Journalist Raises Alarm Over Threat to Life, Human Rights Violation by Ebonyi-born US citizen

Izunna Okafor
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Journalist Raises Alarm Over Threat to Life, Human Rights Violation by Ebonyi-born US citizen

Urges Ebonyi CP to restrain operatives of anti-kidnapping squad from being used

 

By Our Correspondent

An Anambra based-journalist and correspondent of THISDAY Newspaper in Anambra State, Mr David-Chyddy Eleke has raised the alarm over threat to his life by an Ebonyi State-born US citizen, Mr Ikechukwu Nkumeh.

Eleke also called on the commissioner of police in Ebonyi State, CP Anthonia Uche-Anya to restrain operatives of anti-kidnapping squad and SWAT from lending themselves as agents of suppression and abuse of human rights in the hands of Mr Nkumeh and his brother, Friday Nkumeh, with whom they have been tormenting the journalist and other members of his family for their refusal to surrender a portion of their family land to them.

The journalist in a press statement he signed and made available to his colleagues in Ebonyi State stated that the Nkumehs have since early December 2024 been using operatives of anti-kidnapping squad and SWAT in Abakiliki to hound, arrest and illegally detain members of his family.

He said: “I hail from Oshiri in Ebonyi State, Mr Ikechukwu and his brother Friday are our neighbours in my village. Both claim to be US citizens, but the biggest torment my family has received is ever knowing them.

“Since their return from the US last year, they have been grabbing lands belonging to their neighbours in the village. They have become terror to everyone around, and I can tell you that many young people from my kindred no longer sleep in their homes because the Nkumehs have been using police to kidnap them in the dead of the night. This has been going on since after he made a petition to the anti-kidnapping squad, claiming that they wanted to kidnap him.”

The journalist continued that about three of his relatives are currently in prison and police detention facility and that he is still making many more petitions, implicating everyone in his family and sponsoring the police to pick them up.

“I now seem to be his next target, simply because I told him pointedly that the land on which he built a structure was ours.

“He has made a fresh petition against me, and I’m not sure what the allegations are, but the police have been calling to invite me, and I know that the plot is to lure me to Abakiliki so they can arrest and illegally detain me.

“In saner places, the Nkumehs would have been a blessing to us as our neighbours, but they have turned themselves into a thorn in our flesh

“They have been spending heavily on the police, arresting and slamming our brothers with frivolous charges, just so they remand them in prison.

“Will Ikechukwu or Friday Nkumeh do this in the US where human rights is copiously observed? They just came back and have seen how the power of money can help them subjugate us.

“We are calling on the Commissioner of police in Ebonyi, who we know is a refined officer to kindly use her good office to end this human rights violation. We have already filed a suit in a court of competent jurisdiction, so that the ownership of the piece of land in question can be determined. He should desist from using the police to arrest us, he should also release about three of our brothers who are still in detention. We are peace loving people, else we would have brought down the structure on our land, without involving the court,” the journalist said.

Soludo, His Media Rats, and the Betrayal of Ndi Anambra

Izunna Okafor
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Soludo, His Media Rats, and the Betrayal of Ndi Anambra

 

 

By Erikigwe Gabriel Ikenna (G.I)

Governor Charles Soludo and his incompetent media rats have once again demonstrated their inability to grasp the reality of governance. Rather than addressing the pressing concerns of Ndi Anambra, these so-called “media rats” have resorted to cheap blackmail, character assassination, and blatant propaganda. Their actions not only expose their intellectual bankruptcy, but also drag their boss, Governor Soludo, further into the pit of political disgrace.

The most damning evidence of this administration’s failure is the shocking disappearance of the two suspects arrested for the gruesome murder of Hon. Azuka from Onitsha. How do murder suspects just vanish into thin air under police custody? Anyone who isn’t outraged by this clear case of incompetence and possible complicity is either blind or complicit.

Section 14(2)(b) of the Nigerian Constitution states that the security and welfare of the people must be the priority of any government. Ndi Anambra demand answers! Who enabled this escape? What is being done to bring justice? The government cannot continue to insult the intelligence of the people with weak excuses and empty rhetoric.

