Anambra East Local Government Council Chairman, Hon. Ifeanyichukwu Chinweze has calmed frayed minds seething for vengeance as a result of the killing of a 54-year old farmer, Ikeabali Onwuesi from Mgboko Igboezunu in Aguleri quarter of the Area some five months ago. Onwuesi was shot by suspected gunmen in his farms leading to his death while a few others escaped with wounds on the fateful day in connection with face-off between members of Mgboko Village in Igboezunu Aguleri and Irugege Kindred in Umudiana Umueri, both in Anambra East Local Government over an age-long disputed land. The shooting, it was learnt was initially mistaken for inter-community warfare until the clearer picture reportedly showed that a suspected leader of a gang on self-serving land grabbing mission had orchestrated the sporadic shootings which caught Aguleri farmers napping. The killing jolted youths into taking up arms for counter offensive and reprisal, forcing natives of both sides to flee to neighbouring communities in Omor in Ayamelum, Umuoba-Anam in Anambra East and Nteje in Oyi Council Areas of the State respectively until the timely intervention of the then Transition Committee Chairman of Anambra State, Chinweze. According to a source, Chinweze, accompanied by security operatives had stormed the camps of the youths from the two warring communities and cautioned them against the dangers of taking up arms over the killings. We gathered that the agitated youths were later to discover that the dastardly act was not an issue of hostilities but that of land grabbing and heeded tonthe plea of the Local Government Council Chairman. Based in the new development, the youths were believed to have cooperated and saw to the arrest of the suspected killer by the police , acting on a tip-off by vigilance group.
It was further gathered that Chinweze convinced the youths that reprisal was not the best option. Consequently, both camps agreed that all arms distributed to the youths should be returned to the local community Vigilante Services in the two towns under the supervision of the two Presidents- general of the affected communities
They also agreed to lay down their arms to allow the then already planned Local Council Elections hold, after which a stakeholders’ meeting of the two Communities would be convened on the way forward to end the matter in perpetuity. We gathered that, after the Local Council Chairmanship election was held freely and fairly, the victorious Chinweze who initiated the peace overtures, tenaciously kept to his promise and actualized the peaceful Stakeholders meeting of the two affected communities, leading to identification snd delineation of respective villages’ boundaries and amicable land sharing by the two families.
Speaking after the recent peaceful reconciliation and resolutions of land dispute, Chinweze recalled that when few months ago when the crisis erupted, he insisted there must be no more communal clashes of any kind between communities in the Council Area under his watch. The Council boss said he had previously been visiting the communities with his gospel of peace and reconciliation , using the strategy of restriction of boundary demarcation issues to only the two immediate families or clans at the border area. The Anambra East Local Council boss hailed the two villages, reiterating that there is no alternative to peace and unity.
“Our local government, which was the pioneer local government in the old Anambra setting, has continued to move backward in terms of development, despite all the sacrifices and our connection and access to air, water, and land routes to other parts of the country and beyond. ,”This is because of many communal clashes. Now, we have resolved that peace must have its place in Anambra East, and I can assure you that any two communities or families that cannot resolve their border issues will leave us no choice but to invite the state government to use the land for any project that will benefit both communities. I’m also glad to announce that this very boundary shall be separated by a road which we shall gladly call Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo Road,” he said.
He also assured both villages that if either side has any issues needing to be addressed by the Boundary Committee, they should put it in writing and bring it forward for consideration in their next sitting Chinweze attributed the success of the peace resolution on the close working relationship he established with the traditional rulers and town union Presidents-general in Anambra East Local Council Area.
Iñ his words of appreciation, the President-general of Aguleri Community Assembly, Barr. Rolex Ilokasia, a lawyer commended the Chinweze for his commitment towards making the historic boundary demarcation exercise a reality, and called on both Mgboko and Umudiana to sustain the peace and understand it could only be attained by sacrifices from both sides.
Also, the Chairman of the Mgboko and Umudiana Peace Committee, Igwe Sir George Ekwealor, who spoke on behalf of the community rulers from Umuoba-Anam, Mkpunando and Enugu-otu Aguleri respectively commended the resilience of the Anambra East Mayor. “We have had many local government chairmen in the past, but none were as committed to achieving peacet and reconciliation in Anambra East as Hon. Ifeanyi Chinweze,” Igwe Ekwealor said.
Nze Fidelis Ozichukwu Chukwu has saddled the position as the acting President-General of the apex Igbo sociocultural group, Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide.
This was disclosed in a communique issued at the end of the Ohaneze Worldwide Imeobi/General Assembly held Saturday December 14, 2024, at its National Secretariat in Enugu.
According to the communique, which was jointly signed by the Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide, Amb. Okey Emuchay; and the National Publicity Secretary of the group, Rt. Hon. Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia, Ph.D; the nomination of Nze Chukwu for the position was necessitated by the demise of the Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu (the immediate-past President of the group), who hails from Imo state.
