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IPOB: Kanu’s wife finally visits husband in DSS dungeon, thanks Ubah for facilitating the visit

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IPOB: Kanu’s wife finally visits husband in DSS dungeon, thanks Ubah for facilitating the visit

 

By Tony Oraeki, Awka

The wife of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Mrs. Uchechi Okwu Kanu has thanked Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Ubah,representing Anambra South senatorial zone, for facilitating her visit to her husband, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, who has been in DSS dungeon for some donkey years.

Mrs. Kanu had on April 16 visited her husband, Nnamdi Kanu at the Directorate of State Services, DSS, where he has been detained since 2021, after he was renditioned from Kenya.

It was gathered that Nnamdi Kanu’s wife had severally been denied access to her husband, until last month when she approached Senator Ubah for help, who swiftly facilitated her visit.

During a live session on Radio Biafra on Sunday, Mrs Kanu who addressed some Igbo people living in UK and other parts of the world thanked Ubah, saying that she knows that a lot of Igbo elites are genuinely concerned about the unlawful incarceration of her husband, and were working silently to help him regain his freedom.

She said: “Let me use this opportunity to thank Senator Ifeanyi Ubah who moved swiftly to facilitate my visit to my husband in DSS custody. I thank you sir.

“I thank other Igbo politicians, governors and political office holders who are concerned about the plight of my husband. A lot of these elites are concerned about the unlawful detention of my husband, and are working silently to secure a round table discussion for his release. I’m thankful to them.”

Senator Ifeanyi Ubah also told journalists that he facilitated the visit of Mrs. Kanu to her husband when he learnt that she was finding it difficult to visit him in detention.

According to the Senator, “Yes, she was in Nigeria and she approached me and told me that she needed to visit her husband, but was finding it difficult, so I immediately intervened. I visited her husband too with her in the company of Barr. Ifeanyi Ejiofor. She met with her husband in the DSS facility on April 16, 2024.”

Kanu has been in DSS custody since 2021, after he was rearrested for allegedly jumping bail in 2017 when he fled the country.

Anambra Journalist, Obeta Bags Chieftaincy Title from Catholic Church

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Anambra Journalist, Obeta Bags Chieftaincy Title from Catholic Church

 

By Izunna Okafor, Awka

The Catholic Diocese of Awka, Anambra State, on Sunday, bestowed the chieftaincy title of Nnadiebube (Glorious father) on the former Vice Chairman of Anambra council of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Chief Boniface Okechukwu Obeta.

Obeta, State Correspondent of Leadership newspaper, was honoured with the title alongside 18 other distinguished professionals living in Awka and worshipping at St. Patrick’s Cathedral Church of the Catholic Diocese of church.

The Bishop, Catholic Diocese of Awka, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, represented at the occasion by the Cathedral Administrator, Ven. Rev. Fr. Anthony Nwafor, commended Obeta for having assisted the church in various ways since he joined the parish in 1996.

Obeta, who has contributed to the church growth in various ways, was a pioneer executive member of English Community zone now known as St. Francis Zone of the parish and author who wrote and ensured that it was recognised as a zone in the cathedral under the then Cathedral Administrator, Rev. Fr. Patrick Ezeoke.

He is also the current Chairman of St. Charles Zone comprising the six Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Enugu North senatorial zone and Isi-Uzoh LGA of Enugu East senatorial Zone of Enugu State.

The Chairman, Catholic Men Organisation (CMO) St. Patrick’s Cathedral Awka, Mr Obinna Anakuba, and Mr Ifeanyi J. Ogbodo, the Chairman of organising committee of the event, said the award was an honour to deserving members of the church and parts of activities marking the 2024 father’s Sunday of the Catholic church.

PROFILE:
Obeta is the son of the late Chief OBETTAJA UGWUOKE and Mrs OREJA REBECCA OBETA (nee Asogwa-Elechi) of Dimamoke village, Ibagwani in Nsukka local government area of Enugu state.

A graduate of Linguistics from the University of Jos(1990), also obtained National Diploma in Journalism from the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ) (1994).

Chief OBETA has been in active journalism practice for over 33 years now, having worked for several print media establishments, and formerly the Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the NUJ, Anambra state and former Vice Chairman of the NUJ, Anambra state Council.

He was also a former Transition Committee member for Onitsha South Local Government Area, Anambra State, and his home Parish is St. John Catholic Parish, Ibagwani.

In Anambra, Police Arrest 7 Suspected Cultists, Declare Baby Wanted

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In Anambra, Police Arrest 7 Suspected Cultists, Declare Baby Wanted

By Izunna Okafor, Awka

The operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have arrested no fewer than seven persons for suspected cultism and armed robbery in the State.

