The Nation Newspaper

Category: South East

  • Foundation urged IPOB to lay down arms, embrace dialogue 

    Foundation urged IPOB to lay down arms, embrace dialogue 

    The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) has called on the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to lay down their arms and embrace dialogue, drawing parallels to the historic surrender of Biafra to the federal government on January 13, 1970, which ended the Nigerian Civil War.

    In a statement marking the 53rd anniversary of the Biafra surrender, PeacePro’s Executive Director, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, emphasized the need to honor the peace agreement that prioritized reconciliation and national unity.

    Hamzat, a human rights ambassador, criticized IPOB’s violent approach, stating it contradicts the peaceful resolution adopted by Biafran leaders over five decades ago. 

    He urged IPOB to choose dialogue as a pathway to addressing grievances and fostering national harmony.

    The organisation reminded IPOB that the declaration of “No Victor, No Vanquished” by the Federal Government laid the foundation for rebuilding and reintegration.

    “The continued pursuit of violence by IPOB dishonors the memory of those who chose peace to stop further bloodshed in the South East during the Biafra war,” the statement said.

    It condemned calls for the unconditional release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu without a commitment to peace, describing it as a misguided approach that cannot achieve lasting stability or development.

    “True peace and progress require acknowledgment of mistakes and a change in approach. IPOB’s violent activities have resulted in the loss of hundreds of lives and devastated the economy of the Southeast,” the statement noted.

    Read Also: JUST IN: Two soldiers killed in IPOB/ESN attack in Imo, says Army

    The organisation called on IPOB to recognise that sustainable peace is built on non-violent advocacy and peaceful negotiation, aligning with democratic principles and respect for human life. 

    It said that despite the factionalisation of IPOB and attempt by various factions to denounce the other, both factions cannot be exonerated from the crisis in South East, especially with the activities of the unknown gunmen and both factions must unite to take responsibility and work with federal government to end insecurity in the region.

    The organisation therefore urged the federal government to remain committed to inclusive dialogue, justice, and equity, ensuring that grievances are addressed within the framework of national unity.

    “As the country reflects on the lessons of the civil war, PeacePro reaffirmed its resolve to promote peace, demilitarisation, and reconciliation across Nigeria, highlighting that dialogue, not conflict, is the path to a prosperous and united nation,” the statement added. 

  • Stop killings, kidnappings, embrace peace, Chidoka tells Igbo youths

    Stop killings, kidnappings, embrace peace, Chidoka tells Igbo youths

    Former Minister of Aviation, Chief Osita Chidoka, has called on Igbo youths to put an end to the rising cases of killings and kidnappings in the region and embrace peace.

    Chidoka made the appeal in Achina, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, during the 4th Ofala festival of the community and the 14th anniversary of its monarch, Igwe Nnaemeka Obiora, on the throne. 

    The occasion also saw the traditional ruler bestow chieftaincy titles on 18 individuals, including President Bola Tinubu’s ally, Chief Modestus Umenzekwe, who was honored with the title of “Enyimba” (The People’s Elephant).

    Speaking as the chairman of the event, Chidoka expressed deep concern over the alarming rate of violence in the region, particularly in Anambra State. 

    He lamented that the Igbo, known for their entrepreneurial spirit and resilience, are now being overshadowed by acts of violence.

    Prominent figures, including former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party Presidential Candidate Peter Obi, attended the ceremony, further highlighting the significance of the event.

    Chidoka emphasised the need for unity and a return to the values that define the Igbo people, urging the youth to focus on building their communities rather than engaging in destructive activities.

    “Culture is not static but dynamic as we learn from other cultures and will continue to be civilised. Igbo have a rich cultural heritage, glorious past and rich future as true democrats.

    “We believe in freedom, not on holding people hostage. I want to urge you to sustain the tempo. This will bring a lasting solution, and development.

    “The insecurity in southeast has become worrisome. The Igbo were not known for killings but as industrious, peaceful, accommodating and lovely. 

    Read Also: Osita Chidoka quits PDP

    “Tell your brothers and sisters that we are hardworking people. We are not known for killings and kidnapping. There is no home of community in Igbo land you will come today and they will show a successful retired kidnapper, killer or criminal.