This, it was gathered, followed a request by the Imo state branch of the association, who observed the need to allow Imo to complete their remaining 27 days in office that was left by Chief Iwuanyanwu.
The communique, while noting that the nomination of Nze Chukwu was adopted through a voice note, further revealed that the new acting President-General was sworn-in there at the event, while his tenure is expected to elapse on January 10, 2025, when a new President-General will be elected based on the constitutional provisions of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
The communique read: “Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide Imeobi/General Assembly today Saturday December 14, 2024, held its scheduled meeting at the National Secretariat, No. 7 Park Avenue, GRA Enugu, the aim of which was to review the series of events that have taken place since the tragic demise of Chief Dr. Engr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, CFR.
“The Imeobi, which was attended by notable Igbo leaders, took note of the chain of catastrophe which has visited Ohanaeze in the last couple of years especially the successive demise of two Presidents-General between 2022 and 2024.
“The Imeobi, extensively reviewed the situation and took note that the tenure of Imo State in the presidency of Ohanaeze would expire on January 10, 2025 and that there is need to allow Imo State to complete her remaining 27 days in office. The Imeobi, therefore, resolved as follows:
“1. That it accepts the request by Imo delegates to nominate someone capable to oversee the leadership of Ohanaeze until 10th January 2025 when a new President-General will be elected based on the constitutional provision of Ohanaeze Ndigbo
“2. That the constitution of Ohanaeze Ndigbo shall be followed strictly in the election of the next President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide
“3. That the next President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide shall come from Rivers State as provided in the constitution.
“4. The Imeobi also resolved that the composition of both Election and Screening Committees for the forthcoming Ohanaeze election is the function of the NEC.
“Flowing from Resolution No.1 and in line with the doctrine of necessity, the Imeobi adopted the nomination of Nze Fidelis Ozichukwu Chukwu by Barrister C.J Ihemedu, (President, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Imo State); and H.R.M. Eze Cletus Ilomuanya (the Chairman, Council of Elders, Imo State). The motion was seconded by Chief Simon Okeke (Ochendo), amongst others. This motion was unanimously adopted through a voice vote by the Imeobi Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
“The nomination of Nze Fidelis Ozichukwu Chukwu as the new President-General of Ohanaeze at the Imeobi was subsequently presented to Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide General Assembly. The State Presidents of Ohanaeze Ndigbo: Abia, Anambra, Delta, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Rivers States, expressed delight over the nomination of Nze Fidelis Ozichukwu Chukwu as the new President-General until January 10, 2025. The Chairman of the South East Caucus in the National Assembly, Sen. Eyinnaya Abaribe expressed satisfaction over the emergence of Chukwu.
“Nze Fidelis Ozichukwu Chukwu was therefore sworn-in as the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide by National Legal Adviser, Barrister Joseph Obinamma Ojobu and the Assistant Legal Adviser Dr. Peter Aneke.
“That the President-General of Ohanaeze, Nze Fidelis Ozichukwu Chukwu and the National Executive Committee should compose the Electoral and Screening Committees on Sunday December 15, 2024.
“The Southeast Governors’ Forum, represented by H.E Gov. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, charged the new President-General to ensure that the forthcoming Ohanaeze election should be both transparent and credible.”
The National Chairman of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, has said there have been consistent attempts by some negative-minded elements to destroy the party and destabilize Anambra’s progress strides.
Barr. Ezeokenwa stated this at the triumphant homecoming and grand reception party organized by APGA members in Anambra State to celebrate the landmark victory secured by the his faction of the party in the Supreme Court judgment of November 27, 2024, which laid to rest the protracted leadership tussle rocking the party for years.
The event, which held on Friday at the APGA Regional Headquarters in Awka, the Anambra State capital, attracted a large number of APGA faithful in the state, who trooped out en masse to receive the National Chairman.
Addressing the crowd, Ezeokenwa, who acknowledged that the legal battle was not an easy one, described it as one of the several attempts by some selfish elements and political merchants to destabilize the party and set Anambra on a backward/retrogressive lane.
He went down memory lane to recount some of those ill-wished attempts, including those that occurred in 2005, 2006, 2009, 2013, 2017, 2021, and most recently in 2024. These attempts, he noted, were the people’s strategy to destabilize Anambra and take the people back to Egypt through prioritization of their selfish wills, since that was the only way they believed they could achieve that. He, however, noted that God Almighty has always said no to these attempts and kept the party going and growing, while Anambra State also continues to stride on the progressive path.
Barr. Ezeokenwa, a legal luminary himself, also revealed that the party had just recently received the certified true copy of the November 27 judgment, while also expecting compensation of N60 million (N20 million each) slammed on certain three elements by the court in addition to the verdict.
