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Reactions trail alleged Ifeanyi Ubah’s non-recognition by church

From Elekwachi Chinedum, Onitsha

Reactions have greeted alleged non-recognition of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah’s contributions to the building of Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral Church, Nnewi, Anambra State.

The ultramodern cathedral was dedicated last Wednesday during a solemn mass that attracted scores of Bishops, including Francis Cardinal Arinze, Peter Cardinal Okpalaeke and John Cardinal Onaiyekan.

Former governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Sen. Victor Umeh, several top government functionaries, captains of industries, among others were also in attendance.

A knight of the Catholic Church, Sir James Okoye, had, immediately after the dedication service, protested alleged omission of the late Uba’s name during the service. He renounced Christianity as a way of demonstrating his disappointment with the church.

Reports have it that the cathedral was first started by the late senator, who volunteered to build the cathedral for the church.

“He worked on the project to about 85 per cent completion, before a new Bishop was posted to Nnewi in 2022, who directed that Ubah should hands off the cathedral.

“The directive was said to have caused rift between the Bishop and the Senator,” the reports said.

However, Okoye, aka Ebube Anaedo, during the church dedication, in a sharp protest, described as unfair, the treatment meted out to the late lawmaker.

The visibly devastated man had removed his shoes and cap, signifying end to his knighthood, shouting as he exited the church, “Ifeanyi Ubah, sorry for you!”

He added: “It’s unfair that not even in the brochure or orally was your name acknowledged as a contributor, even when you constructed over 85 per cent of the edifice.

“How could anyone believe the cathedral, which Ifeanyi Ubah saved to build could be inaugurated without a mention of his name! This is bad and awful. This is my last day as a Christian. I’m done with Christianity!”

But the Catholic Diocese of Nnewi in a media briefing, dismissed Okoye’s criticism as a blatant lie, insisting that the church has not in any way abandoned or neglected the late Ubah.

Chairman of Media and Publicity Committee of the dedication of the cathedral, Rev. Fr Hygi Aghaulor, said the church appreciated the late Ubah and was still happy with him.

He said individuals that contributed hugely to the completion of the cathedral, including the late Ubah, were mentioned during the dedication service.

Aghaulor admitted that the late senator was a major benefactor to the diocese, but noted that he did not either build the cathedral singlehandedly or initiated the building project as alleged.

He disclosed that the late lawmaker contributed about 75-80 per cent of the money that went into the building.

“The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Nnewi, Most Rev. Dr Jonas Okoye, during the inauguration, appreciated people that contributed hugely to the completion of the cathedral.

“In page 10 of the brochure, it was categorically stated that the late Senator Ubah offered his assistance to the then Bishop, Most Rev. Odili Okeke, to ensure the completion of the cathedral.

“The late Ubah remained a major benefactor before his unfortunate demise. He was copiously mentioned in the brochure.

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“Nothing can be enough except what God has done. People that are giving; are giving to God not the church or individual. The work of God will continue, we pray for our benefactors who have passed on to continue to rest in the Lord.

“The best gift for the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah is prayer. Structure can be brought down, but the church don’t joke with documents, the late Ifeanyi Ubah happened to be immortalised in our brochure and in the hearts of the entire 147 parishes in Nnewi Diocese,” he said.

He disclosed that the Catholic Diocese of Nnewi composed a prayer for months, which was called a Daily Prayer In view of the Dedication of Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, Nnewi.

“The church has for months composed prayers for the dedication of the cathedral, revered our benefactors, raised those who have passed on before the Lord, among whom are Ifeanyi Ubah and Ajulu Uzodike, who were part of the cathedral building committee from day one,” he added.

Reacting to Okoye’s renunciation of Christianity, Aghaulor said he committed sin of apostasy, which he described as public and total rejection of Christian faith received in baptism.

“According to Canon Law, Canon 194, paragraph 1 no 2 and then Canon 751, if somebody committed apostasy, that is sufficient to make one lose one’s office or title in the Catholic Church.

