The Nation Newspaper

Category: South East

  • Abia CP orders tight security for schools, worship centres, public facilities

    Abia CP orders tight security for schools, worship centres, public facilities

    The Abia State Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, has directed all Divisional Police heads across the state’s 17 local government areas to ensure that schools, both government and private, as well as worship centres, are adequately protected.

    He further instructed police officers to safeguard public facilities and properties from vandalism, emphasising the need for heightened vigilance across all areas of responsibility.

    The directive came during a security awareness tour of various Area Commands under the state command.

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    CP Isa warned Area Commanders, Divisional Heads, and members of the state Tactical Team to prioritise the safety of their jurisdictions.

    According to the Command’s spokesperson, Maureen Chinaka, the tour covered Obehie, Ugwunagbo, CPS Aba, Owerrenta, Ubakala, CPS Umuahia, Area Command Aba, Area Command Umuahia, and other divisions across Abia State.

    “The Commissioner of Police appealed to residents to be proactive by providing useful information to the Police, either at the nearest station or via the Command’s emergency hotlines: 08035415405, 0879210004, 08079210005, 08079210006,” Chinaka said.

    CP Isa stressed that security coverage must extend to schools, worship centres, and other critical government infrastructures to ensure public safety.

  • Philanthropist empowers Delta schools, revitalises reading culture among youths

    Philanthropist empowers Delta schools, revitalises reading culture among youths

    …as winners emerge in the secondary schools quiz competition

    Worried by the noticeable decline in reading habits among Nigerian youths, a foremost philanthropist, Dr. Gabriel Mabatah, has said he will not rest on his laurels to change the narrative in the country.

    Dr. Mabatah, a practising pharmacist and medical doctor, believed that the poor reading culture poses a threat to the future leadership of the country.

    The philanthropist from Emuhu in Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State, whose efforts span youths empowerment, medical outreach, educational support, and community development, believes that the measure of a meaningful life lies in the number of lives uplifted.

    Mabatah emphasised education, mentorship, and skills acquisition as solutions to youth unemployment and social restiveness.

    He encouraged intentional parenting and called for stronger institutions and improved security.

    Over the weekend, all roads led to Ika National Hall, Agbor, where the grand finale of the quiz competition among government secondary schools in Ika North East and Ika South Constituency took place.

    The competition, organised under the auspices of the Gabriel Mbadiwe Mabatah Movement (GMM) and Mabatah Grace Francesca (MGF) under the supervision of the Delta State Ministry of Education, saw 43 secondary schools participating.

    Six secondary schools, including Owa Model Secondary School, Boji-Boji Owa, Owanta Secondary School, and Ute-Okpu Grammar, made it to the final six.

    After the intense competition graced by many monarchs, education stakeholders, teachers, captains of industry, students, among others, Owa Model Secondary School, Boji-Boji Owa, emerged the quiz champion and went home with N500,000 cash prize.

    The first runner-up went to Ogbemudein Mixed Secondary School, which got N300,000, and the second runner-up, Igumbo-Otiku Secondary School, which went home with N200,000 prize money. The other three contenders got N100,000 each as consolation.

    Speaking after the competition, the Coordinator, GMM, Chief Isaac Iyadi, said the quiz was inspired by societal challenges, emphasising the need for youth development.

    He said the initiator of the event, Dr. Gabriel Mabata, believed that the nation’s progress hinges on the intellectual and educational growth of its youth.

    He identified reading as a critical skill for future leaders.

    Iyadi said, “There’s a noticeable decline in reading habits among Nigerian youth, which poses a threat to future leadership.

    “Developing the mindset of young people through educational initiatives is considered vital for societal advancement. The competition serves as a motivational tool to encourage children to engage more with reading.”

    The coordinator said participants in the competition benefited significantly from their preparation, leading to enduring knowledge acquisition.

    Iyadi said apart from the quiz competition, Dr. Mabatah had implemented numerous educational projects, including distribution of textbooks to schools in Ika Federal Constituency, construction of modern toilet facilities in schools, employment and salary payment for teachers over three years, as well as establishment of water boreholes for schools.”

    He said the intention of the organisers is to make the competition an annual event for all public secondary schools, noting that the competition also aims to increase students’ familiarity with their local environment and issues, addressing gaps in knowledge about their surroundings.