While thanking God and recognizing everyone for their solidarity and part in these fights, the landmark victory, and the progressive rise of the party, the APGA National Chairman, who also recounted some of the various testimonies and the progressive milestones recorded by Anambra State and APGA members in recent times, specially commended the National Leader of the party, Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, for his visionary leadership and progressive governance that paved the way for these testimonies.
“APGA is a divine movement,” he said, further reaffirming Governor Soludo’s recent declaration that APGA is the foremost progressive political party in Nigeria, as well as the best political party in terms of coordination, unity, organization, and otherwise.
While noting that no meaningful discussion can be had about Nigeria today without APGA being a part of it, Barr. Ezeokenwa expressed the interest and vision of the party to sustain the progressive rise, conquer more states, and achieve more milestones in the coming years. He further called for sustained loyalty and unwavering support from party members at the national, state, local government, and ward levels.
Earlier speaking, the Anambra State Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, congratulated the APGA leadership and loyalists for the landslide victory, re-emphasizing that God so much loves the party and Anambra State, judging from the favor and various testimonies that accompany the duo.
While highlighting some of the milestones so far attained by Governor Soludo’s administration, Deputy Governor Ibezim, who affirmed that APGA and Anambra are in the right hands, further urged Ndị Anambra and the party faithful not to allow themselves to be deceived but to remain supportive and partners in progress by playing their own parts in advancing the good works.
The event also featured remarks and goodwill messages from various groups and individuals, including the State APGA Chairman, Barr. Ifeatu Obiokoye; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Ernest Ezeajughi (who spoke on behalf of the Anambra State Executive Council); the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Pius Okoye (who spoke on behalf of the House); the National Publicity Secretary of APGA, Dr. Mazi Ejimofor Opara (who spoke on behalf of the National Working Committee of the party); and the Chairman of Idemili South Local Government Area, Hon. Amaka Obi (who spoke on behalf of the 21 Local Government Chairmen in the state). The speakers all congratulated the party members, the Chairman, and everyone who contributed in one way or the other to make the victory possible while also reaffirming that APGA has come to stay and is on a progressive move.
The event also featured the presentation of a special recognition award to the APGA National Chairman by the Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU), led by Barr. Titus Akpudo.
Speaking in an interview with this reporter shortly after the event, the State Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Engr. Julius Chukwuemeka, who attended the event with his team and support group — Soludo Fan Club (SFC), said the Supreme Court victory reaffirmed the resilience of APGA as a movement deeply rooted in justice, progress, and the collective will of the people. He further described the judgment as another evidence to the divine hand guiding the party and also shows its significance in reinforcing APGA’s position as a bastion of progressive governance in Nigeria.
While also commending Barr. Ezeokenwa for his proactive leadership and relentless pursuit of justice, Commissioner Chukwuemeka noted that the victory had not only united the party but has also provided a platform for a renewed focus on grassroots development and transformational leadership under Governor Soludo’s administration.
Also speaking in an interview with this reporter, APGA senatorial aspirant for the Anambra South Senatorial District, Chief Emma Nwachukwu (Onodugo), described the Supreme Court judgment as a turning point in the history of the party, symbolizing victory over period of orchestrated efforts to destabilize APGA. He lauded the courage, wisdom, and strategic leadership exhibited by Barr. Ezeokenwa and Governor Soludo in navigating the party through turbulent waters, ensuring it emerged stronger and more unified.
Chief Nwachukwu further noted that the judgment was not only a win for the party but also a sign of hope for democracy in Nigeria, showcasing that justice can prevail over manipulation. He noted that the victory was a sign of divine favor upon the party, and expressed optimism that it would inspire more political victories and developmental strides for both APGA and Anambra State. While also highlighting the developmental strides recorded under the APGA-led administration in Anambra, the APGA stalwart and philanthropist reassured Ndị Anambra South of his steadfast commitment and vision to advancing the party’s progressive ideals when elected into the Senate.
The event also attracted other top government functionaries, including representatives of APGA faithfuls from Nnewi South Local Government Area, and other local government areas of the state; as well as representatives of the Soludo Fan Club and other support groups in the state, among other APGA loyalists and admirers.
The people of Igbollo Village, Achalla Village and Iruobieli Village, three of the four villages that make up Mbanano Community of Enugwu-Agidi in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State, have re-echoed their call on the state government to intervene on the lingering land related dispute rocking the community.
The call is coming following the alleged re-invasion and encroachment into their ancestral land by some land grabbers and their heavily-armed thugs.
Sources from the villages said the men who arrived early last week are currently in the land with their caterpillar, destroying and leveling every portion, including their crops and other economic trees. They also noted that the land in question and other adjoining portions are jointly owned by the four villages that make up Mbanano community/zone —Achalla, Iruobieli, Igbollo, and Ifite villages. They, however, further revealed that the people of Ezinano community in Awka have been invading and laying claim ownership of the land since over 86 years ago — a tussle that has seen many court litigations since then and in recent time.
