The Nation Newspaper

Category: South East

  • I’ll end extortion of traders, transporters, Moghalu vows

    I’ll end extortion of traders, transporters, Moghalu vows

    The Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate in Anambra State, Dr George Moghalu, has condemned what he described as the widespread extortion of traders and transporters by various government agencies in the state.

    Moghalu made the remarks during a meeting with members of the Anambra State Town Union Association, Aba Branch.

    He lamented that Anambra has been ranked among the most insecure states in Nigeria and vowed to end all forms of illegal revenue collection immediately after assuming office.

    “It is only in Anambra that they use Aka Odo to collect all manner of illegal levies,” he said. “That will stop within one hour after my swearing-in. My government will prioritise safety, restore public confidence, and bring back competence and accountability in leadership.”

    While commending Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his efforts, Moghalu maintained that Anambra urgently needs a new direction.

    “Governor Soludo has done his best, but his best is not working. Our state is not where it should be. You cannot give what you don’t have,” he said.

    Unveiling his vision for a new and prosperous Anambra anchored on education, security, infrastructure, and transparent governance, Moghalu described education as the foundation for growth and social stability. He promised to make education free and compulsory if elected.

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    “Education is the most powerful weapon for change. We must build schools that truly work and ensure that every child, rich or poor, has access to quality learning,” he stated.

    Reaffirming his commitment to equity and zoning, Moghalu said he remains a strong believer in fairness and justice in the rotation of power.

    “I am a beneficiary of zoning, and I will uphold it. Four years is enough for any serious-minded leader to deliver,” he said.

    “Look at what Governor Alex Otti has done in Abia within just two years — massive road construction, urban renewal, and civil service reforms. That’s what focused leadership can achieve, and that’s what I intend to bring to Anambra.”

    Moghalu called on Ndi Anambra to join hands with him in changing the state’s political and economic narrative, emphasising that leadership transformation requires collective effort.

  • Security risk: Police threaten to prosecute politicians, ‘big men’ who cover vehicle plates

    Security risk: Police threaten to prosecute politicians, ‘big men’ who cover vehicle plates

    Ahead of the November 8 governorship election, the Anambra State Police Command has warned politicians and influential individuals who cover or remove their vehicle number plates to desist, as doing so risks arrest and prosecution.

    In a statement issued yesterday, Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu described the act as a serious security threat and directed all Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) and Area Commanders to immediately commence intensified patrols, stop-and-search operations, and full enforcement of the directive.

    The statement, signed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Tochukwu Ikenga, emphasised that covering or concealing vehicle plates constitutes a grave security risk, especially as security agencies step up efforts to ensure peace and order before, during, and after the governorship election.

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    According to the statement, criminals often exploit unregistered or covered vehicles to perpetrate crimes, evade arrest, or destabilise public peace.

    “Such vehicles will be impounded, and their owners prosecuted in accordance with existing laws,” the statement warned.

    The commissioner further ordered all tactical units and field commanders across the state to ensure strict compliance, stressing that the Command will not tolerate any act capable of undermining public safety.

    “Given the security situation and the forthcoming election, the Command will sustain aggressive enforcement to ensure that every vehicle on Anambra roads is properly registered and identifiable,” Orutugu added.

    The police urged residents to cooperate with security personnel and report any suspicious movement or vehicles within their communities.

  • ‘Shelters, data critical to fighting GBV’

    ‘Shelters, data critical to fighting GBV’

    Stakeholders have called for establishment of shelters and harmonized data to assist in the fight against Gender Based Violence (GBV) in Anambra state. 

    They said battle against GBV required shelters, data as well as trained counselors to be successfully won.

    The stakeholders spoke in Awka at a two-day GBV stakeholders consultative meeting organized by Gender Perspective and Social Development Center (GPSDC) with support from WACOL to harmonize data and create referrals pathway

    Addressing participants, State Commander, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Ibadin Judith-Chukwu said traumatized victims of violence could better be managed by trained counselors in a conducive shelter.

    She however expressed concern over lack of such facilities in the state, calling for assistance from both government and individuals to make such facilities available in the state.

