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Category: SouthEast

  • Gov Otu hails return of Tinapa, says it marks economic rebirth

    Gov Otu hails return of Tinapa, says it marks economic rebirth

    Cross River state governor, Bassey Edet Otu, has described the formal return of the Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort to the state government as “a battle fought and won for all Cross Riverians,” marking what he called a new dawn for the state’s economy.

    Speaking at the handover ceremony in Calabar, the weekend, Otu said the recovery of Tinapa symbolised not just the reclaiming of a major asset but the revival of a vision that once placed Cross River on the global economic map.

    “The return of Tinapa is not merely an event; it is a rebirth, the triumph of faith, patience, and resilience,” he said.

    Recalling its conception under former Governor Donald Duke, Otu said Tinapa once showcased the state’s capacity for bold, investment-driven development.

    He assured that his administration, under the People First Agenda, would reposition the Free Zone as a hub for trade, tourism, and creative enterprise.

    “We are breathing new life into Tinapa, not as a relic of abandoned ambition but as a living symbol of Cross River’s resilience,” he stated.

    The Governor disclosed that the state is already engaging credible investors and partners to transform the facility into a vibrant centre of commerce and job creation, operating under a transparent and accountable management structure.

    “This moment is a collective victory — for our past leaders whose dreams gave it birth, for the government that fought to reclaim it, and for the future generations who will inherit its promise. Together, we shall turn this symbol of struggle into a testament of triumph,” Governor Otu said.

    He also extended appreciation to the Federal Government and relevant agencies for their cooperation in the transition process, commending all stakeholders who worked behind the scenes to make the return possible.

    Governor Otu concluded with a note of hope and determination, reaffirming that the rebirth of Tinapa would mark the beginning of a new economic dawn for Cross River State.

    “We are a people of faith and courage. Tinapa is once again ours — and under our watch, it shall flourish. Let the world know that Cross River has reclaimed her pride, and from this soil, we shall build the future we have always dreamed of.”

    Governor Otu recalled that before the establishment of Tinapa in 2007, Cross River State had little by way of landmark projects that drew national and international attention.

    Read Also: Gov Otu divine gift to Cross Rivers – CoS Ironbar

    He noted that the conception of Tinapa by former Governor Donald Duke marked a turning point in the state’s developmental trajectory, earning it global recognition as a forward-looking and investment-friendly destination.

    “Then, like a dream that triumphed over doubt and circumstance, Tinapa emerged — radiant, ambitious, visionary, and became the spark that changed the narrative of our state forever,” he said. “By its conception, Tinapa redefined how the world saw us, lifting Cross River from the shadows into the global spotlight.”

    Also speaking, the Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Mike Odere, said the handover represents a revival of what many thought was lost forever.

    “It means pride, it means reawakening, it means renewed hope,” Odere said, adding that with full ownership now restored, the government would be free to attract investors and reposition the facility for maximum economic impact.

    In his remarks, the Executive Director of AMCON, Mr. Shola Lamide, said the corporation acquired the Tinapa asset in 2011 but struggled to attract private investors to revive the project. He expressed satisfaction that the facility has now been fully handed back to Cross River State, describing the resolution as “a win for both AMCON and the people of Cross River.”

  • Stakeholders hail Otti’s transformational leadership in Abia

    Stakeholders hail Otti’s transformational leadership in Abia

    Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has continued to earn accolades from citizens, stakeholders, and development partners for what many describe as a new era of transparent, accountable, and reform-driven governance. 

    Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Otti’s administration has implemented far-reaching reforms across infrastructure, healthcare, education, security, and economic development.

    A Vision Rooted in Reform and Service

    Governor Otti’s approach to governance has been defined by professionalism, data-driven policies, and transparency. A former banker, he has infused private-sector discipline into public administration, guided by his declared vision “to serve all Abians, not a few people.”

    Upon taking office, Otti declared a state of emergency in critical sectors—roads, health, sanitation, and security—marking what observers have called a decisive break from the old order.

