The Nation Newspaper

Category: South East

  • Okpebholo threatens to revoke road contract in Edo

    Okpebholo threatens to revoke road contract in Edo

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has threatened to revoke the 1.4-kilometre Charismatic (Church) Road project in Ekhenwa Road if the contractor fails to execute the work in line with agreed specifications.

    The project is being handled by Place of Peace Investment Limited. The Governor issued the warning while inspecting ongoing road projects in the Edo South Senatorial District.

    In addition to the Charismatic (Church) Road project, Okpebholo also inspected the Old Sapele Road linking the Agip, Ohogbohi, and Ogheghe communities, Ogheghe Road off Sapele Road, and the Sapele Road Bypass.

    He commended contractors delivering quality jobs but cautioned those lagging to improve their performance or risk losing their contracts.

    According to the Governor, his administration is determined to ensure timely project delivery and value for public funds.

    He said the inspection exercise was aimed at distinguishing serious contractors from those failing to meet agreed standards and timelines, noting that while some firms had demonstrated commitment and professionalism, others had fallen short.

    Okpebholo warned that his administration would not tolerate unnecessary delays, particularly as the rainy season approaches.

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    “We’ve gone round several places today. We were at Church Road, Upper Ekenwan road and we were not too happy with the contractor there. We have made our observations to the contractor on the need to meet with specifications, and by the time we return next time and nothing has happened the way we want it, we can revoke that job.

    “We have gone to three other places, and I can see that everything is going well. I am very happy with the contractor handling the job in Ogheghe; they are doing a very good job. I am also very happy with the contractor handling this Sapele Road. They are doing a very good job.

    “We will continue to monitor these projects closely, even at weekends. We won’t waste time because there is no time. The rainy season is almost here, and if we are not working, that means nothing will be achieved, he added.

    Linking the projects to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, the governor said road construction remained one of the most visible ways to restore public confidence in governance.

    “We must work in line with Mr President’s Renewed Hope for the country. One of the ways to bring renewed hope is through the construction of roads. That is how our people will know that they voted for us and that we are delivering on our promises,” Okpebholo said.

  • Armed robbers kill POS operator in Edo

    Armed robbers kill POS operator in Edo

    A 38-year old man, Raphael Eletanye, who operated a Point of Sales service along the Murtala Muhammed Way in Benin City, has been shot dead by armed robbers.

    The robbers were said to be operating in an unregistered white mini-bus.

    Witnesses said the incident occurred at about 9:50 pm on Saturday night.

    It was gathered that the deceased was shot because he dragged his bag containing cash with the robbers.

    Witnesses said policemen, who were at a checkpoint a few metres away from where Eletanye was shot dead.

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     Edo Police spokesman, Eno Ikoedem, who confirmed the incident, said preliminary investigation revealed that the victim was shot on the thigh before the assailants carted away an unspecified amount of cash.

    According to her, “The Divisional Police, Esigie Division, was immediately mobilized to the scene. The victim was immediately rushed to the hospital, but unfortunately, was confirmed dead.

    “The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, Monday Agbonika, has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident, and efforts are in top gear to identify and apprehend the perpetrators, while members of the public with useful information are advised to contact the Command through our 24/7 active emergency numbers.”

  • Soludo mulls recruitment of more teachers

    Soludo mulls recruitment of more teachers

    Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has disclosed plans of recruiting additional teachers across the state to further strengthen the education sector.

    Soludo who made the disclosure at the celebration of 50th anniversary of Uga Boys Secondary School, his alma mater said more recruitment of teachers is aimed at reducing class sizes and improving access to quality instruction.

    “It is vital that we provide a conducive environment for learning, where every child can reach their full potential,” he emphasized.

    The governor reiterated his vision of revitalizing public schools, building on the successes of institutions like Uga Boys Secondary School.

    Addressing an audience of students, teachers, alumni, and community members, the governor said, “Our journey is far from over. By investing in education, we invest in our future leaders, innovators, and change-makers.

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    “I stand here today not only as a former student but as someone deeply interested in the future of our education system.