However, the Chairmen of the three out of the four villages that make up Mbanano Community Enugwu-Agidi — the Igbollo Village Chairman, Mr. Chuks Egwuekwe; the Achalla Village Chairman, Mr. Obinna Okoyeocha; and the Iruobieli Village Chairman, Mr. Ementa Nwansiobi have recently raised an alarm over the re-invasion of the land by the notorious land grabbers.
Speaking on behalf of others, in an interview with this reporter, the Igbollo Village Chairman, Mr. Chuks Egwuekwe, recalled that the case has tarried for years, while the alleged land grabbers have continued to invade their lands, despite rulings and orders so far given by different courts.
It was gathered that the case, which dates back to 1938, eventually lingered till 1954 when the then West African Court of Appeal (WACA) delivered a landmark judgment in favour of Mbanano Enugwu-Agidi as the rightful owners of the land.
According to reports, several years after the 1954 court victory, the people of Ezinano Awka surfaced again and filed another suit at a High Court, challenging the Mbanano’s ownership of the land again. The ruling on this new suit, it was gathered, was given on October 23, 2013, when the High Court, in its judgment, again reaffirmed Mbanano Community as the rightful owners of the land, upholding and validating the earlier judgment by WACA.
It was further gathered that both before and after the 1954 landmark judgment by the West African Court of Appeal (WACA) and the succeeding judgment of the Nnewi High Court in 2013 which are all in favour of the Mbanano community; these said portions of land had been in the custody of the Mbanano villagers, with each of the four villages peacefully utilizing their own portion for various economic activities, including farming, palm wine tapping, and other agrarian endeavours.
It was, however, alleged that the tranquility of the area was disrupted sometime in 2018 when some elements from the Ezinano community in Awka, led by one Ozo Jeff Nweke, surfaced from nowhere and began to re-challenge the legitimacy of the Mbanano community’s ownership of the land, now in a brutal, destructive and physically confrontational way.
Reports further have it that the people of Ezinano Awka, in 2018, went further to appeal the 2013 judgment of the High Court, which, even when the appeal was yet to be heard by the court, they launched a campaign of intimidation with armed thugs, forcibly entering the disputed land, even to the point that they began removing government-installed beacons, destroying property, and terrorizing the local populace, thereby rendering them unable to access their land.
It was, however, gathered that, in pursuance of the case, Ezinano Awka community also lost woefully in their appeal, when the Appeal Court, on June 11, 2020, also declared Mbanano Enugwu-Agidi the rightful owners of the land in another landmark judgment, and further issued an order restraining the people of Ezinano Awka from entering any part/portion of the land, including that belonging to the Igbollo, Achalla, and Iruobieli villages.
The Igbollo Village Chairman, Mr. Egwuekwe, however, expressed shock and worry that despite all these court judgments and the court order, the accused, Ozo Nweke and his cohorts have continued to invade their lands with armed thugs, even to the point that many Mbanano villagers, including women, who own farmlands in the area have repeatedly escaped death with severe injuries, as a result of tragic attacks launched on them and the intimidations meted out to them by the said armed thugs who were allegedly engaged and stationed inside the bushes by Nweke. According to him, these armed thugs also usually confront the armless villagers whenever they go to check on their farmlands and economic trees in the area.
He also recounted what he described as terrible ordeals of some villagers who had been beaten to stupor right inside the bush in the parts of the land, when they went to check on their farmlands in the area, only to be confronted by a gang of heavily-armed hoodlums, many of whom were also alleged to be members of Nweke’s private security outfit.
Egwuekwe, however, noted that the armless villagers, in their resilience, have been cultivating the land, though always exposed to high level of risk. He added that they also cultivated thereon last year and this year.
Howbeit, he said, while they were anticipating bountiful harvest, he received a distress call from his people of Igbollo village sometime last week that some group of boys invaded the land again with caterpillar and began to destroy everything in there, including their mature and still-growing crops and other economic trees in the land.
According to him, upon receiving the report, he proactively sued for calm from his people, who were already full of anger beholding such destructive invasion, especially given the extent of damage done to their crops and farmlands, which have now been cleared and leveled with caterpillar, amidst the current economic crunch and food scarcity in the country.
Mr. Egwuekwe said the village youths, however, mobilized themselves, and upon getting to the land the following morning, they intercepted and chased out the contracted workers they met there and their caterpillars. This was corroborated by videos from the site, clips of which are also attached in this report.