Instead of addressing the monumental failures of his administration, Governor Soludo has foolishly chosen to wage war against Fr. Ebube Muonso, a man widely respected for his courage, philanthropy, and spiritual guidance.

Fr. Ebube Muonso is not just a religious leader; he is a voice of truth, a man who has done more for the people than many state governments. He is divinely empowered to speak truth to power, and no amount of blackmail, character assassinations or intimidation can silence him.

Soludo and his media rats, including Adichie Izuchukwu, Chinedu Obigwe who calls himself Akaepuchionwa, Machi Pius Igwe, Mazi Okpara, and others, have made a grave mistake by attempting to suppress the voice of a man of God.

History has shown that those who fight against men of grace often end up disgraced. The Book of Psalms 105:15 warns, “Touch not my anointed, and do my prophets no harm.” No one has ever waged war against a man of God and gone unpunished.

Anambra State is suffering under an administration that thrives on arrogance and Mr know All. Governor Soludo must wake up to the reality that leadership is about service, not suppression. His focus should be on governance, not on persecuting truth speakers.

The people of Anambra will not be intimidated. We will not accept this failure as the norm. Soludo must be held accountable for his actions, and Ndi Anambra must rise to demand the justice and good governance they deserve. The people are watching, and history will judge.

Escape Of Suspects ; Major Shake Up Hits Anambra RRS As Police Deploy Operatives Against Sit At Home

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Escape Of Suspects ; Major Shake Up Hits Anambra RRS As Police Deploy Operatives Against Sit At Home

 

By Okey Maduforo Awka.

One week after two suspected killers of Hon Justice Azuka of Onitsha North 1 Constituency escaped from Police net, the Anambra Police Command has commenced a major shake up within the ranks of the Rapid Response Squad in the area.

Similarly the Command as deployed more officers and men to major flash points in the state to ensure safety of traders and motorists during the Monday Sit At Home Order by the separatist groups and b the state.

According to the release signed by the Police Public Relations Officer SP Tochikwu Ikenga it stated that the Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu disclosed this while taking Give Charles Soludo on the inspection of the Rapid Response Squad Headquarters at Awkuzu in Oyi local government area.

“In line with the Command’s commitment to transparency, strengthened security operations, and enhanced collaboration with the Anambra State Government, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, mnips, PhD, conducted a facility assessment tour of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) Formation in Awkuzu alongside His Excellency, Professor Chukwuma Soludo,* the Executive Governor of Anambra State”

“During the visit, CP Orutugu briefed the Governor on the operational readiness of the Command, particularly in its efforts to re-arrest the fleeing suspects involved in the heinous murder of Hon. Justice Azuka, a member representing Onitsha 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly. He further outlined the proactive measures being implemented to prevent the recurrence of such incidents”

“As part of these reforms, the Commissioner of Police has commenced the reorganisation of the RRS unit, including the systematic interviewing of suspects in custody”

“This initiative aims to ensure proper accountability, uphold transparency, and reinforce the credibility of police investigations, thereby enhancing public trust in the criminal justice process”

“The reorganisation of the Rapid Response Squad is designed to improve the unit’s operational effectiveness in crime prevention and law enforcement”

“By adopting a more structured and professional approach to handling suspects, the Command is poised to strengthen evidence gathering, facilitate successful prosecutions, and enhance overall security across the state”

“This visit underscores Governor Soludo’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all Anambra residents, as well as *CP Orutugu’s* dedication to professional policing, community engagement, and the maintenance of law and order” he said.

On the Monday Sit At Home Order SP Tochikwu Ikenga explained that ;
Following the Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutigu commitment to end sit-at-home, today 24th February 2025, witnessed a massive deployment of security personnel to different strategic and identified areas as Police and other security forces intensified patrols toward security dominance in the State”

“The CP while hailing *Ndi Anambra* and the State Government through the launch of Operation Udo Ga Chi by collectively joining voices to condemn any act that threatens our national peace has resolved to explore every necessary legal strategy and to constantly review both kinetic and non-kinetic steps taken towards stabilizing the security of the State”

“This enhanced security presence involves”

” Increased patrols and surveillance
Strategic deployment of personnel and resources
Intelligence gathering and community engagement.
Proactive measures to prevent and respond timely to crimes.”

