.

    “For clarity, the Service has no record of the above named in its employment.”

    “However, it is hereby confirmed that, an active staff member, Ifeanyi Onyewuenyi, who is suspected to have forcefully converted and married one Walida Abdulhadi ‘f’, has been arrested and is currently being investigated.

  • Delta govt to rebuild ECN road, end commuters’ ordeal — Oborevwori

    Delta govt to rebuild ECN road, end commuters’ ordeal — Oborevwori

    Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has announced the reconstruction of the ECN Road, vowing to end years of hardship faced by residents, commuters and businesses along the corridor.

    He said the intervention became necessary after sustained public complaints over the road’s deplorable condition, which has crippled movement and economic activities in the area.

    Oborevwori assured the residents that the project would be executed to standard and completed within a defined timeline.

    The governor made the announcement yesterday at Orhuwhorun in Udu Local Government Area, noting that the project aligns with his administration’s MORE Agenda, which places infrastructure at the heart of security, commerce and improved living standards in the state.

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    The governor also highlighted recent achievements of his administration, noting that the Udu Harbour Market, which was first awarded about 18 years ago, would soon be inaugurated.

    Charging political office holders and community leaders to embrace servant leadership, Oborevwori stressed that no leader is above the people they serve, adding that leadership must be anchored on humility, accountability and loyalty to the electorate.

    “There is no local government where I don’t have leaders. You cannot say because you are a governor that you are all in all. No. You must be loyal to your people because we are only serving them,” the governor said.

    Speaking on legacy, Oborevwori commended Sir Sheba Palama for honouring his parents through the memorial celebration, describing the gesture as a noble act that preserves family values and legacy.