    He contended that during the quiz, the participating students demonstrated insufficient knowledge about local governance and community matters, despite being informed about international topics.

    “Despite fluency in English, there is a struggle with local languages and cultural context,” he noted

    Also, the Vice Principal of the winning school, Mrs Inyang Nsime, expressed a strong belief in the capabilities of their students, citing the importance of preparation extending beyond just the competition day.

    Nsime asserted, “I said from the beginning that we were coming to dominate. We came with full confidence that we were going to dominate because when you are preparing for exams, it is not just that day. What our students exhibited is who they are and what has been inculcated into them.

    “My advice for students generally is that they should listen to their teachers, do extra work and study very well, and put what they have been taught into practice. They should avoid any form of distraction.”

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    The overall winner, Miss Ifem Miracle Nmeri, of Owa Model Secondary School, Boji-Boji Owa, stated: “I feel over the moon winning this competition. The preparation was a bit hectic with sleepless nights and all that. I thank the organizers for this wonderful competition and the scholarship they have been giving to some people. The success today will serve as a great motivation for me moving forward.”

    In his remarks, a Lagos-based chartered accountant, Chief Fred Ojei, said that by the competition, organisers are trying to catch “our young ones very young. It captured everything to enable the students to have an all-round knowledge.”

    He commended the initiator of this activity, Dr. Gabriel Mabata, a double professional —pharmacist and medical doctor, saying it is a testament to compassion, purpose, and service.

    He urged the students to cultivate good values in society to impact society.

    He urged the education officials that whenever this type of event is taking place, they should send other students in solidarity to cheer up their representatives. 

  • Grant IPOB leader Kanu state pardon,, group begs Tinubu

    Grant IPOB leader Kanu state pardon,, group begs Tinubu

    The Nigerian Youths Arising (NIYA) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to grant clemency to the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Nnamdi Kanu. 

    The group described a political solution as the most viable path to resolving the matter, urging the  President to invoke Section 174 of the 1999 Constitution to free Kanu in the wider interest of the country.

    In a statement by its President General, Comr..Ben Emeruwa, and Chief Press Secretary, Comrade C. Innocent, NIYA argued that similar clemency had been extended in the past to  political actors and agitators across the country.

    The group cited the rehabilitation and amnesty granted to some bandits in the North as well as the widely acclaimed amnesty programme for the Niger Delta militants, noting that these measures were implemented to reduce political tension and promote stability. 

    NIYA warned that failure to resolve the matter politically could heighten tension and the prevailing insecurity in the South-East, where many residents of the region believe Kanu’s is being subject to unfair treatment.

    The group said: “We must also point out without any form of equivocation that this is not the first time that such similar clemency has been granted to political offenders. 

    “For example most of the bandits and  terrorists  in northern Nigeria who were arrested, instead of being prosecuted in court were given reorientation, amnesty, and in most recent times some of them were recruited into the Nigerian security forces. All of these were done for the sake of peace and to douse down political tensions within the Nigerian polity. 

    “Another classical example was the case of the Niger-delta militants who were political agitators aggrieved over the then marginalisation of the niger delta people in Nigeria; a political solution was given to them via amnesty given to thousands of militants across the niger-delta region without any criminal prosecution meted on them.Why must the Kanu case be any different?

    It added that granting clemency would give the people of South East a renewed sense of belonging in line with federal character principle enshrined in Section 14 of the 1999 Constitution. 

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    NIYA noted that while Kanu’s outburst in court may have posed challenges for his legal team, they should not be used as grounds for ignoring political solution to the matter. 

    While acknowledging Kanu’s outburst in court, the group insisted such behaviour which stem from frustration should not be used as grounds to deny a political solution. 

    “On this note, our candid advice goes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, only you can solve this. We recommend that you invoke the provisions of section 174 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria and let Mazi Nnamdi Kanu go. Show yourself to be a true hero of fairness!, show yourself to be a true protector of our fragile democracy!, lead the way like “Prophet Moses(Musa) of the holy books” who led captives into freedom. Free Mazi Nnamdi Kanu !.

    “We must keep preaching unity, we must keep preaching democracy, we must also keep fighting for true practice of equality under the law. Nigeria must succeed,” it added.

