The Nation Newspaper

Category: South East

  • Southeast youths condemn blackmail against Seyi Tinubu

    Southeast youths condemn blackmail against Seyi Tinubu

    The South East Youth Stakeholders Council has condemned blackmail against Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    It issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Atiku Isah, who they identified as a factional leader of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), to apologise to Seyi Tinubu.

    The council accused Isah of orchestrating a politically motivated campaign of blackmail and character assassination against Tinubu.

    A statement  by the Chairman of the South East Youth Stakeholders Council, Hon. (Amb.) Eric Uwakwe (JP), said Nigerian students elected Comrade Olusola Oladoja as NANS President, dismissing Isah’s claim to leadership.

    The council alleged that Isah’s actions are aimed at damaging Seyi Tinubu’s reputation and hindering his potential ambition to run for governor of Lagos State in 2027. 

    They further claimed the alleged blackmail was an attempt to implicate the first family and the presidency.

    The statement reads in part: “The Southeast youths have watched with dismay the shameful theatrics and dance of one Atiku Isah, who is claiming to be the factional leader of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).

    Read Also: Bribe, torture allegations against Seyi Tinubu unfounded – Group

    “For the records, Nigerian students elected Comrade Olusola Oladoja as their national president alongside NANS executive council. This is public knowledge.

    “For Atiku Isah to lay claim as the authentic or factional leader is laughable and highly condemnable.

    “Aside from the weighty implication of impersonating a well-respected and recognised student body like NANS, Atiku Isah has unleashed an industrial scale propaganda, blackmail and character assassination against Seyi Tinubu, the number one Youth leader in  Nigeria.

    “The persistent politically orchestrated blackmail against Seyi Tinubu and the first family is a slow-motion error in plain sight, a handshake above the elbow that can no longer be tolerated.”

    The South East youths vowed to resist any attempts to tarnish Tinubu’s image and have pledged their unwavering support for him, offering to purchase his governorship nomination form in 2027. 

    They warned Isah and his sponsors to cease their actions or face unspecified consequences as the council insisted that any effort to prevent Seyi Tinubu from contesting the governorship is “an exercise in futility.”

  • Enugu to host regulators, experts at 2025 gaming conference

    Enugu to host regulators, experts at 2025 gaming conference

    Enugu, the Enugu State capital will in July host leading experts, regulators, legal experts, financial institutions, among other stakeholders in the video games, immersive, and interactive media industries across Nigeria and beyond during the 2025 Enugu Gaming Conference.

    The annual event themed, From Unification to Diversification-Shaping Nigeria’s Gaming Future, will be the second in the series with the aim of fostering growth and collaboration within the nation’s gaming sector.

    The Executive Secretary/CEO Enugu State Gaming Commission, Prince Arinze Arum, said the conference would feature a variety of activities, including panel sessions featuring thought leaders and top executives from across the gaming value chain; exhibitions showcasing emerging technologies and regulatory solutions and targeted networking opportunities for startups, innovators, and operators seeking expansion into the South East market. He disclosed that the two-day event will hold between 30th and 31st of July, at the International Conference Centre, Enugu.

    Arum said the theme reflects not only the current trajectory of the gaming sector in Nigeria “but also the bold and necessary conversations we must have in response to the growing diversity of players, regulators, technologies, and jurisdictional realities that characterize our industry today.

    “As we all know, the Nigerian gaming landscape is undergoing rapid transformation. From the once monolithic structure of centralized regulation, we are now witnessing a shift towards state-led frameworks, technological adoption, and deeper socio-economic implications.

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    “This diversification, though challenging, offers a unique opportunity for innovation, inclusion, and growth-particularly when guided by collaboration and shared values,” he said.

    He noted that the conference’s collective goal is to create a platform for open dialogue, policy harmonization, and the advancement of responsible gaming practices, adding that as a ‘Commission, we remain committed to our role as a progressive and proactive regulator. We believe that fostering a well-structured, transparent, and socially responsible gaming environment is essential to driving sustainable development within the sector and unlocking its full economic potential’.

