The Nation Newspaper

Category: SouthEast

  • Onoh celebrates Onanuga at 67

    Onoh celebrates Onanuga at 67

    The former President Bola Tinubu’s South East Spokesman and current Chairman, Forum of former Members of Enugu House of Assembly, Dr Josef Onoh, has eulogised the Special Adviser to President on Information and Strategy, Chief Bayo Onanuga as the veteran journalist clocked 67 years. 

    Onoh recalled Onanugu’s bravery and sacrifices during the fight against military dictatorship in Nigeria during the jack boot days, noting that the veteran publisher never wavered in his commitment to the restoration of democracy the country.

    He wished Onanuga more years to enjoy the fruits of his labour and the continue to push for strengthening of democracy in Nigeria, stating that his longevity is a testament to his unshakeable belief in a free and just society.

    In a his anniversary wish, Onoh said: “Happy 67th birthday to a veteran journalist, patriot, and one of the champions of democracy in Nigeria, Chief Bayo Onanuga. As Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, your wealth of experience and expertise continue to serve our nation well.

    Read Also: Onoh proposes referendum for Biafra Agitators, condemns killing of soldiers

    “I salute your courage and sacrifices in fighting against military dictatorship in Nigeria during the dark days. Your unwavering commitment to the restoration of democracy is a testament to your unshakeable belief in a free and just society.

    “Your dedication to the profession and service to our nation is an inspiration to many. May this milestone birthday be a celebration of your remarkable achievements and a reminder of the impact your work has had on our country’s journey towards democratic freedom.

    “Congratulations, Chief Bayo Onanuga! May this new year bring you continued strength, wisdom, and joy.”

  • Edo elders condemn insults against Oba of Benin by Labour Party supporters

    Edo elders condemn insults against Oba of Benin by Labour Party supporters

    A coalition of civil society organizations in Edo state has strongly condemned the “unwarranted barrage of insults and abuses” being directed at the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Oba Ewuare II, by supporters of the Labour Party and its gubernatorial candidate, Olumide Akpata.

    The coalition, which operates under the umbrella of the Edo socio-cultural advancement and good governance initiative, expressed shock and disappointment at what it described as a “childish, unwarranted and unacceptable behaviour” of some Labour Party supporters across various social media platforms.

    In a press statement made available to journalists, the coalition’s spokesman, Comrade Melvin Irabor, said the Oba was not out of place in correcting Akpata’s claim to be the “son of the palace.”

    “Our Oba was not out of place in correcting the erroneous remarks and insinuations by the Labour Party candidate, Olumide Akpata, for claiming to be the ‘Son of the Palace”, Irabor said.

    The coalition noted that it was inundated with a “barrage of abuses” on the revered Oba of Benin by Akpata’s supporters on platforms such as Sahara Reporters, Nairaland Forum, Twitter, and Facebook.

    Irabor read out some of the “disappointing comments,” including one by a user named Richard Wilson, who described the Oba as a “useless ruler,” and another by Evang. 

    Paschal Chidiebere, who suggested that the Oba would have “warmly received” Akpata if he had brought “money full of ‘Ghana must go.’”

    Read Also: You are not a child of the Palace, Oba of Benin tells LP’s Akpata

    The coalition emphasised that the Oba of Benin, as the “mouthpiece of the gods and the revered royal father of the kingdom,” has a responsibility to stay apolitical and correct any candidate making “erroneous remarks and insinuations.”

    “Every candidate contesting in this election has the support and blessings of our Oba. He is the father of all and he wishes every one of them well,” Irabor stated.

    The coalition warned the Labour Party supporters to desist from hurling insults on the Oba, stating that such actions would be considered an “affront on the palace.” 

    It called on all political parties to conduct their campaigns in a “democratic manner and keep the campaign, issues-based.”