The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ikenga Tochukwu disclosed this in a statement issued to newsmen on Saturday.

According to him, the gang members were arrested at about 10.pm on Friday when the officers swooped on them. He said a cut-size double barrel gun, one tricycle without a reg number, and some hard drugs were also recovered from the gang.

“The suspects include Chukwuemka Ozoekwe (aged 18), Chidozie Anagor (aged 18) Chukwuemeka Oyeoka (aged 18), Ebuka Okoye (aged 17), Olisa Obi (aged 19), Chidubem Nwakwu (aged 20), and Nwankwo Kosisochukwu — all males,” he said.

The PPRO also said the Command has declared wanted and launched manhunt for Makuo Nwosu (popularly known as Baby) and one other person whose name is yet to be identified.

The statement read in parts: “Police attached to Special Anti-Cultism Squad (SPACS), while on patrol at UNIZIK Junction, intercepted all males and five occupants, including the driver of a tricycle.

“While the operatives were in a bid to question them, the occupants took to their heels. While the others escaped, Chukwuemka Ozoekwe was arrested.

“Ozoekwe later led the Police to their criminal den where Chidozie Anagor (aged 18 years), and Chukwuemeka Oyeoka (aged 18 years) were arrested, and the remaining two are still at large.

“Also, during the raid operation in their harbor, the operatives arrested Ebuka Okoye (17 years), Olisa Obi (19 years), Chidubem Nwakwu (20 years), and Nwankwo Kosisochukwu.”

Continuing, SP Ikenga said, “During interrogation, the suspects confessed to being members of the Vipers Cult group, and they are one of the gangs terrorizing Awka metropolis recently. The suspects also confessed that they were on a mission to rob the road users of their phones and personal belongings before the arrest.

“To this end, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration and acting Commissioner of Police, DCP Fidelis Ogarabe PSC MNIPS charged the Operatives to sustain the tempo in the fight against crime in the state.

“He also assured Ndi Anambra that the confidence repose on the Police and all the security agencies in the State shall not be taken for granted, and directed that the suspects to be charged to court on the conclusion of the investigations.”

Coastal Highway: Stop the Blackmail Against Obi, Ezeonwuka Tells Umahi

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Coastal Highway: Stop the Blackmail Against Obi, Ezeonwuka Tells Umahi

 

By Izunna Okafor, Awka

Chief Rommy Ezeonwuka, the Spiritual Leader of Igbo Nation has lashed out at Engr. David Umahi, the Minister of Works over his comment that Mr Peter Obi was inciting Igbo against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party and leading opposition leader had criticised the decision of the Federal Government to construct a coastal highway from Lagos to Calabar when most existing internal roads in the country were in bad state and needed reconstruction.

But in a response, Umahi instead of responding to Issues raised by Obi alleged that he was misleading Igbo and inciting them against the Federal Government.

Ezeonwuka said Umahi should not sacrifice the Igbo Nation in his quest to be sent as a loyal servant of the President and sustain his political relevance warning that those who tried in the past all had sad and shameful end.

He said he had no problems with Umahi trying to service the ego of his master but it must not be at the risk of the collective destiny of Igbo people.

Ezeonwuka who is the founder of the Ogilisi Igbo Foundation, an Igbo Socio Cultural organisation, said Tinubu had received the greatest support from Igbo people when they refused to join the nationwide protest against harsh policies which would have not only bring his government to its knees but throw the country into crisis.

He said the Coastal highway had been condemned by many including Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of PDP as misplaced priority and waste of money and wondered why Umahi should single out Obi for blackmail

“I condemn the blackmail of Mr Peter Obi by Dave Umahi, the Minister of Works and warn him to stop forthwith, he should not try to use Igbo to service his selfish political interest because, nobody who did what he is doing in the past survived it, he should check history.

“He cannot set the Igbo against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, good friends in Igbo land and Peter has good friends across Nigeria, so, his allegation against Obi is not only false but idiotic and should be withdrawn immediately.

“Umahi can enjoy his spoil of politics but must not do that with the blackmail of Peter or Igbo, I therefore call on Igbo stakeholders to condemn.this rascality against Igbo by Umahi and call him to order, Igbo have had enough of this madness,’’ he said

Ezeonwuka said Umahi should concentrate on his ministerial work and avoid sabotaging and jeopardising the interest of Igbo describing Igbo as a deputy which nobody tries to rubbish with serious consequences.

