The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southeast report

  • Insecurity: Kalu’s Bill offers viable solution through state policing

    Insecurity: Kalu’s Bill offers viable solution through state policing

    By Levinus Nwabughiogu

    No doubt, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated a resolute commitment to aligning Nigeria’s trajectories with the exigencies of the present era. His vision to redefine the nation’s narrative and forge a progressive future is unyielding. This determination is exemplified by his decisive action to eliminate fuel subsidies from the country’s economic structure. Although the removal has had a considerable impact on the populace, the ultimate objective of charting a robust and sustainable pathway is however deemed more prudent than succumbing to transient economic challenges. But nevertheless, the government has since articulated measures to mitigate the effects.

    Background

    In tandem with this bold decision is yet another pivotal initiative poised to address a critical aspect of national concern: security. Nigeria has endured protracted periods of insecurity and terrorism, which have seemingly defied conventional solutions. But in a bold stride towards tackling the situation, President Tinubu in February, 2024 inaugurated a committee for the establishment of State Police. He reaffirmed this decision on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, during a courtesy visit by a delegation of prominent Katsina indigenes, led by Governor Dikko Radda. On this occasion, President Tinubu underscored the Federal Government’s commitment to confronting insecurity with utmost resolve.

    He said: “The security challenges that we are facing are surmountable. Yes, we have porous borders. We inherited weaknesses that could have been addressed earlier. It is a challenge that we must fix, and we are facing it.

    “I have directed all the security agencies to energise further and look at the strategies. We have approved additional acquisition of drones.

    “I am reviewing all the aspects of security; I have to create state police. We are looking at that holistically. We will defeat insecurity. We must protect our children, our people, our livelihood, our places of worship, and our recreational spaces. They can’t intimidate us.”

    But amidst the security challenges the country has had to face, it beats an imagination that a federation of 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory, with 774 LGAs, over 250 ethnic nationalities, more than 200 million citizens and a vast terrain spanning over 920,000 square kilometres, still sadly operates a single centralised police system that employs less than 400,000 police officers and men. Of course, there is no gainsaying that the nation’s security architecture is under immense pressure and always overwhelmed.

    State Police Establishment Bill As Panacea

    In this context, the Bill sponsored by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, PhD, CFR, pertaining to State Police emerges as a necessary panacea, potentially offering a viable solution to the nation’s security challenges.

    Co-sponspored by 13 of Kalu’s colleagues who included Hon. Julius Ihonvbere;  Hon. Onanuga A. Oriyomi; Hon. Joseph Bassey; Hon. Ibe Okwara-Osonwa; Hon. Abdulmumin Jubril; Hon. Thaddeus Attah; Hon. Hassan B. Shinkafi; Hon. Chinwe Clara Nnabuife; Hon. Obed Paul Shehu; Hon. Fatima Talba; Hon. Tolani Shagaya; Hon. Abubakar H. Nalaraba; Hon. Blessing Onuh and Hon. Joshua Audu Gana, the bill ultimately seeks to provide for the alteration of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (As Altered). It also seeks to provide for the establishment of State Police and the transfer of Police as an item under the Exclusive Legislative List to the Concurrent Legislative List.

    Introduced on Thursday, October 12, 2023 on the floor of the House of Representatives, the Bill titled “A Bill for an Act to Alter the Provision of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to Provide for the Establishment of State Police, and for Related Matters” has since Tueday February 20, 2024, scaled through second reading, just about the same time President Tinubu set up the Presidential Committee on the actualization of State Police. 

    At the moment, it is at the Committee Stage and has been identified as one of the 87 bills to be voted on in the ongoing Constitutional alterations.

    Key Provisions of the Bill

    Comprises 18 clauses, the bill essentially seeks to alter Sections 34, 35, 39, 42, 84, 89,129,153, 197, 214, 215 and 216 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (As Amended). The Bill also seeks to alter Chapter VI Part III, Second Schedule, Part II of the Third Schedule and Part III of the Third Schedule of the Constitution.

    Some of the key innovations of the proposed alteration, amongst others include: (a) the transfer of “Police” from the “Exclusive Legislative List” to the “Concurrent Legislative List”, a move that effectively empowers States to have State controlled policing. 

    (b) the introduction of a comprehensive framework to ensure cohesion as well as accountability and uniform standards between the Federal Police and State Police. 

    (c) the provision of prescribed rigorous safeguards preventing unwarranted interference by the Federal Police in State Police affairs, emphasising collaboration and intervention only under well-defined circumstances. 

    (d) the establishment of State Police Service Commissions as distinct from the Federal Police Service Commission with clearly defined roles and jurisdictions. 

