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Tag: Anambra State

  • ‘Courts must prioritise FOI cases, sanction wrongful denials’

    ‘Courts must prioritise FOI cases, sanction wrongful denials’

    Solicitor General of Anambra State, Ngozi Iwuno, has called for the inclusion of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act in civic education curricula to enhance the Act’s implementation.

    She also stressed the need to prioritise the FOI Act in courts as well as the issuance of sanctions for wrongful denials.

    Iwuno spoke in Awka at the South-South Regional Roundtable on the FOI Act in Nigeria, with the theme: “14 years of FOI implementation at the sub-national levels in Nigeria: Strengthening access, accountability and citizen engagement.”

    She also canvassed for the institutionalisation of FOI compliance across all levels of government.

    According to her, when legal remedies were swift and decisive, they could serve as deterrents to non-compliance.

    Iwuno also underscored the importance of public education, technology as well as the need to leverage digital platforms to facilitate proactive disclosure.

    She said: “We need to make the FOI Act part of civic education curricula. Our citizens must understand not only their rights but also how to assert them.

    “Imagine if secondary school students understood how to write an FOI request. That’s how we build a future of informed citizens.

    “Civil society organisations must continue to act as watchdogs, advocates, and educators. Government and civil society are not adversaries; we are partners in democratic development.

    “The courts must prioritise FOI cases and issue sanctions for wrongful denials. When legal remedies are swift and decisive, they serve as a deterrent to non-compliance.”

    Executive Director, Centre for Transparency Advocacy (CTA), Faith Nwadishi, lamented the difficulty in obtaining clear, timely and complete information from most government agencies, especially at the sub-national level and Local Government Areas, despite efforts by civil society organisations.

    Describing the FOI Act as one of the strongest tools in fighting corruption as well as a weapon against secrecy and impunity, Nwadishi challenged citizens to lead the transparency struggle as the strongest force that sustains the nation’s economy and collective existence.

    “This round table is part of a broader effort under the Strengthening Accountability and Governance in Nigeria Initiative (SAGNI)—a 12-month project we are implementing with support from the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC) and funding from the European Union through International IDEA.

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    “The project focused on selected federal institutions, departments in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in Anambra and Edo states, is aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance in Nigeria.

    “We need the media to continue informing citizens. We need civil society to train and educate citizens on how to use the FOI Act. We also need government officials and institutions to not just comply, but champion transparency.

    “And above all, we need citizens to use this right. Access to information is not just a legal provision—it is the heartbeat of democracy. If people don’t know, they cannot act. If they cannot act, they cannot hold power to account.

    “And if power is not accountable, democracy suffers. Let us not allow 14 more years to pass before we take this law seriously.

    “Together, let’s ensure the FOI Act works for all Nigerians, as we urge all the states in the Southeast region to implement the FOI Act.”

  • Teacher bags 12-year jail for raping JSS I boy in Onitsha

    Teacher bags 12-year jail for raping JSS I boy in Onitsha

    A Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Court sitting at Awka, Anambra State, has sentenced a 34-year-old school teacher to 12 years imprisonment for raping an 11-year- old, JSS 1 student.

    The defendant, Pascal Ofomata, was charged with rape and inflicting physical harm punishable under section 3(1), 4 (1) respectively of the Violence against Persons Prohibition Law, and the offense of Sexual Abuse punishable under section 35 (2) of the Child’s Right Law of Anambra State.

    Ofomata, a teacher at St Christopher’s Junior Seminary 3-3 Onitsha, pleaded not guilty of the 3-count charge.

    In his extra judicial statement, he outrightly denied penetrating the victim’s anus.

    The defendant however admitted in his statement in the police that he sucked his penis and told him to kiss him.

    After intense and intriguing trial and evaluation of the investigating police officer and the doctor who examined the victim, the court upheld the case of the prosecuting counsel and convicted the defendant, sentencing him to 12 years imprisonment.

    The court, in addition, barred him from being employed in any establishment with persons under 18 such as primary, secondary, and even tertiary institutions.

    Justice Peace Otti commended the lead Prosecutor, Chinelo Akorah, of the Anambra State Ministry of Justice for her industry and brilliance.

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    According to her, Akorah ‘s final address was compelling and comprehensive.

    She acknowledged that it was rare for cases of sexual offenses against boys to receive conclusive end and justice served to offenders.

    The Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, hailed the judgment, describing the case as rare push for justice for the boy-child.

    She expressed satisfaction that the state justice system is still delivering justice.

