Gov. Fubara Vows to Defend Rivers Interests at All Costs Against Nebuchadnezzar, Commissions New Staff Quarters

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Gov. Fubara Vows to Defend Rivers Interests at All Costs Against Nebuchadnezzar, Commissions New Staff Quarters

 

By: Daure David

Governor Siminalayi Fubara has pledged to prioritize the interests of Rivers State above all else, even if it means facing the risk of losing his position. The governor made this declaration on Monday, March 3, 2025, during the commissioning of a newly constructed Government House Staff Quarters in Port Harcourt.

In a passionate speech, Fubara stressed that he is committed to defending the state’s future, regardless of the political and legal challenges his administration faces. The governor’s remarks come on the heels of Friday’s Supreme Court judgment, which has stirred significant political tension in the state.

“I am not scared of anything,” Gov. Fubara declared, reiterating that his dedication to doing what is right for the people of Rivers State remains unwavering. “The worst that can happen is for me to leave the office. But that will not stop me from existing. The right thing must be done, no matter the cost,” he said.

Despite the setbacks caused by recent political developments, Fubara encouraged the youth and supporters of his administration to remain resolute in their fight for the state’s progress. He urged them to stand firm for the cause of truth and justice, dismissing any notion that short-term setbacks or legal battles would deter him from his mission.

Fubara’s remarks reflect his firm belief in self-determination for Rivers State. “This state has decided to take its destiny into its own hands. We will continue to fight for what is right, and I will lead that charge,” he said.

In his address, the governor acknowledged the sacrifices made by his supporters, particularly those who have stood by his leadership despite facing personal challenges. “I have not rewarded you, but I thank you for supporting us because you believe it is the right thing for Rivers State,” he said. “Let no one be deceived; there are faces today that will carry the symbol of some persons, and it will be a curse in this state.”

Fubara also highlighted the significance of the newly commissioned Government House Staff Quarters. The project, he explained, was undertaken to provide better living conditions for government workers who had been enduring poor housing facilities. “Why will I get efficiency from my workers if they are not happy? We decided to embark on this project because our staff members deserve to live in comfort, just as I do,” the governor noted.

The quarters consist of several apartment configurations, including six sets of two-bedroom apartments, eleven one-bedroom apartments, and various other facilities such as a canteen, fitness center, mini basketball court, water tank, and a 500kva generator. The project reflects the governor’s commitment to improving the welfare of government employees, recognizing that a motivated workforce is crucial to effective governance.

Fubara also addressed concerns about claims of ineffective governance, asserting that his administration is focused on delivering genuine and purpose-driven development to Rivers State. “There is legitimate and purpose-driven governance in Rivers State, and we are delivering dividends of democracy to the people,” he said.

In closing, Fubara reaffirmed his dedication to leading the state with honor and integrity, noting that his actions would be subject to scrutiny when his time in office concludes. “I will be proud to answer for my actions someday,” he declared.

The governor’s speech resonated with many, as he emphasized that Rivers State’s interests will always be his top priority, even if it comes at a great personal cost. “I will continue to stand by you, and I assure you that no matter what happens, the interest of Rivers State will always come first,” he concluded.

Earlier in the event, the Chief of Staff, Hon. Edison Ehie, praised the governor for prioritizing the welfare of Government House staff and for his broader development initiatives in the state. The Permanent Secretary of the Government House, Mr. Chukwuma Ndudi Augustine, also expressed gratitude for the governor’s efforts, noting that the new staff quarters would improve the working environment for government personnel.

As the state moves forward amid political turbulence, Governor Fubara’s vow to put Rivers State first continues to define his leadership style, signaling his determination to protect the state’s interests regardless of the challenges ahead.

Anambra Shuns Sit At Home Order Open Markets As Police ,Army Step Up Strategies

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Anambra Shuns Sit At Home Order Open Markets As Police ,Army Step Up Strategies

By Okey Maduforo Awka

Traders and Commercial vehicle operators call the Sit At Home Order by gunmen bluff and opened their shops and parks to do business this Monday.

Recall they in the past traders and commuters have always been apprehensive of doing business every Monday in Anambra state for fear of being attacked by suspected gunmen in the areas

But this Monday ,banks , markets and motor parks opened for their routine businesses without fear of any form of molestation or attack.