He, however, noted that the land grabbers returned to the land the next morning with about 50 thugs, now fully armed with their guns and caterpillar, ready and willing to ’destroy’. He said, upon hearing this, he made efforts to calm the armless villages youth, preventing them from going to confront the armed thugs, to avoid bloodshed or any bloody clash between them. This, he said, was to enable them explore peaceful means of resolution as usual.
“Today, as I speak to you, they are still there now with thugs, clearing our land and destroying our crops. I have been the one withholding our youths from confronting them, because we’re a peaceful people.
“We don’t want to confront them; we want to explore all possible means of peaceful resolution. We will not fight them; but I am not permanently assuring that, because, very soon, these youths may lose all patience, and they can resort to anything. So, this people should leave our ancestral land for us,” he cautioned.
While noting that they had written several petitions to the state government over the recurring invasion of their land, but to all no avail; the Chairman consequently re-echoed the Villagers’ call for the intervention of the Anambra State Government, led by Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, and other relevant authorities to urgently intervene on the issue. This case, he said, should be given the deserved urgent and necessary attention, especially considering how long it has lasted, the extent of discomfort, losses and damages it has caused for the people of the villages and other members of Mbanano community since it started till date, despite all the victories they have secured in various litigations at different court levels regarding the case.
“How long shall we continue to have this patience, endure, recount these losses and live in fear in our own land? We have repeatedly called for government’s interventions; and it’s high time the government urgently intervened to prevent further losses and damages,” Mr. Egwuekwe passionately appealed.
Similarly, the Igbollo Village Chairman’s narrative and account of the land dispute was corroborated by that of the Security Chairman of the village, Engr. Victor Onwudinjo, who also recounted the various security threats that have resulted from the activities of the notorious land grabbers. He further added that parts of the land that are not frequently accessed by the people due to fear of attack by the thugs have now become hideouts for kidnappers and other criminal elements to perpetrate heinous crimes.
While also identifying Nweke as the key facilitator and chief principal actor in the lingering land dispute, he, however, noted that he is being aided by some of his few cohorts from Enugwu-Agidi, whom, he said, include one Izuchukwu Okafor (the alleged leader of other cohorts from Enugwu-Agidi); one Ozoemena Obiora (who hails from Achalla village, but has allegedly been banned unanimously by the village); one Moses Nwuba (an accomplice); and one Chiedozie Igweonwu (another accomplice).
“But we have our evidence and all the relevant documents, including the proof of ownership and everything that show that we are the true owners of land,” he said.
Continuing on the efforts they are making to reclaim their land, Engr. Onwudinjo said: “Our appeal is already before the government. And there is another general appeal, because we are doing it as a people of Mbanano community. This is collectively Mbanano Enugwu-Agidi land, and we are peaceful people, following everything peacefully.
“Although, we have been countlessly provoked by this land grabbers, we are not going to do anything unlawful. We are not going to confront anybody illegally with weapons or anything, no. But if it’s possible to safely stop them from tearing and clearing further into our land, like we did today, we’ll continue doing that armlessly.”
“While we call and wait for government’s urgent intervention, we will continue to monitor and protect our land while also respecting the rule of law. But government should know that delay is very dangerous, and should address the matter urgently before it turns bloody again. Our youths are gradually losing their patience and tolerance over this unwarranted provocation and encroachment into their communal heritage. Urgent action is highly needed from the government,” he concluded.
However, earlier when this reporter contacted him for his reaction to the allegations, Ozo Nweke, who was accused as a principal actor in the land tussle, declined to comment on the allegations and claims by the people of Mbanano, stressing that he would not say anything until he sees the allegations.
He, however, in the same telephone interview, later claimed that “the people are liars”, adding that “they should go to court.”
What could be best described as a massive wave of public outrage has engulfed Nigeria following revelations of an alleged land racketeering scheme involving the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike. The scandal, described as a brazen abuse of power and disregard for due process, has sparked widespread condemnation across the country.
This is coming amidst shocking evidence that has surfaced detailing how Wike reportedly orchestrated the revocation of lands belonging to ordinary citizens in FCT, reallocating them to his associates and political allies through a network of proxy companies. These actions have drawn sharp criticism, with ethnic youth leaders, civil society organizations, and concerned citizens demanding immediate intervention by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Among the most controversial cases is the property of the late Colonel Ogbebor in Life Camp, Abuja. Despite the existence of valid ownership documents and a subsisting court order, the property was allegedly revoked and reallocated with alarming speed to a company named Saravera Nigeria Ltd. Investigative reports indicate that Saravera is no ordinary firm but is owned by Hon. Kingsley Chinda, a Minority Leader in the House of Representatives, and Adapoyi Akor, another close ally of Wike. The issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy to Saravera under questionable circumstances has also raised serious concerns about the motives and processes underlying such transactions.