    “It’s also an opportunity to create the awareness that boys can be victims of sexual violence,” she added.

  • Celebrating the Aged, Honouring Tradition: A Critical Review of Emmanuel Solate’s “Ito-Ogbo Festival in Obosi, Anambra State”

    Celebrating the Aged, Honouring Tradition: A Critical Review of Emmanuel Solate’s “Ito-Ogbo Festival in Obosi, Anambra State”

    In his  article, “Ito-Ogbo Festival in Obosi, Anambra State,” Emmanuel Solate delivers a powerful, culturally grounded piece that does more than recount tradition,it actively participates in its preservation. The work offers a thoughtful documentation of the age-old festival that celebrates elders aged 80 and above in the Obosi community of Anambra State. But beyond mere reportage, the article makes a strong case for the role of cultural festivals in shaping collective memory, identity, and social cohesion.

    What distinguishes this piece is Solate’s careful contextualisation of the festival. He frames the Ito-Ogbo not simply as a spectacle, but as a structured cultural institution that promotes values such as longevity, intergenerational respect, and social continuity. In doing so, he invites the reader to reflect on what it means to age with dignity within a society that deeply values ancestry and communal responsibility.

    The article is rich in historical detail. From tracing the origins of the festival over 500 years ago to its present-day relevance, Solate bridges the past and the present in a way that is both respectful and engaging. His treatment of the age-grade system as an organising structure offers the reader deeper insight into the sociopolitical mechanics of Igbo traditional life. This elevates the piece from cultural narrative to cultural analysis.

    Stylistically, the article is accessible without being simplistic. Solate strikes a delicate balance between documentation and interpretation. His references to the symbolism of the red cap, the involvement of traditional institutions, and the broader call for global recognition (such as UNESCO designation) demonstrate a well-informed, intentional approach to cultural writing.

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    The inclusion of community voices—traditional rulers, age-grade members, government officials—adds authenticity to the narrative and gives a fuller picture of the festival’s modern impact. These perspectives are woven in seamlessly, providing layers of meaning without disrupting the flow of the article.

    What is particularly commendable is how Solate subtly highlights the festival’s relevance to public discourse on aging, heritage conservation, and inclusive community development. In an era where the elderly are often marginalised, the Ito-Ogbo offers a counter-narrative—one in which age is not a burden but a badge of honour. The article presents this message with clarity and emotional intelligence.

    In conclusion, “Ito-Ogbo Festival in Obosi” is more than a cultural piece; it is a well-researched, sensitively written, and socially relevant contribution to the field of arts and culture journalism. Emmanuel Solate demonstrates not only a deep respect for tradition but also an ability to interpret and share its significance with a wider audience. It is this kind of work that helps reposition African cultural practices in global conversations.

  • Anambra guber: Moghalu unveils running mate, reaffirms Obi’s support

    Anambra guber: Moghalu unveils running mate, reaffirms Obi’s support

    The Labour Party gubernatorial candidate in Anambra State, Chief Dr. George Moghalu has officially presented Hon. Mrs. Ifeoma Okaro as his running mate before leadership of the party in the state.

    Addressing party leaders, including state, local government and ward party executives in Awka, Moghalu emphasised the urgency of grassroots mobilisation ahead of the November 8 election.

    He urged ward and Local Government Area officers to take the party message directly to the people.

    “Every election is local. Let’s go back to our communities and win their hearts. The name on the ballot is Labour Party, not Moghalu. This is our collective journey,” he stated.

    The LP flag bearer further reaffirmed that the party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi remained fully committed to the party.

    He said Obi has promised to join the campaign trail, bringing further momentum to the party’s march towards victory in the election.

    Moghalu’s running mate, Okaro expressed deep gratitude for her nomination and pledged not to disappoint the confidence reposed in her.

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    “This is the time for women to prove their strength. I will not fail you,” she said.

    Also speaking, Hon. George Ozodinobi, Member representing Anaocha, Dunukofia, and Njikoka Federal Constituency acknowledged the tough road ahead and cautioned against underestimating the task.

    “We are not unaware of the enormity of what lies before us. Let no one trivialise it. We must be fully prepared,” he advised.

    Earlier, State Chairman of the Party, Chief Ugochukwu Emeh noted that the party’s flag bearer has endeared himself to the people of the state with his track record, integrity and commitment to deliver on his promises.