“This goal is to deter criminal activities, build trust with the community, and provide a secure atmosphere for economic and social growth” he stated .

The Senate Rules and Natasha’s Outburst: Facts of the Matter – By Ola Awoniyi

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The Senate Rules and Natasha’s Outburst: Facts of the Matter – By Ola Awoniyi

 

A drama on the floor of the Senate on Thursday, 20th February 2025, attracted varied commentaries on the social, print and broadcast media. The drama was both unnecessary and avoidable as it merely distracted from the business of the day in the Chamber.

Legislative activities, whether in the hallowed Chamber or in committee rooms, are guided by the Senate Rules. This may lead a first-timer at the public gallery to wonder if lawmakers do anything without reference to their Standing Rules. Every time they get the recognition of the Presiding Officer to contribute to a discussion in the chamber, Senators are guided by the Standing Rules in what to say. This is well known to the lawmakers. The Rules also stipulate sanctions for members whose actions or conducts deviate from the Rules. The Chamber is called hallowed because it is known for Order and decorum.

The drama of that Thursday started right at the commencement of the day’s business when the Senate Chief Whip, Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, raised a Point of Order to report Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, to the Senate on her disregard for the Senate Rules. Order 6, which Senator Monguno cited, stipulates that “the President of the Senate shall allocate a seat to each senator,” while section 6(2) states that senators may only speak from the seat allocated to them by the Presiding Officer. It also provides that the President of the Senate may change the allocation from time to time as the need arises.

Senator Monguno, relying on the rules stated above, submitted that “It is at the discretion of the Senate president, as circumstances may warrant, to change the seat of any Senator, based on circumstances that may crop up in the course of proceedings in the Senate.

“In the course of proceedings, two Senators – Ned Nwoko of the PDP and Senator Francis Ezenwa of the Labour Party, decamped to the APC, thereby necessitating their movement from the other side (Minority) to this side (Majority). In the exercise of the powers conferred on the President of the Senate, pursuant to Order 6(2), the President of the Senate decided to rearrange things, giving a directive to the Chief Whip to exercise that function. And pursuant to that directive, seats were reallocated and I want to report that Senator Natasha, having been given another seat, refused to vacate her former seat in flagrant violation of our Rules.”

Senator Monguno consequently referred the Senate to the Standing Rules, which mandate Senator Natasha to comply with the directive of the Presiding Officer to move to her new seat, failure of which she would be denied recognition to make any contribution during plenary.

After the Chief Whip landed on his Point of Order, the Senate President hit the gavel and pronounced that the Point of Order was sustained. This means that Senator Natasha could not speak on the floor of the Senate except from the new seat allocated to her.

Upon the Senate President’s ruling on the Point of Order, Senator Natasha sprang to her feet, waving the same document containing the Standing Rules and shouting, “Point of Order.” However, the Senate President reminded her that she could not speak outside her allocated seat.

Senator Natasha ignored the Presiding Officer’s ruling and continued to scream, citing Order 10, which has to do with the breach of privileges of a Senator.

Because she continued to scream, the Senate President ordered the Seargent-At-Arms to “take her out of the Chamber.” The Seargent-At-Arms moved swiftly in her direction but hesitated to act, probably expecting the Senator to calm down and comply with the Senate President’s ruling and avert her evacuation from the Chamber. However, the Senate President kept a dignified silence. He did not repeat his directive, obviously to avert aggravating the drama.

By this time, some Senators had walked over to pet Senator Natasha, but she rebuffed their intervention and continued uttering discourteous statements.

Against the backdrop of the unfortunate drama, commentators have raised some questions: Why should the Senate President reallocate Senators’ seats? Why can’t Senators speak from any seat in the Chamber? Why wasn’t Senator Natasha allowed to explain her objection to her seat being changed?

A reference was also made to an incident on 17th October 2018 when Senator Godswill Akpabio protested being denied recognition to speak from a seat other than the one allocated to him. Are the two incidents similar?

