The Nation Newspaper

Category: SouthEast

  • Group seek Tinubu’s intervention on delayed Uyo road project

    Group seek Tinubu’s intervention on delayed Uyo road project

    The Renaissance Youth Movement (RYM) has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in ensuring that the people of Uyo Federal Constituency receive the development projects allocated to them.

    In a statement signed by the group’s Convener, Akpan Essien, RYM expressed concern over the non-execution of a federal road project valued at ₦400 million, which was captured in the 2024 budget and assigned to the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI) under the Federal Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation.

    The group noted that the road project, listed under Project Code ERGP202473335 and expected to impact several parts of Uyo Federal Constituency, has yet to show any signs of mobilisation or construction activity.

    RYM stated that it had resolved to initiate constitutional recall proceedings against the member representing Uyo Federal Constituency, Hon. Mark Esset, citing the need for improved project monitoring, timely implementation, accountability from executing agencies, and sustained defence of constituents’ interests.

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    According to the group, the abandoned project is negatively affecting transportation, local commerce, agricultural trade, and access to essential services within the constituency. It added that the delay in execution has increased travel time and costs, limited access to healthcare and education, and disrupted economic activities.

    RYM outlined its next steps, which include petitioning oversight bodies to review the project, requesting a public update from NBRRI and the supervising ministry, and mobilising community stakeholders for civic engagement.

    The group called for either immediate commencement of the project or a refund of the ₦400 million allocation, stating that development funds must translate into measurable outcomes for citizens.

  • Ughelli monarch hails Oborevwori on Otovwodo flyover

    Ughelli monarch hails Oborevwori on Otovwodo flyover

    The Ovie of Ughelli Kingdom, HRM Wilson Ojakovo, Oharisi III, has hailed Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for the Otovwodo flyover, describing it as a transformative project that will redefine Ughelli.

    Speaking at his palace on Tuesday after the project’s groundbreaking, the monarch said the flyover marked a major development milestone that would improve mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and boost economic activities.

    He commended the Governor’s leadership, citing completed roads around the Otovwodo axis, other infrastructure projects in the kingdom, and the inclusion of Ughelli indigenes in key positions.

    “This flyover will permanently change the face of Ughelli and be remembered by generations yet unborn,” he said.

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    He pledged the kingdom’s support and prayers for the Governor.

    Oborevwori thanked the monarch and people of Ughelli, reaffirming his commitment to impactful infrastructure delivery under the MORE Agenda.

    The governor noted that the flyover would enhance traffic flow, safety, and commerce.

    The Governor also visited Olorogun Morrison Olori, founder of the Ukodo Nation Political Support Group, where he received commendation and assurances of continued support ahead of the 2027 elections.

  • Prioritise payment of local contractors, APC group charges Tinubu, Ministers

    Prioritise payment of local contractors, APC group charges Tinubu, Ministers

    The National Forum of APC Young Professionals (NFAYP), on Sunday, told President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Federal Government, to intensive efforts in clearing up the outstanding debts owed the indigenous contractors in Nigeria.

    It advised Ministers of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun; Works, Engr. Dave Umahi and the Accountant-General of the Federation (AGoF), Mr. Shamsedeen Babatunde Ogunjimi; against placing premiums on the foreign contractors above their local counterparts.

    The call is coming on the heels of the protracted faceoff between the Federal Government and the Indigenous Contractors in Nigeria.

    The last quarter of the year 2025 witnessed a lot of protests from the contractors over unpaid debts of the already executed and commissioned projects contained in the 2024 budget.

    The Contractors, barricading the main entrance to the National Assembly and Ministry of Finance for weeks, were demanding payment of over N4tr debt owed them in the projects they executed the previous year.

    In a statement by the National Chairman, Engr. Lukman Adejobi, and Secretary, Dr. Godwin Lukas, the National Forum of APC Young Professionals bemoaned the inability of the Federal Government to fulfill its promises, despite series of interventions and commitments.

    “Despite the interventions of the National Assembly in October and the Presidential Committee set up by our dear President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in December, 2025; the Ministers and Attorney-General of the Federation have refused to clear the arrears.