    One of the hallmarks of Otti’s administration is its focus on infrastructure renewal. Over 140 roads have been constructed or rehabilitated across Abia, including rural link roads that connect previously isolated communities.

    Major projects such as the expansion of Ossah Road in Umuahia into a six-lane Aguiyi Ironsi Boulevard and ongoing upgrades in Aba reflect the administration’s determination to transform the state’s transport and commercial landscape.

    Recognising that commerce depends on reliable power supply, Otti has also initiated key power sector interventions aimed at reducing infrastructural bottlenecks and stimulating economic activity. 

    “Our benchmark now is not just the kilometres built but the economic and social impact they deliver,” he said.

    The Otti administration has made healthcare and education central pillars of its development strategy. Through the “Project Ekwueme” initiative, the government is rehabilitating primary healthcare centres across all 184 wards and upgrading tertiary health institutions, including the Abia State University Teaching Hospital.

    In education, thousands of new teachers have been employed, while extensive school renovations are underway. The administration has also cleared years of unpaid salaries and pension arrears, restoring confidence and dignity among workers and retirees.

    Governor Otti’s economic blueprint emphasizes entrepreneurship, industrialization, and a conducive business environment. 

    Aba, the commercial heartbeat of the South East, is being repositioned through infrastructure upgrades, tax reforms, and the establishment of the Abia Industrial and Innovation Park—designed to attract investors and promote economic diversification.

    Reforms in the state’s revenue collection system have reduced burdens on traders while boosting internally generated revenue. 

    Abia has also attracted international development partners and donor agencies, a testament to growing investor confidence in the state’s governance model.

    Security and Good Governance

    Through initiatives like “Operation Crush,” the state government has enhanced security and ensured greater safety for residents and businesses. 

    Otti’s administration has also institutionalised merit-based processes across the civil service, with prompt payment systems and transparent recruitment procedures.

    Governor Otti’s leadership has drawn commendations from traditional rulers, civil society groups, and political observers. 

    Development partners have also renewed engagements with the state, citing its reform-minded governance and commitment to accountability.

    Prof. Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr, Convener of the CountryFirst Movement, described Otti’s administration as “a model of good governance and responsible leadership.”

    “Dr. Alex Otti’s performance is transforming Abia into a standard for excellence in public service,” he said, noting that the governor’s achievements reflect “what visionary, people-focused governance can deliver.”

  • INEC distributes BVAS, Forms EC8A and EC8B to local govts

    INEC distributes BVAS, Forms EC8A and EC8B to local govts

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has distributed sensitive materials for Saturday’s governorship election in Anambra State to all 21 local government areas.

    The materials, which include the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) devices and Forms EC8A and EC8B, were distributed on Thursday at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) office in Awka under the supervision of security agencies and media representatives.

    Addressing journalists at the venue, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Dr Queen Elizabeth Agwu, urged eligible voters to come out en masse to cast their votes rather than staying at home.

    “People should come out and vote; participate in this election process. Do not stay at home thinking your vote will not count, and do not assume your candidate has already won,” she said. “INEC is fully prepared for this election, and we assure the people of Anambra State of a credible and peaceful exercise.”

    Dr Agwu explained that the distribution of materials began as early as 9 a.m. and proceeded smoothly without any challenges, reflecting the commission’s readiness for the poll.

    “We have been at the CBN since 9 a.m., and everything has gone smoothly without any challenge or complaint. This shows our readiness and commitment to delivering a credible election,” she added.

    She said the commission had commenced the movement and distribution of three key sensitive materials — BVAS, Forms EC8A, and Forms EC8B — to the various Registration Area Centres (RACs) as part of final preparations for the election.

    Read Also: Parents of public school pupils for Soludo

    Dr Agwu reaffirmed that INEC had made comprehensive arrangements in collaboration with political parties, security agencies, and civil society organisations to ensure that the exercise is free, fair, transparent, and credible.

    Also speaking, the Commissioner of Police in charge of the Anambra election, Abayomi Shogunle, said the number of security personnel deployed for the poll had been increased from 45,000 to 55,000 officers to guarantee adequate security across the state.