    “We make money through hardworking. But you can see the house or someone who retired as a successful business man or civil servant.

    “Let us renew our commitment in building a successful society where love, peace and unity will rule forever by joining hands in fighting insecurity. 

    “That is the only way Igbo land will be save for us. You remember that when someone is pursued at the foreign land, he will return to his home country. If we don’t fight kidnapping, killings and other Criminalities, where would will run to as homes when we are pursued abroad?”

    The monarch praised Governor Chukwuma Soludo for driving development in the Achina community through extensive road infrastructure projects and efforts to combat the erosion menace.

    KC Ezeanyika, a lawyer and the traditional Prime Minister of Achina, noted that the individuals honored had distinguished themselves through significant contributions to the community and society, making their selection deliberate and well-deserved.

    Among the prominent chieftaincy title recipients were Chief Emeka Dimude, Chief Sebastian Ezechukwu, Chief Kenechukwu Obieli, Engr. Cletus Ezenwa, and Cyril Okpala.

    Goodwill messages to Chief Modestus Umenzekwe, one of the honorees, came from notable figures, including Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe (Rtd), Babatunde Fashola, SAN, former Lagos State Governor, Sen. Chris Ngige, former Minister of Labour and Employment, Femi Adesina, former Presidential Spokesman, Sen. Lawal Shuaibu, Justice O.O. Fadipe, Chief Arthur Mbanefo, Nigeria’s former diplomat, and Catholic Pontiff Peter Cardinal Okpaleke, among others.

  • Tax Reform Bill: IYPF urges Igbo businesses to relocate to South-East

    Tax Reform Bill: IYPF urges Igbo businesses to relocate to South-East

    The Igbo Youth Progressive Forum (IYPF) has called on Igbo business leaders to take deliberate steps to promote regional empowerment and self-sufficiency in the South-East region.

    In a press release signed by Comrade Victor Onuoha Ukeh, National President of IYPF, the group urged business leaders to relocate their corporate headquarters to the South-East region, ensuring that taxes generated from their businesses directly benefit the infrastructural, educational, and social development of the area.

    The group also called on importers and exporters in the South-East to direct their shipping containers to the Onitsha River Port, rather than to more distant ports such as Lagos.

    This move, the group said, is expected to increase local commerce, create jobs, stimulate infrastructure development, and reduce logistical bottlenecks.

    The group emphasised the need for economic realignment in the region, particularly in light of the proposed tax reform bill that prioritises revenue allocation based on the derivation and local consumption.

    Read Also: Tax Reform Bills: WRO urges NASS to grant states exclusive VAT collection rights

     “The time for passivity has passed. The Igbos are not and will never be second-class citizens in Nigeria. As an industrious people who have excelled in commerce, science, and technology, we must take deliberate actions to shape our economic destiny.

    “This realignment of resources and wealth is essential not only to the South-East but also to the survival of our cultural heritage and dignity. It is imperative that we create a thriving economic hub in our homeland to rival any other in Africa, and this can only be achieved through collective effort and strategic collaboration.”

    The IYPF also urged southeast state governments to establish incentives for businesses that set up headquarters within the region, streamline regulations, improve security, and provide tax relief for newly relocated businesses.

    “Only through deliberate actions can we remedy years of neglect and disenfranchisement. We must rewrite the economic narrative of our people, ensuring that Igbo states receive a proportionate share of our contributions to Nigeria’s economy.

    “The South-East must now assert itself as an indispensable economic bloc within the Nigerian federation. As we embark on this collective journey, we remain resolute in our determination to uplift Igbo land to unparalleled economic heights. Our strength lies in our unity, creativity, and resilience.

    “This is not just a call to action; it is a historic opportunity to shape the future of Igbo land. Together, let us demonstrate to the world that the South-East is a beacon of innovation, prosperity, and progress.

  • 9 missing in recent Ebonyi land crisis – Ahamba

    9 missing in recent Ebonyi land crisis – Ahamba

    A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mike Ahamba has lamented the killing of Umuobor, Akaeze people of Ivo local government area of Ebonyi state, in a land tussle with their neighboring community.