  • Ijaw youths hail DSS on arms seizure, UK Army Major’s arrest

    Ijaw youths hail DSS on arms seizure, UK Army Major’s arrest

    Ijaw Youths Network has commended the Department of State Security Services (DSS) for seizing 57 AK-47s, other rifles and ammunition in Delta State.

     It also said the arrest of a United Kingdom Army major of Itsekiri descent and others in connection with the gun running reinforces public trust and confidence in the nation’s secret service and its commitment to national security.

    Its Coordinator, Frank Ebikabo and Secretary, Federal Ebiaridor, in a statement, were reacting to reports of the arrest of an alleged gun runner with 57 AK-47 assault rifles by the DSS near Asaba, Delta State, last week.

    They commended the Director-General of the DSS, Mr Adeola Ajayi, and his men for combining proactiveness with astounding display of professionalism to prevent mindless bloodletting in Warri.

    In a statement, the group said: “We hereby commend the Director-General of the DSS, Adeola Ajayi, and the operatives of the service whose alertness and painstaking investigation led to the arrest of the UK Army Major and the seizure of the arms and ammunition involved.

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    “What the DSS has forestalled is a vile attempt to foist a dangerous regime of inter-ethnic violence on Warri and its environs.

    “We hold the view that the agency deserves commendation as the magnitude of violence and destruction 57 AK-47s in the wrong hands can cause is better imagined.”

    The IYN leadership urged the leadership of the DSS to ensure a holistic investigation of those behind the botched attempt to return Warri to the days of violence because of disenchantment over the INEC ward delineation exercise in the Warri Federal Constituency.

    They urged the DSS to  be consistent with the good work they have done, by bringing to justice  all those involved in the crime, including the UK Army Major.

    The IYN said that disagreements over issues should be resolved through dialogue rather than a resort to ethnic-inspired violence.

    The IYN also called on the British High Commission in Nigeria to treat a petition sent to it on the involvement of the UK military officer with the required sense of urgency.

    Ebikabo and Ebiaridor said it is disheartening that a high ranking military officer could be linked to a failed attempt to stoke an avoidable crisis in Nigeria.

    They urged the UK Government to clarify the status of the said major whose actions have become inimical to the good image of the UK military.

    They urged the inhabitants of the Warri Federal Constituency-the Ijaws, Urhobo and Itsekiri to be wary of people with dangerous and sinister intents to start ethnic violence in the city.

    Meanwhile, a coalition of civil society organizations in Nigeria has called on the British Government to partner with the Federal Government to investigate the activities  of the major arrested over alleged illegal arms procurement intended to exacerbate tensions in Delta State.

    This was contained in a letter addressed to the British High Commissioner in Nigeria dated April 28.

    The CSOs alleged that the major’s action was a threat to Nigeria’s internal security.

    The letter was signed by Dr. Nwambu Gabriel, Leader of the coalition; Zekeri Momoh-Saliu, Secretary and others.

    Some of the members of the coalition are the Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness, Coalition for Democratic Watchdogs, Initiative for Voter Awareness and Electoral Reforms, and the Global Centre for Conscience Living Against Corruption.

    There has been tension following the delineation of wards and polling units in the Warri Federal Constituency by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

    This had thrown up suspicion that the arms were procured by those opposed to the exercise.

  • Renewed Hope women empowerment programme takes off in Delta

    Renewed Hope women empowerment programme takes off in Delta

    In a powerful affirmation of the federal government’s commitment to women’s empowerment, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu officially flagged off the Renewed Hope Women’s Empowerment Programme in Asaba, the Delta State capital. 

    The President was represented by the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim.

    The minister said the programme is a key pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at elevating Nigerian women socially, economically, and politically.

    She praised Delta State for its progressive leadership and commitment to gender inclusivity.