    (e) a re-calibration of the National Police Council to include the Chairmen of the State Police Service Commissions, emphasising the collaborative and consultative nature of policing in our federal system. 

    (f) a recognition of the possible financial challenges which may be faced by States Police, by empowering the Federal Government to provide grants or aids, subject to the approval of the National Assembly, thus ensuring adequate resources for effective policing. 

    During the debate on the general principles of the bill, Kalu submitted that the primary purpose of government as enshrined in Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (As Altered) is the security and welfare of the citizens.

    “We must acknowledge the fact that the fabric of any democracy is woven with the threads of constant adaptation to the evolving needs of its society. At this point in our nationhood, State Policing is not only inevitable, but urgently desired to tackle the mounting challenges of insecurity.  

    “This Bill emerges as a necessary response to several calls for a decentralised and community-oriented approach to law enforcement. It seeks to navigate the complex landscape of security challenges by empowering our states with the means to address issues unique to their localities. This proposed alteration represents not just a legal adjustment to our grundnorm, but a visionary leap towards a safer, more secure, and harmonious Nigeria. 

    “The establishment of State Police is a clarion call for a tailored, community-centric policing system; it is an acknowledgment that our states are uniquely positioned to address the security challenges within their borders.  The alterations proposed in this Bill are not just alterations to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, they are also the building blocks of a more secure, accountable and resilient Nigeria. I urge you to support that this Bill be read the second time”, Kalu said.

    Allaying Fears and Concerns 

    However, recognizing valid concerns and opposition to the bill, Kalu at another occasion, precisely the national dialogue on State Police organized by the House in April, 2024 allayed the fears of the opponents to the bill, amplifying the need for the establishment on national security.

    “While opponents of multi-layered policing in Nigeria raise valid concerns, it is essential to address these fears and offer reassurances regarding the potential benefits and mitigating strategies.

    “We recognize that the decisions we make regarding the restructuring of Nigeria’s policing system are not intended to serve the interests of any individual or political faction. Rather, we aim to enact laws and reforms that benefit the collective welfare of our nation. It is important to remember that political leaders, including governors, come and go, but the institutions and systems we establish endure. By focusing on the greater good and the long-term interests of our society, we can transcend partisan divides and ensure that our laws and policies withstand the test of time.

    Read Also: How Deputy Speaker Kalu brokered accord between FG, contractors on project payments

    “I want to assure you that the National Assembly, and particularly the House of Representatives, is fully committed to providing the right frameworks, legislation, and oversight to make state policing work for the betterment of Nigerians. We understand the importance of getting this right.

    “We are optimistic that through collaborative efforts and a commitment to evidence-based solutions, we can establish a policing system that is not only effective in combating crime but also earns the trust of Nigerians and

    cooperation between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Together, we can pave the pathways to a more peaceful and secure Nigeria”, he said. 

    A Call For Support

    With this strong and convincing argument, Kalu and his colleagues have successfully avered that state policing is not only inevitable but urgently desired to tackle the mounting challenges of insecurity besetting the nation. They have shown that the establishment represents a visionary leap towards a tailored, community-centric policing system, an acknowledgment that the States of the Federation are uniquely positioned to address security challenges within their borders.

    Of course, the Deputy Speaker, in that compelling appeal to his colleagues during the debate simply emphasized that the proposed alterations are aimed to construct a more secure, accountable, and resilient Nigeria.

    It is imperative, then, to understand that the benefits just as President Tinubu has expounded transcend party lines and ideologies to the collective good of the beloved nation.

    Therefore, as the Parliament prepares to vote on the Constitution alterations soon, it is very necessary to envisage that the outcome of the bill could have profound implications for security and law enforcement in Nigeria, potentially leading to more effective and localized approaches to addressing security challenges, and heralding a new epoch of enhanced security and welfare for the citizenry. 

    Now that President Tinubu has promised to make it a reality, it calls for the collective resolve of all the stakeholders across every stratum of the society to give their support to ensure that Nigeria defeats the monster of insecurity and banish it from the land. Here, Kalu’s bill sure comes handy.

    Nwabughiogu is the Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives.

  • Sujimoto: Onoh warns Ohanaeze youths against ethnic tension

    Sujimoto: Onoh warns Ohanaeze youths against ethnic tension

    President Bola Tinubu’s former campaign spokesman in the South East, Josef Onoh, has asked the apex Igbo socio-political organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, to be cautious in fanning the amber of ethnic tension in the case between Enugu State government and a contractor, Mr. Olasijibomi Ogundele, the Chief Executive Officer of Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited.

    There has been a row over an alleged contract failure in the contract awarded to the company whose CEO is from the South West.