    She said, “Fighting any form of violence in persons can’t be successful without shelters where victims can be kept for counselling and rehabilitation processes before being reunited to their families and reintegrated into the society.

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    “Most times these victims are rescued, they’re already traumatized. The first thing is not to jump into demanding statements from them. 

    “Rather, they needed to be taken to a shelter where they would be welcome and made to feel at home with the assistance of trained counselors who would walk them out of the trauma stage before the best can be gotten from them.”

    Earlier, Executive Director, GPSDC, Anekwe Eucharia said the project was focused on empowering christian women and female leaders of culture for prevention and response to GBV in Nigeria through the strengthening of grassroots organisations

    She listed objectives of the engagement to include reviewing how different stakeholders currently collect and report GBV data in the State, identifying existing gaps and overlaps, as well as finding ways to strengthen referral linkages and to create a referral directory.

    “We also aim to agree on a common framework to harmonizing all GBV data at the same time build stronger collaboration and accountability among MDAs, networks, and organizations working on GBV response,” she added.

    Representatives of Ministries of Justice, Women and Social Welfare, State Bureau of Statistics, Anambra State Aids Control Agency (ANSACA), NPF, NSCDC, NHRC, Red Cross and CSO Networks commended GPSDC for organising the workshop, pledging their support to the project.

  • NIPOST moves to enforce stamping protocols, sensitises Southeast stakeholders

    NIPOST moves to enforce stamping protocols, sensitises Southeast stakeholders

    The Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) has commenced an extensive sensitisation campaign across the Southeast on the enforcement of stamp denotation protocols, aimed at authenticating transactions and giving them legal validity in line with federal government directives.

    Speaking at a stakeholders’ sensitisation programme on stamping protocols held in Enugu on Wednesday, NIPOST officials and licensed agents urged businesses, institutions, and individuals to ensure that all transactions from ₦1,000 and above are properly denoted with NIPOST-approved stamps.

    Representing the Postmaster General of the Federation, the Director of Retail Services and Chairman, Stamp Denotation Committee, Mr. Samuel Oguntayo, explained that stamp denotation serves as an official means of validating receipts and documents, making them legally enforceable in court.

    “The law recognises the fact that stamps produced by NIPOST—whether physical or electronic—can be used to denote duty on a transaction. These stamps authenticate and validate transactions, giving them legal backing,” Oguntayo said.

    He clarified that stamp denotation is distinct from stamp duty, noting that while stamp duty involves a percentage charge on transactions, stamp denotation is a flat ₦50 fee that serves as proof of authenticity and legality.

    Oguntayo added that the new tax law, which comes into effect in January, designates NIPOST as an advisory body to the Joint Tax Board on the modalities for duty denotation.

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    “Every receipt or document issued in acknowledgment of money transactions from ₦1,000 and above should be denoted with the ₦50 stamp. This ensures the document is legally valid and admissible in court,” he said.

    According to him, the initiative helps to detect and prevent fraudulent transactions, as every stamp has unique security features that make forgery or backdating easily traceable.

    “We have had instances where stamps on receipts helped to determine the genuineness of such receipts. If someone issues a receipt dated 1970 with a 2025 stamp, it is clear evidence of fraud,” Oguntayo added.

    Also speaking, Mr. Chidi Sydney Ndu, Chief Executive Officer of P.C. Ndu Nigeria Limited, the NIPOST-appointed vendor for electronic and adhesive stamps in the Southeast and Plateau State, said the sensitisation exercise was part of efforts to promote public understanding of stamping protocols.

    “We are in Enugu to enlighten stakeholders on stamp denotation and authentication. Many people confuse it with stamp duty, but they are not the same. Stamp denotation is fixed at ₦50, and it authenticates that a transaction was carried out on a particular date and is legally valid,” Ndu explained.

    He said that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at protecting Nigerians in their financial dealings, particularly in property and business transactions.

    “Many land and property disputes arise because of document authenticity. With stamp denotation, you can easily confirm the genuine document and the exact date of the transaction,” he noted.

    Ndu likened the importance of stamp denotation to vehicle licensing, stressing that many people ignore its necessity until disputes or investigations arise.