    The Legal Luminary also alleged that 9 persons are still missing in the recent clashes which broke out between the people of Umuobor and their neighbouring Ogwor community in Ishiagu town.

    Ahamba, who is the legal representative of Umuobor community, made the call in a petition to Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi state.

    He called on the state government and the Police in the state to arrest the killers of some members of the community in the land tussle between them and their Ogwor neighbors in the local government.

    Umuobor and Ogwor communities have been at war for over five decades over a vast fertile land known as Elueke which has claimed many lives with properties worth billions of naira destroyed.

    Various courts judgement including that of the nation”s apex court which ruled that the Elueke land belongs to Umuobor village, ought to have ended the crisis.

    But the crisis took a more bloody twist last year when many killings, destructions and abductions on both parties were recorded.

    Angered by the killings Governor Francis Nwifuru, convened a meeting of both parties where he threatened that government will take over the dispute land and declared it a buffer zone.

    The governor at the stakeholders meeting set up committee with a view to resolving the crisis.

    Ahamba, in the letter listed some members of the community killed in the crisis as John Chukwueke, Okaru Okoro and Sunday Eleke.

    He urged the state Commissioner of Police to investigate their killings and prosecute those behind the dastardly act.

    He called on the governor for to enforce the ruling of the supreme. Court which ruled that the disputed Elueke land belongs to the Umuobor people.

    While noting that Mr Nwifuru is a law graduate, Mr Ahamba warned that failure to emforce te judgement will set a very nasty precedent for the future..

    The petition reads in parts “Your Excellency, many people have in recent days been killed with nine people missing and feared dead. Some of the people confirmed killed are ; John Chukwueke, Okaru Okoro and Sunday Eleke.

    Read Also: Ahamba: Imo governor not exclusive right of Owerri Zone

    “Your Excellency, why the perpetrators of these heinous acts of disobedience culminating in multiple acts of murders are not arrested by the police, is beyond my understanding.

    “My very humble request is that you use your good offices to impress it on the security agencies in your state, and Chairman of the local government of the need to get Ogwor people to appreciate that the dispute has ended by the Supreme court decision instead of sharing of the land their point of settlement.

    “The constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria provides in Section 287(1) this: “The decision of the Supreme Court shall be enforced in any part of the Federation by all authorities and persons, and by Courts of subordinate jurisdiction to that of the Supreme Court.

    “Your Excellency, your government is one such authority in that State. Fortunately, you are a Lawyer.

    “It is also very necessary that you call on the Commissioner of Police to be very proactive in these circumstances. Failure to enforce this judgement by due process, will set a very nasty precedent for the future”.

  • Philanthropist lifts youths with N200m business grants

    Philanthropist lifts youths with N200m business grants

    An Abuja-based businessman and philanthropist, Mr Clement Okorie has empowered over 1000 persons in his Ishiagu community, Ivo local government area of Ebonyi state with over N200 million.

    The grant is a business advancement empowerment for the beneficiaries drawn from the area to help them boost their businesses.

    The grants, which were disbursed under the Ifeanyi Clement Okorie Foundation in his OGWOR Ishiagu country home, attracted notable philanthropists from across the South East of Nigeria, with guests describing it as a remarkable show of generosity and commitment to community development.

    Speaking during the event, Okorie announced that the funding initiative aims to alleviate poverty and promote entrepreneurship within the community. 

    Each beneficiary received individual grants of N200,000 aimed at nurturing small businesses that will lead to economic growth and sustainability.

    Read Also: Police arrest Lagos teacher for slapping 3-year-old pupil

    Okorie said: “First and foremost, I want to thank God for giving me the strength, wisdom and capacity to make this empowerment possible. Without God’s guidance and blessing, this initiative could not have been possible. This initiative is more than a gift; it’s not just about giving money, but about transforming lives and creating opportunities for our people.”

    While emphasising the importance of self-reliance, he urged beneficiaries to utilise the funds effectively to build sustainable enterprises. 