    Subsequently, Ohanaeze Ndigbo issued a statement asking the contractor to return the N5.7 billion involved in the contract failure to the Enugu State government and referred to Ogundele as a “saboteur “

    Reacting to Ohanaeze’s position, Onoh told the Igbo group to apply wisdom and restraint, particularly when its jurisdiction does not entail overseeing alleged criminal matters or recovery of funds for governments.

    He commended Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide for its passion in addressing issues of public interest and in asking Ogundele to cooperate with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), noting that it is a reflection of the youth’s desire to see public funds protected and development projects delivered. 

    Onoh, however, said that in the spirit of constructive dialogue and to safeguard the integrity of institutions, there has to be a measured counter-perspective. 

    He stated that he is not out to defend any individual but to emphasise the principles of due process, institutional boundaries, and the need to avoid actions that could inflame ethnic tensions in Nigeria’s fragile sociopolitical landscape especially as 2027 political season draws closer to avoid desperate politicians exploiting it to dangerous ethnic dimensions. 

    He stressed that at the heart of any fair society is the presumption of innocence, which Ogundele, like any citizen, remains innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. 

    Ogundele has also assured me of his full cooperation with all relevant authorities to clear his name and demonstrated same by  freely submitting himself to the efcc Enugu zonal command, which i personally escorted him.

    “The EFCC’s declaration of Ogundele as wanted and the ongoing interrogation stem from allegations of fund diversion and money laundering related to the N5.7–N11 billion Enugu Smart Schools contract. These are serious matters, but they are still under investigation, with his accounts frozen to ensure compliance. 

    “Moreso, Efcc has given stringent bail conditions, which I’m personally aware of but to publicly label him a “saboteur” or demanding immediate surrender without awaiting judicial resolution risks prejudging the case and eroding public trust in our justice system,” he argued. 

    He noted that the history of Ndigbo teaches them the perils of rushed judgments, recalling how ethnic profiling has been weaponized against the Igbo in the past. 

    “By framing this as a settled fact of fraud, we inadvertently contribute to a narrative that could portray the matter as a Yoruba-Igbo clash, especially given Mr. Ogundele’s Yoruba heritage and the Enugu State context. This is unnecessary and counterproductive. Let the EFCC and the courts do their work; premature condemnation only muddies the waters.

    “Ohanaeze Ndigbo, as our apex socio-cultural organisation, has a noble mandate: to promote Igbo unity, culture, welfare, and advocacy on national issues affecting Ndigbo. This does not extend to intervening in criminal investigations, state governance, contract awards, or partisan political affairs. The Smart Schools project is a state government initiative under Governor Peter Mbah’s administration—a PDP Party-led effort to advance education in Enugu state. Ohanaeze has no statutory authority to endorse or back probes, recover funds, or dictate contractor accountability in this domain.

    “Such overreach blurs the lines between cultural advocacy and executive interference, potentially undermining the autonomy of state institutions. For instance, while your council’s support for the EFCC is well-intentioned, it positions Ohanaeze as a quasi-judicial body, which it is not. This could set a dangerous precedent, inviting accusations of ethnic meddling in governance. Instead, Ohanaeze’s strength lies in fostering dialogue, advocating for equitable resource allocation across Nigeria, and ensuring that Igbo interests are protected without stepping into arenas reserved for elected officials, security agencies, or the judiciary.”

    Onoh clarified that the Sujimoto matter is far from resolved as Mr. Ogundele has already honored an EFCC invitation for interrogation in Enugu, which he personally, in company with Sujimoto’s lawyers, drove him to the EFCC Enugu zonal command on Monday 8th of September 2025. 

    He also revealed that Prior to that, he (Onoh) had reached out to Governor Peter Mbah and gave his assurance to bring Ogundele to honour the EFCC’s invitation. 

    He commended Governor Peter Mbah for his maturity and genuine transparency to ensure that justice is done while seeking all available legal options to recover state funds. 

    Onoh said that he was equally aware that Mr. Ogundele was grilled for hours on September 8 to12, 2025, and remained cooperative while maintaining his innocence. 

    He also noted that the joint EFCC-Enugu inspection in May 2025 confirmed delays, but inflation, material costs, and project complexities (which Ogundele cited in his emotional video response) as factors that warrant thorough forensic review and not public vilification.

    Onoh said that he was aware that the Enugu State Government has initiated a civil suit to recover the funds and enforce contract terms, which shows Governor Peter Mbah’s commitment to transparency in regards to the issue. 

    He said that Governor Mbah told him personally that the  government will ensure that no penny of Enugu State/ public funds in regards to the failed 22 Smart Schools project will be lost and must be accounted for and he will pursue the matter to it’s logical conclusion. 