  • Jubilation as Soludo’s wife offers free health insurance worth N12.5m to PWDs in Anambra

    Jubilation as Soludo’s wife offers free health insurance worth N12.5m to PWDs in Anambra

    Jubilation erupted on Wednesday, June 13, at the Governor’s Lodge in Anambra State as the governor’s wife, Nonye Soludo, enrolled 1,000 Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) into the state’s Health Insurance scheme.

    During a town hall meeting organized to promote her Healthy Living Initiative, Soludo announced that the package, valued at N12,500 each, aims to ensure equal representation and opportunities for all.

    She emphasized that with adequate attention, PWDs can contribute unique values to the journey towards a livable and prosperous Anambra State.

    She urged the beneficiaries to use the health premium fully to their advantage, just as she advised them to prioritise their health, eat right, and imbibe personal and environmental hygiene to stay healthy and alive.

    She said: “I invited you because I love you all and look out for you. My husband’s administration also appreciates your undying desire to bring your best to the table of good governance.

    “As I behold your amazing faces, I see strength, tenacity, doggedness, and unbeatable ambitions. This is why Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, is giving out 1000 health insurance slots free to PWDs in the state.

    “This is our own way of saying that we care about you and we know that health is the greatest wealth. This free health insurance will be your passport to access the best medicare anywhere in the state.

    ‘I want you to ensure that you use the health insurance fully to your advantage. When you notice any sign of infirmity, do not waste time visiting your doctor,” she said.

    Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities in Anambra, Mr Ugochukwu Okeke requested the inclusion of PWDs in the Healthy Living campaign.

    He regretted that PWDs were more affected by issues of healthy living as a result of different challenges hinging on their various nature of disabilities.

    “Including PWDs in your campaign will help get the awareness and support down to our members, thereby enabling an inclusive society,” he said.

    Read Also: Soludo warns against approving unsustainable wage

    Also speaking, the Director of Centre for Disability and Special Needs Research, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Prof. Williams Obiozor advocated for more support and inclusion of persons with disabilities in society.

    He said empowering and catering to the well-being of PWDs was a collective effort and should not be left to the government alone.

    Earlier, Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo appreciated the Governor’s wife for the demonstration of love for persons with disabilities in the state.

    On his part, Executive Secretary of Anambra State Health Insurance Agency, Simeon Onyemaechi, said the package cost N12,500 annually to get medicines and treatments for health conditions covered by the scheme.

  • NDLEA laments women’s involvement in illicit drug

    NDLEA laments women’s involvement in illicit drug

    …as Soludo launches “Clean Anambra of substance abuse”

    National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Anambra state has expressed worry over the growing number of women involved in drug abuse, saying one out of every four users of illicit drugs is a woman.

    State Commandant, Dan Onyishi stated this on Thursday in Awka during the launch of Operation Clean Anambra of Substance Abuse by Healthy Living With Nonye Soludo.

    Delivering a seminar on “Role of Opinion Leaders in Fight against Drug/Substance Abuse in Our Communities”, Onyishi regretted that Nigeria has a 14.4 percent drug abuse prevalence rate, with a 40 percent projection by 2030.

    He said: “According to recent statistics, Nigeria alone has 14.4 percent drug abuse prevalence rate and it was projected that by 2030 it will rise to 40 percent if nothing is done.

    “The major concern is that women, especially young girls are embracing substance abuse. One out of every four drug abusers is women and one out of five will suffer substance abuse disorder.

    “As key nurturers, moulders and caregivers in the society, women should not be involved in illicit drug abuse. As an agency, we are taking the sensitisation and enforcement into the communities because the grassroots campaign is one sure way to address the menace of drug abuse.

    “We’ll also collaborate with the governor’s wife who is Chairperson of the State Drug Control Committee in the state so that the 40% projections would not come to pass in the state.”

    Wife of the State Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo lamented that substance abuse had become a pandemic in the society and required collective effort to tackle.

    She blamed the high rate of crimes, violence, and health complications especially among youths to the menace, urging parents to be closer to their children to monitor their activities, listen, and counsel them daily.

