Kogi Central in Uproar as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Visits Hometown After Suspension

By: Daure David

Kogi Central constituents has erupted in excitement and anticipation as Distinguished Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan makes a highly anticipated visit to her country home following her suspension from the Senate under the leadership of Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

The visit comes amidst growing public interest and a flurry of speculation surrounding the reasons behind her suspension, which has dominated national headlines in recent weeks. As the first woman to represent Kogi Central in the Senate, Akpoti-Uduaghanโ€™s political journey has been marked by her advocacy for infrastructural development and womenโ€™s empowerment in the region. Her suspension has raised concerns, with supporters questioning the motivations behind the decision and expressing solidarity with the senator.

Kogi Central in Uproar as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Visits Hometown After Suspension

Residents of Kogi Central have expressed overwhelming support, with many gathering to welcome the senator back to her roots. The streets of the town were filled with supporters waving banners and chanting her name, signaling a strong connection between the senator and her constituents.

โ€œI believe in Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. She has always stood for us, and we stand with her now more than ever,โ€ said Aminu Bello, a local resident, who expressed his disappointment over the suspension. โ€œSheโ€™s a voice for the voiceless, and her commitment to Kogi Central is unmatched.โ€

Details regarding the circumstances of the suspension remain scarce, but it is understood that Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended after a controversial session of the Senate, which saw her allegedly clash with Senate leadership over matters related to governance and accountability. The suspension has sparked debates about the role of senators in ensuring transparency and responsiveness to their constituents.

In her remarks, the senator has promised to remain steadfast in her commitment to the people of Kogi Central, despite the challenges she is currently facing in the Senate. โ€œI am here because of the love and support of the people who have always believed in me. I will continue to fight for what is right for our people, no matter the obstacles,โ€ Akpoti-Uduaghan stated.

While it is unclear when the suspension will be lifted or if further actions will be taken, political analysts have suggested that Akpoti-Uduaghanโ€™s visit to her hometown could be a significant step in rallying further support and gaining traction for her cause.

As the political drama unfolds, eyes remain fixed on Kogi Central, where Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghanโ€™s presence continues to stir the regionโ€™s political landscape. Further updates on the situation are expected in the coming days.

Family Petitions DSS, Police Over Disappearance Of Imo-based Cleric

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Pastor Akamnonu, a native of Ndiakunwata-Uno, Arondizuogu, in Ideato North Local Council of Imo State, was reported missing on Monday, February 24.

According to his wife, he had failed to return to his base in Aba, Abia State, after visiting his hometown to inspect a piece of land on behalf of his elder brother, Mazi Cyprian Chukwuemeka Akamnonu, who resides in the United States.

Mrs. Akamnonu recounted that her husband had travelled to Arondizuogu on Sunday, February 23, at the request of Mazi Cyprian, to meet a land seller, Mazi Ebere Onyenucheya.

After spending the night at their country home, he proceeded the next morning to inspect the property, reportedly owned by Mr. Umualaomaโ€™s brother.

His mobile phone remained active on the morning of February 24, as he briefly spoke with one of his wifeโ€™s business clients.

However, shortly afterward, his phone became unreachable, raising concerns about his safety.

Alarmed by his sudden disappearance, Mrs. Akamnonu reached out to her husbandโ€™s relatives in the village, only to be told that he had supposedly departed for Aba the previous day.

Conflicting accounts regarding the exact timing of his departure deepened fears of foul play.

According to Guardian, she lamented, โ€œI was instantly panic-stricken when conflicting narratives began to emerge about when my husband left the village for Aba.

โ€œIt has been over a month now, and all efforts to trace his whereabouts have been unsuccessful.โ€

Expressing deep distress, Mrs. Akamnonu called for the immediate intervention of security agencies to secure the safe return of her husband, whom she described as a man of high moral standing with no known enemies.

โ€œI am traumatised day and night. Whoever is holding him should please release him alive. He does not engage in any controversies. I plead with the police and the DSS to intensify efforts to find him,โ€ she added.

A formal petition was submitted to the Imo State Commissioner of Police through the familyโ€™s legal representative, A.O. Amagwula & Co.

Also, the family lawyer, Arinzechukwu Nwaudo, confirmed that a similar petition had been lodged with the DSS in Owerri, Imo State.

โ€œWe have taken the necessary steps to involve both the police and DSS to locate and rescue our clientโ€™s husband.