    “This is the burden of leadership Gov.Mbah faces, but your council’s call for immediate action, while urging ‘no drama,’ could inadvertently pressure the process, leading to procedural lapses or biased outcomes. In a nation where anti-corruption efforts have sometimes been tainted by politics, such interventions risk being seen as an external influence, potentially delaying justice or prompting appeals that prolong the agony for all parties, including Enugu’s schoolchildren awaiting their facilities.

    “Nigeria’s fault lines are ethnic, and we, Ndigbo, know this better than most. The Sujimoto case involves a Yoruba businessman contracted by an Igbo-led state government—a cross-ethnic partnership that should exemplify collaboration, not division. By publicly ‘backing’ the EFCC in a manner that singles out an individual from another ethnic group, Ohanaeze risks fueling narratives of tribal witch-hunts. 

    “The social media is already abuzz with polarized takes, from accusations of sabotage to defenses rooted in ethnic solidarity. This is a tinderbox; one misstep, and it ignites sentiments that harm us all.

    “As elders and youth leaders, our role is to de-escalate, not amplify. Imagine if a Yoruba socio-cultural group commented similarly on an Igbo contractor in Lagos— the backlash would be swift and justified. Let us model the unity we preach: support accountability through institutions, not ethnic lenses. Let’s turn this moment into an opportunity for growth. 

    “As the former southeast spokesman to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I’m an Igbo man yet spoke and still speaking for a yoruba man, my voice till date is still the loudest voice from my region if not Nigeria still in defence of a yoruba man and our President, not out of personal interest or reward but driven by vision of a united Nigeria our forefathers envisaged and family values i hold in highest esteem. 

    “Ohanaeze Youth Council should retract or clarify their statement to emphasize support for institutional processes rather than individual guilt. Channel your energy into advocating for transparent contract bidding in Igbo states, ensuring local firms with proven track records get priority.

    “All stakeholders should engage in quiet mediation—perhaps through neutral bodies like the Nigerian Institute of Architects—to resolve the civil suit amicably, prioritizing project completion over punishment.

    “Let us rally around education. Enugu’s Smart Schools are vital; demand updates from the state government on progress, regardless of contractors.

    “Ogundele continues cooperating fully with the EFCC; transparency will clear his name if innocence prevails. Finally, our collective voice is powerful when it unites,not divides. Let justice flow like a river-steady,impartial, and untainted by haste or bias”.Onoh stated. 

  • IPMAN Eastern Zone reaffirms unity

    IPMAN Eastern Zone reaffirms unity

    Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Eastern Zone System 2E, has reaffirmed its unity.

    It declared support for the leadership of its Zonal Chairman, Prince Bobby Dick.

    In a communiqué issued after a meeting of depot unit chairmen held on Tuesday, the body dismissed attempts by some individuals and groups to create division in the association, describing such actions as self-serving and disruptive.

    Read Also: Tinubu celebrates Kagoro monarch, Ufuwai Bonet, at 90

    The resolution, signed by the chairmen of Aba, Calabar, Makurdi, Port Harcourt and Enugu depots, said IPMAN in Eastern Zone remained committed to peace and stability in the interest of its members and the society.

    The leaders passed a vote of confidence in Dick and his zonal executives, hailing him as “the indefatigable chairman” of System 2E.

    “We are not in support of individuals or groups promoting crisis within the Eastern Zone as a means of livelihood. Eastern Zone will remain united and peaceful in the best interest of our business and the society at large,” the communiqué said.

  • REMI THE ROCK: Celebrating an Amazon

    REMI THE ROCK: Celebrating an Amazon

    • By Keem Abdul

    Long before she became Nigeria’s First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, CON, was already known for her passion for the betterment of vulnerable persons (especially women, children, the elderly and people with disability) as well as marginalized communities across the country. As a teacher, then as First Lady of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007, as a member of the Nigerian Senate for three consecutive terms (representing the Lagos Central senatorial district), and as a Deaconess in the Redeemed Christian Church of God, she embarked on so many pet projects and empowerment programmes that it was hard to keep track of them all. Her tireless efforts in addressing the needs of women and children seemed to know no bounds.

    Today, as the wife of Nigeria’s President, her activities are mostly encapsulated in the mandate of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), a programme designed to bring succour and relief to families across the nation, as well as promote food security and entrepreneurial support and facilitation.  

    As the RHI’s interventions build momentum all over the country, they have gained the buy-in of critical stakeholders (and especially the financial backing of corporate organizations with a history of putting their money where their mouths are). In the past 16 months or so, the contributions of these bodies – such as the Abdul-Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative, the Tony Elumelu Foundation, and countless others who choose to remain anonymous for now, have accounted for a significant share of the estimated N9.4bn so far expended by the RHI on its interventions.