Anambra Philanthropist Secures Release of 10 Prison Inmates to Mark Birthday, Gifts Int’l Passports to 5 Others, Empowers 40 PWDs

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Anambra Philanthropist Secures Release of 10 Prison Inmates to Mark Birthday, Gifts Int’l Passports to 5 Others, Empowers 40 PWDs

 

By Izunna Okafor, Awka

It was a moment of hope restoration and tears of joy for 10 prison inmates at Onitsha and Awka correctional service centres in Anambra State, as they regained their freedom, as was secured and facilitated by a philanthropist in the State to give his birthday a more symbolic and impactful look.

It was gathered that the inmates have long been placed on bail but were retained at the correctional centres because they had nobody to perfect their bail conditions.

The philanthropist, Chief Maduaburochukwu Attah, perfected the release conditions of the inmates to mark his birthday and thank God for adding another year to his age.

On why he embarked on the intervention, Chief Attah who owns the famous ABU Charity Foundation, said he has no particular reason but just to put smiles on people’s faces.

According to him, “First, today is my birthday and I felt like celebrating with our brothers at the correctional centers. It gives me joy when I help people in need.

“The intervention was to give them another chance to correct the mistakes they made in the past as well as avail them opportunity to contribute their quota to societal progress.

Chief Attah, who also handed over international passports to five Awka youths and empowered over 40 persons with disabilities same day, assured that his foundation would train the freed inmates to become better citizens of the country.

Reacting, Deputy Controller of Onitsha Custodial Correctional Centre, Sunday Igwe, and his Awka counterpart, Solomon Ubah, commended Attah’s gesture and intervention, describing it as rare achievement in todays society.

“I’m very happy. Chief Attah and his NGO have done what we have been yearning for. He perfected the release of five inmates in my Onitsha center as part of his birthday celebration which is something symbolic.

“At the centre, we are about 1,000 but now we would be 995. Also, the population at Awka center will reduce because he promised to do the same there today.

“We have been asking members of the public to always partner with us because some of the inmates have been here for a good number of years simply because they could not meet their bail terms,” Igwe said.

They advised the freed inmates to abstain from crime and embrace a good lifestyle as payback for freedom. They also urged other inmates to leverage various skill acquisition training at the centers while in detention to add value to themselves and to be useful when they regain freedom.

In separate interviews, seven of the freed inmates thanked Maduaburochukwu for the gesture and pledged to turn a new leaf when they get back into society.

Encomiums, As Anambra Philanthropist, Otti Marks Birthday

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Encomiums, As Anambra Philanthropist, Otti Marks Birthday

 

By Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, PhD

Today is May 4th, 2024. It’s Chief Ikechukwu Abraham Otti’s birthday. Chief Otti fondly known as ‘Mighty Mighty’ and revered as the ‘Ikenga of Umuchu, is celebrating his birthday today.

In a world often overshadowed by tales of adversity and struggle, there emerges a figure whose unwavering commitment to community upliftment shines like a guiding light. Chief Ikechukwu Abraham Otti, fondly known as ‘Mighty Mighty’ and revered as the ‘Ikenga of Umuchu,’ epitomizes the essence of service, compassion, and dedication.

Chief Otti’s journey is a shining example of how one person’s dedication and compassion can make a real difference in the world. His remarkable achievements and countless acts of kindness serve as a testimony to the profound impact that individuals can have on their communities. Through his selfless actions, Chief Otti has not only transformed the lives of those around him but has also inspired others to join in his efforts.

His commitment to making the world a better place serves as a powerful reminder that each of us has the ability to create positive change, no matter how small our actions may seem. Chief Otti’s legacy will continue to inspire generations to come to make a difference in their own communities.

Chief Ikechukwu Abraham Otti, born on May 4th, 1973, hails from Umuchu in Aguata LGA, Anambra State. His life story is woven with threads of dedication, vision, and service, both to his community and his beloved family.

An astute business tycoon, with a wealth of experience in oil and gas servicing companies, Chief Otti exemplifies excellence in strategic planning, business execution, and fostering robust industry relationships. His entrepreneurial spirit and exceptional communication skills have propelled him to success in various business ventures, including directorship roles in ALLIED VICTORY NIG LTD and Cifaco Construction Limited.

Allied Victory NIG Ltd is indigenous company that boasts a team of multi-disciplinary experts dedicated to providing efficient, tailored solutions. Its commitment to integrity and professionalism is evident in their meticulous policies, crafted to meet each client’s unique needs. It excel in exceeding international standards, ensuring utmost value for customers. It’s services span general supply, construction, and oil & gas, aimed at maximizing customer benefits. From procurement to maintenance, they are driven by a passion for excellence, building enduring relationships and delivering top-notch products and services, both onshore and offshore.