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    “They made some payments but to a large extent, over N2tr is still outstanding, according to our findings. This non-payment of debts owed indigenous contractors is seriously affecting us politically, aside the economic aspect of it.”

    The statement further stressed the insincerity on the part of the Federal Government to fulfill its obligation to the local contractors, most of whom, the Forum alluded, took loans before executing the contracts, saying, it has greatly weakened their credit profile and rendered some companies bankrupt.

    “We the Members of National Forum of APC Young Professionals (NFAYP) find this very harmful to our economy. 

    “We have sounded this warning severally. You are complaining of lack of funds and said you have appropriated the sum of N1.8tr in the 2026 budget, to clear outstandings of the 2024 capital projects executed by indigenous contractors; but you are paying foreign contractors, how do you want their local counterparts to feel? 

    The Forum called on the Federal Government to take desperate steps to urgently attend to the obligations owed the indigenous contractors while calling on the contactors to shelve their planned protests this January and give the Federal Government a little more time, to enable the outstandings of 2024 budget cleared.

  • Court reinstates Prof. Igwe as Fed Neuropsychiatric Hospital Enugu’s medical director

    Court reinstates Prof. Igwe as Fed Neuropsychiatric Hospital Enugu’s medical director

    The National Industrial Court (NICN) in Abuja has quashed the suspension and termination of the appointment of Prof. Monday Igwe as the Medical Director of Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Enugu State.

    Justice Emmanuel Subilim, in a judgment, held that the procedure adopted in terminating his appointment was flawed and subsequently ordered Dr. Igwe’s reinstatement.

    Justice Subilim said, “From the foregoing comprehensive analysis, and having carefully weighed the evidence on the preponderance of probabilities, this court finds that the claimant (Dr. Igwe) has discharged the heavy burden of proof placed upon him.

    “The procedure adopted for the purported termination of the claimant’s appointment was arbitrary, illegal, and a fundamental breach of the mandatory statutory provisions and regulations governing his employment.

    “Consequently, the termination is hereby declared null and void, and of no effect whatsoever. I so hold,” the judge held.

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    Justice Subilim, in the judgment delivered on December 11, 2025, a certified true copy (CTC) of which was seen on Sunday, set aside the appointment of Dr. Unaogu Ngozichukwu Nneka as Dr. Igwe’s replacement.

    In the judgment on the suit marked: NICN/ABJ/130/2024, the judge noted that Dr. Ngozichukwu’s appointment, which was done during the pendency of the suit, was overreaching and unlawful.

    Defendants in the suit were the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare; the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare; the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare; the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF); Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare; Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Enugu, Enugu State and the Medical Director, Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital Enugu State, Dr. Unaogu Ngozihukwu Nneka.

    Justice Subilim ordered that Dr. Igwe be reinstated to complete his remaining three years and five months, which is left of his tenure of office.

    The judge also issued an order directing the payment of the claimant’s emolument from September 2023 to the date of delivery of the judgment.

    Justice Subilim added, “It follows therefore, the reliefs (a) (b), (c), (d), (e), (f) and (g), as sought by the claimant, hereby succeed in their entirety.

    “On relief (h) which is a claim of general damages, the court held, “From the evidence before this court, the salary of the claimant was unlawfully stopped when he was suspended in September 2023.

    “I have already made an order for the payment of all his emoluments from September 2023 to date, which addresses the specific financial loss of salary.

    “However, the claimant has also suffered significant distress, inconvenience, reputational damage, and disruption to his career and personal life as a direct consequence of the arbitrary and unlawful termination of his statutory employment.

    “In view of these factors, and having considered the totality of the circumstances, I hereby award the sum of N3m,” he said.

    The judge struck out the name of AGF from the suit because the claimant was unable to establish involvement of AGF’s involvement in the case.

  • Commissioner calls for efficiency as Enugu expands infrastructure drive

    Commissioner calls for efficiency as Enugu expands infrastructure drive

    The Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Ben Osy Okoh, has convened the first management meeting of the Ministry for the year, urging directors, engineers, architects, and other senior officials to brace up for increased responsibilities.