     “Education is the cornerstone upon which we will build a stronger, more prosperous state.”

    Reliving his days at Uga Boys—which was once one of only four secondary schools serving the area, the governor recalled fond memories of his roles as Library Prefect and Senior Prefect before graduating as part of the school’s pioneer class in 1980.

    “Those early experiences shaped my outlook and discipline. The commitment of the teachers then, including my Igbo teacher who is here with us today, set a standard of excellence that still inspires me,” he said.

    The governor took time to honor the founders and the community members who laid the groundwork for the school’s enduring legacy. He praised the educators for their professionalism and dedication, calling them “unsung heroes” in the mission to nurture young minds.

    Appreciating the governor’s transformative efforts, the School Principal, Mr Benjamin Igwema said, “Yyour recent initiatives—especially the extensive reconstruction of our facilities—have dramatically improved the learning environment.

  • Awka community condemns Soludo’s rejection of Bianca Ojukwu’s chieftaincy title

    Awka community condemns Soludo’s rejection of Bianca Ojukwu’s chieftaincy title

    Concerned sons and daughters of Awka Ancient Kingdom, the capital of Anambra State, alongside advocates of Igbo cultural heritage, have strongly criticised the Anambra State Government for dismissing a chieftaincy title conferred on the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu. 

    The group rejected what it described as unwarranted interference by the state government in the conferment of the revered title Anyanwu N’Awalu Ora (Light of the Community) on the widow of the late Igbo leader, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Ikemba Nnewi.

    The chieftaincy title was bestowed late last year by His Imperial Majesty, Obi Dr. Austin Chukwuezugo Ndigwe, MON, JP, Ezeuzu III of Awka, in recognition of Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu’s contributions to Ndigbo and to Nigeria at large. 

    However, the Anambra State Government subsequently disclaimed the conferment, branding it “fake” on the grounds that the traditional ruler who conferred it was an “impostor.”

    In response, the Awka community described the government’s action as an affront to their cultural autonomy and an unacceptable intrusion into matters exclusively within the purview of the Awka people. In a statement issued by Professor Emmanuel Obi on behalf of Awka sons and daughters, and in solidarity with Obi Dr. Austin Ndigwe, Ezeuzu III, the group said the attack on Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu and the traditional institution was unjustified and dangerous.

    “The traditions, customs, and cultural practices of Awka are not subject to the whims of state bureaucracy or political expediency,” the statement said. “They are sacred elements of our identity, handed down through generations, and they remain the exclusive domain of the indigenous sons and daughters of Awka. It is the Awka people who possess the authority to select, crown, and affirm our leaders in accordance with our ancestral laws.”

    The group explained that Obi Dr. Austin Ndigwe was unanimously elected and crowned Ezeuzu III by the Oha Awka (Council of Elders), the Ndichie (titled men), and the wider community following extensive consultations, rituals, and traditional affirmations. “Any attempt by the state government to describe this leadership as ‘unrecognised’ or ‘fake’ is an insult to our autonomy and sets a dangerous precedent that undermines Igbo traditional governance,” the statement added.

    The group further described the conferment of the title on Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu as both appropriate and deserving, noting her status as a prominent daughter of Igboland, widow of the Ikemba Ndigbo, and a national figure of service and dignity. “As Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, she continues to project Anambra State and Igboland on the national and international stage,” the statement said. “The title Anyanwu N’Awalu Ora was conferred during a public ceremonial event in Awka, witnessed by multitudes, and it carries the full cultural legitimacy of our people. To discredit it is to undermine the very essence of Awka’s cultural sovereignty.” 

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    The group reminded the state government that traditional rulership in Igboland predates colonial and post-colonial governance structures and does not derive its legitimacy from modern political appointments or administrative recognition.

    “The role of government should be to protect and support traditional institutions, not to interfere in them for partisan reasons or to settle ongoing disputes,” the statement warned. “History shows that such interference breeds division and weakens communal harmony.”