    She said: “Watching our young, vibrant population held back and fighting for freedom from this avoidable danger brought tears to my eyes. That visit is one of the reasons we are here today

    “Most disheartening is the fact that these dangerous substances have found their way into schools and into the hands of children.

    “The illicit drug economies are booming to the detriment of our society. The proliferation of synthetic psychoactive substances is another issue of crunch concern.

    Read Also: NDLEA intercepts shipment of 175, 000 bottles of Codeine from India

    “Our homes are losing the sacredness of culture and moral traditions. Our communities have become havens for drug peddlers and manufacturers who use the element of fear and intimidation to silence the people who are willing to assist local authorities with valid information.

    “Unemployment, deprivations, and social crisis have also played their part in heightening the danger. It is now time to take the bull by the horns and approach the problem with the seriousness that it deserves.

    Earlier, Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike said that the campaign would save the youths from degenerating into a generational tragedy with drug addiction.

    President-General of Anambra State Association of Town Union, Titus Akpudo promised to take the message against substance abuse to the nooks and crannies of the state.

  • Permanent Secretary denies alleged sexual harassment

    Permanent Secretary denies alleged sexual harassment

    The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ibrahim Lamuwa, has denied the allegation of sexual harassment by Simisola Fajemirokun-Ajayi, a staff member of the ministry.

    The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, on May 27, 2024 wrote to the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Folasade Yemi-Esan, to probe the allegation.

    “Bearing in mind the gravity of the matter, I feel it necessary to draw your attention to it and ask that you handle it accordingly,” Tuggar wrote in the cover attached with the petition.

    In an official reaction, through his legal team led by Audu Anuga (SAN), Lamuwa strongly denied all the assertions by Mrs Fajemirokun-Ajayi, one of the minister’s aides.

    In the statement published by PRNigeria on Wednesday, Anuga faulted the claims, saying the accuser read wrong meanings to courteous dispositions of the Permanent Secretary.

    It reads: “We are legal representatives of Ambassador Ibrahim Lamuwa, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, have been authorised to make the following statement on his behalf, in response to allegations of sexual harassment levelled against him by Mrs Simisola O. Fajemirokun-Ajayi, an aide to the Honorable Minister of Foreign Affairs.

    “The media, particularly the social media, has been inundated with the digital copy of a petition written by legal representatives of Mrs. Fajemirokun-Ajayi against Amb. Lamuwa. This petition was leaked to generate sympathy for her unsubstantiated claims.

    “We wish to state categorically that our client has never made any sexual advances towards Mrs. Simisola O. Fajemirokun-Ajayi, who he is aware is a married woman, neither has he ever made suggestive comments or innuendos that requested any form of untoward relationship between himself and her.

    “Our client distinctly recalls the events at the ministry’s retreat on October 7th 2023 where Mrs Fajemirokun-Ajayi claims that he invited her to his room. Our client states categorically that he never made such an invitation and that his only communication with Mrs Fajemirokun-Ajayi, which was an overt one, was where he checked on her, like he did to all participants on whether they had been well-lodged in their hotels.

    “He further recalls that the instance where he spoke of her as a nursing mother, during the same retreat was in a colloquial conversation they were having with other participants, where one participant even responded jokingly that when a woman says “her baby” it could mean either her husband or one of her children, of which he innocuously joked asking “how big is the baby?”

    “Our client maintains that those conversations were made jokingly and sees their misinterpretation as malicious and with ill intent. Our client also maintains that it is absurd for Mrs Fajemirokun-Ajayi to claim that he invited her to Hong Kong, given that the conversation they were both having was on how Hong Kong had digitised its work processes as far back as 1999.

    “Our client wonders how such a conversation became interpreted as an invitation for her to travel alongside himself, knowing full well that she is an aide to the minister. How can she leave the minister to follow the permanent secretary on a vacation? Would that not be the height of delusion for the one requesting and the one heeding the request?