    The minister commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for ensuring female representation in both the national and state Assemblies. 

    “This programme marks not just a moment, but a movement,” the minister declared. 

    “We are not here to give charity but to catalyse empowerment—economic, technological, and political. 

    “The women of Delta State will not stand at the margins. They will lead.”

    Read Also: An anatomy of the Delta PDP defections

    The event featured the distribution of food and non-food items to families, and vulnerable women to boost their economic resilience. 

    A highlight was the launch of Solar Home Power Systems, which the minister described as “bridges to opportunity,” offering clean, safe, and affordable energy that supports women-owned microenterprises and improves household well-being.

    She also spotlighted key national initiatives under the ministry, including:

    PowerHer 774 Project, aimed at equipping three million women with clean energy tools and skills; Nigeria for Women Project-Scale Up (NFWP-SU), in partnership with the World Bank, to reach five million women nationwide; the Happy Woman App, a digital platform for access to programmes, funding, and a national marketplace; and legislative advocacy for the Political Representation and Seat Reservation for Women Bill (HB.1349).

    Governor Oborevwori—represented by Deputy Governor Monday John Onyeme—reiterated the state’s unwavering support for the Ministry’s mission. 

    He affirmed that Delta is fully aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda and ready to collaborate for greater impact.

    Commissioner for Women Affairs, Community and Social Development, Princess Pat Ajudua, emphasised the strategic nature of the programme. 

    “This is not just about distributing items,” she said. 

    “It’s about building stronger partnerships to end gender-based violence and expand economic opportunities for women and girls.”

    She lauded the minister’s dedication and called on beneficiaries to utilise the support as a launchpad for sustained growth and self-reliance.

    The minister concluded with a heartfelt call to action: “When a woman is empowered with economic assets, she changes her household. 

    “When she is given a voice in leadership, she transforms her community. Let us rise together—women of Delta, women of Nigeria.”

    The women were visibly elated and thanked the President and his wife for remembering Deltans and empowering families and vulnerable groups

  • Okpebholo suspends agency boss

    Okpebholo suspends agency boss

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo had suspended, with immediate effect, the Executive Secretary, Edo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Caulson Oahimire.

    The top official was suspended over allegations of grave financial and official infractions.

    Read Also: An anatomy of the Delta PDP defections

    The Secretary to Edo State Government (SSG), Umar Ikhilor, made this known yesterday.

    He said: “The most senior official of the agency will act in a functioning capacity, pending the outcome of a special committee to be constituted by the government to investigate the allegations and submit a report to the governor.”

    Ikhilor did not give details of the alleged grave financial and official infractions.

  • Tinubu’s wife seeks traditional rulers’ support to tackle cervical cancer, FGM, others

    Tinubu’s wife seeks traditional rulers’ support to tackle cervical cancer, FGM, others

    Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called on traditional rulers across the country to support efforts aimed at eradicating cervical cancer, Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), tuberculosis, and other health challenges affecting communities.

    Speaking in Ibadan during a meeting with traditional rulers, Mrs. Tinubu emphasised the importance of grassroots advocacy and the role of traditional institutions in creating a healthier, virus-free society.

    She urged monarchs to take active roles in sensitizing their communities about the dangers of these health threats.

    “Shortly after we were sworn in, we began consultations and met with all the State First Ladies to craft initiatives that would benefit our people,” Mrs. Tinubu said, stressing the need for collective action.

    “Im the global champion for Stop TB, and Tuberculosis Advocacy Campaign, end Tuberculosis Advocacy Campaign,

    “Because we have to end tuberculosis in Nigeria by 2030. So, please, the government is treating those who have, and, you know, there is no stigma to it.

    “Because tuberculosis is airborne, so, once you are having this problem, please get tested. Because you can pass it on to other people who are not vaccinated.

    She however thanked the traditional rulers in attendance, wives of governors, and members of RHI among others.