    “You may carry out transactions for years without issues, but when a problem comes—like a legal dispute—you will realise the importance of having your documents properly denoted. Even your tax relief applications next year will depend on this denotation,” he said.

    Both NIPOST and its partners assured participants that measures were in place to make the stamps easily accessible across the region, including through approved retailers and electronic platforms.

    The sensitisation programme, which attracted representatives from government agencies, private businesses, and financial institutions, is part of NIPOST’s nationwide campaign to standardise and enforce stamp usage in all qualifying transactions.

  • Politicians turning electorate into political toys, Anglican Bishop warns

    Politicians turning electorate into political toys, Anglican Bishop warns

    The Anglican Bishop of Ihiala Diocese, in Anambra State, Rt. Rev. Israel Okoye, has cautioned politicians against exploiting the vulnerability of voters for selfish electoral gains.

    He warned that such acts attract grave repercussions and urged politicians to desist from them.

    Speaking during his presidential charge at the third session of the fifth Synod of the Diocese, themed “Fear Not,” Bishop Okoye condemned what he described as the “use and dump” attitude of politicians towards desperate and impoverished voters.

    He lamented that rising poverty, unemployment, parochialism, and frustration, especially during the electoral process, remain an ill wind that benefits no one.

    The Bishop, therefore, urged candidates in the forthcoming November 8, 2025, Anambra governorship election to focus on issue-based campaigns and avoid what he called “hypocritical heroic songs.”

    “Preparations for the election of the governor of Anambra State on November 8, 2025, are on course,” he said.

    “In democracies, election periods provide the electorate with an opportunity to interact with candidates and assess their manifestos. It is a time to determine who is best equipped to advance the cause of development in the interest of citizens.”

    Bishop Okoye, however, expressed concern over the growing trend of populating campaign venues with rented crowds and the buying of votes.

    “Desperate politicians and their allies exploit widespread unemployment and hunger to turn vulnerable members of the electorate into political objects — purchased, used for a purpose, and discarded after elections,” he lamented.

    “That inhuman practice, disguised as electioneering politics, is a deliberate dehumanisation of citizens.

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    “People who sell their votes for as little as ₦2,000 or less have become political toys. Such individuals often do not care whether their votes count or not.”

    He urged all candidates to remain focused on issues that affect the people rather than indulging in sycophancy or manipulation.

    “Those who sing hypocritical heroic songs for politicians do so at the expense of the people’s wellbeing and ultimately subvert the future of the populace,” he warned.

    “We call on candidates, their supporters, and anyone who trades their voter’s card or public office for monetary gain to be mindful of the repercussions of their actions. No sensible person can afford to supervise his own liquidation.”

    Bishop Okoye concluded by reminding voters that the November 8 election represents a choice between progress and retrogression.

    “We have the option to choose the best candidates through rational judgment or to embrace contraction and woes. God forbid that we allow the pittances of electoral campaigns to rob us of a brighter future,” he declared.

  • Onitsha community boosts Soludo’s re-election bid with N20 million

    Onitsha community boosts Soludo’s re-election bid with N20 million

    The people of Onitsha South Local Government Area of Anambra State have donated N20 million to support the re-election campaign of Governor Chukwuma Soludo.

    The cheque was presented during a solidarity rally in Onitsha, where community leaders and residents reaffirmed their confidence in the governor’s leadership and expressed their commitment to ensuring his victory in the November 8, 2025 governorship election.

    Speaking at the event, President-General of Fegge, Onitsha, Okwudili Nwankwo, commended Governor Soludo’s transformative policies and developmental strides.

    “Under Governor Soludo, we have seen remarkable changes, particularly with initiatives like the ‘One Youth, Two Skills’ programme,” Nwankwo said.

    “This has empowered many of our youths and equipped them with valuable skills for a brighter future.”

    Another community leader, Chibuike Ugo, praised the administration’s social welfare programs, noting their impact on families in the area.

    “Free education, free antenatal care, and delivery services have made a significant difference in our community,” he said.