The answers to the questions above are provided by the Senate Rules and Procedure. The Standing Orders book guides the Senate’s legislative business.

Pertinent to this issue, are clauses that empower the Senate President to allocate and reallocate seats as the need arises. Seats change in the Chamber from time to time without senators protesting because they know that occasions demand it and their rules permit it.

Senators do not sit just anywhere at the plenary. This is to ensure Order and decorum in the hallowed Chamber. The practice in the Parliament all over the democratic world is that members sit with their party colleagues. Ruling party or majority party members have a section in the Chamber and those of the opposition or minority parties another section.

A movement of members across party lines through defection will automatically necessitate an adjustment of the sitting arrangement.

Therefore, as explained by the Senate Chief Whip on Thursday, the change of Senator Natasha’s seat was made necessary by the defection on Wednesday 5th February 2025 of Senator Ned Nwoko of the Delta North Senatorial District from the PDP to the APC and Senator Ezenwa Francis Onyewuchi of the Imo East Senatorial District from Labour Party to APC as well.

Therefore, Senator Natasha was not the only Senator affected by the changes in the sitting arrangement. The difference with the others was that they graciously accepted the change, obviously seeing no point in making a drama out of an innocuous, routine development in the hallowed Chamber.

Was Senator Natasha denied her right to speak in the Chamber that day? Nope. She was not recognised to speak because she was not on her seat, just like Senator Akpabio was not allowed to speak from Senator Ali Ndume’s seat in 2018, even though Akpabio moved over to another seat that day because the microphone on his allocated seat had malfunctioned.

The then Senate President, Bukola Saraki was firm in his ruling that Akpabio would only be allowed to speak from an alternative seat (with a functioning microphone), which the Clerk of the Senate already provided him, but which he had rejected. Akpabio protested, but he eventually accepted the reallocated seat and apologized to the Senate.

That shows that Akpabio did not invent the rule that prevented Senator Natasha from speaking outside the seat allocated to her. He also did not apply the Rules to embarrass or victimize her.

Granting her recognition to speak after a Point of Order was raised by the Chief Whip and sustained would have been inconsistent with the Senate Rule. All that Senator Natasha was asked to do was to move to her seat to state her case of the alleged breach of her privilege.

It is noteworthy that neither of her two Senator colleagues from Kogi State agreed with Natasha on this issue. Senator Jibrin Isah, representing Kogi East, apologized on behalf of the Kogi Senate Caucus to the Senate while Senator Sunday Karimi, representing Kogi West, asked Natasha to apologise to the Senate for her conduct.

To demonstrate that he had no personal issues with her, the Senate President eventually offered an apology to the Senate on her behalf for holding up the day’s proceeding, citing his own 2018 experience of how a firm application of the Rules can hurt some egos and be misinterpreted.

***Ola Awoniyi writes from Abuja

Governor Bala Mohammed Reaffirms Commitment to Upholding the Legacy of Sir Ahmadu Bello, Sardaunan Sokoto

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Governor Bala Mohammed Reaffirms Commitment to Upholding the Legacy of Sir Ahmadu Bello, Sardaunan Sokoto

 

By: Lydia Zakka

In a significant move to honor the legacy of Sir Ahmadu Bello, Sardaunan Sokoto, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has once again reaffirmed his commitment to preserving the ideals and values of the late Premier of Northern Nigeria. This declaration comes ahead of the 11th Memorial Lecture in his honor, set to take place in Bauchi State.

Governor Bala Mohammed received members of the Board of Trustees of the Sir Ahmadu Bello Foundation at the Exco Chamber of the Government House, Bauchi. The delegation was led by the Foundation’s Chairman and former Governor of Niger State, Babangida Muazu Aliyu. The visit was a precursor to the memorial event, which seeks to highlight the enduring contributions of Sir Ahmadu Bello to the development of Northern Nigeria.

In his address, Babangida Muazu Aliyu praised Governor Bala Mohammed, fellow Northern governors, and other stakeholders for their unwavering commitment to the promotion of education, transparency, accountability, and unity. These values, which Sir Ahmadu Bello stood for, continue to serve as guiding principles for leadership in the region.