    “The increase in security personnel is not to intimidate eligible voters but to ensure effective operations and safety at every polling unit,” Shogunle said. “We want to guarantee voters’ confidence in coming out to cast their ballots without fear.”

    According to him, the deployment includes officers from the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Immigration Service, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Department of State Services (DSS), and other sister agencies.

    At least three security personnel are expected to be stationed at each polling unit across the state to safeguard both voters and electoral officials during the exercise.

  • Amupitan pledges electoral justice to curb post-election litigations

    Amupitan pledges electoral justice to curb post-election litigations

    Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has pledged to champion what he described as “electoral justice” to reduce the high number of post-election litigations in the country.

    Speaking with reporters in Awka on Thursday, Amupitan said his vision is to make Nigeria’s elections so transparent and law-abiding that losing candidates would have no justification to challenge results in court.

    “One of the things I want to introduce is electoral justice — so that if you lose, you know you have lost,” he said. “When people see that justice has been served, they are more likely to accept the outcome.”

    The INEC chairman said that while the commission cannot stop aggrieved candidates from seeking legal redress, strict adherence to the law by all stakeholders would reduce disputes. He stressed the importance of conducting elections that leave no loopholes for tribunals to exploit.

    Read Also: Parents of public school pupils for Soludo

    Amupitan also called for reforms to penalise frivolous petitions, noting that the commission was considering proposals to amend the Electoral Act to impose costs on petitioners who file baseless cases.

    He said credible logistics, compliance with regulations, and inclusivity — especially for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) — would further strengthen electoral integrity.

    “People may still go to court, but when they see that INEC is serious and transparent, litigation will naturally reduce,” he added.

    Amupitan reaffirmed his commitment to improving electoral processes and ensuring that every election under his watch meets both legal and moral standards. (NAN)

  • Soludo’s kinsmen donate N200m for his re-election

    Soludo’s kinsmen donate N200m for his re-election

    The people of Isuofia in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State have donated over N200 million in support of the re-election bid of  Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, their son.

    The gesture came during a grand homecoming ceremony held at the Central School Field, Isuofia, where residents gathered in large numbers to welcome the governor ahead of Saturday’s governorship election.

    According to the organisers, the donation was aimed at securing a decisive victory for Soludo and ensuring the continuity of his administration’s development agenda.

    Speaking at the event, the President General of the Isuofia People’s Movement, Fidelis Okafor, alongside Ifeanyi Ifemelu and other community leaders, declared total support for the governor’s re-election on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

    Okafor said Soludo had remained accessible to his people and responsive to their needs.

    Read Also: Catholic Knights endorse Soludo’s re-election

    “As our son, Governor Soludo has always been available to us, listening to our concerns and addressing our needs,” he stated. “His dedication to grassroots governance has truly transformed the state and projected our community in a good light.”

    Ifemelu, in his remarks, praised the governor’s policies and leadership style, saying they have had a tangible impact on the lives of Anambra residents.

    “His policies have touched every sector and improved the quality of life for our people. He needs to return to the office to continue this momentum. We need his leadership now more than ever,” he said.

    Also speaking, community leader Chief Evarist Ubah commended Soludo’s vision and performance, urging the people of Isuofia to rally behind him at the polls.

    “Soludo has shown unwavering commitment to our state. We must stand by him and ensure he has the mandate to continue his good work,” Ubah declared.

    In his response, Governor Soludo expressed gratitude to his kinsmen for their overwhelming show of support and solidarity, urging them to translate their enthusiasm into votes for APGA on election day.

    He called on all eligible voters to participate actively in the election, describing voting as a civic duty that shapes the collective future of the state.

    “Across Anambra, people say we are the consensus candidate,” Soludo said. “But your vote is your voice. On Saturday, I urge each of you to make that voice heard. Grassroots mobilisation is key to shaping the future of our state.”

    Reflecting on his administration’s achievements, the governor highlighted the progress recorded across sectors since he assumed office, including road infrastructure, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment.