    Read Also: Nigerian politics full of liars, betrayers, says Jonathan

    As she marks her 65th birthday, it is no wonder that Sen. Tinubu is being celebrated with such an outpouring of affection by her compatriots – from the high and mighty in the land, to the humble beneficiaries of her selfless philanthropy in the nooks and crannies of Nigeria – for her kindness, her advocacy for social justice, and her commitment to  the enhancement of Nigeria’s Human Development Index.

    Not least of her attributes is her emotional intelligence – and no one has benefitted more from this quality of hers than her beloved husband. Last year, on the occasion of her 64th birthday, President Bola Tinubu paid a heartfelt tribute, describing his wife as “my rock, confidante, greatest supporter, and the love of my life.” These words encapsulate the essence of Sen. Tinubu’s remarkable character and her indispensable role in the President’s life. More than just a partner, Remi Tinubu, affectionately called ‘The Rock’ has been a symbol of hope, compassion, and kindness. Her selfless nature and generosity of spirit have endeared her to countless individuals, from the staff at Bourdillon (the President’s Lagos residence) to supporters of the Tinubu presidency. Her thoughtful gestures, often accompanied by substantial gifts, have brought joy and reassurance to those who would otherwise feel forgotten. Sen. Tinubu’s remarkable ability to connect with people from all walks of life has earned her the admiration of many, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who refers to her as “my daughter, in whom I am well pleased.” This heartfelt endorsement speaks volumes about her exceptional character and the high esteem in which she is held.

    From all indications, she’s not slowing down yet at 65; if anything, the encomiums and accolades she is receiving on this happy milestone will spur her to greater involvement towards the actualization of the RHI’s mandate as a component of her husband’s Renewed Hope Agenda – which, in spite of socio-economic headwinds, is committed to enhancing the standard of living and quality of life of the Nigerian people. Since its launch in mid-2023, the RHI has offered help and support to all manner of beneficiaries – from families affected by flooding in Abuja; to victims of insecurity and flooding in Borno State, and families of fallen servicemen. Over the last two years, RHI has bestowed  scholarships; launched digital literacy initiatives; delivered N1m each to 500 displaced families in Plateau State; allocated N1.9bn to the welfare of the elderly persons across 36 states and the FCT; distributed N50m in grants to 1,000 female petty traders as part of a larger  plan to empower 37,000 women petty traders nationwide; presented N70m to 140 women farmers in the North-West; pledged N1bn to eradicate tuberculosis by 2030; distributed food and money to Christian communities in the 19 northern states for Christmas and New Year festivities; and donated N100m to families affected by a tanker explosion in Niger State, among many other interventions.

    Keem Abdul

    Throughout her public engagements, the First Lady has never hidden her special love for the state of Lagos, and the occasion of her 65th birthday provided a welcome opportunity to reiterate that commitment anew. During her 3-day visit to the state to mark the occasion, she launched a number of impact legacy projects – beginning with the aforementioned RHI Food Outreach Scheme, whose impact on households in the state, according to the Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, aligned squarely with the THEMES+ agenda of his administration, with its emphasis on social inclusion, health, and economic empowerment especially at the grassroots.

    Among the highlights of Sen. Tinubu’s engagements in Lagos was the official launch of the state-of-the-art Remi Tinubu Industrial Leather Hub, a game-changing investment capable of transforming Lagos State into a global leader in leather production and innovation. Situated in the Matori axis of Mushin, the hub is projected to generate more than $250m annually in export turnover, create 10,000 direct jobs, and provide training and start-up support for over 150,000 artisans across the state. Equipped with cutting-edge machinery for the mass production of a variety of finished leathers goods, the facility aims to drive local wealth-creation while projecting Nigerian craftsmanship on the world stage – goals which align with the objectives of the RHI, as well as the Tinubu Administration’s developmental priorities and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS), namely, to unlock potential, foster economic independence, and create opportunities for women and young people to thrive.

    As we mark the 65th birthday of Sen. Remi Tinubu ‘The Rock,’ we pay tribute to a woman whose unwavering support and unconditional love have been the bedrock of President Tinubu’s success, and made a profound impact on his life and that of the nation as a whole. Remi Tinubu is indeed a rare gem, a true matriarch, and a shining example of the transformative power of love and compassion.

    Happy 65th birthday, dear Mother of the Nation. May this special day mark the beginning of another year filled with joy, love, and continued service to humanity.

    * Keem Abdul, a public relations guru, publisher and writer, hails from Lagos. He can be reached via +2349046303816 or Akeemabdul2023@gmail.com

  • South East youth leaders endorse Orji Kalu as APC’s face for 2027 elections

    South East youth leaders endorse Orji Kalu as APC’s face for 2027 elections

    The Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL), the apex socio-political youth organisation in the South East, has thrown its weight behind Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North), describing him as the face of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections.