    In his welcome remark, governor Seyi Makinde said the Mrs Tinubu’s meeting with traditional rulers across the state is important and strategic because the state government have been working with them in connecting to the grassroot.

    Read Also: Tinubu’s wife mobilises Ondo Monarchs on increased food production

    The governor said, “They do not embellish, if you need any feedback from them, be rest assured of their sincerity response, they are important part of governance in Oyo State.”

    Oba Owoade, who spoke on behalf of traditional rulers in the state said Mrs Tinubus visit was a testament to federal government commitment to the development of Oyo State.

    He said the Renewed Hope Initiative by the wife of the President will benefit people in the state and contribute to the growth of the people.

    He noted that Mrs Tibunus motherly role is commendable, assuring support and collaboration of people of the state.

    Oba Ogunwusi said he is proud of Mrs Tinubu haven’t being a pillar of support behind the President.

    The monarch commended Mrs Tinubu for her Renewed Hope Initiative which according to him has touched millions of lives across the nation, saying the initiative has been complementing effort of President Tinubu.

    In the entourage of the the first lady was wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shentima, wife of the Speaker of House of Representatives, Mrs Fatimah Abass, wife of governors, and members of the Renewed Hope Initiative amen Ng others.

    Traditional rulers at the meeting include: The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, the Ooni of Ile Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Afolabi Olaoye, representative of Olubadan of Ibadanland, Aseyin of Iseyinland, Oba Sefiu Oyebola, and the Olugbon of Orile Igbon, Oba Francis Olushola Also among others.

  • Papa Enamhe honored with prestigious chieftaincy title in Obanliku

    Papa Enamhe honored with prestigious chieftaincy title in Obanliku

    In a colorful and historic ceremony held in the heart of Basang, Obanliku Local Government Area, Cross River State, the highly respected teacher, motivational speaker, peace builder, and community leader, Papa Dom Cklaimz Enamhe, was conferred with the revered chieftaincy title of “Papa Wey U Keh Balare Ukpere 1 of Basang Obanliku.”

    This well-deserved honor celebrates Papa Enamhe’s outstanding contributions to community development, peacebuilding, youth mentorship, and grassroots leadership. Known for his visionary leadership and commitment to unity, Papa Enamhe has, for decades, remained a beacon of hope and inspiration across generations.

    A man of immense versatility, he holds multiple degrees in Agriculture, Sociology, Environmental Science, Education Law, Social Work, Public Administration, and Political Science. 

    He is also a Chartered Mediator and member of respected organizations such as the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators, the Association of Professional Negotiators and Mediators, and the Nigerian Bar Association.

    At the University of Calabar, Papa Enamhe has served in several administrative roles, including Alumni Relations Officer, Deputy Director of the Directorate of Board of Community Services, and Secretary of important committees such as the Unical @ 50 Anniversary and the burial committee of the late Senate President, Senator Joseph Wayas GCON.

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    He is equally celebrated for his dedication to elder care, often advocating for the welfare and dignity of senior citizens in his community.

    The prestigious title, “Papa Wey U Keh Balare Ukpere 1″—which means “The Father Who Takes Care of Elders”—was bestowed by the traditional leadership of Basang in recognition of his remarkable legacy.

    In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Papa Enamhe thanked the royal fathers, community leaders, and the people of Basang for the honor, pledging to continue championing peace, youth empowerment, education, and inclusive development.