Speaking with reporters the traders lamented that they are losing a lot due to the Sit At Home Order adding that most of their customers are afraid to do business with them most Mondays .

Mrs Ada Nwokoye said ” What is the point telling us to stay at home when you did not provide food for us to eat ? ”

“How about those that depend on daily job to feed their family and you tell them to stay at home and who and how do they feed their families?”

At most markets in Onitsha, Awka , Ekwulobia and Nnewi commercial activities have been reactivated due to the improved security situation in those towns as a joint team ot Army , Police and the Agunechemba Security Squad has taken over operations and formations in the area .

Last Monday Sit At Home the Anambra Police Command has redeployed officers and men in the state for effective information gathering and to avert attacks by gunmen which led to the the opening of most markets in the state.

Speaking during the inspection of markets and motor parks and Anambra state the Police Public Relations Officer SP Tochikwu Ikenga said;

“The CP Ikioye Orutugu was concerned about how the illegal act has negatively affected the social and economic growth of the State. He emphasized on the need to educate the public about the negative impacts of the order and promised to promote a return to normalcy in the State’

“This is among the strategies of the new leadership of the Anambra State Police Command to address the attitude of the people on ideology based on crime”

“This includes attack of unsuspecting members of the public, security personnel, kidnapping/abduction of persons and destruction of government infrastructures and other sundry offences.”

“The CP noted that Anambra State is blessed with vibrant, energetic and enterprising people full of potential.”

” These potentials can only be fully realized in a peaceful, secure environment. He also stated that the State mainly survives on buying and selling and encourages Ndi Anambra/residents to go about their lawful businesses without fear’

“He assured that the Police and other security agencies have taken over the streets especially on Mondays and other days to sustain safety in the State”

‘He further assured that the Police is also collaborating with local leaders and stakeholders to address the underlying issues driving the “Sit-At-Home” order and find a lasting solution to the menace” he said.

Nigerian Presidency Not Divided Says Chief Of Staff To Senate President Scores Soludo Excellent On Infrastructure

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Nigerian Presidency Not Divided Says Chief Of Staff To Senate President Scores Soludo Excellent On Infrastructure

By Okey Maduforo Awka.

The Chief Of Staff to Senate President Godswill Akpabio Chief Chinedu Akubeze has dismissed claims that the National Assembly is being controlled by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to the detriment of good governance of the country.

According to Akubeze , ‘You cannot have a divided Presidency in the name of separation of powers because they would always have that synergy between the Executive, Legislature and the Judiciary ”

“The Senate is providing the required over sight work for the government to perform optimally and that is why they are called the three arms and they cannot work at cross purposes ”

“And the Senate under Godswill Akpabio has been performing quite a lot and so far it has been commendable ”

Akubeze who was on a tour of projects executed by the Anambra state government commended Gov Charles Soludo for changing the infrastructural landscape of the state.

“The ones I have met are quite commendable and makes me feel proud to say that I am from Anambra state ”

“We visited the Fun City and the Alex Ekwueme Square and also the New Anambra Governmental House and I must say that Gov Charles Soludo should not relent but to keep the flag flying ” he said.

Also speaking the Chief Of Staff to Gov Charles Soludo Chief Ernest Ezeajughi who took him round reiterated the commitment of the governor to make Anambra a destination point on the area of basic infrastructure as well as creating the environment that would drive the process of commerce industry and wealth creation noting that when Soludo is through most Anambra people is diaspora would chose to come home and settle.

Foundation To Provide Free Legal Services For Over 30 Detained Anambra Native Doctors

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Foundation To Provide Free Legal Services For Over 30 Detained Anambra Native Doctors

 

By Okey Maduforo Awka

 

An international Charity Foundation and Equal Rights group based in America known as Tilova For Africa has offered to pay for services of lawyers who will defend the rights of native doctors arrested and detained by Anambra government.

Mr Martins Nwabueze, Chief Executive Officer of Tilova for Africa said this on Monday while reacting to the arrest and detention of some native doctors by the state government as part of efforts to tackle insecurity.

Recall that Dr Law Mefor, Commissioner for Information in Anambra has confirmed that Mr Chiedozie Nwangwu, Mr Onyebuchi Okocha and 28 other native doctors were still in detention and undergoing investigation for allegedly preparing charms for criminals.

