The Nation Newspaper

Category: South East

  • South East youth leaders endorse Orji Kalu as APC’s face for 2027 elections

    South East youth leaders endorse Orji Kalu as APC’s face for 2027 elections

    The Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL), the apex socio-political youth organisation in the South East, has thrown its weight behind Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North), describing him as the face of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections.

    In a statement by its President General, Comrade Goodluck Ibem, and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Okey Nwaoru, the group said recent attacks directed at Senator Kalu from “certain quarters” were motivated by his rising political profile and growing influence within the APC.

    “Senator Kalu is a transformative leader whose contributions have significantly elevated the standard of governance in Abia North. His dedication to public service, development initiatives and unwavering commitment to the APC have positioned him as a beacon of hope for our people,” COSEYL said.

    The group added that the senator’s performance in the National Assembly had set a new benchmark for quality representation since the return of democracy in 1999.

    “The people of Abia North are particularly grateful for his impactful leadership. His visionary projects and proactive approach have transformed the socio-economic landscape of our region. It is no surprise that under his leadership, we confidently predict an overwhelming 95 per cent support for the APC in the forthcoming elections,” the statement read.

    COSEYL also expressed confidence that Kalu’s partnership with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would yield further gains for the region. “We anticipate that the citizens of Abia North will not only rally behind Senator Kalu but will also vote massively for President Tinubu, recognising the synergy and transformative power of their leadership,” it said.

    While dismissing criticisms against the lawmaker as “desperate attempts to undermine a proven leader,” the youth body urged citizens of Abia North to remain united in their support.

    “Abia North deserves continued progress, and this can only be guaranteed through continuity of proven, results-oriented leadership. We at COSEYL affirm that 2027 is a done deal. The good people of Abia North are ready to show their appreciation for the dynamic performance of Senator Orji Uzor Kalu,” the statement concluded.

  • Delta govt dismisses accusations of stoking ethnic conflict in Warri 

    Delta govt dismisses accusations of stoking ethnic conflict in Warri 

    The Delta State Government has dismissed as false and misleading recent allegations by Zik Gbemre, Coordinator of the Niger Delta Peace Coalition (NDPC), accusing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of stoking ethnic conflict in Warri and politicizing sensitive community issues.

    In a statement by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads and Public Information), Charles Aniagwu, Sunday, the government said the accusations were nothing but a campaign of calumny against the Governor and do not reflect his consistent commitment to peace, unity, and inclusive governance in the state.

    “Since assuming office, Governor Oborevwori has prioritized the peaceful coexistence of all ethnic nationalities in Delta State, with particular attention to the unique diversity of Warri and its environs. 

    “He has consistently engaged traditional rulers, community leaders, and stakeholders to ensure the dark days of ethnic strife never return to our beloved state,” the statement read.

    The statement pointed out that at no time did Governor Oborevwori endorse, support, or encourage acts that could be construed as threats to peace or tacit approval of ethnic superiority, insisting that he has played the role of a neutral arbiter and unifier in community matters.

    Aniagwu noted that the Governor has repeatedly called for restraint, dialogue, and mutual respect among all communities and recently underscored his commitment to fairness during his State of the State address. 

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    He disclosed that security agencies had been directed to investigate reported acts of vandalism or provocation linked to recent incidents in Warri.

    “It is inaccurate and unfair to suggest that the Governor ‘takes delight in making passive threats’ or that he is ‘playing politics’ with the situation. His Excellency has maintained open channels of communication with all traditional institutions in Delta State,” Aniagwu stressed.

    He further assured that all cultural celebrations in the state would continue to be conducted within the bounds of law, respect, and tradition, with necessary accountability where infractions occur, regardless of the community involved.

    The Commissioner appealed to community leaders, youth groups, and civil society organizations to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and instead work with the government to build bridges of cooperation and understanding.

    “Governor Oborevwori remains Governor for all Deltans—Itsekiri, Urhobo, Ijaw, Isoko, Anioma, and every other group. He will not be distracted by unfounded accusations or attempts to politicize communal issues,” Aniagwu said.