“If he dies in the situation without remorse, the church will not bury him,” he added.

January 21, 2026
Trust fund solicits media partnership

The management of Bayelsa State Educational Trust Fund (EDTF) has solicited media advocacy of its role on the board’s mandate to the public, as well as the promotion of its activities.

Its Chairman, High Chief Fidelis Agbiki, said this when he led the Executive Secretary, Prof Ebimieowei Etebu and other members of the newly-inaugurated board on a familiarisation visit to the Federated Correspondents’ Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bayelsa State Council.

Agbiki, also the chairman of the Publicity and Sensitisation Committee, said as critical stakeholders, it became imperative upon their inauguration last October to introduce the new board to the media, which he described as a partner of the board since its inception.

He said: “We are here to introduce the new board, which is the third since the inception of EDTF and thank the media for your support and solicit continued partnership and cooperation, understanding and cooperation. We have come here to introduce ourselves to you. That the relationship we have built over time should be sustained. When you are a friend of the press, you are a friend of the community.”

The Executive Secretary of EDTF, Prof Ebimieowei Etebu, pleaded with the media to project the activities of the board in a way and manner that will engender unity, development and growth.

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He said: “We are new, but not new to the educational sub sector. I have always had a passion to see how I can develop the youth and younger generation. I took this position over 30 years ago that whatever role I can play to better the lots of youths in our society, I will do it, because once you have vibrant youths, the society has a future. When that group of people in the society are educated, the society has a bright future. But when that section is derailing, then we have a time bomb. So this has been my driving force.

“So when I was called upon to be the executive secretary of this board, this is one thing that inspired me. We want to plead with you that have people that have the ears of the public; please I am calling on you to project the activities of the board in a way and manner that will engender unity, development and growth.”

The Chairman of Federated Correspondents’ Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Bayelsa State Council, Tife Owolabi, commended the EDTF for the visit and for holding the media in high esteem, urging them to always make their doors open to journalists to confirm, verify and cross checks facts.

January 21, 2026
Enugu reconstitutes neighbourhood watch

Enugu State Government has reconstituted a 20-member neighbourhood watch squad for Nomeh Unateze community, as part of the renewed efforts to strengthen grassroots security, in line with leadership thrust, which places security at the centre of governance.

The reconstitution took place at Community Primary School, Nomeh, in Nkanu East Local Government where the Commissioner for Human Development and Poverty Eradication, Prof. Benedett Okoli, urged the newly-constituted team to serve with courage, integrity, vigour and respect for human rights and rule of law.

Represented by Enugu State Director of Neighbourhood Watch in the ministry, Chief Uchenna Ozomgbachi, Okoli, who described the assignment as a sacred responsibility, reminded them that much of the $30 billion economy Governor Mbah envisioned would come from rural communities through investment in agriculture such as 260 modern farm estates to be built in the 250 wards of the state.

But she said this could only happen with security in all nooks and crannies of the state.

“This is a light being placed in your hands to safeguard the lives and property of the people of Nomeh-Unateze. You must not disgrace yourselves. Serve with diligence, avoid extortion and never torture the people you are meant to protect,” she said.

The commissioner assured the operatives that the government would ensure regular payment of their stipends and provision of the necessary logistics that would enable them function effectively, noting that the presence of Neighbourhood Watch would help to nip crime in the bud.

Okoli hailed the 20-man squad for accepting the responsibility of strengthening peace and security at Nomeh Unateze, while also calling on the traditional ruler and other stakeholders to support the outfit materially and otherwise.

“Our constitution provides for a security levy. Every household in Nomeh must contribute to the maintenance of this security outfit. Anyone, who refuses to pay is working against the community and should be seen as such,” she said.

She advised the community to open a dedicated bank account for the security levy, adding that other financial stakeholders should ensure transparency and accountability.

The traditional ruler of the community, Igwe Israel Mbah, thanked Governor Mbah and the ministry for reconstituting and strengthening the community’s Neighbourhood Watch.