    Okorie said: “I implore you to employ this fund effectively to better your lives and those of people around you with courage and purpose. Let us all continue to work together to create a brighter future for ourselves.”

    The Chairman of the occasion, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, described Okorie’s empowerment scheme as a significant aspect of the new dawn which has enveloped Ishiagu community, producing lasting fruits of goodness.

    In a goodwill message, a special guest at the event and the National President of Akuluo Uno United Brothers Association, Chief Mike Duru, admonished all wealthy people to always think home. 

    Duru, the Chairman/CEO, Citygate Group of companies, commended Okorie for the gesture and described him as a worthy ambassador of the group in his community.

    Some of the beneficiaries: Rosemary Okoro, a poultry farmer, and Jewel Nkemjika Ike, a cosmetics seller, expressed profound gratitude to the host and donor, Okorie. 

    They said they were surprised at being called as beneficiaries out of the over 7,000 applicants who jostled for the opportunity, pledging to make their benefactor proud by meaningfully multiplying the funds.

    Ike stated: “This support is a dream come true for many of us. It will go a long way in boosting our businesses so that we can turn our dreams into reality.”

    The empowerment implementation Committee Chairman, Prof. Ifeanyichukwu Iroha, said the initiative was borne out of Okorie’s love for his people. 

    He explained that the committee followed a rigorous process to identify eligible beneficiaries.

    Iroha said: First of all, we placed an age limit: prospective beneficiaries must be between 25 and 50 years, preferably, someone already in business or those whose businesses are facing some setbacks, to enable them to pick up. 

    We also looked at each person’s business proposal, the kind of trade he/she is engaging in, and what the person intends to achieve with the money as an outcome of the empowerment, among other considerations.”

    Iroha, the Dean of Postgraduate Studies at Ebonyi State University, assured that the committee has also set up a monitoring subcommittee to follow the progress of the beneficiaries and make recommendations for further assistance. 

    He said: “We have already employed two persons under salary for one year to monitor the beneficiaries and that’s why we have documented their details for easy identification. We have also set a mechanism whereby, by this time next year, those who are doing well will be empowered the more.”

  • Kalu lauds Abia monarch for ensuring peace, stability

    Kalu lauds Abia monarch for ensuring peace, stability

    Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu, has praised the traditional ruler of the Ugwu Ibere Autonomous Community, Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State for ensuring peace and stability in his domain.

    Kalu said this at a ceremony to mark the 25th coronation anniversary of the monarch, the Ugwu 1 of Ugwu Ibere, His Royal Majesty, Eze Prof Sir, Ezeudo Samuel Ifenwanta.

    The event also served to commemorate the 83rd birthday celebration of the revered monarch.

    The Abia lawmaker lauded the royal father for sustaining a conducive environment in the autonomous community for the past 25 years on the throne.

    He maintained that the socio-economic impact of government interventions should be from the grassroots.

    This was as he mooted that the traditional institutions should be made the fourth tier of government.

    He said this would be an efficient way to drive development to the grassroots and to ensure that the people reap the dividends of democracy faster.

    Earlier, Governor Alex Otti, represented by the Mayor of Ikwuano, Anthony Nwaubani, lauded the monarch.

    He said the traditional ruler attained his present status on merit.

    Also speaking, the Senator representing Abia Central Senatorial District Colonel Austin Akobundu wished the monarch more years in good health.

    He promised to collaborate with relevant bodies to attract developmental projects to Ugwu Ibere autonomous community.

    The Member representing South East on the Board of the North East Development Commission, Hon Sam Onuigbo, appreciated the monarch for his positive impact on humanity.

    Onuigbo, who is a son-in-law to the monarch, described Eze Ifenwanta as a rare leader with exceptional leadership qualities.

    He expressed gratitude to Nigerians from all walks of life for gracing the event and wished the royal father many more fruitful years in the throne.

    In his response, His Royal Majesty Eze Sir Prof. Ezeudo S. Ifenwanta who appreciated all that graced the ceremony, especially Governor Otti for his pragmatic and effective leadership.

    He said the reconstruction of Elemaga Itunta Bridge and the Amawom-Nkalunta road are a testament to the governor’s developmental strides in Abia.