    He reaffirmed the Governor’s resolve to continue promoting peace and development across the state, while attracting investments that would create job opportunities for all Deltans.

  • Okpebholo mourns former IGP Arase

    Okpebholo mourns former IGP Arase

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has described late Solomon Arase as a patriotic Nigerian and an illustrious Edo son whose contributions to the country’s security architecture were immeasurable.

    Arase, a former Inspector-General of Police, died in Abuja in the early hours of Sunday.

    Okpebholo, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, said the country lost a great mind, a dedicated public servant, and an exceptional leader.

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    He stated that late Arase’s tenure as the 18th Inspector-General of Police was marked by significant reforms and commitment to professionalism and community policing. 

    According to the statement, “Dr. Arase was a man of integrity and honor who served our nation with distinction, rising to the pinnacle of his career through sheer hard work and dedication.

    “His legacy of service will be remembered for generations. He was a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration to many young police officers and aspiring leaders.

    “While we mourn his passing, we take solace in the fact that he lived a life of purpose, impacting positively on all who came in contact with him.”

  • Rivers LG poll: Former deputy speaker hails RSIEC for peaceful, credible

    Rivers LG poll: Former deputy speaker hails RSIEC for peaceful, credible

    Former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the South-south Development Commission (SSDC), Prince Chibudom Nwuche, has praised the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for the successful conduct of the local government elections across the state.

    Nwuche, who monitored the polls as an observer, described the exercise as peaceful and credible, noting that voting was held without violence or disturbances in any of the 23 local government areas.

    He commended residents for turning out in large numbers to cast their votes, observing orderly queues at polling units, some stretching over 100 meters.

    He also lauded the early arrival of election materials and the timely commencement of accreditation and voting.

    The former lawmaker urged elected chairmen and councillors to focus on the development of their local areas and prioritise the interests of the people.

    Nwuche further credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for restoring peace in Rivers State through timely interventions, including the appointment of Retired Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as Sole Administrator, who he said effectively supervised one of the most credible grassroots elections in recent times.

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    He also commended former Governor and current FCT Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike, for providing political leadership that united diverse interests in support of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, expressing optimism that such unity would bolster the President’s reelection bid in 2027.

    He said, “I saw the massive turnout of voters. They voted peacefully, and the police did their jobs. Materials arrived on time. The crowd was incredible. I also went to Ahoada West and saw the crowd at the polling units.

    “It was a free and fair election. I commend RISIEC for doing a wonderful job in a very short time. Public office is a trust. If you are lucky enough to be elected as a chairman of council, you must endeavour to deploy resources for the welfare of the people and not for your personal aggrandisement”.

    Calling on the people to support Tinubu and Wike, he said, “The President met challenges on the ground and he is tackling them very credibly. Our son, the FCT Minister, left a good example in the state when he was here. He developed the state. He is also doing that at the FCT. Let us always look out for good men to vote for”.

  • Ex-minister urges preservation of Igbo traditions as Enugu community celebrates new yam festival 

    Ex-minister urges preservation of Igbo traditions as Enugu community celebrates new yam festival 

    Former Minister of Power, Prof. Barth Nnaji, has urged Nigerians to strike a balance between preserving cultural heritage and embracing modern realities, noting that some of the world’s most progressive nations thrive because they uphold their traditions.

    He made the remarks at the annual New Yam Festival of the Edeaniagu clan in Ishi-Ozalla Autonomous Community, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State, held over the weekend.

    The event drew traditional rulers from across Nkanu land, indigenes of all 12 villages of the community, as well as distinguished guests.

    Prof. Nnaji cited Japan as an example of a society that remains highly advanced while staying firmly rooted in its cultural heritage.

    “If you go to Japan, there are whole cities like Kyoto where shrines are preserved, not to harm anyone, but to remind people of their identity and values,. 

    “We should not discard our rich traditions just because outsiders said ours were not good. As we grow, we must preserve the aspects of our culture that strengthen our psyche and identity,” he said.