Nwabueze who described the arrest and detention of persons on the basis of their religion or trade under the guise of fighting insecurity by the Anambra government as unjust profiling.

“As a Foundation, we shall work to ensure that these people enjoy equal rights like others, so, we a volunteering to provide free legal services for these people

“We are aware of the enormous safety concerns in Anambra but we should not allow the cyber antics of a few clowns parading as native doctors to make us enact laws that could impact the way of life and belief system of a people negatively,” he said

The Activist said Nigeria was a secular state where everyone had rights to practice his or her religion or ply his or her trade without discrimination, intimidation, humiliation or scapegoating.

He said traditional medicine practice is an age long profession which existed in many African societies and should not be abolished in Anambra because of presumptive evidence.

Nwabueze said his group was in total support of whatever would bring peace and security in Anambra but insisted that nobody or group should be discriminated against because of their religion.

He urged the Anambra State government to release the native if there was no evidence against them instead of keeping them perpetually in detention.

“Tilova for Africa has followed the development in Anambra State with concern, while we support the governor on the effort to make the state safe and secure, we condemn the crackdown on indigenous religious practices in the State.

“The arrest and continued detention of over 30 native doctors by the Anambra government just because the government presumes that they prepare a charm for criminals is not good

“This type of crime fighting is primitive and unacceptable in 21st century Nigeria, we support the government to arrest crime and not content creators.

“We invite native doctors that need our free representation to reach out to us through our website:www.tilovaforafrica.com,” he said.

Nwabueze called on Soludo to invest in tech driven security architecture with adequately trained manpower to ensure that only culprits were arrested, detained and prosecuted.

Breaking News: Shira LGA Councillors Impeach Chairman and Deputy Over Poor Leadership and Ethical Misconduct

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Breaking News: Shira LGA Councillors Impeach Chairman and Deputy Over Poor Leadership and Ethical Misconduct

By: Daure David

In a dramatic turn of events, the Councillors of Shira Local Government Area (LGA) impeached the Council Chairman, Hon Abdullahi Ibrahim Beli, and his Deputy, Hon Usman Adamu, over allegations of poor leadership and ethical misconduct. The decision, led by Hon. Wali Adamu, was made official and presented to newsmen in Bauchi.

The impeachment follows months of growing dissatisfaction among the councilors, who accused the Chairman and his Deputy of failing to provide effective leadership, mismanaging council funds, and engaging in actions deemed unethical. The councillors raised concerns about a lack of transparency in decision-making and the misallocation of resources intended for the development of the local community.

Hon. Wali Adamu, who spoke on behalf of the councillors during the press briefing, expressed deep concern about the leadership crisis that had plagued Shira LGA under the Chairman and his Deputy’s administration. He highlighted the failure to meet the basic needs of the community, which had led to significant unrest among residents.

“The decision to impeach the Chairman and his Deputy was not made in haste. It is a result of numerous failed attempts to address critical issues that have hampered the development of Shira LGA,” Hon. Wali Adamu stated. “The leadership has demonstrated a lack of commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct, all of which are essential for the progress of our local government.”

The councillors also accused the Chairman and his Deputy of undermining the local legislative process and disregarding the interests of the community. Allegations of financial mismanagement, improper use of council resources, and a general disregard for ethical governance practices were central to the impeachment proceedings.

Following the impeachment, the councilors appointment one of them to serve as Caretaker Chairman that would restore integrity and accountability to the local government. They assured the people of Shira LGA that they were committed to ensuring the best interests of the community were prioritized.

In a reaction, the impeached Chairman and his Deputy have yet to formally comment on the allegations as the time of filing this reports.

The impeachment has sent shockwaves through the local political scene in Bauchi State, raising questions about governance and accountability at the grassroots level. Political observers are keenly watching how this development will affect the political landscape in Shira LGA and the broader dynamics within the state.

This marks a significant shift in local government leadership, as it underscores the power of elected representatives to hold executives accountable and ensures that the voices of the people are heard and respected in the decision-making processes.