    “We have accomplished so much together, but there is still more work to be done,” he added. “Your continued support is vital for us to reach our goals. Election day is not just about choosing leaders; it is about choosing the future we want for our children and generations to come. Let us come together and show the strength of our community.”

    The homecoming rally in Isuofia served not only as a show of political strength and solidarity but also as a celebration of unity, community pride, and grassroots mobilisation ahead of Saturday’s election.

  • We’re neutral, adequate security in place, says IGP

    We’re neutral, adequate security in place, says IGP

    Ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Anambra State, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has assured that the police and other security agencies will remain neutral while providing adequate security throughout the exercise.

    Egbetokun gave the assurance on Thursday at the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters, Ikeja, shortly after laying the foundation stone for a state-of-the-art, multi-layered conference centre being built by the Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh.

    He disclosed that two Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (DIGs) leading the election security contingent were already in Anambra to oversee operations and coordinate personnel drawn from various security agencies.

    “We are fully prepared to provide security for the election in Anambra. We have completed our deployment. Two DIGs are already on the ground supervising all the security agencies deployed for this election,” the IGP said.

    Egbetokun stated that the force had made comprehensive preparations to ensure a peaceful and credible exercise similar to previous elections in Edo, Ondo, and other states.

    Read Also: Parents of public school pupils for Soludo

    “We have deployed adequately, and I don’t expect anything different from what we achieved in Edo and Ondo. I want to assure Nigerians of a level playing field for all candidates,” he said.

    The police chief reaffirmed the neutrality of the Nigeria Police Force, stressing that it had no preferred candidate in the election.

    “The Nigeria Police Force does not have a candidate in this election. Our commitment and loyalty are to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Egbetokun said.

    He encouraged voters in Anambra to come out and exercise their franchise without fear, assuring them of maximum security and a peaceful environment.

    “Voters in Anambra are encouraged to come out and cast their votes. We do not envisage any issue in Anambra on Saturday. Security is guaranteed, and I am positive that everything will go smoothly,” he added.

  • TAF Africa to PWD observers: be civil, shun confrontations

    TAF Africa to PWD observers: be civil, shun confrontations

    TAF Africa has urged its 150 trained election observers monitoring the participation of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Saturday’s governorship election in Anambra State to be civil, professional, and non-confrontational while carrying out their duties.

    Senior Programme Officer George Anwayi, who spoke during a training session in Awka funded by the European Union, said the observers would track PWDs’ participation and assess the provisions made for them by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    “Our focus is to ensure INEC keeps its promise to make polling units accessible and inclusive,” Anwayi said.

    Read Also: Parents of public school pupils for Soludo

    He explained that reports would be sent in real time to TAF Africa’s Disability Election Hub, where data would be analysed. The observers, he added, include sign language interpreters assigned to selected polling units for hearing-impaired voters.

    Anwayi expressed optimism that INEC would provide the necessary assistive materials, such as Braille ballot guides and magnifying glasses, to ensure seamless participation for PWDs.

    “Observers must remain impartial and report only what they see. You are there to observe, not to interfere,” he cautioned.

    He noted that Anambra’s deployment was the largest by TAF Africa so far and reflected growing inclusion in the electoral process.

  • All eyes on Soludo, Ukachukwu, as voters decide who can deliver

    All eyes on Soludo, Ukachukwu, as voters decide who can deliver

    As Anambra State winds down campaigns ahead of tomorrow’s governorship election, the air is thick with promises and anticipation. Across Awka, Onitsha, and Nnewi, residents are reflecting on weeks of intense politicking and wondering which of the candidates will truly walk the talk.

    The 2025 race has been unusually competitive and policy-driven. Unlike past elections often coloured by personality or sectional politics, this year’s contest has seen candidates present governance plans and measurable targets.

    At the forefront is Governor Charles Soludo, the candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), who has campaigned on continuity and consolidation. He has promised to sustain ongoing infrastructure and urban renewal projects across the state.