โ€œThe circumstances surrounding Pastor Akamnonuโ€™s disappearance raise strong suspicions of a possible conspiracy or kidnapping. We trust law enforcement to unravel this mystery,โ€ Nwaudo stated.

Responding to the petition, Imo State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, acknowledged the case, confirming that Commissioner Danjuma had assigned a team of officers to investigate the incident.

He reassured the public of the policeโ€™s commitment to protecting lives and property in the state.

โ€œInvestigations are ongoing, and security agencies have urged anyone with relevant information to come forward to assist in locating Pastor Akamnonu,โ€ he said.

My Husband Gave Me Infection, Detained Me Because Iโ€™m Owing Him โ€“ Business Woman

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A business woman, Joy Smart-Chinenye, has revealed how she was arrested, brutalized, tortured, and detained by monitoring unit personnel of the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters, based on a petition filed by her husband, George Obinna Smart Unaegbu, over alleged debt to him.

The incident which took place on Sunday (Mothers Day) was said to have elicited a serious drama, wild condemnation and is already causing ripples among the police hierarchy.

Her explanation was contained in a statement released by her lawyer, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, titled, โ€œBetrayed, Tortured, and Extorted โ€“ My Husbandโ€™s Cruelty Knows No Boundsโ€, obtained by journalists in Abuja.

Ejiofor, also lawyer to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), had in his reaction to the police brutality, described the action of the police as unconstitutional.

According to him, Section 4 of the Nigeria Police Act clearly outlines the duties of the NPF, making no provision for debt recovery.

Joy Smart-Chinenye said, โ€œAs I write this, I am in severe agony, tears, and unbearable pain.
While mothers across the world celebrated Mothering Sunday, my own husband, the man I once loved and supported, threw me into Abattoir-SARS detention in Abuja โ€“ a facility notorious for holding condemned criminals, kidnappers, and terrorists.

โ€œThis is the same man I met when he was just a classroom teacher. I stood by him, fed him, supported him financially, and watched as God elevated him to a multi-billionaire. But how did he repay me? By having me brutalized, arrested, and locked away in one of the most dreaded cells in the country.

โ€œDespite my unwavering fidelity and loyalty throughout our marriage, he has slept with both single and married women, exposing me to multiple infections. I have endured humiliation and betrayal in silence, keeping our marital issues out of the public eye, yet he continues to find ways to destroy me.

โ€œThis time, his weapon was the Nigeria Police Force. He manipulated them into arresting me over an alleged debt โ€“ a personal, civil matter that should have been settled in court, not through police brutality. On March 27, 2025, officers stormed our home, forcibly took me away in front of our children, and detained me at FCID Annex, Panti, Lagos, where I was tortured and coerced into transferring โ‚ฆ5 million to an account they provided.

โ€œWhen I could not meet his remaining demands, I was forcefully transported to Abuja, where I was detained at Abattoir, enduring further abuse, torture and extortion.

โ€œI was repeatedly taken from the SARS detention cell at night to unknown locations, where I was subjected to intense coercion and intimidation. These harrowing experiences continued until the timely intervention of Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor ( I. C. Ejiofor Chambers), whose relentless legal efforts finally secured my release in the wee hours of last night. But the scars โ€“ both physical and emotional โ€“ remain.

โ€œI can no longer stay silent. In due course, I will grant a press release and expose the full truth about Obinna George Smart Unaegbu. The world deserves to know.โ€

 

14 Suspects Taken To Abuja Over Killing Of โ€œ16 Northern Huntersโ€ In Edo State

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Fourteen suspects arrested over the brutal killing of hunters from Kano State in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State, have been transferred to Abuja for further interrogation, the state governor, Monday Okpebholo, has confirmed.

The victims were on their way to Kano for Sallah celebrations when they were attacked by a mob, their vehicle ransacked, and murdered last Thursday.

The incident sparked nationwide outrage, with calls for swift justice.
Governor Okpebholo assured that the perpetrators would face the full weight of the law, describing the attack as unacceptable.

โ€œItโ€™s unfortunate that it happened in our state. We are here to say, to let you and other people know that we are not happy. The president is doing something drastic about this. Heโ€™s not happy also. The IGP has swung into action. The DIG CID is in charge. So far, they have arrested 14 suspects.