Report Anybody Enforcing Sit-at-home to Us — Police Charge Anambra Residents

Izunna Okafor
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Report Anybody Enforcing Sit-at-home to Us — Police Charge Anambra Residents

 

By Izunna Okafor, Awka

The Anambra State Police Command has intensified operations against the illegal Sit-at-Home order, with the new Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Ikioye Orutugu, leading a campaign to discourage residents from complying with the directive and urging them to go about their lawful activities without fear.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the advocacy, launched on Monday, March 3, is part of the Command’s strategies to restore full normalcy in the state.

He noted that CP Orutugu expressed deep concern over the negative impact of the Sit-at-Home order on Anambra’s social and economic growth and emphasized the need to sensitize the public on the dangers of submitting to such unlawful directives, which have crippled businesses, education, and daily life in many parts of the state.

The Police Commissioner reassured Ndi Anambra that his administration had mapped out new security strategies to combat criminal elements who hide under the guise of enforcing the Sit-at-Home order to perpetrate crimes, including attacks on innocent citizens, security personnel, kidnappings, destruction of government infrastructure, and other acts of lawlessness.

To sustain peace and security, CP Orutugu announced that the Police and other security agencies have now taken full control of the streets, particularly on Mondays and other affected days, to prevent intimidation and ensure that residents move about freely. He also urged business owners, market traders, transport operators, and civil servants to defy the illegal directive and fully resume their daily activities, assuring them of adequate protection.

He noted that Anambra is a state blessed with hardworking, enterprising, and resourceful individuals whose full potential can only be realized in a secure and stable environment. Stressing that the state’s economy is largely driven by trade and commerce, he lamented the setbacks caused by the illegal order, particularly the loss of revenue and business opportunities, and called on all residents to contribute to the collective effort to end it.

Beyond security deployments, the CP also disclosed that the Police Command is actively engaging local leaders, traditional rulers, religious figures, and other key stakeholders in dialogue to address the fears and other related factors fueling the sustenance of the Sit-at-Home order, and find lasting solutions. He emphasized that tackling the menace requires a combination of security action, community collaboration, and public enlightenment.

CP Orutugu also urged Ndi Anambra to remain law-abiding and cooperative, emphasizing that the Police, in collaboration with other security agencies, are fully prepared to maintain law and order while tackling the underlying factors sustaining the illegal directive. He also reassuredly warned that anyone attempting to forcefully enforce the Sit-at-Home order would face the full wrath of the law.

The Police Boss reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to ensuring that Anambra remains safe, secure, and conducive for business, education, and social activities; even as he called on residents to report any threats or intimidation to the Police, assuring that security operatives are fully mobilized to respond swiftly to any breach of peace in the state.

The police team, during the advocacy campaign, visited different parts of the state, where they addressed the public on the need to stop ‘sitting at home’.

Chief of Staff Inspects Government Quarters Ahead of Official Commissioning by Governor Sim Fubara

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Chief of Staff Inspects Government Quarters Ahead of Official Commissioning by Governor Sim Fubara

 

By: Daure David

The Chief of Staff to the Government House, Rt. Hon. Ehie Edison, conducted a comprehensive inspection of the newly rehabilitated government quarters today, ahead of their official commissioning by Governor Sim Fubara. This inspection, part of routine checks, focused on evaluating the maintenance, safety, and overall quality of the facilities, ensuring they are in prime condition for use by government officials and staff.

Rt. Hon. Ehie Edison, accompanied by senior government officials, toured the quarters which have undergone significant rehabilitation under the Sim Fubara-led administration. The quarters are intended to provide safe and comfortable living spaces for government personnel, ensuring they can perform their duties effectively while residing within close proximity to their workstations.

The inspection covered various sections of the government quarters, including the living accommodations, common areas, and amenities. Particular attention was paid to the quality of repairs, security measures, and the general state of the facilities to ensure they meet the expected standards.

Speaking to reporters after the inspection, Rt. Hon. Ehie Edison emphasized the importance of maintaining such government infrastructure to support the smooth running of governance. “This inspection is part of our commitment to ensuring that all facilities provided for government personnel are not only functional but also conducive to a productive and safe work environment,” he said. “Governor Sim Fubara has made it a priority to rehabilitate and upgrade the quarters, and we are ensuring that everything is in place ahead of the official commissioning.”