    The Awka community called on Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo and his administration to retract any statements or actions discrediting the chieftaincy title and to respect the decisions of the Awka people. “The unanimous crowning of Ezeuzu III stands as a testament to our unity, and no external force can overturn it,” the statement concluded. “Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu’s title remains valid, honoured, and celebrated by those who truly understand and cherish our traditions.”

  • Makinde’s wife presents gifts, cash to first baby in 2026

    Makinde’s wife presents gifts, cash to first baby in 2026

    Wife of Oyo Governor, Mrs. Tamunominini Makinde, has presented cash and gifts to the first baby born in the State in 2026.

    The gesture marked the beginning of the New Year with continued provision of support to maternal and child healthcare across the state.

    The baby by Olajire Rihanat came at exactly 12:20am, in Adaramagbo Primary Health Care, Olomi Olorunkemi area of Ibadan, in Oluyole Local Government Area.

    The First Lady was represented at the presentation by the Oyo Head of Service, Mrs Olubumi Oni and Commissioner for Health, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi.

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    They conveyed the goodwill of the governor’s wife to the mother and family while congratulating them on the safe delivery, describing the birth as a positive sign for the year ahead.

    Speaking at the event, the state Head of Service noted that the annual presentation to the first baby of the year reflects the state government’s commitment to the welfare of mothers and newborns, particularly at the primary healthcare level.

    She urged expectant mothers to continue to make use of government health facilities for safe deliveries.

    The Commissioner for Health reiterated the government’s resolve to strengthen healthcare services across the state, especially in maternal and child health, adding that the administration would continue to invest in facilities, personnel and essential services.

    The mother of the baby expressed gratitude to the Oyo State Government and the Governor’s wife for the support, describing the gesture as timely and encouraging.

  • Imo, Anambra, Abia, Enugu, Ebonyi residents receive Tinubu’s food items

    Imo, Anambra, Abia, Enugu, Ebonyi residents receive Tinubu’s food items

    The Southeast Renewed Hope Agenda (SERHA) has expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity to distribute Christmas food items and palliatives to beneficiaries in Imo, Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, and Enugu states.

    The food items, including rice, garri, salt, and cash, were initially distributed to over 10,000 homes across the 27 LGAs in Imo State.

    The National Coordinator of SERHA, Ambassador Belusochukwu Enwere, disclosed this in Owerri, adding that similar exercises would be carried out in Ebonyi, Enugu, Anambra, and Abia states.

    Enwere expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his generosity in supporting the organisation to ensure that citizens from Southeast benefit from the food items, regardless of party affiliation.

    “We want to thank the President for his good works and his  generosity. We are grateful Mr. President. If you thank a person for the good thing he has done, he will do more next time.

    “We are indeed happy for what the President has done for Ndigbo and Southeast in particular at this Christmas festival regardless of party affiliation. God will continue to bless the president, we have also seen other initiatives he has brought to Nigeria,” he said.

    Enwere cited some of President Tinubu’s achievements, saying they include economic reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidies and termination of multiple foreign exchange systems that had impeded economic development. 

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    He also mentioned infrastructure development, highlighting ongoing projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Sokoto-Badagry Express Way, with over 440 road projects nationwide.

    The President’s initiatives have led to the creation of 240,000 jobs through 10 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), as well as the launch of the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA) and National Youth Talent Export Programme (NATEP). In healthcare, over ₦250 billion has been allocated to revamp primary healthcare centres nationwide.

    On security, Enwere noted that over 13,500 terrorists have been eliminated through sustained military campaigns. The President’s administration has also increased oil production to 1.61 million barrels per day, with the “Project One Million Barrels” initiative driving recovery in the upstream sector. Additionally, the government has secured over $50 billion in new Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) commitments.

    Enwere called on religious organizations, NGOs, CSOs, student unions, youths, women, and men to come together to support President Tinubu’s reelection bid, 

     “We are confident that in his second term, he will do more,” he said, urging all stakeholders to rally behind the president.”

  • Group hails Tinubu for youth inclusion, Southeast development drive

    Group hails Tinubu for youth inclusion, Southeast development drive

    The Southeast Renewed Hope Agenda (SERHA) has commended President Bola Tinubu for what it described as deliberate and commendable inclusion of young people in his cabinet.