    This is just as the state government intensifies infrastructure development across Enugu State.

    The meeting reviewed the Ministry’s operational status, assessed available resources, and reaffirmed its strategic priorities in line with its mandate and the state government’s development vision.

    Okoh said while certain operational refinements may be introduced to enhance efficiency, the Ministry’s core mandate remains unchanged and firmly aligned with the administration’s infrastructure transformation agenda.

    He disclosed that the Ministry is concluding the second phase of urban road projects, alongside the delivery of 260 Smart Green Schools, 260 Primary Healthcare Centres, the ICC International Hotel, and the International Hospital. 

    According to him, the award and commencement of construction of 1,022 urban roads under Phase Three, recently approved by the State Executive Council, would begin shortly.

    The Commissioner stressed the need for deliberate coordination, effective supervision, and efficient deployment of human and material resources as project delivery expands across both urban and rural areas of the state.

    “We must plan ourselves properly so that we are not overwhelmed,” he said.

    He directed Heads of Departments to ensure optimal utilisation of manpower through structured task allocation, capacity-driven assignments, and purposeful engagement of all personnel to sustain productivity and strengthen institutional effectiveness.

    Calling on staff to fully align with the vision of the state, Engr. Okoh encouraged innovative and forward-looking approaches to service delivery. 

    He highlighted major flagship projects, including the proposed Monorail Project and the 30-storey Twin Towers at the New Enugu City, noting that the initiatives would significantly redefine the development narrative of the state.

    “These projects will change the story of Enugu State. We must therefore prepare ourselves for more complex and transformative assignments,” he stated.

    He further directed that clear performance benchmarks and quarterly deliverables be articulated to support effective monitoring and continuous improvement across departments, stressing that collective commitment is essential to achieving the Ministry’s objectives.

    The Commissioner concluded by calling for speed and efficiency in official processes, urging staff to ensure prompt treatment of files. “Anything that can be done today should not be postponed till tomorrow,” he said.

  • Kalu accuses Otti of political desperation, sure of APC’s victory in 2027

    Kalu accuses Otti of political desperation, sure of APC’s victory in 2027

    Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North) has accused Governor Alex Otti of what he described as a “vitriolic and desperate political attack.”

    The senator accused Otti of descending into personal insults rather than focusing on governance, warning that such antics would not derail his commitment to strengthening the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia ahead of the 2027 elections.

    In a statement by Head of Media, Senator Kalu Media Office, Sunday Maduka,
    Kalu said the Governor’s comments reflect insecurity and a fear of the APC’s rising influence in the state.

    He described Otti’s attacks as a “shameful spectacle” and a diversion from the administration’s failures to deliver on promises to the people of Abia.

    Kalu stated: “His diatribe, which is laced with invectives and drips with political desperation, against me for simply affirming my unwavering loyalty to APC, is nothing short of a shameful spectacle. This is not governance. It is gutter politics at its lowest. It is a frantic attempt by an administration to deflect from its own inadequacies.

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    “The exercise of my fundamental right as a loyal party man and patriot, and the expression of my commitment to bolstering APC’s presence in Abia State ahead of 2027, including supporting President Bola Tinubu’s re-election and ensuring a strong APC governorship candidate, is not a crime. In doing these, I am fulfilling my duty to my party and the people of Abia State.”

    Kalu further urged Otti to focus on addressing pressing issues such as healthcare, youth unemployment, and security rather than engage in petty political confrontations.

    He insisted that Abians are discerning voters who will judge leaders based on performance and not invective-laden propaganda, adding: “I remain undeterred in my commitment to the APC. This is not personal ambition but a dedication to Nigeria’s unity and prosperity.

    “Otti’s negativity will only strengthen my resolve to mobilise every resource legally, ethically, and vigorously, to ensure APC’s triumph in 2027. If he chooses to stay in his sinking Labour Party ship, so be it; we will fight on the field of ideas, policies, and people power.”

  • 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.”