  • Two nabbed over murder of teenager in Onitsha

    Two nabbed over murder of teenager in Onitsha

    Police in Anambra state have arrested two persons over alleged involvement in murder of a 17-year old boy in Onitsha market.

    The spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga who disclosed this on Friday said the suspects were apprehended by operatives attached to the Onitsha Main Market Police Division.

    He said one automatic pump action gun was recovered from the suspects.

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    According to him, the suspected security operatives were shooting indiscriminately in an attempt to arrest a suspect when a bullet hit the deceased.

    He said, “Police Operatives attached to the Onitsha Main Market Police Division leveraging on the support of some traders, have arrested two suspects allegedly involved in the murder of a 17-year old boy and recovered one automatic pump action gun.

    “Eyewitness accounts revealed that the suspects who were allegedly security operatives attempting to arrest a suspect started shooting indiscriminately and regretfully, a bullet hit the innocent boy.

    “The Commissioner of Police CP Ikoiye Orutugu frowning at such avoidable and unprofessional behaviour of the security operatives, ordered the immediate transfer of the suspects to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Awka, for a comprehensive investigation.”

  • Tackling the menace of erosion in Anambra

    Tackling the menace of erosion in Anambra

    • By Obinna Odogwu

    Sir: Anambra State is arguably the erosion capital of Africa, if not the world. As of today, the state reportedly has over 1,000 active erosion sites. The figure was around 950 as of April 2022 according to the state governor, Chukwuma Soludo. The governor made the revelation during a roundtable meeting with the taskforce team of the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP) held at Bon Hotel, Awka, the state capital.

    The team were then in Anambra for a three-day workshop that centred on the organisation’s Additional Financing (AF) Implementation Completion and Result Report Mission (ICRM).

     A year later, the Commissioner for Environment, Felix Odimegwu, an engineer, revealed that erosion sites in the state had hit 1,000 based on his findings. He made the revelation while unveiling the state’s programme for the 2025 World Earth Day (WED) in Awka.

    While lamenting that Anambra was losing arable land to gully erosion, the environment commissioner revealed that new erosion sites were still emerging in the state.

    From 2022 to 2025, available reports show that more erosion sites have emerged in various parts of the state.

    A god example is the very deep gully threatening the fence of Amanuke General Hospital, Amanuke in Awka North Local Government Area of the state, as well as the family home of a citizen which shares boundary with it. In fact, if urgent action is not taken, both the hospital’s fence and the residential building may cave in anytime soon.

    Also in Nnewi South, many communities in that LGA are currently battling with erosion issues. The same applies to parts of Nnewi town in Nnewi North LGA.

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    Erosion sites in Agulu community, Anaocha LGA; Nanka and Oko communities in Orumba North LGA are still very much active. In fact, the trio is regarded as the headquarters of gully in the state.

    Erosion issues in the three communities are so bad that their residents reportedly spend each day in fear, not knowing when and where the next landslide would take place.

    So far, scores of lives have been lost and property worth several millions of Naira destroyed even as farmlands and economic trees have been swept away.

    The Federal Polytechnic, Oko is also under a serious threat. Already, a part of the institution’s perimeter fence has been pulled down by a very deep gully with some buildings near it threatened.

    In other parts of the state, there have been a series of reports about the devastating impacts of gully erosion.

    There is hardly any community in the state that does not have its own share of the erosion issues.

    Despite this sad condition of the state, some of the residents still engage in unwholesome practices that promote the development of new gully erosion sites and the worsening of the already existing ones.

    Across many communities, incessant excavation of the soil surface is still going on. There is also the indiscriminate disposal of wastes, as well as the deliberate blockage of water channels by unscrupulous individuals.

    These negative actions undermine the efforts currently being made by the state government to check gully erosion and their devastating impacts in the state, as well as the remedial work already done by NEWMAP.

    The state government under the leadership of Soludo has spent and is still spending its scarce resources in its efforts to reclaim lands taken by the gully erosion.

    There is, therefore, a need for the people to join hands with the government to prevent further deterioration of the environment and the emergence of new erosion sites in the state. Indiscriminate excavation of the soil surface must be stopped.

    There is also a need for stringent laws and regulations to be made by the government, and where necessary amend the existing ones, to protect our environment.

    It is important that religious, traditional and social organisations, as well as influential individuals in the state lend their voices and support to the efforts being made by the state and federal governments to protect our environment and make it safe for everyone.