“The first Neighbourhood Watch in Nomeh-Unateze was formed in 2015. This community has been committed to security for decades. For the governor to remember us and reconstitute this outfit is a great achievement in the right direction,” the monarch said, pledging the full support of the community to the outfit.

He thanked community stakeholders, who had committed their time and money to the cause and urged for more support to the Neighborhood Watch outfit.

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Amagunze Police Division, CSP Obasuyi Wilson, described Nomeh axis as a security challenge in the past, but expressed optimism that the reconstituted team would work with the police to build on the successes recorded by the police and other security agencies through the support of the Mbah administration.

“I am here to congratulate the selected Neighbourhood Watch members. There are many challenges on ground, and I believe this crop of men chosen by stakeholders will work hand-in-hand with the police to keep the community in order,” he said.

CSP Wilson warned the operatives against abuse of power, stressing that arrests must be based on genuine offences and not trivial matters.

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“You do not have the power to torture suspects. Once you arrest someone, hand them over to the police immediately. There is no approved detention facility outside the police station,” he stressed.

He advised the team to operate in groups and remain security-conscious at all times for their own safety.

He further urged them to report security threats promptly and always appear in uniform for proper identification.

The Chairman, Nomeh Unateze Town Union Caretaker Committee, Dr. Chukwudi Anyianuka, impressed on the Neighborhood Watch team the need to protect completed, ongoing and future projects by the Mbah administration in Nomeh.

“You must protect our Smart Green School, Type II Primary Healthcare Centre, and the equipment of contractors working on Nomeh-Mburubu-Narah Road, Nomeh-Oduma Road, among others,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the newly-inaugurated leadership, the Chairman of Nomeh-Unateze Neighbourhood Watch, Chief Ejike Ugwu, thanked the state government, traditional institutions and community stakeholders for finding them worthy in character and capacity for the onerous assignment, promising to justify the trust reposed in them.

The reconstitution of Nomeh-Unateze Neighbourhood Watch is expected to deepen community-based security and complement ongoing efforts by Enugu State Government to build a safer and more secure society.

January 21, 2026
Awka South Local Govt Council engages 210 street sweepers

10 tricycle evaluators procured

In line with Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s ‘Operation keep Anambra clean’, Awka South Local Government has engaged no fewer than 210 sweepers for a clean environment.

Speaking with reporters in his office at Amawbia, the Chairman, Prince Chinedu Okafor, said the sweepers were 110 before additional 100 persons were engaged late last year.

He said it was part of employment strategy in the state, adding that those engaged would have to put food on the tables of their families.

“All the people engaged are from their villages or communities. We did not make it difficult for them to be moving from one area to another.

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“Already, we have procured over 10 special tricycles for waste disposal in rural areas where the loaders will not be able to move into. It is called ‘disposal made easy ‘

Okafor said the sweepers were instructed to pack the wastes at the periphery of the roads, to allow the waste bin trucks easy access.

“As the chairman of this local government, I must make sure I get it right for our people. Those major challenges of cult clashes, kidnappings and armed robberies are no longer here,” he said.

January 21, 2026
Bayelsa residents protest alleged government demolition plan

Residents of Biogbolo community in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State have protested state government’s plan to demolish their houses or risk being fenced inside plots of land belonging to the government.

No fewer than 111 homes were served notice of eviction, an order ignored by those affected, The Nation has learnt.

Under the aegis of a group, Concerned Landlords, including an octogenarian, the protesters recently took to the streets in Yenagoa.

They carried placards with inscriptions such as: ”Governor, your commissioner has misinformed you, sack him”, “Governor you are a sincere father, we need your help now”, “We are in pains and agony, come , come, come, before we are rendered homeless by the commissioner for agriculture”.

Their spokesman, Dimepre Torukeregha, narrating their ordeal to The Nation, said residents at Tenacious Road, behind the School-to-Land, bought land from Biogbolo community and have lived there for over 20 years and were surprised to see the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Prof. Beke Sese, who sent government officials to start fencing their land.