โ€œSo they are bringing them to Abuja for interrogation. We have also set up a committee to see that we take care of the families of the deceased,โ€ he said.

Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, stressed the need for justice, stating that the suspects must be prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others.

โ€œWe cannot undo what has been done. But we all want โ€” all Nigerians, what they are looking forward to is to make sure that these people are arrested and brought to justice. And you are doing well in that direction.

And Iโ€™m also glad youโ€™ve spoken about the fact that your government is ready to assist the families of those affected.

โ€œI want you to continue to pursue the case so that all those who were involved in these barbaric actions are brought to justice. Itโ€™s a barbaric action, to say the facts.

โ€œIf they are brought to justice, it would serve as a deterrent to those who might want to do this in future. I know that people from other parts of the country have been staying with your people in Edo for centuries in a very conducive atmosphere.

โ€œAnd this barbaric act has never happened. Iโ€™m sure, under your watch, this will not happen again.

โ€œI thank you very much. Youโ€™ve told me now that youโ€™ll meet the Kano State governor today. This is very good. Please continue what you are doing. Mr President also told us that you are doing very well in this direction, and we have seen it because, as I said, we have spoken several times on this matter in the last 72 hours,โ€ Jibrin said.

Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring peace and working with security agencies to prevent a recurrence of such attacks.

Anambra Police Commissioner Overhauls State CID, Creates Political Desk Unit, Eyes Forensic Equipments for Crime Fighting

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By Izunna Okafor, Awka

The Anambra State Police Commissioner, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has announced a comprehensive overhaul of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) as part of ongoing efforts to enhance intelligence gathering and security operations in the state.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the announcement came after a strategic meeting held on March 29, 2025, between the Police Commissioner and sectional heads of the CID, where they assessed emerging crime trends and deliberated on improving the departmentโ€™s investigative capacity.

He said as part of the reorganization, CP Orutugu directed the immediate restructuring of the CID Formation and approved the creation of a Political Desk Unit within the department. He said the new unit will focus on monitoring political developments, conducting threat assessments, implementing risk management strategies, and providing security guidance during political campaigns and other sensitive events.

The establishment of the Political Desk Unit is seen as a proactive measure to manage politically motivated incidents, given the volatile nature of political activities in the state. It also aims to ensure that security strategies are tailored to address emerging political security challenges.

In addition to the CID overhaul, CP Orutugu proposed acquiring modern forensic equipment to improve evidence analysis, suspect profiling, and crime scene investigation processes. This initiative, according to him, is geared toward aligning the Commandโ€™s forensic capabilities with global best practices in criminal investigations.

The Police Commissioner emphasized the importance of the CID Awka as the apex investigative unit of the Anambra State Police Command, playing a crucial role in maintaining law and order. He noted that continuous engagement with the CID leadership would help address operational challenges and bolster the effectiveness of crime-fighting strategies in the state.

CP Orutugu also reiterated his commitment to proactive policing, professional excellence, and ensuring the safety of all residents of Anambra State. He assured the public that the Police Command remains resolute in its mission to provide a secure and peaceful environment for all.

The reorganization of the CID and the creation of the Political Desk Unit have been widely lauded as strategic steps toward improving security management and ensuring a more coordinated approach to handling politically related security issues in the state.

Fight Against HIV/AIDS: Anambra Govt, ANSACA Get Thumbs Up from UNAIDS

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By Izunna Okafor, Awka

The Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) has lauded the efforts of the Anambra State Government and the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) for their remarkable strides in combating HIV/AIDS in the state.

The UNAIDS Country Director in Nigeria, Dr. Leo Zekeng, gave the commendation when he visited the state to assess the progress made in the fight against HIV/AIDS and to strengthen collaborations towards achieving the global target of ending HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

Dr. Zekeng, who was accompanied by UNAIDS Programme Adviser, Dr. Adaoha Anosike, began the United Nation mission with an interactive session at the office of the State Commissioner for Health at the Jerome Udoji Secretariat Complex, Awka, where he commended the state governmentโ€™s proactive approach to healthcare and its strategic response to HIV/AIDS.

From there, he proceeded to the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) at the Government House, where he engaged with the team, and was further briefed on the stateโ€™s interventions and updated on the progress made so far with the multisectoral HIV response.