    “It is clear that the minister’s aide has misinterpreted ordinary conversations, made openly and in the presence of other participants, for untoward intentions. We believe these allegations are directly tied to our client’s firm objections raised regarding Mrs Fajemirokun-Ajayi’s improper requests, particularly regarding financial matters in the ministry.

    “For example, Mrs. Fajemirokun-Ajayi made a trip to the World Economic Forum (Davos), of which she sought a reimbursement for the ministry. Our client firmly explained to her that while the ministry may look at avenues to refund her expenses, it is not the appropriate process for a trip to be made without approval, and then funded with taxpayers’ money. after the fact.

    “Further to this is the fact of Mrs Fajemirokun-Ajayi’s unfamiliarity with civil service rules and processes, where she had requested access to policy files and even financial records of high-level ministry activities from our client. By no means should the permanent secretary, as chief accounting officer of the ministry, provide such sensitive documents to an aide of the minister, worse via a WhatsApp chat.

    “There are due processes in government, and they must be followed. “We must emphasise that Mrs Fajemirokun-Ajayi is a political appointee not a civil servant. Thus, finance and policy matters are out of her bounds in this instance.

    “It is crucial to mention that our client, in all his 32 years of service in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, never received a query nor a report against him bordering on harassment, let alone sexual harassment. During this period, our client has served in Hong Kong, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Syria and more recently, Senegal, and there has never been a negative report on his conduct in any of these countries.

    “Ambassador Lamuwa has also served for nine years in the State House. From the office of the vice president to the office of the chief of staff to the president, and to the office of the president, and no negative report or allegation of any kind has ever been raised against him,” the legal document stated.

  • State Police under Governors who can’t pay minimum wage recipe for disaster

    State Police under Governors who can’t pay minimum wage recipe for disaster

    By Dr Josef Onoh

    The proposal to establish State Police forces under the control of Governors poses significant risks to the security and well-being of Nigerians. Governors have a history of abusing their power, and controlling state police would only exacerbate this issue. As seen in the past, governors have prevented local governments from functioning properly, manipulated state assemblies and the judiciary, and used federal police as an instrument of oppression.

    It is disingenuous for Governors to request state policing when they claim they cannot pay the 60K minimum wage. How do they intend to fund state police forces? 

    This request connotes sinister motives, aiming to intimidate and subjugate the people. Instead, governors should allow Local Government Councils to work autonomously, fulfilling their statutory responsibilities with FAAC funding, as designed by the constitution. It is high time governors stop depriving LGAs of their rightful funds and let them function as the third tier of government. 

    I agree with the submission and sentiment of those who want state-by- state discretionary wage hikes rather than the current uniform system being used, nonetheless, we must recognise the fact that it will spell doom for states to intend to pay their state policing structures different wages if such is granted. The wage disparity could cause chaos, engender corruption, and create bigger security issues in the society than we currently have. 

    Implementing state-controlled police forces without adequate checks and balances would lead to a surge in intimidation and oppression of political opponents. The scarcity of essential equipment, inadequate manpower, and operational challenges facing the Nigeria Police Force would only be exacerbated by decentralizing policing responsibilities to state governments. It is crucial that we prioritize the safety and security of all Nigerians by ensuring that law enforcement powers are not concentrated in the hands of state governors.

    Nigerian emperor-ish Governors have consistently demonstrated a desire for control and oppression, opposing LGA autonomy, State Assembly autonomy, State judiciary autonomy, and wage increments for workers. Their request for state police control is a thinly veiled attempt to intimidate and subjugate the people. 

    I am urging Mr President to, as a matter of principle and love for the downtrodden, refuse their entreaties and prioritize the well-being and security of Nigerians by denying governors control over state police forces.

    “X” Handle : @Josefonoh

  • Children deserve daily celebration not only on May 27 – Soludo

    Children deserve daily celebration not only on May 27 – Soludo

    Wife of Anambra Governor Dr Nonye Soludo has challenged parents to make it a daily routine to celebrate their children, stressing that they deserve to be celebrated.

    She said celebrating children should not be a yearly affair, noting that giving them sense of belonging would go a long way in reducing their attractions to vices capable of destroying their lives and destiny.