    The National Coordinator of SERHA, Belusomchukwu Enwere, made the commendation in Enugu at the weekend during the group’s Christmas food items and palliatives distribution exercise.

    Enwere noted that it was heart-warming to see youths under the age of 40 actively participating in the administration of President Tinubu, stressing that the era where young people were merely tagged “leaders of tomorrow” had given way to a new reality where they now occupy positions of responsibility.

    According to him, the president’s decision to entrust governance to young Nigerians reflects confidence in their capacity and signals a positive shift in national leadership.

    The SERHA national coordinator also applauded the president for initiatives targeted at the Southeast, particularly the establishment of the Southeast Development Commission, which he said demonstrated commitment to inclusive development.

    “We commend the president for engaging young people in his cabinet. Youths under 40 years are part of his administration, and it is a thing of joy that young people are now taking charge,” Enwere stated.

    He further praised the president for efforts that have led to a reduction in food prices, explaining that the palliative distribution was designed to complement the administration’s drive to ease the burden on Nigerians during the festive season.

    Enwere said SERHA decided to key into the president’s Renewed Hope initiative by distributing food items, wrappers and other essentials to bring relief and happiness to families at Christmas.

    “We are here to celebrate with our people because food is essential to every family. The president wants Nigerians to be happy, and what we are doing today is massive,” he added.

  • Anambra billionaire Kenneth Ifekudu honoured with Ebonyi chieftaincy title for humanitarian contributions

    Anambra billionaire Kenneth Ifekudu honoured with Ebonyi chieftaincy title for humanitarian contributions

    Anambra-born businessman, billionaire philanthropist, and CEO of Diamond Leeds Ltd, High Chief Kenneth Ifekudu (Agbalanze Onyekachukwu na Ozubulu) OFR, has added another chieftaincy title to his illustrious portfolio, this time in Ebonyi State, reflecting his influence beyond his home state.

    He was bestowed with the traditional title of Ife Abata (Light Has Come) by the Ezeudo II of Amike Autonomous Community, Ezzangbo, Ohaukwu Local Government Area, His Royal Highness, Eze Sir Michael Nwankwo JP.

    The honour was in recognition of Ifekudu’s contributions to the development of Amike community and society at large, particularly his efforts in providing roads and other critical infrastructure.

    During a colourful ceremony on Saturday marking the conferment, High Chief Ifekudu expressed gratitude to Eze Sir Michael Nwankwo and the Amike Kingdom, describing the honour as a challenge to do even more. He emphasized that the recognition strengthens ties between neighboring states and urged all Igbo sons and daughters to continue extending humanitarian efforts wherever they are.

    Ifekudu also highlighted that the ceremony celebrated Igbo culture, acknowledging and rewarding acts of kindness and community development.

    Renowned for his philanthropy in Ozubulu, Anambra State, and beyond, Ifekudu recently empowered over 100 individuals with mini trucks to support livelihoods amid growing economic challenges. This latest title adds to his earlier honour, Ife Ozubulu (The Light of Ozubulu), conferred by His Royal Majesty, Igwe Fidelis Oruche, Obi Ozubulu, earlier this year.

    In addition to leading Diamond Leeds Ltd, Ifekudu is Chairman of Gorrion Engineering Ltd and was recently named Businessman of the Year by the Sun Newspaper. He is widely praised for ensuring that his community members are the first beneficiaries of his charitable initiatives.

    The ceremony was attended by prominent dignitaries, including Prof. Ben Akanegbu, Dean Faculty of Economics, Nile University; HRM Eze Sir Michael Nwankwo; Eze Udo II of Amike Bar Ik Ibe; Ugo Nwa Nne Nnewi; Enviable Transport; Hon. Peter Uzokwe, Federal Representative for Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo; Hon. Chinedu Oga, Federal Representative for Ikwo and Ezza South; Hon. Joseph Nwobasi, Federal Representative for Ezza North; High Chief Chioma Ifekudu; Ugogbe Ozubulu; Chief Chukwuneke Commander; Chief Nnamdi Ifekudu; Engr. J.K. Onyeka; Bar Ebere Ituma; Chukwuemeka Enviable, MD Enviable Group; and other notable figures.