Chief Otti’s dedication to community service extends far beyond his business endeavours. Through transformative projects like installing modern street lights and constructing new roads in Umuchu, Chief Otti demonstrates his unwavering commitment to enhancing community welfare and infrastructure. These initiatives not only bring tangible improvements but his involvement in various clubs and associations, including the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt and the Port Harcourt Polo Club, underscores his deep-rooted commitment to community development. By leveraging his resources and influence, Chief Otti leaves an indelible mark on the fabric of society, striving to create a better future for all.

With steadfast dedication to the progress of the town, Mighty Mighty Umuchu has undertaken a bold initiative to construct multiple kilometres of roads. He took on the task of constructing the 3-km-long road that stretches from Ibubu to Umualoma, ensuring smoother and safer travel for residents.

His recent endeavours, of illuminating Umuchu with modern street lights, is heartwarming. He illuminated the road from Ibubu junction to every corner of Achalla Village by installing solar-powered street lights, enhancing visibility and security for all.

Chief Otti’s commitment to education is also exemplary. He paid the school fees for one session for all the nursery and primary school students at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Achalla, Umuchu and promised to continue covering them annually, ensuring that every child has access to education.

Last December, he empowered some youths in his community by gifting them motorcycles for their entrepreneurial endeavours, enabling them to generate income.

As a tradition, every December, he generously distributes bags of rice to each household in Achalla Village, spreading warmth and joy during the festive season. Chief Otti’s heartwarming gesture of distributing over 500 bags of rice to widows and women in Umuchu epitomized the spirit of Christmas — touching the lives of the most vulnerable members of society with acts of kindness and compassion.

Chief Otti, embarked on a heartfelt mission to provide homes for those in need. In a remarkable display of kindness, he oversaw the construction and furnishing of ten homes, which he then gifted to10 indigent widows. His dedication to this project was evident, as he personally ensured that every detail was taken care of to provide comfortable and safe living spaces for the recipients.

For the families who received these homes, it was life-changing. It offered them a fresh start and the opportunity to build brighter futures for themselves and their loved ones. His act of kindness will be remembered for years to come as a shining example of the difference one person can make when they choose to lend a helping hand to those in need.

But Chief Otti’s benevolence did not end there. In a demonstration of his deep empathy, he presented each widow with a substantial sum of N600,000 in cash, recognizing their ongoing needs and striving to alleviate their financial burdens. This act of kindness not only provided immediate relief but also bestowed a sense of dignity and empowerment upon each recipient, affirming their worth and value within the community.

In a remarkable act of generosity and dedication to Umuchu, Chief Ikechukwu Otti, also known as Mighty Mighty Umuchu, took on the entire task of building and outfitting the Holy Trinity Church (Anglican Communion). He didn’t just provide financial support; he invested his time, energy, and resources to ensure the church stood as a symbol of faith and hope for the community.

Chief Otti’s commitment to this project went beyond words; it was a tangible demonstration of his belief in the power of faith to uplift and unite the people of Umuchu. Through his singular effort, he has left a lasting legacy of compassion and community spirit for generations to come.

As Chief Otti continues to spearhead transformative projects and inspire positive change, his legacy of service and compassion reverberates throughout Umuchu and beyond. Through his company, ALLIED VICTORY NIG LTD, he not only delivers quality services but also strives to improve lives and build a better future for generations to come. His vision for becoming a leading and reliable oil and gas company, while upholding the highest standards of compliance, embodies his unwavering commitment to excellence.

In Chief Otti Ikechukwu Abraham, we find not just a leader or a businessman, but a beacon of hope, a champion of compassion, and a symbol of inspiration. On Chief Otti’s birthday today, his story reminds us that amidst life’s challenges, there exists the power to make a difference, to uplift others, and to create a legacy of love and service that transcends time.

As Umuchu basks in the glow of Mighty Mighty’s benevolence, let us all be inspired to follow his example and make our own mark on the world, one act of kindness at a time. Happy birthday “Mighty Mighty”. Happy birthday Ikenga Umuchu. Happy birthday Chief Otti Ikechukwu Abraham. May your days be long!

Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu PhD is a Media and Strategic Communications Consultant based in Awka, Anambra State.
08060750240

 

New Anambra Fire Chief Recounts Progresses, As Agency Marks Int’l Firefighters’ Day

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New Anambra Fire Chief Recounts Progresses, As Agency Marks Int’l Firefighters’ Day

 

By Izunna Okafor, Awka

The new Fire Chief of the Anambra State Fire Service, Engr. Emmanuel Chiketa has said the agency is currently making progress in its firefighting mission and educating the public on fire safety measures in the state.

Engr. Chiketa disclosed this on Saturday while addressing newsmen at the Headquarters of the State Fire Service in Awka, on the occasion of the 2024 International Firefighters’ Day (IFD).