    “These programs are not just policies—they are lifelines for our families.”

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    Franklin Onyeke added that residents were united in their support for the governor’s re-election bid.

    “As we pray for Governor Soludo’s victory on November 8, 2025, we remain steadfast in our belief that he will continue to lead Anambra toward greatness,” he said.

    Other speakers, including Okwudili Chiamaka and Celestine Osuji, pledged to mobilize voters across the local government area.

    “Our voices will be heard,” they declared. “Together, we will ensure that our governor is re-elected to continue this great work.”

    In his response, Governor Chukwuma Soludo expressed gratitude to the people of Onitsha South for their show of solidarity and financial support.

    Describing his re-election campaign as “a divine project and a mass movement,” Soludo said: “This is a campaign like no other in our history. I am humbled and deeply appreciative of your unwavering support.”

    The governor highlighted the achievements of his administration, especially within Onitsha South, including the establishment of a specialist general hospital in Fegge and significant improvements in public schools, among other initiatives.

    He assured the people that more developmental projects would follow if given the opportunity to serve a second term.

  • Police assure safe, secure environment

    Police assure safe, secure environment

    The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, has reiterated the Command’s commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment before, during, and after the November 8, 2025, governorship election.

    He urged officers to remain professional, disciplined, and neutral while upholding the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force throughout the electoral process.

    Orutugu gave the assurance during an operational tour across Police Area Commands to assess officers’ readiness for the election. During the visit to Onitsha Area Command, he inspected operational formations, police posts, and checkpoints to ensure personnel were alert and well-equipped.

    “We are fully prepared to provide adequate security before, during, and after the election. The safety of lives and property remains our top priority,” the CP said.

    He also commended the cooperation of sister security agencies and other stakeholders, urging residents to remain law-abiding and to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.

    Meanwhile, security agencies in the state have pledged to work in synergy under the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) framework to ensure a peaceful and credible poll.

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    The pledge was made during a Situation Room meeting held at the Police Command Headquarters, Awka, hosted by the CP. Agencies represented included the Nigerian Army, DSS, NSCDC, FRSC, NDLEA, NIS, Fire Service, and Correctional Service.

    Represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Ibrahim Ezekiel, Orutugu said the engagement provided a platform for strategic review and coordination of security arrangements, intelligence sharing, and effective deployment ahead of the election.

    “Security during elections is a shared responsibility that requires professionalism, neutrality, and dedication,” he noted.

    The CP added that a Situation Room has been established at the Command Headquarters to serve as a central hub for real-time monitoring, coordination, and response to security developments during the poll.

  • Candidates to sign peace accord Nov 3

    Candidates to sign peace accord Nov 3

    Candidates of political parties contesting the November 8 governorship election in Anambra State will, on November 3, sign a peace accord ahead of the poll.

    The Executive Director of the National Peace Committee (NPC) and head of The Kukah Centre Secretariat, Rev. Fr. Atta Barkindo, disclosed this yesterday during a pre-election engagement with stakeholders in Awka.

    “We’re here to work with those who understand the politics and cultural dynamics of this state, and to seek your advice on how to sustain peace in Anambra,” Barkindo said.

    “Secondly, we’re informing you about the November 3 peace accord signing ahead of the poll. Members of the NPC will arrive in the state next week with INEC officials for the exercise, which has become a tradition.”

    He added that Governor Chukwuma Soludo and other candidates had been notified of the event. “For us, this is critical because it gives the Committee the moral authority to intervene in any untoward situation. We pray that nothing of such happens,” Barkindo said.

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    “This state will outlive all of us. In 50 years, a new generation of Anambra people will take our place. We have a natural responsibility to hand over a peaceful and decent state to those coming after us. That’s why we’re here.”

    He urged candidates and their supporters to conduct themselves responsibly throughout the election period.

    “Our fears are normal—fear of the unforeseen. We’ll rely on the security agencies for intelligence. But we also advise candidates to behave in ways that reflect the values they claim to uphold,” he said.

    “We expect the candidates, as leaders, to guide their supporters properly. They must comply with the law and cooperate with officials managing the election. Even voters must conduct themselves peacefully.