    The Ugwu 1 of Ugwu Ibere, however, noted that lack of a neighborhood secondary skill development institution inhibits societal growth.

    He called for the full restoration of the Ibere Technical College as well as the need for a tertiary technological institution.

    He said  the people of Ugwu Ibere Autonomous Community have decided to donate about 50 hectares of land for the Tertiary Education Project.

    The well attended event was graced by dignitaries from all walks of life.

  • Tinubu’s creation of South East Development Commission historic act of love – Ogbede

    Tinubu’s creation of South East Development Commission historic act of love – Ogbede

    The newly appointed Executive Director of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Natural Resources for the South East Development Commission (SEDC), Dr. Clifford Ogbede, has described the commission’s establishment as a testament to President Bola Tinubu’s deep love and concern for the South East region.

    Speaking at his Umuekwune, Obiangwu country home in Ngor Okpala LGA, Imo State, during a congratulatory visit by the Ngor Okpala Journalists Forum, Ogbede highlighted the historic significance of the commission. 

    He noted that the creation of the SEDC addresses a challenge lingering since the aftermath of the Nigerian Civil War over 50 years ago, an issue past administrations failed to resolve despite sustained agitations.

    “For President Tinubu to brave the odds and establish the commission shows his noble intentions for the South East,” Ogbede said, praising the president’s political and moral will to end the perceived marginalization of the zone. 

    He emphasized that the commission will accelerate development in the region, reduce tensions, and address long-standing grievances.

    Ogbede also commended Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, for his pivotal role in the commission’s creation, as well as members of the 10th National Assembly for their collaborative efforts with the president to bring the SEDC to fruition.

    Regarding his appointment, Ogbede expressed gratitude and described it as a call to serve God and humanity. 

    Read Also: We’ll lift Africa out of poverty, says Tinubu

    He pledged to fulfill his responsibilities with integrity, humility, and a commitment to the people of the South East.

    He also called on members of the Ngor Okpala Journalists Forum to partner with the SEDC, emphasizing the vital role of media professionals in supporting the commission’s mission. 

    “As opinion molders from the zone, your partnership will greatly enhance the commission’s ability to deliver on its mandates,” he said.

    Ogbede concluded by expressing confidence in the team of experienced leaders appointed to oversee the SEDC, assuring that its objectives would be achieved under their leadership.

  • Federal lawmaker Ukodhiko extols oil magnate, Victor Egukawhore at 59 

    Federal lawmaker Ukodhiko extols oil magnate, Victor Egukawhore at 59 

    Member representing Isoko Federal Constituency, Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko, has felicitated with marine, construction cum oil magnate, and Chairman of De-Wayles Group of Companies, High Chief Victor Emomena Wayles Egukawhore as he turns 59years.

    In a statement, the House of Representatives member praised the businessman for his tenacity, entrepreneurial ingenuity, and philanthropy which has positively benefited many lives.

    He said: “On behalf of the leaders and people of Isoko Federal Constituency, I heartily rejoice with a business-guru, investor, philanthropist, and administrator per excellence, High Chief (Dr.) Emomena Victor Wayles Egukawhore from Enhwe, on the auspicious occasion of his 59th birth anniversary.

    “As a consummate businessman and strategic investor of foresight and great accomplishments, Chief Egukawhore crashed all records of daring and innovative enterprises to emerge as a frontline owner of maritime company with massive investment in civil construction and oil and gas in Delta and Nigeria.

    “Through his De-Wayles Group of Companies, he has contributed enormously to the economic development of Nigeria just as he has also provided jobs for hundreds of youths in his various chains of businesses in the country.”

    Hon Ukodhiko appreciated Chief Egukawhore for his unwavering support, saying, “he has been a supportive elder brother and inspiring mentor since his secondary days at James Welch Grammar School in Emevor.

    “I’ll continue to leverage my collaboration with other entrepreneurs including Chief Egukawhore in engendering a business hub in our federal Constituency for economic growth and provision of job opportunities for our teeming youths of Isoko “

    The Isoko federal lawmaker, Hon. Ukodhiko prayed and wished Chief Victor Egukawhore good health, sound mind in his service to Isoko-nation and humanity in general.