    Soludo’s message — “Ochili mma ga-achi ozo” (He who has led well deserves another chance) — resonates with many who believe his administration has kept the state stable. But critics argue that his campaign has not addressed issues such as job creation, insecurity, and transparency. Some also question the progress of his earlier pledge to make Anambra the “Taiwan and Dubai of Nigeria.”

    His major challenger, Dr Nicholas Ukachukwu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has built his message around restoration and inclusive growth. He promises to revive the state’s economy through industrial expansion in Nnewi and Onitsha and create a business-friendly environment to attract investors.

    Analysts, however, doubt the feasibility of his plans, citing the absence of clear funding strategies.

    Another notable contender, Chief George Moghalu of the Labour Party (LP) and a former Managing Director of the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), is running on a platform of reform. He has focused on improving security through community policing and boosting education through technology and teacher retraining. Moghalu has also pledged to revive technical and vocational education to empower young people.

    Read Also: Parents of public school pupils for Soludo

    Political observers describe his plans as innovative but doubt whether the Labour Party has the grassroots machinery to pull an upset, especially since its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has kept a low profile in the race.

    Others in the race include Chief John Chuma-Nwosu of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and several minor-party candidates. Yet, most analysts describe the election as a two-horse race between Soludo and Ukachukwu.

    Across party lines, the common thread in all manifestos remains the promise to tackle Anambra’s lingering challenges — insecurity, youth unemployment, and poor infrastructure. But beyond rhetoric, few candidates have outlined how they intend to fund or sustain their plans.

    Civil society organisations, including the Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) and Yiaga Africa, have urged voters to scrutinise the candidates’ plans critically.

    “Voters should interrogate the manifestos and the candidates’ capacity to implement them,” a Yiaga Africa official said in Awka. “A good promise without a plan is just politics as usual.”

    In the streets, opinions are divided. At Eke Awka Market, a trader dismissed the campaigns as routine.

    “We’ve heard all these promises before,” he said. “Once they win, they forget the people.”

    But a lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, offered a different view.

    “This year’s campaigns were more intellectual,” he said. “If the candidates keep half of what they’ve promised, Anambra will move forward. The problem is implementation.”

    Observers say social media has played a major role in shaping this year’s contest. Candidates have taken to online platforms to defend their records, while young voters use the same channels to demand accountability and transparency.

    As campaigns officially close, the mood in Anambra is one of cautious optimism. Many voters say they will cast their ballots based on credibility and competence rather than party loyalty or regional sentiment.

    Meanwhile, the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) has urged eligible voters to come out en masse and exercise their franchise without fear.

    In a statement signed by its Chairman, Emeka Umeagbalasi, and two other officials, the group appealed to the over 2.5 million registered voters in the state to resist voter apathy and intimidation.

    It, however, expressed concern over what it called “recurring gun-culture threats” and the militarisation of voting environments, warning that excessive show of force could dampen voter turnout.

    As the state goes to the polls, one question dominates conversations from Awka to Ekwulobia: Who among the candidates will turn their promises into action?

  • EU deploys 687 observers

    EU deploys 687 observers

    The European Union (EU) has deployed 687 election observers to monitor Saturday’s governorship election in Anambra State, reaffirming its commitment to credible, peaceful, and inclusive elections in Nigeria.

    Through the EU Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) programme, the Union said it is enabling civil society partners to deploy observers, strengthen peacebuilding, advance disability and gender inclusion, counter misinformation, and boost public confidence in the democratic process.

    Seven of the 16 implementing partners under the EU-SDGN programme — including The Kukah Centre, Yiaga Africa, International Press Centre (IPC), Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO), Nigeria Women Trust Fund (NWTF), ElectHER, and TAF Africa — are currently on the ground in Anambra.

    According to the EU, these organisations are operating from a Unified Election Observation Hub, designed to ensure coordination, message alignment, and shared visibility throughout the election.

    “The key feature of this unified deployment is to obtain a broad view of the election by utilising the diverse skills and experience of the EU-SDGN partners,” the EU said in a statement. “The findings will be analysed and compiled into a comprehensive report that will be made public and accessible to all stakeholders.”