The rehabilitation of the government quarters is one of the key infrastructural projects under the Fubara administration, aimed at improving the living conditions of government staff while also enhancing the efficiency of governance. The improvements include modernized amenities, enhanced security, and environmentally sustainable features.

Governor Sim Fubara, who is expected to officially commission the quarters in the coming weeks, has expressed his commitment to improving the welfare of both government employees and the wider populace. The rehabilitated quarters are a testament to the administration’s ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure and governance in Rivers State.

As the official commissioning take place, the public eagerly anticipates the proper use of the new building, which is expected to mark another milestone in Governor Fubara’s agenda for a well-governed and progressive Rivers State.

Hungry Man Beats Wife to Death Over Delay in Preparing Ramadan Food

Izunna Okafor
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Hungry Man Beats Wife to Death Over Delay in Preparing Ramadan Food

 

By Izunna Okafor, Awka

A 50-year-old man, Alhaji Nuru Isah, has been arrested for allegedly beating his 24-year-old wife to death over delay in preparing Ramadan meal.

The Spokesperson of the Bauchi State Police Command, CSP Ahmed Wakili disclosed this in a statement issued to newsmen over the weekend, in which he also revealed that the Command had also launched an investigation into the incident.

According to him, the tragedy reportedly occurred at about 11:30pm on Saturday, March 1 in the Fadamam Mada area of the state, near Government Girls College, Bauchi. He disclosed that the suspect, who is a businessman at the Bauchi Central Market, reportedly attacked his second wife, Wasila Abdullahi, after an argument over delay in getting ready the food and fruits meant for breaking their Ramadan fast.

Reports have it that the altercation escalated to the point that Isah allegedly struck Wasila with a cane, causing her to collapse and lose consciousness inside their home.

It was further gathered that the victim was rushed to the ATBU Teaching Hospital, where medical personnel confirmed her dead.

According to the Police Spokesman, the police have arrested the suspect and recovered the cane used in the assault as evidence.

Continuing, he said “The victim’s body has been deposited in the mortuary pending an autopsy.

“Bauchi State Commissioner of Police, CP Auwal Musa Muhammad, has assured the public that justice will be served.

“He also used the opportunity to emphasize the dangers of domestic violence, calling on the community to uphold respect, empathy, and understanding in family life.”

ANAMBRA: Umeadi Declares Position on November 8 Election, As YPP Vows to Reclaim Ubah’s Seat

Izunna Okafor
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ANAMBRA: Umeadi Declares Position on November 8 Election, As YPP Vows to Reclaim Ubah’s Seat

 

By Izunna Okafor, Awka

The Young Progressive Party (YPP) has restated its determination to take center stage in Anambra’s political landscape, declaring full participation in both the forthcoming Anambra South Senatorial bye-election and the November 8, 2025, governorship poll. With a renewed sense of hope and purpose, the party’s leadership has vowed to reclaim the senatorial seat once occupied by the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah who won it under the platform of YPP; while also working strategically to clinch the governorship seat in the state in November 8.

Speaking during a press briefing in Awka, the National Secretary of YPP, Barr. Vidiyeno Bamaiyi, revealed that the party’s sale of nomination forms for the governorship election would run from March 1 and to April 8. While keeping the cost of the forms undisclosed, Bamaiyi assured that the National Working Committee (NWC), led by Comrade Bishop Emmanuel Amakiri, was fully prepared for the political battles ahead.

As part of its broader mission, the YPP Leadership emphasized its commitment to raising a new generation of leaders who prioritize selfless service over personal gain. According to Bamaiyi, the party is driving what it calls a “ballot revolution”—a movement aimed at reshaping leadership through free, fair, and people-driven electoral processes.

“We are raising a new breed of leaders without greed. That is our mantra. We intend to achieve this through a ballot revolution. What you saw during the time of the late Ifeanyi Ubah was just a glimpse of what is to come. We are more than ready to take over governance in Anambra like a whirlwind,” Bamaiyi asserted.

Continuing, he disclosed that the party had fixed April 10 for its governorship primary election and had already sent its election timetable to INEC. The party leadership also announced that the sale of forms for female aspirants would be free, serving as an incentive to encourage more women to participate in governance.