  • A’Ibom INPA reaffirms commitment to members’ welfare, synergy, sustainable growth

    A’Ibom INPA reaffirms commitment to members’ welfare, synergy, sustainable growth

    The Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Independent Newspaper Publishers Association (INPA), Akparawa Emmanuel Sam, has commended members of the association for their dedication and resilience in the publishing business, noting that INPA is fully registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in Nigeria.

    He clarified that the Independent Newspaper Publishers Association in Akwa Ibom State was established strictly to advance the business interests of newspaper publishers, not as a political platform or government-aligned group.

    According to him, the association’s core mission is to create an enabling environment where publishers thrive through hard work, passion, and professional independence.

    “As independent-minded professionals, members of INPA are encouraged to embrace self-reliance. The association does not dictate what members should or should not publish. Each publisher retains full editorial independence,” he stated.

    Sam emphasized that INPA’s role is to offer support, foster collaboration, and create sustainable growth opportunities for publishing businesses. He stressed that he has never and would never influence the content of any member’s publication.

    “At no time would I influence the content of your publications. I cannot decide your editorial. What I give is advert and I pay for it, not news or anything in your medium,” he assured.

    The BoT Chairman further highlighted INPA’s commitment to building synergy among publishers through cooperation and shared strength, noting that the association evolved through consistent engagements aimed at unifying publishers in the state.

    He also explained that the presidency of INPA runs for a two-year term, with the possibility of renewal based on performance, adding that the association operates transparently and without zoning or political considerations.

    “Membership is open to all publishers who share the vision of advancing the newspaper business. Contributions are minimal and strictly for administrative needs such as registration, ensuring no member is financially burdened,” he said.

    Sam reiterated that INPA is not an opposition group but a professional body committed to constructive engagement and upholding journalistic integrity.

    “In summary, INPA is dedicated to the welfare of its members, fostering collaboration, and implementing strategies for the sustainability and growth of newspaper publishing in Akwa Ibom State,” he concluded.

    The meeting’s highlight was the presentation of CAC certificates of registration, the association’s constitution, and other official documents.

  • Asagba of Asaba withdraws from proposed Anioma state technical committee

    Asagba of Asaba withdraws from proposed Anioma state technical committee

    The Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty (Prof.) Epiphany Azinge, SAN, has withdrawn from his position as Chairman of the Technical Committee spearheading the agitation for the creation of Anioma State.

    His decision, conveyed in a statement signed by his Personal Secretary, Ogbueshi Dr. Jude C. Mgbeze, takes immediate effect.

    According to the statement, the Asagba remains committed to the longstanding dream of creating Anioma State within its historically recognised cultural boundaries. 

    However, he said he could no longer serve on the committee due to “irreconcilable differences” on two critical issues.

    First, the monarch raised strong concerns over disputes surrounding the geographical boundaries and territorial delineation being proposed for the new state.

    Secondly, he faulted what he termed “clandestine and delusional moves” to relocate the proposed state capital from Asaba.

    As the custodian of Asaba’s traditions and interests, the Asagba said he could not participate in any process capable of “liquidating or decimating” his kingdom. He stressed that his Oath of Office required him to protect the wellbeing of Asaba people at all times.

    “Anything that will lead HRM to compromise his oath of office will always be rejected,” the statement added.

    Despite stepping down from the committee, the Asagba reaffirmed his unwavering support for the creation of Anioma State, as long as it aligns with the historical identity and legitimate aspirations of the Anioma people.

  • Lawyer, others to remain in FCID custody for allegedly cyberbullying Senator Buba

    Lawyer, others to remain in FCID custody for allegedly cyberbullying Senator Buba

    The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered a lawyer, Ahmed Abdulrahman, and his co-defendants to remain in the custody of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) of the Force Headquarters.

    Adjourning the case against them on Wednesday, Justice Rita Offili Ajumogobia fixed November 24 to deliver ruling in the lawyer’s bail application and for further hearing on the matter.

    The five defendants are being prosecuted by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) on allegations bordering on cyberbullying Senator Shehu Umar Buba, Chairman, Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence.

    The IGP named Abdulrahman, 41; Daure David, 35; Ishaq Muhammed, 25; Abdulrashid Musa, 30; and Nasir Abubakar, 21, as 1st to 5th defendants, respectively. The charge, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/526/2025, was dated October 3 and filed by Anthony Egwu on October 6.