Governor Bala Mohammed, who was accompanied by the Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, expressed gratitude to the Sir Ahmadu Bello Foundation for choosing Bauchi State as the venue for this year’s memorial lecture. The Governor emphasized that the Northern governors remain resolute in their collective efforts to uphold the vision of a prosperous, united, and peaceful Northern Nigeria as envisioned by Sir Ahmadu Bello.

He stressed that the region’s development hinges on the collective support of all stakeholders, and under his leadership, Bauchi State is committed to advancing the socio-economic development of the North in line with the values espoused by the late Sardauna.

Governor Bala Mohammed also reiterated that Northern Nigeria’s journey toward unity and progress would continue to be shaped by the vision and principles set forth by Sir Ahmadu Bello, ensuring that the region moves forward in harmony and prosperity. He further pledged to continue his administration’s efforts toward advancing the cause of unity, peace, and education—cornerstones of Sir Ahmadu Bello’s leadership.

The memorial lecture, which has become a key event in the Northern region, will offer an opportunity for reflection and a call to action for current and future leaders to uphold the enduring legacy of the Sardaunan Sokoto. Governor Bala Mohammed’s reaffirmation of commitment serves as a reminder of the crucial role that leadership based on integrity, vision, and unity plays in shaping the future of Northern Nigeria.

As Bauchi State prepares to host the distinguished event, all eyes will be on the Memorial Lecture as a vital platform for reinforcing the ideals that Sir Ahmadu Bello laid down for a prosperous and unified Northern Nigeria.

Mass Defections Ahead of 2027: Key Politicians Set to Join Coalition Party

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Mass Defections Ahead of 2027: Key Politicians Set to Join Coalition Party

 

By: Daure David

In a dramatic shift ahead of the 2027 general elections, a significant wave of defections is set to reshape Nigeria’s political landscape. Sources have confirmed that 22 Senators from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and 11 Senators from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are preparing to join a newly-formed coalition party within the next few weeks. Additionally, six APC Governors are expected to make the same move, marking a pivotal moment in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.

The defections, which have been in the works for several months, are seen as part of a broader strategy to consolidate opposition to the ruling APC and create a more formidable political force. The coalition party, still in its early stages, aims to provide a unified alternative to the current political establishment. Its formation is poised to challenge the APC’s dominance, with prominent lawmakers and governors signaling their allegiance to the new movement.

This shift has created a ripple effect across the country, as political observers speculate about the implications for both major parties. For the APC, the loss of key Senators and Governors threatens to disrupt their dominance in various states and constituencies. On the other hand, the PDP’s already tenuous position could be further weakened by the departure of its Senators.

The exact identity of the coalition party remains a closely guarded secret, but insiders suggest that it is being formed by a coalition of former political heavyweights, technocrats, and influential figures from both the APC and PDP. The goal is to create a party that transcends the old political divides, focusing on national unity, good governance, and addressing the pressing economic challenges facing the country.

Experts have raised concerns about the potential for political instability as these defections unfold, with both the APC and PDP scrambling to secure their positions ahead of the 2027 election cycle. The power dynamics in the Senate, as well as the broader gubernatorial and parliamentary contests, are expected to be significantly altered as the coalition party gains momentum.

In response to the defections, the APC has vowed to take swift action to shore up its position, with key leaders from the party signaling that they will not allow the mass exit to undermine their electoral prospects. Similarly, the PDP has expressed concerns about the impact of the defections, warning that the new coalition could siphon away critical votes from their strongholds.

As the political drama intensifies, all eyes will be on the coming weeks to see how the defections unfold and whether the coalition party can successfully consolidate its support base ahead of the 2027 elections. With the landscape shifting rapidly, the next few months are set to be a defining period for Nigeria’s political future.

The Rise of the CPC Faction of the APC and Its Alliances for 2027

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The Rise of the CPC Faction of the APC and Its Alliances for 2027

 

By: Daure David

The political landscape in Nigeria is undergoing a significant shift as the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) faction of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) seeks to detach itself and carve a path toward the 2027 elections. At the heart of this realignment is a powerful force—Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, whose political influence and legacy continue to shape the direction of the country’s political future.