The press briefing, which was part of a one-day sensitization workshop organized by the party in Anambra, also served as a platform to reaffirm YPP’s strength and strategic positioning.

Speaking during the briefing, the YPP Leader in the State, High Chief Dr. Chinedu Umeadi (popularly known as Agụnechemba), used the opportunity to clarify his stance on the governorship race, asserting that despite being highly qualified to govern Anambra, he would not be contesting. However, the one-time YPP senatorial aspirant for Anambra Central pledged his unwavering support to any candidate who emerges as the party’s flag-bearer for the November 8 election, adding that the party remains deeply rooted across the 21 local government areas of the state.

“We are politically entrenched in all parts of Anambra. The future of our dear state belongs to us, and it is our collective duty to shape it. We must unite, share our visions, and work towards a common goal of making Anambra great again,” Umeadi declared, reinforcing his commitment to YPP’s cause.

He further noted that the party was prepared and had all it takes to win the forthcoming elections and to move Anambra State to greater heights.

Umeadi reiterated that YPP remains a party free of scandals, where fairness and due process prevail. He dismissed speculations about the party’s relevance, stating that YPP remains formidable and has been carrying out underground political work to reinforce its grassroots presence.

“There have been questions about whether YPP is still strong in Anambra. Today’s event is enough proof that we are not just alive but fully active and ready for the challenge ahead. The passion and enthusiasm among our members speak volumes,” he affirmed.

 

Further emphasizing the party’s readiness, State Chairman of the party, Hon. Prince Moses Obi, urged members to intensify grassroots mobilization across the state’s 326 wards. He commended Dr. Umeadi for his relentless support to the party, and for his sponsorship of the well-attended sensitization workshop, themed “The Anambra of Our Dream: Re-strategizing for a Better Future.”

While noting that the gathering was intended to provided a robust platform for members to brainstorm and fine-tune strategies ahead of the elections; he also lauded its success, expressing hope that the party will triumph.

According to him, the governorship race is not the only priority for YPP, affirming the party has also set its sights on reclaiming the Anambra South Senatorial seat, which became vacant following the tragic demise of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah. Ubah, who originally secured the seat on the YPP platform, but later defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) to contest the 2025 governorship election before his untimely passing.

The event, which attracted party leaders and members from all 21 local government areas, featured speeches from key stakeholders, including leading aspirants for the Anambra South Senatorial bye-election under YPP, Hon. Nnamdi Hon. Sir Benjamin Nwosu, Hon. Nnamdi Ezike, among others. A minute of silence was also observed in honor of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, whom Dr. Umeadi credited as the reason he initially joined YPP.

Witchcraft Law and Jurisprudence In Anambra State – By Enemuo CC. Esq.

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Witchcraft Law and Jurisprudence In Anambra State – By Enemuo CC. Esq.

 

The witchcraft law is a legal framework separating criminality from traditional cultural practices.

Witchcraft refers to the self-proclaimed ability to wield magical powers and supernatural forces with the intent to harm others, manipulate their actions against their will, and encourage and instigate crime.

Indeed, witchcraft is practised in various communities across Nigeria, including Anambra State.

Witchcraft Law and Jurisprudence In Anambra State - ByMr Enemuo CC. Esq.
Gov Soludo
THE LAW.

The penal and criminal codes contain sections that prohibit witch crimes, designating it as a federal offence.

However, individual states in Nigeria have legal rights to legislate witch crime to address their local concerns, as in the case of Akwa Ibom state.

It’s somewhat surprising that this particular federal law receives limited attention in the psychology of Anambrians about the state government’s obligation to uphold it.

Sections 210, 211, 212, and 213 of the Criminal Code provide a comprehensive framework regarding the definition, culpability, and penalties associated with witch crime.

Sections 207, 208, and 209 of the Penal Code also outline the prohibition of witch-crime practices and its prescribed punishment.

The Criminal Code as it applies in Anambra State, a jurisdiction that has strengthened its enforcement obligation of the law and where courts within the state hold the jurisdiction to order the dismantling of locations where witch crimes or juju are practised.

If the intentions behind sections 210, 211, 212, and 213 of the Criminal Code are correctly understood by the state’s citizens, then enforcement needn’t suffer impediments.

RELEVANT SECTIONS:

Section 210a:
Outlines the definitions and criteria for identifying a witch.