    In a statement by its President General, Comrade Goodluck Ibem, and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Okey Nwaoru, the group said recent attacks directed at Senator Kalu from “certain quarters” were motivated by his rising political profile and growing influence within the APC.

    “Senator Kalu is a transformative leader whose contributions have significantly elevated the standard of governance in Abia North. His dedication to public service, development initiatives and unwavering commitment to the APC have positioned him as a beacon of hope for our people,” COSEYL said.

    The group added that the senator’s performance in the National Assembly had set a new benchmark for quality representation since the return of democracy in 1999.

    “The people of Abia North are particularly grateful for his impactful leadership. His visionary projects and proactive approach have transformed the socio-economic landscape of our region. It is no surprise that under his leadership, we confidently predict an overwhelming 95 per cent support for the APC in the forthcoming elections,” the statement read.

    COSEYL also expressed confidence that Kalu’s partnership with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would yield further gains for the region. “We anticipate that the citizens of Abia North will not only rally behind Senator Kalu but will also vote massively for President Tinubu, recognising the synergy and transformative power of their leadership,” it said.

    While dismissing criticisms against the lawmaker as “desperate attempts to undermine a proven leader,” the youth body urged citizens of Abia North to remain united in their support.

    “Abia North deserves continued progress, and this can only be guaranteed through continuity of proven, results-oriented leadership. We at COSEYL affirm that 2027 is a done deal. The good people of Abia North are ready to show their appreciation for the dynamic performance of Senator Orji Uzor Kalu,” the statement concluded.

  • Rivers LG poll: Former deputy speaker hails RSIEC for peaceful, credible

    Rivers LG poll: Former deputy speaker hails RSIEC for peaceful, credible

    Former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the South-south Development Commission (SSDC), Prince Chibudom Nwuche, has praised the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for the successful conduct of the local government elections across the state.

    Nwuche, who monitored the polls as an observer, described the exercise as peaceful and credible, noting that voting was held without violence or disturbances in any of the 23 local government areas.

    He commended residents for turning out in large numbers to cast their votes, observing orderly queues at polling units, some stretching over 100 meters.

    He also lauded the early arrival of election materials and the timely commencement of accreditation and voting.

    The former lawmaker urged elected chairmen and councillors to focus on the development of their local areas and prioritise the interests of the people.

    Nwuche further credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for restoring peace in Rivers State through timely interventions, including the appointment of Retired Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as Sole Administrator, who he said effectively supervised one of the most credible grassroots elections in recent times.

    Read Also: Impressive start for Team Nigeria at World Youth Scrabble Championships

    He also commended former Governor and current FCT Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike, for providing political leadership that united diverse interests in support of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, expressing optimism that such unity would bolster the President’s reelection bid in 2027.

    He said, “I saw the massive turnout of voters. They voted peacefully, and the police did their jobs. Materials arrived on time. The crowd was incredible. I also went to Ahoada West and saw the crowd at the polling units.

    “It was a free and fair election. I commend RISIEC for doing a wonderful job in a very short time. Public office is a trust. If you are lucky enough to be elected as a chairman of council, you must endeavour to deploy resources for the welfare of the people and not for your personal aggrandisement”.

    Calling on the people to support Tinubu and Wike, he said, “The President met challenges on the ground and he is tackling them very credibly. Our son, the FCT Minister, left a good example in the state when he was here. He developed the state. He is also doing that at the FCT. Let us always look out for good men to vote for”.

  • Ex-minister urges preservation of Igbo traditions as Enugu community celebrates new yam festival 

    Ex-minister urges preservation of Igbo traditions as Enugu community celebrates new yam festival 

    Former Minister of Power, Prof. Barth Nnaji, has urged Nigerians to strike a balance between preserving cultural heritage and embracing modern realities, noting that some of the world’s most progressive nations thrive because they uphold their traditions.

    He made the remarks at the annual New Yam Festival of the Edeaniagu clan in Ishi-Ozalla Autonomous Community, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State, held over the weekend.

    The event drew traditional rulers from across Nkanu land, indigenes of all 12 villages of the community, as well as distinguished guests.

    Prof. Nnaji cited Japan as an example of a society that remains highly advanced while staying firmly rooted in its cultural heritage.

    “If you go to Japan, there are whole cities like Kyoto where shrines are preserved, not to harm anyone, but to remind people of their identity and values,. 

    “We should not discard our rich traditions just because outsiders said ours were not good. As we grow, we must preserve the aspects of our culture that strengthen our psyche and identity,” he said.