  • Uzodimma empowers over 10,000 artisans, SMEs in Imo

    Uzodimma empowers over 10,000 artisans, SMEs in Imo

    Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has empowered over 10,000 artisans and Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) operators, urging them to excel in their various trades and take a leading role in Nigeria’s construction and services sector.

    Uzodimma made the call while addressing beneficiaries at the graduation and empowerment ceremony of the Renewed Hope Empowerment Initiative held in Owerri.

    Expressing satisfaction with the programme, the governor said he was delighted to witness the empowerment exercise, describing it as a fitting way to round off the year.

    “I am truly delighted to perform this important ceremony at such an auspicious time of the year. What a magnificent way to end the year,” he said.

    During the event, the governor presented beneficiaries with work tools and financial support, explaining that the initiative was designed to bridge the gap between skills acquisition and economic productivity.

     “You are the solution we have been waiting for. We have trained you not just to ‘try,’ but to take over,” he emphasized.

    Uzodimma lamented the dominance of foreign artisans in Nigeria’s construction sector, citing reports from COREN and the Nigerian Institute of Building. “It is a shameful irony that in a country of over 200 million people, builders systematically rely on migrant workers for quality finishing.”

    He urged the graduates to strive for excellence, saying, “The real certificate is the excellence of your work. The market out there is vast and ripe for harvest, but it will only yield its fruit to those who excel.”

    The governor thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for their support, stating that the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda and the Shared Prosperity programme.

    The empowerment covers artisans in key sectors, including bakers, electricians, food processors, and woodworkers, among others.

    Uzodimma wished the graduates a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year, saying, “Go out there, add value to our economy, and record your own economic breakthrough.”

  • Former Edo Attorney-General kicks as Oshiomhole withdraws nomination

    Former Edo Attorney-General kicks as Oshiomhole withdraws nomination

    A former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Edo State, Henry Idahagbon, has kicked against the decision of Senator Adams Oshiomhole to withdraw support for his reappointment as a Commissioner of the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC).

    Oshiomhole, who represents Edo North in the Senate, raised objections to the nomination of Idahagbon during consideration of the report of the committee on Establishment and Public Service Matters on the confirmation of nominees for FCSC.

    The former Edo governor informed the Senate that another nominee from the same Edo South senatorial district as Idahagbon has already been proposed.

    According to Oshiomhole, “I have drawn the attention of the chairman of this committee to the fact that the first name on that list representing Edo, Ondo, and Ekiti is from Edo state.

    “I had the privilege and honour of nominating him five years ago. But, with his conduct as a federal commissioner when it comes to recruitment and promotion, a lot of issues of corruption and other malpractices were raised.

    “And I draw the chairman’s attention to this. I plead with the senate that the nomination of Idahagbon Omoregie be deferred because we have proposed a replacement which will come from the same senatorial zone, so there is no question of upsetting any balance.”

    Idahagbon, in a petition to the Senate and made available to journalists in Benin City, said allegations of corruption by Oshiomhole were baseless and untrue.

    He said Oshiomhole’s hostility was due to political disagreements over the 2024 Edo State governorship election, where he openly opposed Oshiomhole’s support for Dennis Idahosa.

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    The former Attorney-General alleged that Oshiomhole’s grievances were because he refused to compromise civil service recruitment processes.

    He said Oshiomhole instructed that I ensure a lady close to him passed and got promoted, but that the candidate “failed the examination woefully.

     “I refused to interfere with or manipulate the process, in strict adherence to the rules governing civil service examinations and promotions.

    “Any intervention on my part would have amounted to outright fraud and abuse of office.

    “I state categorically, unequivocally, and without reservation that this allegation is false, malicious, reckless, and completely unsupported by any evidence.”

    He promised to submit himself to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission if anybody could prove that he engaged in employment racketeering.

    The media adviser to Oshiomhole, Victor Oshioke, declined to comment on the issue.