This is not an isolated incident. The scandal appears to involve a well-organized network of companies allegedly serving as conduits for reallocating revoked lands to Wike’s associates. Companies like Aleed Construction Ltd, Garden City Malls Ltd, and Teck Farms and Estate Ltd have been implicated, with links to prominent figures in Wike’s circle. These include Sandy Onor, a gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State; Ferdinand Orbih, Wike’s personal lawyer; and Senator Samuel Anyanwu, the PDP National Secretary. Evidence suggests that these companies were used to reallocate properties seized from innocent citizens, further deepening the public’s sense of betrayal and injustice.
The role of Hon. Kingsley Chinda in this scandal has also come under intense scrutiny. As a serving federal lawmaker, his involvement as a director and shareholder in Saravera constitutes a clear violation of the Code of Conduct Bureau’s regulations. Legal experts have pointed out that if prosecuted and convicted, Chinda could face severe consequences, including the loss of his seat and permanent disqualification from holding public office. The Southern Youth Leaders Council has already called for his immediate arrest and prosecution, accusing him and Wike of orchestrating an elaborate scheme of land racketeering and abuse of power.
Further revelations have implicated Adapoyi Akor, who was reportedly a contractor during Wike’s tenure as governor of Rivers State and is now handling significant projects in Abuja, such as the Judges’ Quarters construction. These ties have reinforced suspicions that Wike is using trusted associates as proxies to corner valuable lands in the FCT. This has fueled demands for a comprehensive investigation into the activities of Wike and his associates, as well as a review of all land revocations and reallocations carried out under his administration.
Public reaction to these revelations has been swift and damning. Ethnic youth leaders, civil society groups, and ordinary citizens have called on President Tinubu to suspend Wike and launch an independent audit of all land transactions in the FCT. The Southern Youth Leaders Council has accused Wike of undermining the integrity of the FCT administration and urged Tinubu to demonstrate his commitment to transparency and accountability by ensuring that those implicated face justice. The council has also warned that the continued silence of the presidency on such a high-profile scandal could erode public trust in Tinubu’s administration.
Compounding the controversy are claims from Wike’s camp that the minister is untouchable, allegedly enjoying immunity and the president’s protection. These insinuations have only heightened public suspicion and fueled calls for decisive action.
In the light of the above, critics have argued that President Tinubu must take immediate steps and actions to prove that his government is not shielding corrupt officials and that no one is above the law. The President’s response, they contend, will serve as a litmus test of his administration’s resolve to tackle corruption and uphold the rule of law.
“President Tinubu must act decisively to cleanse the FCT administration of this stench of corruption. The evidence is overwhelming, and Nigerians are watching closely,” remarked a youth leader.
Legal and political analysts have also emphasized the importance of conducting a thorough audit of all land transactions overseen by Wike. They argue that such an audit is crucial for unearthing the full extent of the alleged corruption and for restoring public confidence in the FCT administration. There is also growing concern that failure to address these allegations could set a dangerous precedent, allowing public officials to manipulate land policies for personal gain at the expense of ordinary Nigerians.
The scandal has also cast a spotlight on the broader implications of land management in Nigeria. Abuja’s lands are seen as national assets, and the misuse of these resources has raised questions about governance and accountability. Prominent legal experts have further warned that if this trend continues unchecked, it could result in significant economic and social consequences for the country. They have called for urgent reforms to ensure that land allocations are conducted transparently and equitably, without undue influence from political or personal interests.
“Abuja lands are a national asset, not a playground for political cronies. If this trend continues unchecked, there will be nothing left for ordinary Nigerians,” a prominent legal expert warned in an interview with this reporter.
As evidence continues to emerge, the scandal surrounding Wike has become a defining moment for President Tinubu’s administration. Nigerians are closely watching to see whether the President will prioritize the rule of law over political alliances. The demand for accountability is growing louder, with citizens urging the government to act decisively in holding those responsible to account. Many believe that the president’s response to this scandal will either strengthen or undermine his administration’s credibility in the fight against corruption.
The stakes are high, and the expectations are clear, as Nigerians are demanding justice, transparency, and fairness in the management of their national resources. The era of impunity, they insist, must end.
While the scandal continue to unfold, the ball is firmly in President Tinubu’s court. Many also extend the call to the National Assembly to rise to the challenge and take bold action, rather than remain silent to watch the controversy mark a new low in the fight against corruption in Nigeria? Only time will tell, but the Nigerian people are determined not to remain silent in the face of such brazen abuse of power.
“Wike and his accused allies must be suspended, thoroughly investigated, and legally punished if found culpable. Nobody is more Nigerian than the other,” an Abuja resident declared.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) says all denominations of Naira banknotes currently in circulation remain indefinitely valid as legal tender and cannot expire or be phased out.
A statement on Friday by CBN’s Acting Director, Corporate Communications, Mrs Sidi Ali Hakama, said all banknotes including the old and new designs of N1,000, N500, and N200 were valid.