He said: ‘’When we approached them, they said their exercise would encroach on our land too and we told them that we bought the plots of land from Biogbolo community 20 years ago and had developed them to our taste and the matter was addressed politically, after it was taken to court initially.’’

Torukeregha said earlier in the new year, the state government began fencing of its land.

He added: “Early this month, government officials started fencing its land and we learned they equally wanted to fence 111 buildings belonging to us. We are a community here and will not take it.”

Another protester, Saint Ikpokpo, said they purchased the land from Biogbolo community and developed them with relevant documents from government agencies, adding that they were shocked to see government officials sent by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources with the intention of demolition.

He appealed to Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, whom he claimed they voted for in the last election, saying: “Diri should not allow us to be fenced inside like prisoners. He should intervene for us to have peace.”

An Octogenarian, Madam Rose Gbekebor, who hails from Torugbene in Ekeremor Local Government, appealed to Governor Diri to temper justice with mercy.

Reacting, Prof Sese warned against attacking government officials or interfering with the ongoing fencing of the school-to-land premises.

He said the piece of land measuring 16.19 hectare was acquired by the government upon the creation of the state to replicate the hitherto school-to-land premises created by the former administrator of old Rivers State, Mr Fidelis Oyakhilome, to train manpower for agricultural purposes in the state.

Sese said the state invested in the land by building structures such as feed mill, plantain and banana multiplication plants, two block of classrooms, two warehouses, a broiler housing 500,000 capacity, ‘’but unfortunately, there hasn’t been proper fencing and all these facilities, including the 350KVA generator, were vandalised and for government to avoid further vandalism and theft, the premises have to be fenced and approval was given by the state government and work was resumed.’’

He said the centre was established for research and to train agriculture workers, Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) extension workers and operational and practical workers.

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He added: “Nobody should obstruct the fencing or attack the workers. We have an extremely benevolent governor and will look into the matter. The land belongs to the government and much has been invested and government does not want further vandalism and theft. All concerned persons are ‘Bayelsans’, they have their rights, but should allow government to continue the fencing without interference. We don’t just compensate, there is rule of law.”

Last December, thieves attempted to vandalise the rice mill that was donated by the Korean government, as a result of absence of security. The site is vulnerable to vandalism. The 350KVA generator was vandalised.

Sese said contrary to speculation, the state government had not given any order of demolition, but of eviction, adding that the property being fenced had been earmarked for agricultural purposes.

He noted: “Government has not given any order for demolition, but notice of eviction. The protesters are blatant liars. My warning to them is that they should not dare government workers or harass staff anytime they go to site. Government will look into the merits of their occupation. The property being fenced is for agriculture purpose, which is meant for common good of all Bayelsans.”

January 21, 2026
UEFA Champions League: Lookman tipped to thrill as Atalanta face Athletic Club

Atalanta coach Raffaele Palladino has praised Nigerian international striker Ademola Lookman for his professional conduct in joining the rest of his teammates in time for tonight’s UEFA Champions League date against visiting Athletic Club.

Lookman was one of the Super Eagles’ standout performers at the recent AFCON tournament, where he scored three goals as well as the winning kick in the penalty shoot-out victory against the Pharaohs of Egypt in the bronze medal match.

According to an impressed Palladino, the 2024 African Footballer of the Year has swiftly returned to the Bergamo side ahead of schedule as he wanted to be involved against Athletic Bilbao in the Champions League.

“On paper, he was supposed to return tomorrow (Wednesday),” Palladino told his press conference as per Football Italia. “But he wanted to play in this game at all costs.

“He’s showing a sense of attachment to this team and I’m happy about that,” he added.

Meanwhile, Palladino believes that Atalanta have a ‘great opportunity’ in tonight’s Champions League duel against Athletic Bilbao.

Atalanta sit in an impressive fifth place in the Champions League standings, level on points with PSG and Manchester City in third and fourth respectively. They all have 13 points from their first six games in the competition this season.