    The traditional ruler of the Edeaniagu clan, HRH Chief Don Sylvester Chinedu Nweke, described the festival as a harvest thanksgiving to God and the ancestors. 

    He expressed delight at the massive turnout and lamented the neglect of his community, particularly the deplorable state of roads, which he attributed to divisive politics and unpatriotic elites.

    “We have billionaires and prominent sons and daughters, but some of them have refused to work for the good of our people. Even government has played divisive politics against us,” Igwe Nweke said. 

    He recalled how the community endured years of leadership crisis before he was crowned, noting that despite challenges, he had undertaken several self-help projects, including a mini-stadium, boreholes, and public toilets.

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    The monarch, who also restored electricity to the community two years ago, appealed to Governor Peter Mbah to remember Edeaniagu in his development plans. 

    “I dwell among my people, not in the government house. My people chose me, and that is why I serve them,” he added.

    A daughter of the community and scholar, Prof. Munachim Nweke-Okoye, who enrolled dozens of Edeaniagu youths in her scholarship programme, described the New Yam Festival as both a thanksgiving and a covenant with the soil.

    She recalled stories of her forebears, who cultivated not just farmlands but also generosity and protection of the vulnerable. 

    “The Feast of the Soil reminds us that every seed of goodwill returns in seasons of peace and plenty,” she said, urging the community to uphold values of unity, justice, and sustainability.

    The festival was marked with cultural displays of masquerades, communal feasting, and reaffirmation of solidarity, even as residents renewed calls for infrastructural development, particularly good roads.

  • Olugbon felicitates Onoh, hails contributions to national development

    Olugbon felicitates Onoh, hails contributions to national development

    The Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, His Royal Majesty Oba Francis Olushola Alao, has extended birthday felicitations to renowned conservationist and clinical psychologist, Dr. Josef Umunnakwe Onoh, describing him as a patriotic Nigerian whose contributions to democracy, public service, and environmental preservation stand out.

    In a congratulatory message, Oba Alao commended Onoh, an All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Enugu State for his unwavering commitment to nation-building, visionary leadership, and passion for human and environmental development.

    “On behalf of my family and the good people of Orile-Igbon, I extend heartfelt congratulations on this occasion of your birthday,” the monarch stated.

    “This special day offers us a moment to celebrate not only your life but also your remarkable contributions to the development of our nation. Your dedication to public service, your passion for uplifting others, and your tireless efforts in advancing progress have left indelible marks on our society,” the monarch added.

    The Olugbon further praised Onoh’s legacy of leadership and urged him to sustain his efforts in promoting unity, growth, and positive change. He prayed for continued wisdom, good health, and strength for Onoh to carry on his noble endeavors.

    READ ALSO; Josef Onoh: The making of the man’s anniversary

    Onoh, born in Scotland and raised with a deep passion for conservation, is the founder of Woodland Park—a privately funded zoological facility and wildlife charity trust in Enugu. Influenced by his mother and legendary broadcaster Sir David Attenborough, Onoh has championed wildlife preservation alongside his political and professional engagements.

    A former member of the Enugu State House of Assembly (2003–2007), where he chaired the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Onoh later served in various advisory and executive roles under former Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, including as Executive Chairman of the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (2019–2023).

    He has also played significant roles in Nigeria’s political landscape, moving from the Grassroot Democratic Movement (GDM) and the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), before joining the APC. In the 2023 general elections, he served as the Southeast campaign spokesman for President Bola Tinubu and in 2024 founded the Asiwaju Renewed Mandate Southeast (ARMSE) to further drive support for the President’s agenda.

    Beyond politics, Onoh is a member of the Institute of Hospitality, United Kingdom, and has worked in the private sector, including as Executive Director of Eastern Bottlers (2000–2002).

    The Olugbon concluded his message with prayers for Onoh’s continued impact: “As we honor you today, may this new year bring you joy, fulfillment, and even greater opportunities to impact lives. Happy Birthday, Dr. Onoh! Thank you for your invaluable service to Nigeria.”