Hakama urged the public to disregard misinformation regarding the validity of the old notes.
“In line with the bank’s previous clarifications and to offer further assurance, the CBN wishes to reiterate that the subsisting Supreme Court ruling granted on November 29, 2023, permits the concurrent circulation of all versions of the N1,000, N500, and N200 denominations of the Naira indefinitely.
“For the avoidance of doubt, all versions of the Naira, including the old and new designs of N1000, N500, and 4200 denominations, as well as the commemorative and previous designs of the 100 denomination, remain valid and continue to be legal tender without any deadline.
“We, therefore, advise the public to disregard any claims that the old series of the aforementioned banknotes will cease to be legal tender on December 31, 2024.
“We urge Nigerians to continue accepting all Naira banknotes (both old and redesigned) for their daily transactions and to handle them with care to ensure their longevity,” she said.
The director encouraged the general public to embrace alternative modes of payment, such as e-channels, to reduce pressure on using physical cash.
The Executive Chairman of Ivo Local Government Area, Hon. Ajah Emmanuel Ogbonna, aka “Confirm,” has said that no land is worth loss of lives, while condemning communal clashes in the lingering land dispute between the Umuobor-Akaeze and Ogwor- Ishiagu communities.
Briefing newsmen Friday in Abakaliki, Hon. Ajah while lauding the Ebonyi State Governor for declaring the disputed area a buffer zone and mobilizing security agencies to restore peace in the crisis-ridden communities, also urged the warring parties to sheath their swords.
He also debunked allegations of a trending video on social media accusing him of spearheading the violent clashes in the area, describing them as baseless and fabricated. He clarified that a video accusing him of involvement was doctored. “I was so surprised. I went to Akaeze immediately and didn’t see any dead body. Later, it was discovered in Nsukka that somebody cloned the video. I’m innocent of what you are seeing on social media. I don’t support evil; whatever a man sows, he shall reap,” he stated.
It was gathered that a viral video showing women wailing over killings in the area and accusing the chairman of involvement had earlier circulated on social media.
The chairman narrated how the crisis, which dates back to 1967, escalated in recent weeks with tragic consequences, including loss of lives and destruction of property. He condemned the acts of violence, emphasizing that no piece of land is worth the blood of human beings. “This land being dragged over is a farming land inside thick forest. It doesn’t deserve human lives or heads,” he said.
Ogbonna disclosed efforts to mediate peace, including setting up a committee comprising stakeholders, security agencies, and community leaders, which initially brought temporary calm. However, renewed hostilities disrupted the process.
“This land that is being dragged is not even in the next 300 years going to see development; it is just a farming land inside thick forest, so it doesn’t deserve human bodies or heads. The meeting was held here, and we said, ‘Give us one week so that the committee and the security agencies will do their work.’ But before you know it, they went back and fought again. I had no option; the CP invited them and locked both sides. Ogwor had 8 people, and Akaeze had 3 people. At the end of the day, the stakeholders in Abuja came back again, and we had a very serious meeting, which we announced on air. Nobody should go there now. Let them give us two weeks to settle because this is the time to harvest rice and yam. We told them like that.
“In that communiqué, we agreed that I and some stakeholders should meet the CP to release those involved. We discussed with the CP, and he released those people for us. They came back, but immediately they came back, they went and fought those people again. So, we called another meeting where the Umuobor-Akaeze people complained that Ogwor people shot them. I told them, ‘We declared that nobody should enter.’ So, we now begged Umuobor-Akaeze to temper justice with mercy,” he added.
The chairman lamented that despite pleas and agreements reached, both sides resumed fighting, leading to arrests in the area. “We quickly sent police to look for every person. The Governor has done a good job by declaring that place a buffer zone. Immediately after the governor made that, I mobilized the security agents. We have three checkpoints now, and peace has returned to that place. I’m innocent of what you are seeing on social media. I don’t support evil; whatever a man sows, he shall reap,” he said while appealing to both communities to embrace peace and allow the resolution process to proceed.
He further assured travelers and residents of safety during the festive season, noting that roads within the local government are secure. “There is no problem on the road as far as I’m concerned. We don’t have any issue in Ivo apart from the fight, which is in the bush,” he concluded.
The Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC), has shared N1.727 trillion among the Federal Government, states, and Local Government Councils (LGCs) for November.
This is contained in a communiqué issued after the FAAC meeting on Thursday in Abuja.
According to the communiqué, the N1.727 trillion total distributable revenue comprised statutory revenue of N455.354 billion.
It also comprised distributable Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue of N585.700 billion, Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL) revenue of N15.046 billion and Exchange Difference revenue of N671.392 billion.
The communiqué indicated that total gross revenue of N3.143 trillion was available in the month of November.