    •Obinna Odogwu,

    obinnaodogwu77@gmail.com

  • Anambra CP detains three Inspectors over alleged corruption

    Anambra CP detains three Inspectors over alleged corruption

    Anambra State Police Commissioner, Ikioye Oritugu, has ordered the detention of three Police Inspectors in the state for alleged corruption.

    The three officers were said to have forcefully searched one of the resident’s phone and extorted from him during patrol.

    The incident, according to the command’s spokesman, Tochukwu Ikenga, took place on Wednesday.

    He said the CP has further directed the immediate commencement of internal disciplinary proceedings of the force on the Policemen

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    Ikenga, further said that Orutugu, frowned at the poor character exhibited by the three men, adding that they accosted an unsuspecting member of the public during a security patrol, forcibly searched his phone and extorted from the victim.

    He described the force as a disciplined, transparent, responsible, responsive and accountable institution.

  • Beer parlour owner murdered in Anambra

    Beer parlour owner murdered in Anambra

    A popular beer parlour owner has been murdered by gunmen in Oko, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State.

    The deceased was reportedly shot dead opposite Glamour Pizza, near the Federal Polytechnic around 7 pm over the weekend.

    According to eyewitnesses, the deceased was driving in a Lexus car when a group of armed hoodlums ambushed him, shooting him twice on the chest before fleeing the scene.

    A viral video from the scene shows the victim’s body dumped inside the vehicle, surrounded by spectators who crowded the area shortly after the incident.

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    Confirming the incident, Police Spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, said the killing was cult-related.

    He said one suspect has been arrested in connection with the incident.

    Ikenga added that the deceased body has been recovered and deposited in the morgue.

    He said: “It was a cult-related killing, and following the swift response of the Police operatives led by the DPO. One suspect was arrested and is currently undergoing interrogation. The body of the victim has been recovered and deposited in the morgue.

    “The operatives also recovered the victim’s vehicle at the scene. The police are currently conducting investigations and interrogating the suspect.”

  • Joint operatives kill hoodlum, raze criminal camp in Anambra

    Joint operatives kill hoodlum, raze criminal camp in Anambra

    A criminal gang member has been killed by Joint Security Operatives in Agulu-ezechukwu, Aguata local government area of Anambra state.

    Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga who disclosed this on Saturday said the operatives also razed down a criminal camp in the area.

    He said the operatives comprising Department of State Service, Army, Navy, Civil Defence and State Vigilante members overran the criminal camp after a 7-hour gun duel with the armed hoodlums.

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    He listed items recovered from the operation to include one Ash Toyota Sienna with Reg No: EKY 03 FF, one unregistered white Mazda Hilux and one Motorcycle.

    “Others are some household/kitchen items which include: pots, gallons, groceries, some sleeping mattresses, Mechanical tools, clothes and other incriminating items.

    “Meanwhile, the Operatives are still combing the area for possible arrest of other fleeing suspects because of a lot of fresh blood stains in the area,” he added.

  • ‘Prompt tax payment recipe for revenue collectors’, embarrassment’

    ‘Prompt tax payment recipe for revenue collectors’, embarrassment’

    A group, Hope Givers Initiative has advised tax payers in Anambra State to ensure payment of their taxes as at when due  to appropriate agencies to  avoid intimidation and harassment by illegal revenue collectors.

    Executive Director, Mrs Onyeka Okey Udegbunam gave the advice during a consultative meeting with civil society organizations on tax administration and management.

    She lamented incivility and violent disposition of some revenue collectors while discharging their responsibilities, just as she called on government to prosecute illegal revenue agents.

    She said: “Government should fish out illegal revenue collectors and prosecute them. Government should also put up an awareness system that will regularly remind people of tax payments.

    “Tax payers should pay their taxes as at when due to the appropriate bodies to avoid intimidation by the illegal revenue collectors.

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    “Government should put up a body to handle monitoring of defaulters of tax payments. Government should conduct proper enrolment of more tax payers and document them in the database of tax payers.”

    Chairman, Anambra Internal Revenue Services, Dr. Greg Ezeilo underscored the importance of tax-knowledge population.

    Ezeilo, represented by an official of the agency, Mrs. Eberechukwu Ezekigbo advised tax administrators to be civil in the discharge of their duties.

    He said: “There’s need for the citizens to know that taxation is an obligation backed by law not victimization. It’s t’s not optional. It’s been there from time immemorial.

    “We can’t be expecting much from the government without meeting with our own responsibility and contributions.

    “My advice to our tax administrators is to be civil, in the discharge of our duties.