    The ceremony drew dignitaries from across Nigeria, including: Hon. Chief Dr. Sunny Ebebe Ayang JP, Chairman of Obanliku LGA (also conferred with a chieftaincy title); HRH Amb. Eugene Abraka, Chairman, Basang Traditional Rulers Council; HRM Amb. Dr. Auchi’s Amos Uyimulam Item, Paramount Ruler of Obanliku; HRH Joseph Ikanshu, Clan Head of Bayaine West; Hon. Marc Enamhe Esq, Former member of the Cross River State House of Assembly; Sir James Atuo; Hon. Sylvanus Anyawho, President, Basang Nation; and Hon. Chief Ashakia Pius Ashas, Member representing Obanliku in the Cross River State House of Assembly

  • Alibaba, Gordons, others grace Urhobo village meeting ahead of Nov. UPU congress

    Alibaba, Gordons, others grace Urhobo village meeting ahead of Nov. UPU congress

    Popular comedian Alibaba Akpobome, Godwin Komone (popularly known as Gordons), veteran Nollywood actor Tony Akposheri, and musical artist King Enapkodia were among notable personalities who graced the Urhobo Village Meeting held in Lagos ahead of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) Day, tentatively scheduled for November 2025.

    The meeting, which took place in Victoria Island, Lagos, witnessed a vibrant display of Urhobo culture, with sons and daughters of Urhobo land adorning traditional attire and showcasing local delicacies.

    King Enapkodia and Gordons entertained the audience with a variety of Urhobo music, performing with a live band that had many dancers.

    Speaking to journalists at the event, Gordons clarified that the gathering was distinct from the main UPU Congress. He explained that the village meeting was a more informal occasion aimed at fostering unity and cultural celebration among Urhobo people.

    In his words: “This is not UPU, it’s different. This is just our Urhobo brothers and sisters celebrating in what we call a village meeting. The UPU event involves Urhobo sons and daughters from the diaspora coming together to celebrate, and it will take place in November 2025 at Eko Hotel, tentatively.

    “The Urhobo village meeting is to help us familiarise ourselves ahead of the UPU Day. Many Urhobos in the diaspora don’t engage with one another often, and this is a step in the right direction. Unity among Urhobos is gradually taking root. The UPU Day in November here in Lagos will witness the presence of the Delta State Governor, who is also an Urhobo man, as well as traditional rulers.”

    Also speaking at the event, veteran Nollywood actor and former Vice President of the Directors Guild of Nigeria, Tony Akposheri, emphasised the importance of cultural pride and parental responsibility in preserving Urhobo heritage. He stated that invitations should not be a prerequisite for participating in cultural events.

    “You don’t have to wait until you’re invited. The moment you hear that Urhobo is organising something, show up, be there. As for me, I’m here because I’m proud to be Urhobo. Look at the Yorubas or the Igbos, whenever there’s a cultural gathering, they show up whether they are invited or not.”

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    Continuing to preserve the Urhobo culture, Akposheri added, “Charity begins at home. It starts with the father and the mother. Teach your children the language, the culture, the traditions, how to tie a wrapper, how to cook native food like banga soup, and how to greet properly. For example, ‘Migwo’ means ‘my two knees are on the ground,’ and you wait for your elder to tell you to rise (Vrendo).”

    The event’s organizer, Andrew Onojaife, shared the motivation behind initiating the gathering. He explained that not growing up in his ancestral home in Delta State inspired him to create a space in Lagos where Urhobo people could reconnect with their roots.

    “I didn’t grow up in the village; I grew up in the city. On one visit home, I felt a strong connection to the culture and missed the vibe. So I came back to Lagos with the idea of bringing the village experience here, so that those who miss home can still enjoy that feeling and reconnect with their heritage,” he said.

  • Abia 2027: I’m still consulting, says ex-Minister of Science

    Abia 2027: I’m still consulting, says ex-Minister of Science

    A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Minister of State for Science, Technology and Innovation, Chief Henry Ikoh has debunked declaring interest to run for the 2027 governorship seat in Abia State.

    Reports had it that Chief Ikoh, had in a key stakeholder’s meeting with members of the APC in his country home, Ahuwa Oboro, Ikwuano Local Government Area of the state indicated that he might join the race for the governorship seat of state if the opportunity arises.

    Sources in the party in Ikwuano disclosed that the former minister who had previously contested for the governorship seat of the state, suggested that he would consider running again should the political terrain favor such a move.