Speaking during the visit, which was also witnessed by the representatives of the implementing partners in the state, the UNAIDS Country Director expressed satisfaction with the commitment demonstrated by the state government in addressing HIV/AIDS. He noted that the level of collaboration between the government, implementing partners and civil society organizations has been instrumental in achieving the significant milestones recorded in the state.

He described Anambra State as a model in the fight against HIV/AIDS, highlighting the stateโ€™s efforts to decentralize HIV services and improve accessibility to care for the key and vulnerable populations. While stressing the need for sustained efforts, he further urged the state to continue leveraging partnerships to scale up intervention programs and expand healthcare services.

Dr. Zekeng, who also spoke in an interview with this reporter, specifically praised the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo for prioritizing healthcare, describing it as a bold step towards achieving the UNAIDS Global target by 2030. He further confidently reassured stakeholders that UNAIDS would continue to support the state in its quest to eliminate HIV/AIDS, even as he reiterated the importance of community involvement and grassroots awareness in combating the epidemic. He reiterated their goal of exploring ways to provide technical support and mobilize resources to scale up the response and sustain efforts towards ending HIV/AIDS by 2030.

Earlier speaking, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, expressed appreciation to UNAIDS for their consistent support and guidance. He noted that the partnership between the state and development partners such as the UN has yielded significant outcomes, particularly in enhancing healthcare delivery and HIV/AIDS management.

Giving an overview of the stateโ€™s achievements, Dr. Obidike took time to highlight the collaborative spirit of the Soludo-led administration, stating that the state governmentโ€™s commitment to healthcare which significantly transformed the HIV response landscape. He further emphasized that the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo in the state places top priority on the health sector, given its fundamental role in sustainable development.

โ€œFrom day-one, Governor Soludo has continued to demonstrate his commitment to healthcare, and this has manifested in the expansion of HIV treatment centers to 175 health facilities with the activation of additional facilities of over 200 to render HIV services and support for the enrolment of over a thousand persons living with HIV/AIDS into the state health insurance scheme,โ€ Dr. Obidike stated.

According to him, the collaborative efforts between the State Ministry of Health, Anambra State AIDS Control Agency and implementing partners have also resulted in the strategic employment training and deployment of healthcare workers to strengthen the healthcare at health facilities, significantly improving access and service coverage. He further noted that the expansion of PMTCT services in all 21 local government areas , the government support for free antenatal services and free delivery which has improved access of more pregnant women to PMTCT programme, and the procurement of MPIMA machines for improved early infant diagnosis.

 

Also speaking during a visit to his office, the Executive Director of Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA), Mr. Johnbosco Ementa, highlighted other strides made by government with the support of partners such as commencing the process of domesticating the anti-stigma law in the state, engaging Clinical Mentors to train healthcare workers and improve the quality of HIV services, as well as providing HIV services to vulnerable and key populations in the society, among others. The Executive Director of ANSACA, who was visibly elated, described the visit as encouraging and reaffirmed the Agencyโ€™s commitment to sustaining the momentum in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

While lauding UNAIDS for their relentless support and technical assistance, Mr. Ementa further specifically highlighted and recognized the efforts of the state government, National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA)the development/implementing partners and civil society organizations in the state, such as the Achieving Health Nigeria Initiative(AHNI), AIDS Health Care Foundation (AHF), Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria (NEPWHAN), Association of Women Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria (ASWHAN), Association of Positive Youths in Nigeria (APYIN), Global Fund, Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), and others, for their contributions to support the implementation of global and national strategies in HIV/AIDS response in Anambra State.

He acknowledged that the collaborative approach has been crucial in overcoming challenges and ensuring that HIV/AIDS interventions reach even the most remote areas of the state.

โ€œThe collective effort of the government, partners, and communities is yielding positive results, and we are committed to maintaining this synergy,โ€ Ementa concluded.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Obidike, and the Executive Director for Anambra State AIDS Control Agency, Mr. Ementa hailed the UNAIDS Programme Adviser, Dr. Adaoha Anosike, for her commitment and efforts, and technical support which, they said, have significantly strengthened HIV/AIDS response in the state; even as was further gathered that Dr. Zekeng and Dr. Anosike, thereafter, extended the visit to the State Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, who reiterated his administrationโ€™s commitment to improving health care and assured the UNAIDS team of continued collaboration. It was also gathered that the visit to the governor presented an opportunity for further deliberations on ways and means for strengthening healthcare partnerships and consolidating the gains already recorded.