    The traditional ruler of the Edeaniagu clan, HRH Chief Don Sylvester Chinedu Nweke, described the festival as a harvest thanksgiving to God and the ancestors. 

    He expressed delight at the massive turnout and lamented the neglect of his community, particularly the deplorable state of roads, which he attributed to divisive politics and unpatriotic elites.

    “We have billionaires and prominent sons and daughters, but some of them have refused to work for the good of our people. Even government has played divisive politics against us,” Igwe Nweke said. 

    He recalled how the community endured years of leadership crisis before he was crowned, noting that despite challenges, he had undertaken several self-help projects, including a mini-stadium, boreholes, and public toilets.

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    The monarch, who also restored electricity to the community two years ago, appealed to Governor Peter Mbah to remember Edeaniagu in his development plans. 

    “I dwell among my people, not in the government house. My people chose me, and that is why I serve them,” he added.

    A daughter of the community and scholar, Prof. Munachim Nweke-Okoye, who enrolled dozens of Edeaniagu youths in her scholarship programme, described the New Yam Festival as both a thanksgiving and a covenant with the soil.

    She recalled stories of her forebears, who cultivated not just farmlands but also generosity and protection of the vulnerable. 

    “The Feast of the Soil reminds us that every seed of goodwill returns in seasons of peace and plenty,” she said, urging the community to uphold values of unity, justice, and sustainability.

    The festival was marked with cultural displays of masquerades, communal feasting, and reaffirmation of solidarity, even as residents renewed calls for infrastructural development, particularly good roads.

  • Police operatives nab armed robbery group terrorising Abia

    Police operatives nab armed robbery group terrorising Abia

    Personnel of the Quick Intervention Unit (QIU), Abia State Police Command, have apprehended members of an armed robbery and cult group terrorising residents of the state.

    The suspects identified as Udaka Justin, male, 36 years, of Akata Village, Orlu East LGA, Imo State; Chukwuebuka Michael Nnebedun, male, 24 years, of Arondizuagu, Ideato North LGA, Imo State; and Prince David, male, 24 years, of Arodizuogu, Ideato North LGA, Imo State.

    Some of the exhibits recovered from them include one (1) short locally made pistol, three (3) live cartridges, one (1) double-edged machete, one (1) battle axe, one (1) black face mask, one (1) sachet of substances suspected to be Indian hemp and one auto-rickshaw (popularly known as keke Napep).

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    The Command’s spokesperson, Maureen Chinaka, who on Saturday (yesterday) confirmed the arrest of the suspects and recovery of the weapons, disclosed that operatives of the Quick Intervention Unit (QIU), Abia State Police Command, arrested the suspects while conducting stop-and-search operations at Umuagu by School Signboard in Umuahia, the state capital.

    According to Chinaka, the QIU operatives flagged down an autorickshaw (Keke Napep) with registration number MBL 801 VJ, blue in colour, carrying five occupants, including the rider.

    “The rider pretended that the tricycle had developed a fault when stopped, giving room for two of the occupants to jump out and escape.

    “However, three suspects were apprehended, who identified themselves as Udaka Justin, male, 36 years, of Akata Village, Orlu East LGA, Imo State; Chukwuebuka Michael Nnebedun, male, 24 years, of Arondizuagu, Ideato North LGA, Imo State; and Prince David, male, 24 years, of Arodizuogu, Ideato North LGA, Imo State.

    “Upon searching the suspects, operatives recovered the following exhibits: one locally made short pistol, three live cartridges, one double-edged machete, one battle axe, one black face mask, and one sachet of substances suspected to be Indian Hemp and the auto-rickshaw ( keke napep) 

    “The suspects and recovered exhibits have been taken into custody, while investigation is ongoing.

    “The Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, CP Danladi Isa, reiterates the Command’s commitment to reducing crime in Abia State to the barest minimum.

    “He further urges the good people of Abia to continue collaborating with the Police by promptly reporting suspicious persons or activities to the nearest Police Station.”

  • Group petitions PSC over alleged unlawful arrest, extortion, frame-up of citizen

    Group petitions PSC over alleged unlawful arrest, extortion, frame-up of citizen

    The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has petitioned the Police Service Commission (PSC) demanding urgent investigation and accountability for police officers accused of unlawfully arresting, detaining, extorting, and framing Mr. Eme Alfred Friday on fabricated terrorism charges.

     According to a statement signed by its Executive Director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, RULAAC alleged that Mr. Friday, described as a law-abiding Nigerian, was arrested without a warrant on June 26, 2025, by a police team led by Supol John Ilia and detained secretly at Area B Command, Apapa, Lagos, before being transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping Squad (AKS) in Enugu, under the command of Supol Chuks Odumu.