La Dea have also won three of their last four Serie A matches, but were held to a 1-1 draw over the weekend.

“We’ll start again with the spirit that we’ve had over the last two months,” he said. “The Champions League gives you a big competitive charge, but that should also be the case in the league.

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“We have a great opportunity to do well tomorrow. We’ve had six victories since the Chelsea game and that shows that the team is growing game after game.”

Asked if Atalanta have an issue in games against ‘smaller’ sides, an accusation that has also been pointed at other top teams this season, Palladino replied: “It’s happening to everyone. Anything can happen in a game, even the smaller sides can make the difference. We have to have the right mentality but we also have to give credit to our opponents.”

Palladino was asked whether he thinks 16 points will be enough to earn a spot in the Champions League round of 16 this season.

“The new format is very compelling,” he said. “However, we don’t make calculations. We think game by game. We want to make history. We’re facing a well-prepared and very strong team. They might have a few absences and a few poor results over the last few weeks, but it can all be turned around in the Champions League. Atalanta will have to put in a great performance and the difference will be in the details.”

January 21, 2026
Angola, Gabon lead race to snatch Chelle from Nigeria

The Franco-Malian tactician, who is currently under contract with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) until January 2027, has attracted growing interest following his impressive outing with the Super Eagles.

Reports indicate that Chelle has already turned down an approach from Tunisia, preferring to remain focused on his current assignment with Nigeria for now.

Despite his existing deal, sources close to the situation have told BSNSports that both Angola and Gabon are keen on luring Chelle with lucrative offers as they look to strengthen their national teams ahead of upcoming international competitions.

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Meanwhile, Chelle is expected to meet with officials of the Nigeria Football Federation in the coming days to discuss his future.

The talks are understood to be aimed at reaffirming commitment, clarifying long-term plans, and possibly reviewing contractual terms amid rising external interest.

The outcome of the meeting could prove decisive in determining whether Nigeria can retain the highly-rated coach or face a potential battle to keep him beyond the short term.

January 21, 2026
Alakija unveils vision for Lagos Polo Club ahead of new season

Newly elected President of the Lagos Polo Club, Adeyemo Alakija, has unveiled an ambitious roadmap for the club’s future, with a strong focus on infrastructure development, inclusivity, and the preservation of its rich heritage.

Alakija made this known at a press conference held in Lagos yesterday, 20^th January, ahead of the commencement of the new polo season.

Outlining his vision, Alakija said his leadership would be guided by the principle of leaving the club better than he met it.

“My vision for this club is simple,” he said. “My grandmother always says, never leave anywhere the same way you met it. For me, it’s about continuing to improve the Lagos Polo Club and taking it to greater heights.”

He explained that his administration is committed to strengthening the club’s internal structure by fostering a vibrant and diverse membership while maintaining the high standards and values enshrined in its constitution.

“We want to keep building an interesting fabric of members and ensure that we continue to uphold the constitution of the club and the reputation we already have, which is very, very good,” Alakija stated.

Infrastructure upgrade forms a key pillar of the new leadership, as the club seeks to expand its facilities to better accommodate members and enhance their overall experience. While polo remains the centrepiece, Alakija emphasised that other sports within the club will also receive increased attention.

“A lot of people don’t know that we have other games here, including squash, table tennis and darts,” he said. “We want to keep expanding the infrastructure for these sports and generally develop polo as a whole, by building the younger generation and opening it up to more ladies to play.”

He pointed to the successful Ladies Invitational Tournament held in December last year as evidence of the club’s commitment to inclusivity.

“That tournament was very successful, and it shows that we are intentional about being all-encompassing and ensuring that all demographics are covered and can enjoy the sport of polo,” he added.

Addressing questions on the quality of the club’s polo turf, Alakija affirmed that the pitch already meets international standards, while noting that continuous improvements are planned.

“Our turf is world standard, but there is always room for improvement,” he said. “We are constantly growing new grass where it is needed, and we are also planning drainage works around the club to improve water movement and prevent water from sitting on the field. It’s an ongoing development process.”