    They were arraigned on October 30 on 11-count charge, which also bordered on offences such as cybercrime, defamation, advance fee fraud, among others. They pleaded not guilty to the counts and Justice Ajumogobia ordered their remand at the FCID.

    Read Also: Fireworks in U.S. Congress over Nigeria’s insecurity

    At Wednesday’s hearing, Afeez Matanmi, appearing for Abdulrahman, told the court that the matter was rescheduled for his client’s bail application. He said in compliance with the judge’s directive, he filed a reply on points of law to the prosecution’s counter affidavit.

    Matanmi, who said the application was dated and filed on November 3, prayed the court to grant their prayer. Similarly, A. A. Badmus, lawyer for the 4th defendant, informed the court that they also had a bail application.

    The judge, however, told Badmus that the application cannot be taken because the time was far spent. “I will hear you on Monday,” Justice Ajumogobia said. She then adjourned until November 24 for ruling on the 1st defendant’s bail application as well as for mention.

    In count one, the defendants were alleged to have, sometime in 2025, conspired “to commit an offence, to wit; cyberstalking against Senator Shehu Buba Umar,” contrary to Section 27(1)(b) and punishable under Section 21(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc.) Act 2015 (as amended) 2024.

    In count three, Abdulrahman, the 1st defendant, was alleged to have, sometime in 2025, intentionally sent a video via his Tiktok handle with user name “Kibanna Channel” and his Youtube channel to defame the lawmaker by linking him to sponsorship of banditry with a view to tarnishing his image.

    The prosecutor says Abdulrahman’s label of Senator Umar as banditry sponsor was “a statement you made by means of computer systems and network knowing same to be false, for the purpose of causing breakdown of law and order and causing the Senator fear of death.”

    The offence contravenes Section 24(1)(5) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act 2015 (as amended) 2024. In another count, Daure David was accused of attempting to collect N5 million from the Senator under false pretense that the money will be used to settle those planning to protest against him.

  • Kanu: Time is now right to approach Tinubu for clemency – Ahamba

    Kanu: Time is now right to approach Tinubu for clemency – Ahamba

    A legal luminary and elder statesman, Chief Mike Ahamba (SAN) has said that the time is now ripe to approach President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to grant clemency to Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB).

    Ahamba stated this shortly after Kanu’s conviction on Thursday, saying the President now has the power to grant Kanu a pardon.

    READ ALSO; Senate seeks fresh solutions to rising insecurity

    “So, for those who had been urging the President to release Nnamdi Kanu during the trial, now is the right time for them to do so. Mr. President was not competent to do so during the trial,” Ahamba said.

    Ahamba said that although Kanu has the right of appeal, this is the time for people to approach the President to talk about his release.

    “Although he has the right of appeal, the time is now ripe for a reasonable approach to Mr President for clemency,” he stated.

  • Nine ships, three Helicopters, others for Eastern Navy Sea inspection

    Nine ships, three Helicopters, others for Eastern Navy Sea inspection

    • …as exercise commences Tuesday

    The Nigerian Navy has begun its annual Sea inspection exercise to prepare its officers and men for effective security of the Nigerians Maritime interests.

    The exercise being carried out by the Eastern Naval Command and code-named Ex Din Mingi( Safe Waters in Ibani Language), was flagged off by the Fleet Officer Commanding (FOC) Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Chiedozie Donald Okehie, in Nigerian Navy -Ship(NNS) SHERE, at Navy Jetty, Federal Ocean Terminal (FOT) Onne, in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State.

    Okehie speaking notes that “Ex DIN MINGI encapsulates these 4 pillars, hence the theme Protecting critical infrastructure through inter-agency collaboration. “

    The movement which began shortly after the flag-off on Tuesday is expected to end on Wednesday, November 19.

    No fewer than nine various sizes and categories of ships, three Helicopters and several multipurpose assault boats from both the Nigerian Army, the Air Force and the Navy were deployed to the inspection.

    These he said are to show how combat ready the Navy is towards protecting the nation’s economic assets in the territorial waters.

    “In all, 9 ships of different classes, helicopters both from the NN and NAF, Epsilon EP55 UAV as well as multipurpose assault boats from the NA and NN will be deployed for the Exercise. Of particular note is the opposed boarding of a purportedly hijacked LNG vessel, an evolution that takes cognizance of the unique nature of vessels conveying liquified natural gas and specialized skills required to neutralize threats without compromising vessel safety and integrity.