In recent years, the APC, a coalition of diverse political ideologies, has seen internal divisions that have threatened its cohesion. The CPC faction, once a major player in the merger that brought about the formation of the APC, has been at odds with the party’s leadership over several issues. These disagreements have now culminated in the CPC’s decision to detach itself from the broader APC fold, choosing instead to pursue alliances with other political forces as it prepares for the 2027 general elections.

The Catalyst: Nasir El-Rufai’s Leadership and Influence

Nasir El-Rufai’s decision to take a leading role in the CPC faction’s bid for independence is one of the driving forces behind this development. As a former governor of Kaduna State, El-Rufai has amassed significant political capital and has become a prominent figure within the APC. Known for his no-nonsense approach to governance, his reforms, and his unyielding stance on issues of national importance, El-Rufai has cultivated a loyal base of supporters.

His leadership and vision are seen by many as a beacon of hope for the CPC faction’s push to reassert itself as a key player in Nigeria’s political arena. El-Rufai’s tenure as governor was marked by ambitious infrastructural projects, a focus on education, and his efforts to combat corruption. His influence extends far beyond Kaduna State, making him a central figure in the conversations surrounding the 2027 elections.

El-Rufai’s national recognition, combined with his reputation for political savvy, places him in a strong position to seek and form strategic alliances. As the CPC faction looks to distance itself from the APC leadership, El-Rufai’s network of allies and his proven track record make him a valuable asset in forging new political partnerships.

Seeking Strong Alliances: A Strategy for 2027

The 2027 elections are expected to be fiercely competitive, and the CPC faction understands the need to build a broad coalition of like-minded political forces to secure victory. As the party seeks new alliances, it is targeting other key players within Nigeria’s political spectrum, including regional powerhouses, influential individuals, and smaller parties with shared ideological leanings.

One of the primary goals of these alliances is to unite various factions with a common vision for the future of Nigeria—one that prioritizes economic reforms, infrastructure development, and security. The CPC faction’s approach is grounded in pragmatic politics, focusing on building relationships that will ensure electoral success in 2027 and beyond.

El-Rufai’s efforts to forge these alliances are already underway, with talks reportedly taking place with various political leaders across the country. His reputation as a consensus-builder and his ability to navigate Nigeria’s complex political terrain will likely be instrumental in securing the kind of broad-based coalition needed to challenge for power in 2027.

The Road Ahead

As the CPC faction of the APC moves toward its goal of independence and election victory, it faces significant challenges. The fragmentation of the APC and the competition from other political forces will require careful strategic planning and a united front within the faction. However, with El-Rufai at the helm, there is a sense of optimism that the CPC can successfully navigate these challenges.

For Nigerians, the detachment of the CPC from the APC signals a new chapter in the country’s political evolution. Whether the CPC faction can form a coalition strong enough to rival the APC and the opposition parties remains to be seen. However, one thing is clear: Nasir El-Rufai, with his leadership and vision, is positioning the CPC for a significant role in Nigeria’s political future as the nation looks ahead to the 2027 general elections.

As the 2027 elections draw nearer, political observers will be closely watching the alliances being forged by the CPC faction, knowing that these coalitions could determine the next phase of Nigeria’s democratic journey. With El-Rufai’s leadership and the determination of the CPC faction, the political terrain in Nigeria is bound to experience a shift that could reshape the nation’s governance for years to come.

“Rename INEC Headquarters After Humphrey Nwosu” – Chekwas Okorie

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“Rename INEC Headquarters After Humphrey Nwosu” – Chekwas Okorie

Press Release.

It is sad that the most visible unsung hero of the much celebrated June 12, 1993 presidential election in Nigeria is Professor Humphrey Nwosu, the National Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC) which later became INEC.

 

Nigerians commended President Muhammadu Buhari for declaring June 12 as Democracy Day in the place of May 29. He also affirmed late Chief M.K.O Abiola, the winner of the June 12 presidential election, along with Alhaji Babagana Kingigbe as his running mate.

 

The two were accordingly honored with the requisite National Honors of GCFR and GCON, respectively.