  • Josef Onoh: The making of the man’s anniversary

    Josef Onoh: The making of the man’s anniversary

    By Dennis Agbo

    As a Virgo, Denge. Dr. Josef Umunnakwe Onoh is typical in analytical reasoning, practical in approach to problems and pays high attention to details. Hard work, diligence, reliability and responsibility are understatements to match his personality. In loyalty to principals, friends and family, Onoh is second to none; a perfectionist with resourceful creativity. As a conservationist, Josef Onoh works hard to maintain and nurture the ecosystem.

    He is brave in decision making at critical moments, courageous, purposeful and focused. He keeps his eyes on the ball and would never prevaricate in matters of critical decision. As the Denge of Agbor and the Oka-ome IV in Ngwo, the clinical psychologist, Dr. Josef Onoh, has distinguished himself as a man who has been able to sail through murky waters and walk past landmines.

    Onoh has always had difficult jobs. As enforcement Chief, he handled the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA) sledgehammer with wisdom, intellectual faultless and controlled town planning regulation with human face. As a campaign spokesman for President Bola Tinubu, he ensured that the 2023 election wave in the south east did not affect much of his campaign target. The young Onoh came into limelight after due mentorship by a father whose life was dedicated to liberation struggles and opium of the oppressed. The late His Excellency, Chief C.C Onoh would continue to endear in the annals of the present Enugu and Ebonyi states’ history.

    Josef Onoh became a parliamentarian in 2003, printing his footsteps in the sands of time. He was one of the youngest members to be elected as a member of Enugu state House of Assembly representing Enugu North state constituency where he was Chairman House of the Assembly committee on Finance and Appropriation. He was a Special Adviser on Special Projects to former Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi before he was appointed Chairman of ECTDA. His sense of history of Enugu state is so impeccable that his leadership trait is not in doubt. By his image, he has exhibited zero tolerance for corruption and frivolities. His public life has shown him as one who does not condone profiteering which is the reason why sanity in adherence to town planning regulation reigned while in office. Certainly, Onoh was the best Governor Enugu state missed to elect in the 2022 Peoples Democratic (PDP) governorship primary election. 

    After several administrations before him failed to relocate the Kenyatta street traders, Onoh achieved the great feat that the traders now at Ugwuaji International Building Materials market have continued to pour encomium on him. His tenure as ECTDA Chairman saw transformative projects, such as his contributions in the transformation of Akanu Ibiam International Airport to its present status.

    His political journey started from the days of the Grassroot Democratic Movement (GDM). He left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to champion Tinubu’s 2023 presidential campaign in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and became a voice for Southern Nigeria’s interests. Onoh’s influence extends beyond Enugu. As Tinubu’s South East campaign spokesman, he navigated a region where the APC struggled to gain attraction, particularly in Enugu, Anambra, and Abia states. Onoh’s relentless advocacy for Tinubu, rooted in his belief in a Southern presidency, earned him respect and a direct line to the presidency. His ability to mobilize support, as seen in his efforts to rally Igbo traders in Lagos for Governor Sanwo-Olu, demonstrated his grassroots reach and strategic capacity.

    Onoh’s clout is further amplified by his family legacy. As the son of former Anambra State, Governor Christian Onoh, he carries a dynastic weight that resonates in Igbo politics. His outspoken critiques, such as his defense of Tinubu against Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s attacks and his condemnation of Peter Obi’s political oscillations, showcase his fearless approach to shaping public discourse. This influence makes Onoh a pivotal player in Enugu, capable of swaying voters and political stakeholders.

    He took the job of marketing the candidature of Tinubu at a time when it was a taboo for anybody in the southeast to say anything less than Igbo presidency. He was confident that Tinubu would win and become the best president that Nigeria produced. He took on the Ohanaeze Ndigbo for making uncomplimentary remarks on the declaration of Tinubu as winner of the 2023 presidential election, informing Ndigbo that Tinubu did not cage their destiny but would work for the fulfillment of their aspirations in Nigeria. 