    “In addition, some officials of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency will embark to assist identify psychoactive substances on a suspected ship as part of efforts to foster collaboration.

    “The exercise is to access operational readiness of Eastern fleet, display multi-agency and multi-dimensional approach by deploying platforms including air assets to deny criminal elements freedom of action.

    “This exercise will last for today, (yesterday), November 18 and tomorrow November 19, 2025.”he said.

    Speaking on the impact of previous exercises Okehie noted that apart from enhancing the Force capabilities to face real events in the Maritime space, it fosters inter-agency collaboration and harmonization.

    “In the Armed forces we need retraining to perform our daily operations, so the exercise is part of our training objectives, to ensure that the men are combat ready to take on their duties.

    “The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas has clearly declared his mission as to deploy a highly motivated and professional Naval Force, capable of securing Nigerian Maritime interests, and for the purpose of effective and diligent operations, to maintain national stability.”

    “Sea Inspection also fosters inter-agency collaboration, streamline tactics, processes and procedures, in readiness for real time operations. “Some officials of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency(NDLEA) are involved in the exercise to assist identify psychoactive substances on a suspected ship as part of efforts to foster collaboration.” he said.

    Earlier, the command had recalled its numerous achievements and spoke on the plans of the commander; “Eastern Naval Command has recorded several successes, (including arrest of vessels involved in economic sabotage activities and other criminalities), towards ensuring a secure maritime environment in support of the Federal Government sustainable development of the Blue Economy.

    “Notwithstanding these successes, the Command under the leadership of Rear Admiral CD Okehie, intends to rejig operations towards achieving better results. Accordingly, he has hit the ground running with 4 key Pillars to support his command philosophy. These are Professionalism, Operational Readiness, Welfare and Inter-Agency collaboration.

    “It will simultaneously assist in the enforcement of laws within the territorial waters as part of Nigerian Navy Coast Guard roles in addition to military and diplomatic roles.”he said.

    The FOC assured that participating units would exhibit utmost professionalism and adherence to Rule of engagement (ROE) as well as standard Operation Procedure (SOP), during and after the exercise.

  • Real Estate Developer kicks off entrepreneurship, craft centre in Akwa-Ibom

    Real Estate Developer kicks off entrepreneurship, craft centre in Akwa-Ibom

    …begins sponsorship of 30 youths

    The renowned Port Harcourt based Real Estate Developer, My-ACE China (aka Mayor of Housing), has to set up an entrepreneurship and craft centre in Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa-Ibom State.

    The centre has equally kick-off the training of first batch of 100 trainees with the Mayor of Housing is bankrolling 30 of them.

    The essence is to spark the fire of entrepreneurial intelligence in the people to promote self-reliant abilities in the populace

    In a keynote speech at the commissioning of the centre at Enwang, the headquarters of Mbo LGA, China urged the State government, leaders, and politicians to ‘arise and fish’, saying the time to arise and share money to youths has gone.

    He disclosed that his Special Assistant Anthony Andemic, who is also the entrepreneurial committee chairman attracted him to set up the centre at Mbo Council area.

    To this end, he donated initial N5m to help rebuild and set up this place. “Now, I am here to give more to train 30 out of the 100 so far admitted. I will give N4.5m for their training in six months and another N4.5m to equip the 30 after training and give each a machine to start off plus take-off capital for each.”

    China, who is known as a real estate success strategist and the Managing Director of the Housing and Construction Mayor Limited, made it clear that a standard of local government administration has been set in Mbo local government area.

    He described the council chairman, Sunday Etim, is a rare leader. “He is bringing people especially youths out of poverty systematically, in instalments of 100 at a time. So, if you have not set up 300 youths in your area, you are not a local government chairman. So, arise and fish.

    “I therefore urge the government to arise and fish! Political leaders, arise and fish, not by taking government money and share to people but arise and fish. Big men, arise and fish.”

    In his main address, the chairman of the Council, Etim said the secret of Akwa Ibom’s development is that every new administration builds on where the predecessor stopped.

    He gave the history of the project, saying it was abandoned and vandalized, but that the place is back, assuring that it will sit professional examinations.