 

Regrettably, no mention was made of Professor Humphrey Nwosu in the honors list for the historic June 12 election. Professor Nwosu had long before President Buhari honored the June 12 heros written his book where he gave account of the true outcome of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, including the figures scored by Chief MKO Abiola the presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party, SDP, and Alhaji Bashir Tofa, the presidential candidate of the National Republican Convention, NRC, showing Chief Abiola’s resounding victory in that election.

 

The undisputed fact is that there would be no June 12 celebration in Nigeria without Professor Humphrey Nwosu. He stuck out his neck in the face of obvious threats to his life by a military junta determined to scuttle the election and announced the actual election results.

 

This did not prevent General Ibrahim Babangida, the military President of Nigeria, from proceeding to annul the election.

 

After more than three decades, General Ibrahim Babangida publicly presented his memoir in which he vindicated Professor Humphrey Nwosu. He even boasted that it was under his watch that Nigeria had the fairest and freest presidential election.

 

Yet the architect of this unprecedented national feat remained unsung. The big question is, when will Nigeria have the good fortune to have the likes of Professor Humphrey Nwosu to preside over our Independent National Electoral Commission again?

 

President Muhammadu Buhari has done his own bit by giving Nigeria a more acceptable Democracy Day, which is June 12, and honored late MKO Abiola as former President and a posthumous award of the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic, GCFR.

 

The ball is now in the court of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to give Professor Nwosu a befitting National Honor.

 

Unfortunately, Professor Humphrey Nwosu died recently and his burial program has been announced by his family.

 

It is the expectation of Nigerians that President Tinubu should authorize a national burial for him. It will be to the credit of President Tinubu, the only true civilian to be elected President of Nigeria after President Shehu Shagari and Dr. Goodluck Jonathan to approve the National Headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to be named after PROFESSOR HUMPHREY NWOSU.

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should sieze the moment.

 

Chief Dr. Chekwas Okorie

Founder, All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA.

24/02/2025.

 

 

Hon. Yakubu Adamu: A Visionary Leader Driving Bauchi State’s Economic Transformation

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Hon. Yakubu Adamu: A Visionary Leader Driving Bauchi State’s Economic Transformation

 

By: Daure David

In the dynamic world of governance, few individuals stand out for their exceptional contributions to the economic advancement of their states. Hon. Yakubu Adamu PhD, the Finance Commissioner of Bauchi State, is one such leader whose strategic vision and dedication have significantly transformed the state’s economy. Through his relentless efforts, Hon. Adamu has not only enhanced Bauchi’s financial stability but also laid the groundwork for sustainable development that promises long-term benefits for the citizens.

1. Revolutionizing Revenue Generation

One of Hon. Yakubu Adamu’s most notable contributions to Bauchi State’s economy is his strategic approach to revenue generation. Recognizing the importance of increasing the state’s internal revenue, he implemented cutting-edge tax reforms and improved collection methods. His initiatives have led to a remarkable increase in overall state revenue, providing the government with the financial resources necessary to fund essential projects and infrastructure developments. This move has helped reduce the state’s dependency on federal allocations, fostering a sense of financial independence.

2. Streamlining the State Budget

Hon. Adamu’s ability to prioritize and optimize the state’s budget has been instrumental in directing funds towards projects with the greatest economic potential. By refining budgetary processes, he ensured that state resources were utilized efficiently and effectively, focusing on long-term growth rather than short-term expenditure. His work in budget optimization has made a significant impact on the quality of life for Bauchi citizens, as funds were channeled toward critical sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

3. Promoting Public Financial Management

Transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of good governance. Under Hon. Yakubu Adamu’s leadership, Bauchi State has seen a dramatic improvement in public financial management. His reforms have instilled confidence in both the citizens and investors, making Bauchi a more attractive destination for investment. Through diligent monitoring and clear communication, he ensured that every naira spent was accounted for, earning the trust of the people and laying the foundation for better governance practices.

4. Attracting Investments for Sustainable Growth

Hon. Adamu’s efforts to promote investments in Bauchi have been remarkable. He understood the significance of creating a business-friendly environment to attract both local and foreign investments. Through his proactive approach, Bauchi has witnessed an influx of investments, particularly in key sectors such as infrastructure, manufacturing, and agriculture. This has not only created job opportunities but has also helped diversify the state’s economy, ensuring that it remains resilient to economic downturns.