    The EU noted that the deployment of 687 observers across Anambra is one of the most extensive civil society-led observation missions ever recorded for a state election in Nigeria.

    Read Also: Parents of public school pupils for Soludo

    Observers are working in coordinated clusters covering election integrity, peacebuilding, disability inclusion, gender participation, media and misinformation tracking, logistics observation, and real-time data reporting.

    “Each cluster is collecting evidence from a different angle. When those findings are merged, they offer a fuller, verifiable picture of the election that no single organisation could produce alone,” the EU cohort stated.

    The observers’ thematic areas include: Election integrity and results verification; Disability inclusion, with trained observers and sign language interpreters; Gender participation, tracking women’s involvement in the process; Media and misinformation tracking, through deployed journalists and fact-checkers; Peacebuilding and conflict prevention; and Monitoring of polling logistics and distribution of sensitive materials.

    The statement added: “This election is an opportunity to demonstrate that inclusion and credibility are shared democratic standards. Working from a single hub enables us to coordinate evidence, avoid duplication, and deliver a unified assessment of the process.”

    Earlier in the week, the EU-SDGN programme supported the signing of the Anambra Election Peace Accord, which brought together all candidates and political parties.

    “The Peace Accord is not the conclusion but the beginning of responsibility. Candidates must not only sign for peace but act peacefully and respect the will of voters,” the EU partners said.

    Ahead of the election, the EU-SDGN programme also presented a Joint Pre-Election Assessment Report, which analysed the political climate, security situation, media environment, and levels of gender and disability inclusion. The report offered 66 actionable recommendations aimed at strengthening electoral credibility, voter access, and institutional preparedness.

    The EU-SDGN programme, funded by the European Union, is a civil society-led initiative that promotes credible, inclusive, and peaceful elections across Nigeria.

    The statement further outlined the specific roles of implementing partners: The Kukah Centre leads on peacebuilding and interfaith dialogue; Yiaga Africa anchors election observation and data-driven civic participation; IPC and CEMESO advance media professionalism, monitoring, and counter-misinformation efforts; NWTF and ElectHER drive women’s political inclusion and leadership, promoting greater representation of women and young women in politics; and TAF Africa champions disability rights and inclusive electoral participation for persons with disabilities.

    With this deployment, the EU reaffirmed its continued support for Nigeria’s democratic process, stressing that credible elections remain the cornerstone of good governance and stability in the country.

  • ‘Efficiency, integrity, impartiality tests will shape electoral credibility’

    ‘Efficiency, integrity, impartiality tests will shape electoral credibility’

    Yiaga Africa has identified logistics efficiency, procedural integrity, and the impartiality of security agencies as the three key factors that will determine the credibility of Saturday’s governorship election in Anambra State.

    Chair of the Yiaga Africa 2025 Anambra Election Mission, Dr Asmau Maikudi, stated this yesterday in Awka at a pre-election media briefing.

    She said the three tests would serve as a litmus test for public confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and political actors.

    “Failure to meet these standards could further erode voter trust and deepen the legitimacy crisis in Nigeria’s democracy,” Maikudi warned.

    Read Also: Parents of public school pupils for Soludo

    She urged all stakeholders to commit to peaceful, transparent, and inclusive elections, adding that Yiaga Africa would expose any manipulation of results that did not reflect votes recorded at polling stations.

    Executive Director Samson Itodo said 687 observers from Yiaga and partner organisations would be deployed under the Election Observation Hub, which includes The Kukah Centre, IPC, CEMESO, NWTF, ElectHER, and TAF Africa.

    He urged INEC to ensure uniform use of the BVAS for accreditation, strengthen logistics oversight, and hold transport companies accountable.

    Yiaga also called on security agencies to maintain neutrality and professionalism, cautioning against intimidation of voters, political actors, or observers.

    “Security operations must be intelligence-led and impartial to guarantee voter confidence,” the group said.