    He told the beneficiaries not to see the gesture as politics but should take it serious so they can grow into successful entrepreneurs. He said Mbo people were no beggars, adding that entrepreneurship is the way out so politicians would not deceive them.

    He said his desire is to create wealth in the lives of the youths of the local community. He profusely commended Gov Umo Eno for what he called his unwavering commitment to the empowerment and security of the youth. “We remain grateful for your noble initiative of engaging 70 vibrant youths from Mbo in the Ibom Community Watch. This is not only a bold step towards youth employment but also a strategic move in community policing and intelligence gathering.”

    He stated that as a local government administration, they have remained unshaken in their resolve to make human capital development a top priority. “In line with this commitment, we have offered full sponsorship to 11 deserving youth of Mbo who are currently undergoing intensive vocational training at DASAC (Dakkada Skill Acquisition Centre). This investment is not just in people, it is in the future of Mbo.

    “Today, with pride and satisfaction, we unveil the Mbo Vocational and Craft Centre, a hub for innovation, skills acquisition, and enterprise. This centre is established as a multipurpose technical and vocational institution where young men and women will receive world-class training in diverse fields including: Cosmetics, Catering, Fashion and Design, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

    “In the near future, we will introduce; Wood furniture and carpentry; Mechanical Engineering and Auto Repairs; Agriculture and other specialised crafts and trades. “We are not only providing training but also creating a pathway for professional certification. Students of this centre will be eligible to sit for nationally and internationally recognised exams such as NASTEB (National Business and Technical Examinations Board), Trade Test Certification, Specialised Professional Certifications relevant to their chosen fields.

    “In recognition of the importance of a conducive learning environment, we have already mapped out plans to comprehensively fence the centre for security and serenity, equip classrooms and workshops with modern tools and facilities, create comfortable and accessible learning spaces for all trainees, regardless of gender, background, or status. This centre is designed to be inclusive, student-friendly, and future-driven.”he said.

    He called on the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF), corporate organisations and private sector operators and those in the diaspora to; “Come forward and partner with us in expanding this centre, sponsoring students, providing tools, offering internships, and facilitating start-up support for our graduates, Together, we can build a skilled, self-reliant, and productive Mbo.”

    He disclosed the packages that await the trainees for the period of six months to include N60,000 training allowance. “By the time they complete their training, we will empower them with a starter pack of N500,000 each. At the end of their training, the second batch would commence immediately and this will continue in batches till the end of my tenure. For those that are not yet captured, be patient with us and be expectant in the subsequent batches.”

    Declaring the N300m Mbo Entrepreneurship Trust Fund, he said they were unlocking the economic potential of the communities, empower the youth and accelerate inclusive prosperity across Mbo.

    Ends////

  • Mbah pays tribute to Senator Ezea, says senator’s death a heart-rending loss

    Mbah pays tribute to Senator Ezea, says senator’s death a heart-rending loss

    The governor of Enugu state, Dr Peter Mbah, has described the death of Senator Okey Ezea as a huge loss to Enugu State and Nigeria.

    In a personally signed statement, Governor Mbah, on Wednesday, said Sen Ezea’s death had left a vacuum that would be hard to fill.

    “I received with a deep sense of loss the news of the passing of our brother and the lawmaker representing Enugu North Senatorial District, Senator Okey Ezea.

    “This is one death that cuts really deep. You actually did not have to share his political convictions to appreciate his resilience and unwavering commitment to his constituents and the nation.

    “There was also never any doubt regarding where he stood on any issue,” the governor said.

    He extolled Ezea’s commitment to Enugu State.

    “In all his political struggles, one fact was evident: he loved Enugu State deeply and remained an advocate of good governance.

    “His death is indeed a sad depletion in the ranks of Enugu’s political leaders,” the governor added.

    READ ALSO; Emir of Ilorin condemns Eruku Church attack

    Dr. Mbah, however, said the grief of Senator Ezea’s death transcended his immediate family, community, and constituency.

    “This is as much a personal loss to his family as much as a collective loss.

    “In the Senate, his brilliance shone brightly, earning him immense respect from his colleagues across the aisle.

    “He remained an advocate of good governance. His many progressive contributions and interventions positively impacted the nation in general and his constituency in particular.

    “Therefore, on behalf of Ndi Enugu, I convey our heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, the people of Enugu North Senatorial District, and the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    “May God grant his soul eternal repose,” he concluded.