    “We’re also warning against posting fake results, misinformation, disinformation, and the sharing of fake images—all of which can provoke violence.”

    Earlier, NPC Project Manager Asabe Ndahi said the engagement was aimed at promoting peaceful, inclusive, and credible elections in the state.

    “The meeting provides a platform for dialogue among political leaders, security agencies, civil society, and traditional institutions,” Ndahi explained.

    “It’s also to build consensus on the 2025 Anambra Peace Accord to be signed before the polls, and to strengthen coordination among political actors, INEC, and security agencies to reduce election-related violence.

    “Additionally, we’re reviewing early warning signals through the state’s Independent State-Based Peace Architecture (ISPA) and the NPC’s Early Warning and Early Response (EWER) system.”

  • ‘No plans to arrest, jail Catholic bishops, priests’

    ‘No plans to arrest, jail Catholic bishops, priests’

    The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the November 8 election and incumbent Governor Chukwuma Soludo, has dismissed as false and baseless reports claiming he plans to arrest and jail Catholic bishops and priests after his re-election.

    The Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor, in a statement yesterday, described the report as a “clear case of misinformation and fake news” aimed at creating tension and undermining the peaceful atmosphere in the state.

    He stressed that Governor Soludo has no such plans and continues to respect the rights and freedoms of all citizens, including religious leaders.

    “The attention of the Anambra State Government has been drawn to a fabricated story circulating in some media outlets alleging that Governor Chukwuma Soludo plans to arrest and jail Catholic bishops and priests after his re-election,” the statement read.

    “We categorically state that this report is entirely false, baseless, and malicious. It is the handiwork of shadow opposition elements that have resorted to propaganda for lack of campaign material. They are advised to face their dwindling campaigns.”

    Mefor added that Soludo, a staunch Catholic, maintains cordial relations with the Church and its leaders, and remains committed to peace and mutual respect.

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    He urged residents to disregard the false report and always verify information before sharing, especially those designed to incite public unrest.

    “The government respects the rights and freedoms of all citizens, including religious leaders. Ndi Anambra should disregard this falsehood and demand verifiable evidence before believing such stories,” he said.

    Mefor further reiterated the administration’s resolve to continue its campaign against fake spiritual practitioners, including “fake native doctors, fake Ndi Eze Nwanyi, and fake clergymen and women,” under the ongoing Oso Soludo initiative.

    He also noted that the state government would continue collaborating with the Federal Government to identify and prosecute certificate forgers and other fraudulent elements in the state.

  • Seyi Tinubu meets Obi Cubana, Stanley Uzochukwu, Chima Anyaso, other Igbo businessmen ‎

    Seyi Tinubu meets Obi Cubana, Stanley Uzochukwu, Chima Anyaso, other Igbo businessmen ‎

    ‎In driving the ‘Change Nigeria’ through Nigerian youths participation in politics, legitimate businesses, entrepreneurship, innovation initiative, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Seyi Tinubu has met with young Igbo billionaire businessmen.

    ‎Seyi Tinubu met with Obi Cubana; The Delborough Lagos/Stanel boss Stanley Uzochukwu; Zenco, E-Money, Ituma Enviable, Hon Chima Anyaso and other young billionaire Igbo businessmen under the umbrella of ‘Change Nigeria’ initiative.

    ‎The meeting held at the prestigious and award winning ‘The Delborough Lagos’, in Victoria Island Lagos recently with Seyi Tinubu presiding over the meeting to chart ways on how to change the economy of the country for better future.

    ‎In a post on his Instagram handle on Wednesday, Obi Cubana cheered Nigerians to be guided by a clear conscience and aligned with the rule of law in whatever they find to do.

    ‎The post reads: “An entire day with great minds with shared visions, mission and goals; united in same purpose – unity, peace and prosperity!

    ‎Welcome to the future!!!

    ‎”Our expressions and methods of advocating for change may differ, but what truly matters is the outcome we achieve.

    ‎”We all have our unique approaches to addressing issues; however, whatever you do, let it be guided by a clear conscience and aligned with the rule of law.”