    Soludo spoke during a visit to the Model Community Children’s Home, Awka as part of her activities to mark 2024 children day, where she spent time with the children, cooking and feeding them.

    She recalled with nostalgia the motherly love and care of her mother while growing up, attributing her well cultured character to such motherly disposition.

    She said: “I’m here to celebrate the children’s day with the children, cook for them and feed them. They need as motherly love and warmth as they can get.

    “I visit them regularly and call on their caregivers to find out how they’re fairing when I’m away. You can see how familiar they are with me, with many desiring to sit on my laps.

    “We celebrate children everyday. For me as a mother, I celebrate my children every day. I was here four days ago. But today, we’re reminded and encouraged to leave everything and celebrate the children because they deserve to be celebrated.

    “While growing up, my mum played a wonderful role in my life. Because of the way she celebrated me, there were things I wouldn’t do as a student in boarding house because I know she’ll be disappointed to hear of any misbehavior from me. 

    “That’s why parents must be positive with their children. They can’t deviate, even under peer pressure influence. They need more of assurance and blessings than curse, because whatever you tell them will always come to pass.”

    The Governor’s wife advised the children to be focused and and to listen to their parents for proper guidance and direction in life.

    Read Also: Soludo commiserates with family of pupil flogged to death by teacher

    “For the children, times are very hard, especially with the era of social media influence. I urge them to remain focused and listen to their parents because they’re the people that will guide them and tell them the truth. 

    “Whatever you see out there in the social media can be deceptive and misleading. But that of the parents will lead you to the right path and the sky will be your limit,” she added.

    Coordinator of the home, Rev Sister Philomena Akuchukwu, appreciated the governor’s wife for the visit, describing her motherly care and attention to the children as top-notch. 

    “Since you came into office, you have not set eyes off our home. You visit us practically every month with food and drinks. You made our home your second home and know each and everyone of us very well. 

    “You cook for us by yourself, feed us and again pay our school fees. Every child that comes here goes home a different person. May God bless, protect, reward and keep you safe for us,” she posited.

  • Children’s Day: Be good ambassadors, Ighodalo urges children

    Children’s Day: Be good ambassadors, Ighodalo urges children

    Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the September 21 governorship election in Edo State, Dr Asue Ighodalo, has urged children to become worthy ambassadors for their families, communities, Edo State, and the nation. 

    In a goodwill message on Monday by his media team in Benin City, Ighodalo emphasised the importance of raising children with the awareness that they represent their families and the larger community.

    “On this auspicious occasion of Children’s Day, I rejoice with all of you, our dear children, who are our hope for a better tomorrow and society.

    “When we look at you, we feel so happy and blessed. You are destined to be your family’s and community’s ambassadors. As parents, we are determined to help you play this role effectively every day as you grow up.

    Read Also: DreamWorks celebrates children on Children’s day

    “I must emphasise that you need three things to succeed in this. First, be a disciplined child. Second, be respectful, and third, be ambitious. I sincerely believe that if you follow these three principles, you will grow to be the man or woman your family, community, and state will be proud of.

    “As for us, we are determined to ensure that we do everything possible to help you to fully realise the enormous potential in each of you. Trust me on this.

    “Thank you for adding so much joy and hope to our lives. Have a wonderful Children’s Day,” Ighodalo said.

  • You are not alone, Ighodalo sympathises with victims of Edo flash flood

    You are not alone, Ighodalo sympathises with victims of Edo flash flood

    The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the September 21 governorship poll in Edo State, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, has expressed sympathised with victims of the recent flash flood in the state, particularly in Benin GRA.

    In a statement on Sunday, Ighodalo urged all those affected to understand that he feels their pain and anguish deeply and shares in their suffering. 

    He also encouraged them not to despair but to continue exhibiting the spirit of perseverance for which the average Edo man and woman is renowned.