The event saw the state’s firefighters embark on a roadshow in the capital city, to enlighten the public on fire prevention mechanisms and strategies.

Speaking shortly after the roadshow, the State Fire Chief, Engr. Chiketa, described International Firefighters’Day as a day set asides to remember and honor the sacrifices of firefighters, as well as commemorate and celebrate those who have died, retired, or are still actively serving in the firefighting profession.

He also dissected the theme of this year’s event, “The Importance of Fire Prevention and Safety in a Contemporary Society”, which, he said, is very significant in emphasizing and reminding the public of the significance and critical role of safety and fire prevention in saving lives and protecting property.

Engr. Chiketa, who recently assumed office as the State’s Fire Chief further highlighted some of the efforts and feats so far recorded in firefighting by the agency under his watch. These, he said, include facility tour, sensitization programs, and safety awareness campaign in various institutions, including schools and streets, among others.

He also added that plans are on motion to extend the campaigns and sensitization to the markets, the media, filling stations, gas plants, and other public places across the state, for maximum reach and impact.

While noting that their firefighting job has not been without some challenges, Engr. Chiketa, who said Anambra has very low prevalence of fire incidents compared to other states, further hailed the Governor Chukwuma Soludo-led Anambra State Government for the support and motivation received by the agency, which, he said, have helped make their works much easier.

The Fire Chief also assured Ndị Anambra of the agency’s commitment to their safety, even as he encouraged them to continue practicing fire safety measures in their respective localities and institutions.

Contributing, the Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Youth Development and immediate-past Fire Chief in the State, Engr. Martin Agbili, traced the origin of the International Firefighters’ Day to an Australian Firefighter, JJ Edmondson, whom he said, founded it in 1999, after 5 firefighters died tragically during a wildfire in the Australia, when the direction of the wind changed suddenly and engulfed them in flames.

Engr. Agbili, who is also the Coordinator for Africa Continent for International Firefighters Day celebration, called on Ndị Anambra to accord his successor, Engr. Chiketa and the state’s firefighters every necessary support in doing their job; even as he further urged the people to always report fire outbreak to the Fire Service on time, adding that the time fire incident is reported determines the time the firefighters will arrive the scene.

He further warned against attacking firefighters, whom, he said, are not the cause of fire outbreaks but are only offering help and selfless services to the public.

This reporter, Izunna Okafor, gathered that, since its inception in 1999, International Firefighters’ Day is globally celebrated on May 4 every year to honour heroes who risk their lives to safeguard people and their property from fire.

‘Stop using repressive laws to target journalists, critics’, SERAP, NGE tell Tinubu govt, govs, others

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‘Stop using repressive laws to target journalists, critics’, SERAP, NGE tell Tinubu govt, govs, others

As the international community marks the World Press Freedom Day, Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE) have urged Nigerian authorities at all levels of government to “stop using repressive and anti-media laws such as the Cybercrimes Act and some codes of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to target, intimidate and harass journalists, critics and media houses.”

 

The statement followed the interactive session on ‘the state of press freedom in Nigeria’ held today at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Ikeja. The event was jointly organized by SERAP and NGE to mark the World Press Freedom Day.

 

In a joint statement, SERAP and NGE said that, “the government of President Bola Tinubu, the country’s 36 governors and FCT minister must now genuinely uphold press freedom, ensure access to information to all Nigerians, obey court judgments, and respect the rule of law.”

 

The groups expressed “serious concerns about the escalating crackdown on the right to freedom of expression and media freedom and the flagrant disregard for the rule of law by authorities at all levels of government.”

 

The groups “note that the suppression of the press in recent times takes various forms ranging from extrajudicial to unlawful detentions, disappearances, malicious prosecutions and wrongful use of both legislation and law enforcement.”

 

The statement, read in part: “We would continue to speak truth to power and to hold authorities to account for their constitutional and international obligations including on freedom of expression and media freedom.”

 

“Nigeria as a country has a long and unpleasant history of press gagging and clampdown on media freedom, which is evidence of extensive state censorship of media and in some cases, the utter control of state-owned media houses.”

 

“This position has not changed considerably despite almost 25 years of unbroken democratic rule in the Fourth Republic.”

 

“We are concerned that press freedom remains under threat, especially due to economic challenges and other challenges such as navigating digital surveillance, hacking, online harassment and internet shutdowns.”

 

“Freedom of the press is one of the cornerstones of a democratic society. Journalism is not a crime; it is fundamental to a free society.”

 

“Freedom of the press is closely related to the freedom of expression, found in article section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended] and the provisions of international human rights treaties such as article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights to which Nigeria is a state party.”