    As a conservationist, his environmental preservation stands out with the founding of Woodland Park, a privately funded zoological facility and wildlife charity trust in Enugu. Onoh has championed wildlife preservation alongside his political and professional engagements. He is also a member of the Institute of Hospitality, United Kingdom, and has worked in the private sector, including as Executive Director of Eastern Bottlers, Limca plc. As he celebrates a milestone, the Denge!!, Oka-ome ii na Ngwo, resonates. Happy Birthday!

  • Police operatives nab armed robbery group terrorising Abia

    Police operatives nab armed robbery group terrorising Abia

    Personnel of the Quick Intervention Unit (QIU), Abia State Police Command, have apprehended members of an armed robbery and cult group terrorising residents of the state.

    The suspects identified as Udaka Justin, male, 36 years, of Akata Village, Orlu East LGA, Imo State; Chukwuebuka Michael Nnebedun, male, 24 years, of Arondizuagu, Ideato North LGA, Imo State; and Prince David, male, 24 years, of Arodizuogu, Ideato North LGA, Imo State.

    Some of the exhibits recovered from them include one (1) short locally made pistol, three (3) live cartridges, one (1) double-edged machete, one (1) battle axe, one (1) black face mask, one (1) sachet of substances suspected to be Indian hemp and one auto-rickshaw (popularly known as keke Napep).

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    The Command’s spokesperson, Maureen Chinaka, who on Saturday (yesterday) confirmed the arrest of the suspects and recovery of the weapons, disclosed that operatives of the Quick Intervention Unit (QIU), Abia State Police Command, arrested the suspects while conducting stop-and-search operations at Umuagu by School Signboard in Umuahia, the state capital.

    According to Chinaka, the QIU operatives flagged down an autorickshaw (Keke Napep) with registration number MBL 801 VJ, blue in colour, carrying five occupants, including the rider.

    “The rider pretended that the tricycle had developed a fault when stopped, giving room for two of the occupants to jump out and escape.

    “However, three suspects were apprehended, who identified themselves as Udaka Justin, male, 36 years, of Akata Village, Orlu East LGA, Imo State; Chukwuebuka Michael Nnebedun, male, 24 years, of Arondizuagu, Ideato North LGA, Imo State; and Prince David, male, 24 years, of Arodizuogu, Ideato North LGA, Imo State.

    “Upon searching the suspects, operatives recovered the following exhibits: one locally made short pistol, three live cartridges, one double-edged machete, one battle axe, one black face mask, and one sachet of substances suspected to be Indian Hemp and the auto-rickshaw ( keke napep) 

    “The suspects and recovered exhibits have been taken into custody, while investigation is ongoing.

    “The Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, CP Danladi Isa, reiterates the Command’s commitment to reducing crime in Abia State to the barest minimum.

    “He further urges the good people of Abia to continue collaborating with the Police by promptly reporting suspicious persons or activities to the nearest Police Station.”

  • Group petitions PSC over alleged unlawful arrest, extortion, frame-up of citizen

    Group petitions PSC over alleged unlawful arrest, extortion, frame-up of citizen

    The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has petitioned the Police Service Commission (PSC) demanding urgent investigation and accountability for police officers accused of unlawfully arresting, detaining, extorting, and framing Mr. Eme Alfred Friday on fabricated terrorism charges.

     According to a statement signed by its Executive Director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, RULAAC alleged that Mr. Friday, described as a law-abiding Nigerian, was arrested without a warrant on June 26, 2025, by a police team led by Supol John Ilia and detained secretly at Area B Command, Apapa, Lagos, before being transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping Squad (AKS) in Enugu, under the command of Supol Chuks Odumu.

     For weeks, the family was denied access to him, while officers allegedly extorted money and issued threats.

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     After more than a month in custody, Mr. Friday was arraigned on August 4 before a Magistrate Court in Enugu on terrorism charges under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

     RULAAC claimed that the charges were based on a coerced confession authored by the AKS commander, while the only financial transaction cited was ₦7,500 sent to a local carpenter—a gesture of goodwill that was misrepresented as terrorism financing.

     The group also alleged that Mr. Friday’s family was intimidated by petitioning authorities, with threats that he could be charged with “any offence” unless they withdrew their complaints.