    “I wish to express my profound sympathy with all the victims of the recent flash flood in our dear state, particularly in Benin GRA. Seeing those clips filled me with deep pain in my heart. I sincerely share your pain and anguish, the sense of material loss, and the mental torture or trauma.

    “It is a pity that as humans, we are like helpless pawns in the hands of nature. Man has no known armor or defense against natural disasters like this. 

    “So, at a time like this, the most plausible thing to do is dig deep into the depth of our being and exhibit that spirit of perseverance, fortitude, and strength for which the average Edo man and woman is renowned. Let us remain calm, stoic, and hopeful. You are not alone. We are all with you,” he said. 

    Ighodalo assured that the quest for a lasting solution that will stand the test of time is underway to address the perennial devastation caused by such flash floods in well-known areas of the capital city. He also acknowledged that the state government has taken measures to bring immediate relief to the victims.

    He cautioned politicians to be wary of rushing to politicize everything, especially natural tragedies like flash floods.

    “Rest assured that in no distant time, a permanent solution that will end this perennial devastation will be put in place. I am happy that the state government has quickly moved in to ensure palliative measures to arrest the level of misery and pain. Again, accept my sympathy,” he stated..

  • Kano Emirate: Group commends Police, others for due process

    Kano Emirate: Group commends Police, others for due process

    The Northern Agenda (NA) has saluted the Police and other security agencies for pledging to adhere to the court order stopping the reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido Sanusi as the Emir of Kano. 

    The group said the Police and others have demonstrated unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and respecting the judiciary in the Kano Emirate case. 

    Kano Commissioner of Police, Usaini Gumel, during a joint security press conference, said security agencies will enforce the court order restraining the State Government from dissolving five newly created Emirates.

    In a statement signed by Alhaji Salisu Sabo, the group said the security agencies have demonstrated remarkable professionalism and dedication to their duties by complying with the court order. 

    Sabo said this solitary action has prevented potential unrest and violence, ensuring that the rights of all parties involved are protected and a recognition of the importance of the judiciary in our democratic system. 

    The group also reminded the governor that the judiciary which he wants to blackmail today stood by him and his questionable mandate as Governor of Kano State.

    “In a commendable display of professionalism and dedication to upholding the law, the Nigerian Police Force has pledged to comply with a court order halting the reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido as Emir of Kano, despite the Kano State government’s initial disregard for the ruling. 

    “This move is a significant step forward in promoting the rule of law and democratic governance in Nigeria,” the statement said. 

    “The Kano Emirate case has been a subject of controversy, with various factions vying for power and control. However, the court’s decision to halt the reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido as Emir of Kano was clear and unequivocal. Unfortunately, the Kano State government initially chose to ignore this ruling, threatening to undermine the authority of the judiciary and the rule of law.

    Read Also: Ulamas ask Tinubu to intervene in Kano Emirate stalemate

    “In this context, the Nigerian Police Force’s decision to comply with the court order is a breath of fresh air. By upholding the law and respecting the judiciary’s decision, the police have demonstrated a commitment to democratic values and the protection of human rights. This move also sends a strong message to all parties involved that the rule of law will be respected and enforced, regardless of political or personal interests.

    “The security agencies actions are particularly commendable given the sensitive nature of the case and the potential for unrest and violence. By prioritizing the maintenance of public order and safety, the police have ensured that the situation does not escalate further, and that the rights of all parties involved are protected.

    “This development is also a testament to the growing independence and assertiveness of the Nigerian judiciary. The court’s decision to halt the reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido as Emir of Kano was a bold move, and the police’s compliance with the order demonstrates a recognition of the judiciary’s authority and impartiality.

    “We urge the police and other security agents to continue on this path and work towards building trust and confidence with the public. We also call on all parties involved in the case to respect the legal process and allow the courts to make decisions without interference or intimidation. 

    “The judiciary must be allowed to function independently and impartially, without fear or favour. Any attempt to undermine the judiciary or ignore court orders will undermine the rule of law and democratic governance in Nigeria,” he said.