  • South East to lead Nigeria’s IT revolution — Obioha

    South East to lead Nigeria’s IT revolution — Obioha

    The South-East region is poised to become Nigeria’s epicenter for IT innovation and expertise, according to Nnedinma Obioha, Founder and CEO of Center Point Multi Solutions. 

    Speaking during a visit to her Aptech IT training center in Onitsha, Anambra State, Obioha highlighted her company’s unwavering commitment to empowering the region’s youth with cutting-edge IT skills.

    “The South-East has the talent and determination needed to lead Nigeria into the next phase of technological advancement,” Obioha said during the visit. 

    “Our mission is to equip young minds with the tools they need to thrive in the global digital economy.”

    Obioha also revealed that Center Point Multi Solutions is finalizing approvals to establish an Aptech IT training center in Ebonyi State, marking the organization’s presence in every South-Eastern state.

    Read Also: Kinsmen disown Enugu ex-speaker over comments on South East Development Commission 

    This expansion builds on the success of the Owerri center in Imo State, which has been a pillar of IT education in the region for over 18 years.

    “From Owerri to Onitsha, and soon Ebonyi, our goal is to make IT training accessible to every young person in the South-East,” she added.

    In her remarks, Obioha reiterated her belief that the region’s youth could drive Nigeria’s digital transformation if given the right opportunities. 

    Through scholarships, IT workshops, and targeted community grants, she continues to champion initiatives that bridge the digital skills gap and foster innovation.

    With her visionary leadership, Nnedinma Obioha is positioning the South-East as a beacon of technological excellence, shaping the future of Nigeria’s ICT landscape.

  • Billionaire philanthropist Kenneth Ifekudu bags chieftaincy title of Ife Ozubulu

    Billionaire philanthropist Kenneth Ifekudu bags chieftaincy title of Ife Ozubulu

    Billionaire businessman, philanthropist and CEO Diamond Leeds Ltd, High Chief Kenneth Ifekudu (Agbalanze Onyekachukwu na Ozubulu), has been honoured with another chieftaincy title in recognition of his massive philanthropy and humanitarian works in his community. 

    He was honoured with the title of Ife Ozubulu, which means “light of Ozubulu” by His Royal Majesty, Igwe Nnamdi Fidelis Oruche, Obi Ozubulu in appreciation of his contributions towards raising the bar of development in Ozubulu, Anambra State. 

    The event took place on Dec. 31, 2024 at Ugodinobi Palace, Amakwa, Ozubulu, Ekwusigo LGA., Anambra State and was a colourful sight to behold as sons and daughters of the community and high profile individuals filed out to witness the happy moment. 

    His friend and associates from far and wide came to be part of the wonderful display of rich cultural heritage of the people of Ozubulu. 

    Hiswife, Lolo Kenneth Ifekudu, was also crowned with a prestigious tradition title in recognition of her overwhelming support to the husband. 

    Read Also: Philanthropist gives to victims of Oghareki fire

    Agbalanze is known to have brought succour and laughter to many families in Ozubulu in particular and Anambra State in general. 

    Not long ago, he empowered over 100 persons with mini trucks to support their livelihood, in response to growing economic challenges facing many families across the country, arising from high cost of living, hyper inflation and job losses. 

    Similar projects have also been carried out in the past to advance his humanitarian and philanthropic programmes such as the construction of the Mega Ultra Modern Market and a 2.27km road in Ozubulu.

    Ifekudu, who recently won the award of businessman of the year of the Sun Newspaper, has consistently demonstrated that charity begins at home, which inspired the decision to ensure that people of his community are the first beneficiaries of the empowerment. 

    Ifekudu, who is also the Patron of the Igbo Ambassadors Club, United Kingdom, who recently unveiled his multi-billion Naira mansion in Anambra was last year honoured by Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers’ Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU) with the prestigious award of Man of the Year.

    A holder of national honour of OFR, he has remained consistent in carrying out very impactful projects in communities.