 

“Press freedom is essential for journalists and media organisations to report freely in the public interest. Press freedom also has wider significance, as a free and independent media contributes to transparency and accountability of government.”

 

“Press freedom is therefore essential not only for free speech as a public good but also for the enjoyment of other human rights.”

 

“It is important not only to journalists and media organisations, which publish the information but also to citizens, who have a right to access information from a diversity of sources.”

 

“This in turn is essential to ensuring the effective exercise of the right to participate in one’s government and the proper election of the people’s representatives.”

 

“Extensive research has been carried out on the existing legislation and the deliberate proposing of Bills aimed at silencing dissenting voices and muffling the press. In addition, there are a plethora of cases of threats, intimidation and actual aggression employing law enforcement, regulating bodies, and State might.”

 

“There are incessant reports of censorship and surveillance, all aimed at identifying and silencing dissenting opinions rendered in mainstream media or other social media channels.”

 

“We are concerned that freedom of information requests are frequently refused by authorities at all levels of government.” Inadequate funding and lack of access to independent funding have also been identified as major hindrances to media freedom.”

 

“We therefore urge the Federal Government to take effective and concrete measures to review existing laws to reflect respect for media freedom and human rights.”

 

“The NBC must stop using its codes to clampdown on broadcast stations and to impose arbitrary fines on them. The NBC must review its codes to bring them in line with the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended] and international human rights standards.”

 

“We urge the Federal Government to review laws like the Official Secrets Act, Criminal Code Act and Cybercrime Act for potential restrictions on free speech and press; and amend them in line with international human rights standards and Agreements, including the Windhoek Declaration for the Development of a Free, Independent and Pluralistic Press.”

 

“We urge the Federal Government to strengthen the independence of regulatory bodies like the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and Nigerian Press Council (NPC) to ensure impartial regulation and promote self-regulation within the media.”

 

“We urge the Attorney General to push for the immediate amendment of the Cybercrimes Act and other repressive legislation, and bring these laws in line with the Nigerian Constitution of 1999 (as amended) and international human rights obligations to which Nigeria is a state party.”

 

“We urge the Attorney General to advise President Bola Tinubu to promptly obey all outstanding court judgments including the ECOWAS Court judgment directing the Federal Government to repeal the repressive Cybercrimes Act and bring it in conformity with Nigeria’s international human rights obligations and commitments.”

 

“We urge the Minister of Information to promptly review restrictive and oppressive media legislation in Nigeria and pursue the immediate revision of any provisions that violate the right to freedom of expression, access to information including online and media freedom, and ensure that any restrictions on media freedom are necessary, proportionate and the least restrictive.”

 

“We urge the Minister of Information to ensure that the regulatory mechanisms including the National Broadcasting Commission are independent and promote self-regulation of the media.”

 

“We urge the Minister of Information to publicly express commitment to the promotion and protection of freedom of expression and access to information including online and media freedom in Nigeria.”

 

“We urge state governors to ensure that security agencies, the Nigeria Police Force and other authorities drop all charges against journalists, bloggers and other media workers, and critics, and cease further arbitrary closures of radio and television stations.”

 

“We urge state governors to publicly support and commit to the protection and promotion of the right to freedom of expression, access to information and the media freedom, including public reporting of sensitive political and other issues within their states.”

 

“We urge state governors to ensure that any government or security officials found responsible for obstructing, abusing, or attacking journalists, critics or media organisations are appropriately disciplined or prosecuted.”

 

“We urge state governors to publicly support and ensure the direct and full application of the Freedom of Information Act within their respective states.”

 

“We urge state governors to ensure adequate compensation and reparation for victims of human rights violations in their respective states, including restitution, satisfaction, and guarantee of non-repetition.”

 

“We urge the National Assembly to immediately harmonise all laws pertaining to freedom of expression, media freedom and civic space in Nigeria to confer authority on a specific independent agency that will oversee the collection, maintenance, usage, and dissemination of the personal information and records of all citizens and prioritise fundamental human rights.”

 

“We urge the National Assembly leadership to sponsor a resolution condemning the persistent violations of freedom of expression, media freedom and crackdown on civic space in Nigeria and all harassment, intimidation, and attacks on journalists, critics, bloggers and media organisations by state governors and the Federal Government.”

 

“We urge the National Assembly to promptly and comprehensively review the Cybercrimes Act and other restrictive legislation, and revise them as appropriate to bring them into line with Nigeria’s international human rights obligations and commitments regarding the right to freedom of expression, access to information and media freedom.”

 

“We urge the National Assembly to immediately drop any social media and other bills that would restrict freedom of expression, media freedom and civic space and undermine the effective enjoyment of these rights in Nigeria.”