5. Advocating Economic Diversification

While agriculture and oil have long been the cornerstones of Bauchi’s economy, Hon. Adamu recognized the need for diversification to shield the state from economic shocks. He championed the growth of non-oil sectors, including tourism, technology, and manufacturing. By promoting these industries, he has set the stage for a more balanced and sustainable economy, positioning Bauchi to thrive in a rapidly changing global market.

6. Empowering Local Entrepreneurs

A key pillar of Hon. Adamu’s economic agenda has been his focus on building the capacity of local entrepreneurs. Understanding the vital role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in economic growth, he launched training programs aimed at equipping entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge necessary to compete in today’s market. These initiatives have given a significant boost to the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Bauchi, fostering innovation, job creation, and economic empowerment.

7. Fostering Collaboration with Stakeholders

Hon. Yakubu Adamu’s leadership has been characterized by his commitment to stakeholder engagement. By facilitating collaboration between the government, the private sector, and civil society, he has been able to craft economic policies that reflect the needs and aspirations of the people. His inclusive approach has ensured that economic development in Bauchi is not only top-down but is also shaped by the input and perspectives of all stakeholders.

8. Monitoring and Evaluating Economic Programs

Hon. Adamu’s focus on monitoring and evaluating the impact of economic programs has ensured that projects remain on track and meet their intended objectives. By establishing comprehensive frameworks for ongoing assessment, he has created a system where economic initiatives are continually refined to maximize their effectiveness. This approach has helped maintain the momentum of Bauchi’s development while ensuring accountability in the execution of policies.

A Visionary Leader for Bauchi’s Future

Hon. Yakubu Adamu PhD has proven that with the right leadership, a state can achieve remarkable economic progress. Through his comprehensive strategies in revenue generation, budget optimization, investment promotion, and economic diversification, he has set Bauchi on a path toward sustainable growth. As a visionary leader who deeply understands the economic needs of the people, Hon. Adamu is undoubtedly a prime candidate to take on greater responsibilities within the state.

His exceptional track record makes him a deserving figure to lead Bauchi State to even greater heights, as he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to creating an economy that benefits all its citizens. With his innovative ideas, strategic thinking, and dedication to service, Hon. Yakubu Adamu is the kind of leader Bauchi needs to drive it toward prosperity.

However, Hon. Yakubu Adamu’s tenure as Finance Commissioner has been marked by numerous achievements that have significantly boosted the state’s economic outlook. As the state looks ahead, it is clear that his leadership will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Bauchi State for generations to come. It is time for Bauchi to take bold steps forward with a leader who has proven his worth – Hon. Yakubu Adamu.

Arrested Anambra Native Doctors To Be Charged To Court Risks Jail Term If Found Guilty As 4 Sacks Belonging To Unknown Native Doctors Found At Dump Site

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Arrested Anambra Native Doctors To Be Charged To Court Risks Jail Term If Found Guilty As 4 Sacks Belonging To Unknown Native Doctors Found At Dump Site

 

By Okey Maduforo Awka

The three Native Doctors arrested by the Agunechemba Security Squad would soon be charged to Court.

The Native Doctors if found guilty they would be convicted in line with the provisions of the Construction and Laws of Anambra state..

Meanwhile four sacks of totems of Traditional Religion worship were found at a refuse dump at Amansea town in Awka North local government area of Anambra state.

According to one of the refuse disposal truck driver who gave his name is Uchenna Okoye who spoke to reporters on Sunday;

“We went to clear refuse at the dump site when we found for bags at the site and as we carried them into the truck we saw wood status , empty shells of tortoise and other things that looked like charms and amulets *

“We suspect that they were dumped there by some Native Doctors who may be fleeing from the manhunt of the Agunechemba Security Squad ” he said.

According to the Commissioner for Information Dr Law Mefor ;

“The arrested Native Doctors would soon be charged to Court and of found guilty of the offences they would face the laws of the land _ he noted..

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