“Total deduction for cost of collection was N103.307 billion, while total transfers, interventions, and refunds was N1.312 trillion,” it said.
It said that gross statutory revenue of N1.827 trillion was received for the month of November.
“This is higher than the sum of N1.336 trillion received in the month of October 2024 by N490.339 billion.
“Gross revenue of N628.972 billion was available from the VAT in November. This was lower than the N668.291 billion available in the month of October by N39.318 billion ” it said.
The communiqué said that from the N1.727 trillion total distributable revenue, the Federal Government received the total sum of N581.856 billion, and the state governments received N549.792 billion.
“The LGCs received the sum of N402.553 billion, and a total sum of N193.291 billion (13 per cent of mineral revenue) was shared to the benefiting states as derivation revenue,” it said.
On the N455.354 billion statutory revenue, the communiqué said that the Federal Government received N175.690 billion, and the state governments received N89.113 billion.
It said that the LGCs received N68.702 billion, and the sum of N121.849 billion (13 per cent of mineral revenue) was shared to the benefiting States as derivation revenue.
“From the N585.700 billion VAT revenue, the Federal Government received N87.855 billion, the state governments received N292.850 billion, and the LGCs received N204.995 billion.
“A total sum of N2.257 billion was received by the Federal Government from the N15.046 billion EMTL. The state governments received N7.523 billion, and the LGCs received N5.266 billion,” it said.
It said that in November, Oil and Gas Royalty and CET Levies recorded significant increases, while Excise Duty, VAT, Import Duty, Petroleum Profit Tax, Companies Income Tax, and EMTL decreased considerably.
The special brigade of the Nigerian Army has neutralised scores of Lukurawa bandits and destroyed about 22 camps in Sokoto and Kebbi states.
The Theatre Commander of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Maj.- Gen. Oluyinka Soyele, disclosed this to the newsmen on Friday in Sokoto.
Speaking through the Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8 Division of Nigerian Army Sokoto, Brig. Gen. Ibikunle Ajose, Soyele said the special operation brigade was deployed by the Chief of Defense Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa for the exercise.
He noted that the successes were recorded through a fresh onslaughts lunched against Lakurawa bandits that led to the destruction of bandits camps.
Soyele said that the operation was to consolidate successes achieved in the ongoing operation under ” FOREST SANITY III CHASE LAKURAWAS OUT. ”
He charged the troops to ensure total destruction of the Lakurawas sects and enjoined them to abide by the rules of engagement and ensure the protection of lives and properties of law abiding citizens.
Soyele further highlighted that troops have been selected and trained for this mission, hence Nigerians are counting on their ability and professionalism to flush out the Lakurawas.
He added that the special operation was to ensure total elimination of the Lakurawas sects in Sokoto and Kebbi states.
He explained that the operation reached forests and enclaves at Rumji Dutse East of Sarma, Tsauna and Bauni, Malgatawa, Gargao, Tsauna and Magara forests in Kebbi state.
Other areas raided included; Kaideji, Nakuru, Sama, Sanyinna, Kadidda, Kolo and Dancha villages in Illela, Tangaza and Binji local government areas of Sokoto state.
The operation, he said led to the recovery of four rifles and 409 PKT 7.62mm NATO and 94 pieces of 7.62mm special rounds ammunition besides destruction of about 22 camps, neutralization of several members of the sect members.
He stressed that the deployment of the brigade would be an added impetus in frustrating the activities of the bandits and restoring normalcy to the affected communities and the Northwest states.
Soyele added that prior to the deployment of the Brigade, troops of 8 Division under Operation FANSAN YAMMA had begun precursor and shaping the areas.
The Anambra State Police Command has announced the arrest of a 40-year-old man in connection with an ongoing investigation over the sudden death of his son.
The Police Public Relations Officer of the State, SP Tochukwu Ikenga announced this in a statement issued to newsmen on Friday. He disclosed that the suspect, Mr. Alfred Bassey, who hails from Cross River State, was alleged to have forcibly the 7-year-old son from the mother, and had been living with him in an uncompleted building at Trans-Nkisi Layout Onitsha.
The Police Spokesman, however, said that, on 11th December 2024, the body of the child was found in a soakaway pit dug in the abandoned uncompleted building after his father left him there for an unknown destination.
Continuing, SP Ikenga said the suspected lifeless body of the child was recovered from the pit and taken to the hospital where he was confirmed dead by a doctor, leading to the arrest of his father as a principal suspect, by the police operatives attached to the 3-3 Divisional Headquarters.
“The State Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, saddened by this development, admonished parents to prioritize the well-being of their children against any difference they may have had with their spouse, to avoid exposing them to emotional and psychological trauma and/or death.
“He further directed the immediate transfer of the Case to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Awka, for a more detailed investigation,” SP Ikenga concluded in the statement.