 

“We urge the international community to encourage the Nigerian authorities to uphold constitutional and international human rights obligations on human rights and to respect, protect, promote and fulfil these rights including freedom of expression and opinion, access to information and privacy online and offline, and ensure a free and independent media landscape.”

 

“We urge the international community to hold Nigerian authorities to account for violations of human rights in the country including by calling on the authorities at both the Federal and state levels to immediately and unconditionally release anyone detained solely for peacefully exercising their human rights and to immediately withdraw any charges against them.”

 

The interactive session was attended by senior members of the media, civil society groups and other stakeholders. Those who attended the event included: Gbenga Adefaye, Provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism; Richard Akinnola; Eze Anaba, President, NGE; Dr Iyobosa Uwugiaren, NGE’s Secretary; Lanre Idowu, CEO Diamond Publications Ltd; and Abiodun Odusote, Professor of Law, UNILAG.

 

Others who attended the event included: Mustapha Isah former President, NGE; Present Silverbird News director; Mr. Fred Braimoh, Deputy director FRCN; and Paulyn Ogbodaga, executive director, AIT.

PDP crisis: Coalition of aggrieved party men vows to float a new party

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PDP crisis: Coalition of aggrieved party men vows to float a new party

A Coalition of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s Support Groups Initiative, CASGI, and some concerned Peoples Democratic Party(PDP), Support Groups have approached the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC), for the registration of a new political party ahead of 2027 general election.

The groups led by Comrade Obinna Okorie of CASGI, said they made the decision after the 2023 general elections, following the inability of PDP to put its house in order, and the failure of the party to reward loyalty.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja shortly after the caucus meeting of the Stiku Camp, Chief Okorie said the decision to float a new political party was to give the aggrieved supporters of the main opposition party a sense of belonging and recognition as they head into the next general election.

According to him, “we worked very hard canvassing votes for our candidate, Atiku Abubakar all over the country, but our efforts ended up in futility due to the divisions in the party where some principal members openly worked against his victory; the impunity and ill treatment of their supporters is also a fact.”

The CASGI National coordinator said he has personally informed former Vice President Atiku of this new development and gave him reasons with veritable facts why he and his groups have reached such a decision.

In the application to INEC, the groups sort for the registration of Congress Action Party, CAP, as a political party with Comrade Obinna Okorie as interim national chairman and Hon. Simon Leshe as interim national secretary.

INEC, in its reply, acknowledged receipt of the letter of intent to register as a political party, stating that the commission is compiling letters of intent for registration as political party, pending the conclusion of all Petitions and Appeals arising from the 2023 General Election.

“This is in line with the power of the Commission as provided at Section 75 (1) of the Electoral Act, 2022 which mandates the Commission to suspend registration of Political Parties twelve (12) months to a General Election.

“The final determination of all Petitions and Appeals arising from the 2023 General Election would enable the Commission set a timeline for the processing of fresh applications for registration as Political Party,” INEC said.

Ogbunka Community Stakeholders Call for Withdrawal of Igwe’s Certificate

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Blame monarch for crisis, assault, crimes, lawlessness, idolatry in Ogbunka community

. False, PG and His Cohorts responsible for Crises and Crime not me Says Igwe Anyaoha

By Chukwudi Ebele

As palpable fear of uncertainty continues to grip the people of Ogbunka community, Orumba South Local Government Area, Anambra state, sequel to alleged killings, kidnapping, idolatry, lawlessness, assault, among others, the President General of the community, Hon. Ikechukwu Chukwubueze has alleged that the traditional ruler, Igwe John Mark Anyaoha, should be held responsible for such crimes.

To buttress his point, he hinted that the monarch came through the back door to emerge as the igwe of the community without due process and started to attack those who opposed his enthronment.

“His emergence threw Ogbunka into turmoil because of lack of due process in his enthronment as the monarch of the community, He now sees himself as demi god, he relegated our Constitution to the background. When due process is followed people will be happy but in Ogbunka, due process was not followed, it is a different scenario.

“Only just one day we heard that somebody has emerged as Igwe of Ogbunka without due process and that is the wound we are leaking today. We can’t allow one man’s quest to be our Caesar and allow him to kill us. His stool doesn’t take anything away from us. Due process was not followed and it will continue to hunt those behind it,” the PG stated.

According to him, “when one consolidates an illegality, legalize illegality, one will begin to notice that the system is collapsing sequel to the way of emergence and as such the community will become a banana republic.

“If somebody can emerge as Igwe of Ogbunka without the process of election or selection, and he is recognized, that has become the norm,” he further explained.