     “This brazen abuse of power, extortion, and criminalization of innocent citizens by rogue police officers is a grave violation of the constitution and international human rights standards,” RULAAC said.

     The organization urged the PSC to investigate and hold accountable the officers mentioned, including Supol Ilia, Supol Odumu, and DC Obiora Okonkwo of Zone 2 Lagos.

     It also called for disciplinary and criminal sanctions against those found culpable, review of the terrorism charges against Mr. Friday, and guarantees for the safety of his family and legal representatives.

     RULAAC warned that if such abuses go unchecked, innocent Nigerians would continue to live in fear of the police rather than see them as protectors.

     It vowed to continue monitoring the case and mobilising civil society, the media, and the international community until justice is achieved.

  • Otti assures on completion of ongoing projects

    Otti assures on completion of ongoing projects

    Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has assured that his government will not terminate any ongoing road construction project in Ukwa East and other parts of the state, embarked by his administration.

     This is even as the governor assured that work would start at the Ukwa Seaport as soon as funds were available.

     Otti stated this while addressing issues raised by a delegation of the Ezumezu Ndoki Patriotic Association, who called on him in his office.

     He explained some of the challenges being faced on the roads, including how he reached out to the Governor of Ákwa Ibom State and settled the issues around the Akirikaobu road.

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     “About some of the roads you mentioned, there is no road we are terminating midway.

     “I know that the Akirikaobu route starts from Obingwa, but construction is still on. So, by the time it’s completed, it will terminate in Akwa Ibom State.

     “Obohia road had a challenge. But we have almost solved it. And if you go to Obohia road, you will see that construction is going on as we speak.

     “The previous administration had awarded it to a company called Heartland. And before we came, the job was abandoned. And I engaged and had meetings with them and they promised to go back to the site and I think they are on site.

     “So, Obohia road, we found out that the original tunnel that was there had been blocked. The way it is, trying to retrieve it was going to be more expensive than doing a new one.

     “So, we decided to do a new one that is deep enough that we can also control to take all the water to the Aba River,” Otti assured.

     The governor, who equally explained why work is yet to commence on the proposed seaport project in Ukwa, said that he would not start the seaport project until he was sure of the availability of funds.

     “I was the one who came up with the idea that we needed a seaport. The Chinese who are working with us have turned in their feasibility reports.

     “And clearly, a lot of dredging needs to be done. I think from that report, if I’m not mistaken, we need to dredge about 19.5 kilometres to the high sea.

     “So, that is not consistent with the initial preliminary report that we got. So, to do this kind of work, it requires a whole lot of money.

     “So, we know how dredging is. We have now gone back to the drawing board because before we start any project, a lot of things are important to us.

     “One, we must ensure that it is viable, and before we start, we must confirm that we have the money to fund it so that we don’t start a project and abandon it or delay it midway.

     “On partnerships, of course, we have all the approvals and licenses required. But I want to assure you that it is a project that we have in mind. The new issues that came up are the reasons it looks like we are a bit slow.

     “So, we will not start the seaport project until we are very sure that we have the funds to complete it available,” Otti maintained.

     The State Chief Executive, reassured the Ukwa people that his government was their government, and thanked them for appreciating the modest efforts he has made in the last 27 months.

     Earlier in his speech, the Mayor of Ukwa East, Mr. Chibunna Akara informed the governor that many stakeholders in Ukwa East had expressed interest in joining the moving train.

     He thanked the governor for what he has been doing and said that his people were happy with the new Abia under Governor Otti.

     Also, speaking, the leader of the delegation and President Ezumezu Ndoki Patriotic Association, High Chief  I. N. Ahunanya explained that the association had been a political power broker in Ukwa East for a long time.

     He commended Governor Otti for his infrastructural development across the State and asked the governor to hand over the campaign of Ukwa East to their hands, assuring him of his reelection in 2027.

     Chief Ahunanya mentioned some roads leading to Ukwa, complaining that construction works there appear to have stopped midway as well as the seaport that needs to be built in Ukwa, and urged the Governor to intervene.