Section 210b:
safeguards against discrimination and false accusations.

Section 210c:
Enumerates the criminal acts associated with witchcraft that are strictly prohibited.

Section 210d:
This section is particularly notable because it holds the witches, their clients, and worshippers equally accountable for witch crimes. What stands out in this section is its readiness to embrace any prohibitory orders issued by the president or state governor.

Section 210e:
Classifies human body parts as materials linked to witch crime, and possessing them with the intent to use them for witch crime practices constitutes a new crime.

Section 210f:
This section pre-adopts any executive prohibitions of witch crime which are on their preparatory level and which is believed to be associated with human sacrifice or any other illegal activities.

Section 211:
Traditional leaders within communities are prohibited from allowing, engaging in, being aware of, or failing to report prohibited practices occurring within their jurisdictions.

Section 212:
This section empowers the authorities to eliminate sites where unlawful rituals or prohibited juju practices occur.

Section 213:
This provision bans any materials or charms claimed to possess protective powers or are believed to obstruct the detection and prosecution of criminals.

The definitions of witchcraft crime in the penal and criminal codes appear to provide a consistent framework across the Nigerian Federation, where witchcraft cases can be prosecuted in both the magistrate and federal high courts.

The human rights freedom, as outlined in the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is also freedom which must not trampled upon through witch crime means.

JURISPRUDENCE.
Laws and regulations are frequently based on jurisprudence principles, which thoughtfully weave cultural norms and traditions into legal frameworks through established theories and practical guidelines. These laws can be repealed to reflect evolving realities and sensibilities of the larger community.

A notable example is the English law on witchcraft, which was enacted in the 15th century and experienced numerous repeals until the 20th century. This legislation was diluted as public attitudes shifted over time. As a result, the practice of witchcraft in England has largely faded, with the few remaining practitioners transforming their roles into entertainers and illusionists, practising in ways that are neither harmful nor illegal. Nonetheless, witchcraft-related offences can still occur in England, albeit in secrecy.

In Nigeria, the Criminal Code Act, which was drafted by Sir Henry Nicholls and Sir William Samuel Morris in 1916 and implemented the following year, also underwent a revision regime. Some sections of the criminal code law currently address witch-related crimes (sections 210-213). Interestingly, the traditions, religions, and belief systems prevalent in Nigeria deny witch-crime activities, indicating that the behavioural norms of the citizens are significantly represented in the criminal code law.

In Igbo land, individuals accused of witchcraft often face social ostracism, being removed or banished from their communities. Consequently, cases involving alleged witches are not uncommon in Igbo society.

Recently, in Anambra State, some native practices have come to fall under the definition of witch crimes as outlined in the criminal code rather than the traditional medical practices of physical and spiritual healing.

Some public statements made by witch practitioners in the Anambra, along with their conspiratorial overtones, incitements, and their operational methods, provide clear evidence that “witch crimes” are still being committed despite the state’s obligation to enforce these laws through executive orders and trials in the magistrate and federal high courts, with penalties of up to two years of imprisonment, as enshrined.

The culture/traditional religion

THE PROVABILITY OF WITCH CRIMES.
Some scholars believe that proving witchcraft in a criminal court is challenging. However, this perspective only holds if the standards for proof are not firmly rooted in the law’s golden intentions, context and content.

The English authors of the Criminal Code Act understood they had solved a mystery. They effectively crafted a definition that delineates both the crime and the criminal. Thus, the provability of witch crime lies in the golden interpretation of the contexts and content of the related sections of the criminal code law, with the purpose of upholding the citizen’s constitutional rights as enshrined in the 1999 constitution of the federal Republic of Nigeria.

CONCLUSION.
It is commendable that the Anambra state government has taken this pivotal opportunity to fulfil its responsibilities by enforcing the witchcraft law in alignment with the relevant provisions of the criminal code.

However, enhanced awareness initiatives are urgently needed to help citizens of Anambra grasp the state’s enforcement regime, which complies with existing laws but is not a brand-new policy. This will be achieved through continuous sensitisation efforts, which would counter any unhealthy political manoeuvring that might emerge. Therefore, as the criminal code sections suffice, I urge the state to consider independent prohibition legislation on witch crimes.

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