He also reiterated that in Ogbunka there is nothing like Ogbunka Youth Association in the constitution but rather there is Ogbunka Development Union, Women Wing, Graduate wing, adding that one fateful day about nine people went to Ogbunka Boys secondary school formed and elected themselves executives of Ogbunka Youth Association, that is unconstitutional.

Reacting, the former PG of Ogbunka, Dr. Josiah Sunday Okoli, accused Igwe John Mark Anyaoha being the sponsor of the crisis that resulted in kidnapping, idolatry, assault, hard drug addiction by youths, among others and urged Governor Soludo to intervene by withdrawing the certificate of recognition issued to him by his predecessor, former governor Willie Obiano.

His words, “One man called John Mark Anyaoha came out and said he would be the Igwe of Ogbunka by force, crook or hook and that anybody who objects if he becomes the monarch that the person will go on exile, die, imprisoned or disfigured and true to his vow, that is what is happening now in Ogbunka.

“We will not forgive former governor Obiano for issuing certificate of recognition to Join Mark Anyaoha, through the back door. He put us in the present ugly situation and since then Ogbunka has never been Ogbunka. He now forces everybody to bow to him while the people are pursuing the matter in court.

“He has a lot of boys and he has been behind the arrests and incarceration of several Ogbunka people. People now live in fear. We urge Governor Soludo to come to our rescue by withdrawing certificate of recognition issued to him and conduct a fresh all inclusive election in Ogbunka before we all die,” he pleaded.

In a swift reaction when contacted, Igwe John Mark Anyaoha denied their allegations stating that the incumbent PG, Hon. Chukwubueze, former PG, Dr. Okoli and cohorts were behind the atrocities being committed not himself as alleged.

To buttress his point he accused the PG of fighting the youths wing of the community because the youths leadership was his candidate when they manipulated and took over the PG post during election stating that the Youths Association is in the constitution.

“One-day the youths wanted to have their meeting in the town hall but the PG refused to give them the key to the hall. He commits all these illegalities with the former PG and their cohorts,” the Monarch stated.

On plea by some people to Governor for the withdrawal of his certificate of recognition, he said, “I will not speak on that, it is sub judice, they took me to court, so they should allow the court to do its job.

Also on the youth’s alleged hard drug addiction, cultism, idolatry, among other criminal activities, he stated that there is freedom of religion and as such that he has no power to stop them from worshipping any god of their choice.

“It is the PG and his group that sponsor those boys and they formed a parallel town union executive Progressive Awuka People’s Assembly Elders Forum, registered it in Abuja but with headquarters in Enugu. How can they have headquarters in Enugu and come to Ogbunka to rule/operate,” he querried.

On the alleged enforcement of laws in the community and fines, he said that out of 18 villages two that belonged to the opposition refused to contribute for the ‘Ericha Afor Oru festival after joining to eat, drink and make merry and the youths started demanding for the fines.

Reacting, Chief Christian Iheanacho, a former Igwe cabinet member, Deputy Chairman Progressive Awuka Peoples Assembly Elders Forum, stated that Igwe John Mark Anyaoha should be relieved of his certificate of recognition for sponsoring the crisis in the community.

His words, “Johnmark told us at his fathers compound which was our meeting place that anybody that didn’t support him as the Igwe might be either in the police cell or hospital, so when he was given the certificate, he started those things he said, the town is in shamble, this is not the first time we are crying to the government, the first petition we wrote to the government was in 2nd june 2022, we wrote to the commissioner for chieftaincy affairs.

“Johnmark came to the “Obi” and said that this Igwe he will become, some will die, some will be jailed while some people’s corpses will be littered around the community and
nothing will happen, that he prepared very well for this, we thought he was joking, somebody told him to withdraw that statement, that he was dealing with his brothers but he refused.

“Eventually, some were jailed, somebody like Onwudiwe went to jail and didn’t survive after his jail term, Ajaegbonwu died as well after jail term, but this person we are in his house suffered the same fate but because God is with him, he is alive today.

“What we rejected seven years ago has being brought back by Johnmark, Faster Ifedioha brought prayer team and they do away with this fettish things, arusi etc because they were killing themselves with it, there are many attires now in this town, mkpulummili, idol worshipping, the worst is that any police you call will be beaten to stupor if not killed, Umuchukwu police station can attest to that,

“Obiano government caused us this problem and we will not forgive Obiano for issuing certificate to Anyaoha through the backdoor. We plead to Soludo to withdraw the certificate and conduct fresh election for the community”ne pleaded.

Others who demanded for withdrawal of the Igwe’s certificate and fresh election include, Chief Ernest Onyeakalusi, Chief Umunna Charles, Hon. Damian Osu kwo, Chiagozie Onyeakagbu, and Amaechi Ikeagwuna

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