Beyond polo, the club is also gearing up for increased competitive action in its other sporting disciplines. According to Alakija, tournaments in squash, table tennis and darts are in the pipeline, with sponsorship support already secured.

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“Our Other Games member, Mr. Fred Allison, is charged with ensuring the development of those sports,” he explained. “You can look forward to competitions around squash, table tennis and darts. We have sponsors lined up, and we are very excited about pushing these initiatives.”

With competitions scheduled to begin from January 27, Alakija also highlighted why the Lagos Polo Club stands out as a must-visit destination for sports enthusiasts during the season.

“In Lagos, you can watch football or basketball almost anywhere, but polo is different,” he said. “Lagos Polo Club is the biggest polo club in the country in terms of clout, membership and history. It also offers a great environment for networking and social interaction, beyond just what happens on the field.”

Further emphasising the club’s stature, another official at the press conference recalled its long-standing legacy, noting that the Lagos Polo Club was founded in 1904.

“We are talking about over 122 years of existence,” the official said. “There is a deep heritage of polo here. The quality of polo that will be played this season is top in Nigeria and top in Africa. If you want to experience quality polo in the right environment, you don’t want to miss being at the Lagos Polo Club from January 27 to February 15.”

As the new polo season approaches, the Lagos Polo Club appears poised for another landmark chapter under Alakija’s leadership, blending tradition with development and a renewed commitment to inclusivity.

January 21, 2026
Oyedeji’s election into IOC’s body excites Gumel

Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel, President of the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC), has officially congratulated Olumide Oyedeji on his election as the Secretary-General of the World Olympians Association (WOA).

Oyedeji, who serves as the 3^rd Vice President of the NOC and President of the Nigeria Olympians Association (NOA), secured the position in a landslide victory during a virtual General Assembly held in Sunday.

Oyedeji won on the first ballot with 55 votes, comfortably defeating his closest opponents, Salvador Salguero of El Salvador and Liston Brochette of Puerto Rico, who received 32 and 19 votes, respectively.

A statement released by Tony Nezianya, the Public Relations Officer of NOC, noted that the election involved over 107 delegates from National Olympians Associations (NOAs) across the globe.

The WOA is a prestigious body under the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

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It is notably the same constituency that produced the newly elected IOC President, Kirsty Coventry (the legendary Zimbabwean swimmer and two-time Olympic gold medallist).

Olumide Oyedeji’s ascent to this global role reinforces Nigeria’s growing influence within the International Olympic Committee.

As a former NBA star and captain of the Nigerian men’s basketball team (D’Tigers), Oyedeji has long been a vocal advocate for athlete welfare.

His election comes at a time of “African excellence” in sports governance, following Kirsty Coventry’s historic election as the first female and first African President of the IOC in 2025.

Only recently, one of Nigeria’s star table tennis prodigies, Funke Oshonaike, was nominated by the IOC president, Christy Coventry, to join the Athletes Commission.

January 21, 2026
AFCON bronze: NOC hails Eagles’ improvement under Chelle’s watch

The President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel, celebrates the Super Eagles over the Pharaohs of Egypt to claim the bronze medal at the AFCON tournament.

After a gruelling semi-final, the team demonstrated immense faith and character to regroup and dominate the third-place match against the Pharaohs of Egypt.

A statement released by Tony Nezianya, the Public Relation Officer of the NOC, noted that this victory is a testament to the remarkable evolution of the squad under Coach Eric Chelle.

In just one year, the team has undergone a complete transformation: from goal-shy to clinical; overcoming previous scoring struggles to become a formidable attacking force.

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Coach Chelle has been able to rebuild the team into a disciplined, respectable side that commands authority on the pitch.

The Eagles are now national pride and are once more showing the “never-say-die” Nigerian spirit in the face of elite competition.

The Super Eagles have once again proven they are a powerhouse of African football.

According to Gumel:“ I look forward to the continued evolvement of this exciting new era.”

January 21, 2026