     For weeks, the family was denied access to him, while officers allegedly extorted money and issued threats.

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     After more than a month in custody, Mr. Friday was arraigned on August 4 before a Magistrate Court in Enugu on terrorism charges under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

     RULAAC claimed that the charges were based on a coerced confession authored by the AKS commander, while the only financial transaction cited was ₦7,500 sent to a local carpenter—a gesture of goodwill that was misrepresented as terrorism financing.

     The group also alleged that Mr. Friday’s family was intimidated by petitioning authorities, with threats that he could be charged with “any offence” unless they withdrew their complaints.

     “This brazen abuse of power, extortion, and criminalization of innocent citizens by rogue police officers is a grave violation of the constitution and international human rights standards,” RULAAC said.

     The organization urged the PSC to investigate and hold accountable the officers mentioned, including Supol Ilia, Supol Odumu, and DC Obiora Okonkwo of Zone 2 Lagos.

     It also called for disciplinary and criminal sanctions against those found culpable, review of the terrorism charges against Mr. Friday, and guarantees for the safety of his family and legal representatives.

     RULAAC warned that if such abuses go unchecked, innocent Nigerians would continue to live in fear of the police rather than see them as protectors.

     It vowed to continue monitoring the case and mobilising civil society, the media, and the international community until justice is achieved.

  • Otti assures on completion of ongoing projects

    Otti assures on completion of ongoing projects

    Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has assured that his government will not terminate any ongoing road construction project in Ukwa East and other parts of the state, embarked by his administration.

     This is even as the governor assured that work would start at the Ukwa Seaport as soon as funds were available.

     Otti stated this while addressing issues raised by a delegation of the Ezumezu Ndoki Patriotic Association, who called on him in his office.

     He explained some of the challenges being faced on the roads, including how he reached out to the Governor of Ákwa Ibom State and settled the issues around the Akirikaobu road.

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     “About some of the roads you mentioned, there is no road we are terminating midway.

     “I know that the Akirikaobu route starts from Obingwa, but construction is still on. So, by the time it’s completed, it will terminate in Akwa Ibom State.

     “Obohia road had a challenge. But we have almost solved it. And if you go to Obohia road, you will see that construction is going on as we speak.

     “The previous administration had awarded it to a company called Heartland. And before we came, the job was abandoned. And I engaged and had meetings with them and they promised to go back to the site and I think they are on site.

     “So, Obohia road, we found out that the original tunnel that was there had been blocked. The way it is, trying to retrieve it was going to be more expensive than doing a new one.

     “So, we decided to do a new one that is deep enough that we can also control to take all the water to the Aba River,” Otti assured.

     The governor, who equally explained why work is yet to commence on the proposed seaport project in Ukwa, said that he would not start the seaport project until he was sure of the availability of funds.

     “I was the one who came up with the idea that we needed a seaport. The Chinese who are working with us have turned in their feasibility reports.

     “And clearly, a lot of dredging needs to be done. I think from that report, if I’m not mistaken, we need to dredge about 19.5 kilometres to the high sea.

     “So, that is not consistent with the initial preliminary report that we got. So, to do this kind of work, it requires a whole lot of money.

     “So, we know how dredging is. We have now gone back to the drawing board because before we start any project, a lot of things are important to us.

     “One, we must ensure that it is viable, and before we start, we must confirm that we have the money to fund it so that we don’t start a project and abandon it or delay it midway.

     “On partnerships, of course, we have all the approvals and licenses required. But I want to assure you that it is a project that we have in mind. The new issues that came up are the reasons it looks like we are a bit slow.

     “So, we will not start the seaport project until we are very sure that we have the funds to complete it available,” Otti maintained.

     The State Chief Executive, reassured the Ukwa people that his government was their government, and thanked them for appreciating the modest efforts he has made in the last 27 months.

     Earlier in his speech, the Mayor of Ukwa East, Mr. Chibunna Akara informed the governor that many stakeholders in Ukwa East had expressed interest in joining the moving train.

     He thanked the governor for what he has been doing and said that his people were happy with the new Abia under Governor Otti.

     Also, speaking, the leader of the delegation and President Ezumezu Ndoki Patriotic Association, High Chief  I. N. Ahunanya explained that the association had been a political power broker in Ukwa East for a long time.

     He commended Governor Otti for his infrastructural development across the State and asked the governor to hand over the campaign of Ukwa East to their hands, assuring him of his reelection in 2027.

     Chief Ahunanya mentioned some roads leading to Ukwa, complaining that construction works there appear to have stopped midway as well as the seaport that needs to be built in Ukwa, and urged the Governor to intervene.