    Our correspondent reports that the rumours that the former Minister had declared interest to run for governorship generated argument over his chances of emerging the APC governorship candidate as the reports have it that the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu will be in the 2027 governorship race.

    The Nation reports that politicians in the state who aspire for various political positions in 2027, have started various political engagements, including consultations with critical stakeholders in the party from ward level to the state, ahead of the parties primaries and among others.

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    However, when contacted, Chief Ikoh in an exclusive telephone interview with our correspondent disassociated himself from reports making the rounds that he had declared his interest to run for the governorship seat in the state.

    According to him, “I have not told anybody that I am running (for governorship position).

    “The time is still very early for anybody to declare his or her interest (for any political position). “

    “Many people, including different groups, have been urging me to come and run because of the confidence that they have in me.

    “But I told them that I am still consulting with God. I will consult with my family and critical stakeholders of the party before I will make my intention known.”

    Asked if he thinks that he has the capacity to govern the state if the opportunity comes, Chief Ikoh said “Somebody who has served as a federal minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has the capacity to be the President also, but I have not said anything yet.

    “I have tried to be governor in my state three times in the past and in service to humanity, if the opportunity comes and I am to serve my people in that capacity.”

  • Reps Deputy Speaker canvasses Igbo support for Tinubu’s second term

    Reps Deputy Speaker canvasses Igbo support for Tinubu’s second term

    Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu has canvassed the support of the Igbo nation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second term in office, saying the President deserves a second term considering the successes so far recorded through bold economic, social and political reforms in the last two years.

    Speaking when he received separately on a courtesy call in Umuahia, the Tinubu Mandate Support group, Abia State Chapter, led by. Armstrong Okoronkwo and Club 17 Initiative members, led by Prince George Nnanna, Kalu urged the South-Easterners to support his reelection bid by voting massively in 2027.

    The Deputy Speaker described President Tinubu as a progressive Nigerian who wants to leave a legacy, make a good shift in the way the nation is built and is intentional about the country.

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    While commending the group for their voter mobilization efforts for the President, Kalu urged the Igbos to “partner with our brothers in the Southwest and give President Bola Ahmed Tinubu all the support that he needs”.

    Kalu said, “That was a good motivation, thank you. You’re the partners we’ve been waiting for. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a good product to be sold for a second term. I believed in him a long time ago, but he first believed in me, started assisting me before I met him. I was one of those who went to meet him and beg him to run for President.

    “I will continue to stand by him. He’s a progressive Nigerian who wants to leave a legacy. God blessed him; he came to make a good shift in the way the nation is built. He loves and is intentional about the country. He’s doing a lot that has never been done.

    “Our business is to tell the people the good work of President Tinubu’s agenda. Igbos should come together. Let’s give President Bola Ahmed Tinubu all the support that he needs. We should invest our votes where there’s progress and that’s Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It’s on his mandate that we’re going to stand as Ndi Igbo. He came and started giving us relevance, bringing us closer.”

    Addressing the delegation from club 17 Initiative, the Deputy Speaker expressed optimism that the APC would win the 2027 gubernatorial election in Abia State.

    Kalu commended the group for the work they’re doing, assuring them of his support always.

    He also assured Abians and Ndi Igbo that APC will be made stronger in Abia to win future elections.

    Chairman of the Tinubu mandate support group, Okoronkwo commended the Deputy Speaker for the work he’s doing as a representative in the National Assembly, assuring him that they are working assiduously to ensure President Tinubu’s reelection.

    “We are happy to associate with you, our focus is to go from house to house to tell them about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Tell them what he’s doing for the South East and for Abia State in particular. The wisdom of choosing you as the Deputy Speaker has brightened our chances politically.

    “We need your support to Kickstart campaign for Tinubu, because he’s doing much and no one is talking to people. If we can spread out and begin to talk to people, we’ll make good success. We are coming out as Igbos to make sure we give him the needed support and ensure his reelection”.