Obi Lauds Soludoโ€™s Move to Reform ASATU, Says Ikeazor Still Setting Pace from Graveyard

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By Izunna Okafor, Awka

The Anambra State, Governor Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has been commended for his plan and decision to legalize the existence and operations of the Anambra State Town Unions Council (ASTUC), formerly known as the Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU).

Reacting to the development, the President-General of the Obosi Development Union, Worldwide, Chimezie Obi, who attested that the governor announced the decision on Saturday, March 29, 2025, during an official event, said it marked the fulfillment of a promise he (the Governor) made two years ago to the Association.

According to him, Governor Soludo stated that the move is aimed at granting legal recognition to the association, transforming it from a mere union incorporated with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) into a recognized organ of government. He further revealed that the proposed legislation would enable the council to function similarly to the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, with leadership positions being appointed by the state government.

Continuing, the Obosi PG quoted the Governor as saying that the new structure will ensure that the activities of the town unions in the state are guided by the provisions of the law, thereby strengthening community leadership and involvement in governance. He emphasized that the change in the associationโ€™s nomenclature from ASATU to ASTUC is a necessary step to properly align the organizationโ€™s roles with the governmentโ€™s vision for grassroots administration.

According to him, the announcement by Governor Soludo came as a surprise to many, as it fulfilled a commitment made on December 8, 2022, during a meeting with ASATU leadership. He said the governor acknowledged that just incorporating the Association under CAC did not adequately reflect the stateโ€™s commitment to formalizing the union of President-Generals from the 179 communities in Anambra State.

Chief Obi commended Governor Soludo for his visionary leadership, describing the move as a historic stride that will strengthen community leadership across Anambra. He noted that the governorโ€™s decision is reminiscent of the legacy left by the late Chief Chimezie Ikeazor SAN (Oboli Ndichie Obosi), a renowned legal luminary and former President-General of the Obosi Development Union.

Reflecting on the legacy of the late Chief Ikeazor, Obi noted that the statesman had similarly pioneered impactful initiatives during his lifetime. He recalled that on February 6, 1974, Chief Ikeazor led a group of Nigerian legal experts to establish the Legal Aid Association, which aimed to provide free legal services to indigent Nigerians. Two years later, he said, the then Military Administration of General Olusegun Obasanjo adopted this initiative as the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, institutionalizing Ikeazorโ€™s vision.

Obi further remarked that Chief Ikeazorโ€™s legacy lives on, as his visionary leadership continues to shape governance in Anambra State. He expressed gratitude to Governor Soludo for recognizing and sustaining the legacy of a man whose impact extended beyond his lifetime.

 

Obi also lauded the governorโ€™s proactive governance style, highlighting Soludoโ€™s capacity to analyze, plan, and execute transformative initiatives that benefit the grassroots. He expressed optimism that the upgrade of ASATU to ASTUC marks a new era in community governance and will foster greater collaboration between town unions and the state government.

The Obosi PG reiterated that the move is particularly significant as it comes 13 years after the death of Chief Ikeazor, who was the first National President of ASATU. He described the late chief as a trailblazer whose life continues to inspire leadership and community cohesion.

As the Anambra State House of Assembly prepares to deliberate on the proposed legislation, stakeholders across the state have expressed optimism that the formalization of ASTUC will enhance grassroots representation and provide a structured platform for community engagement within the stateโ€™s governance framework.

Aside Chief Obiโ€™s commendation, the governorโ€™s initiative has also been widely praised as a positive step toward institutionalizing community leadership and fostering inclusive governance in Anambra State.

Breaking News: Hon. Barr Chijioke Edeoga Returns to the PDP

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By: Daure David

Hon. Barr Chijioke Edeoga, the Labour Partyโ€™s gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 general elections, has officially rejoined the Peopleโ€™s Democratic Party (PDP). The decision to return to his former political home was announced earlier today in a highly anticipated press conference in Enugu.

Edeoga, a seasoned politician and legal practitioner, made waves during the 2023 gubernatorial race, where he was the flagbearer of the Labour Party. Despite his significant campaign efforts and widespread support, Edeoga was not successful in clinching the governorship seat. His return to the PDP has sparked widespread political discussions across the state, with many seeing it as a strategic move aimed at reasserting his influence in the region.

At the press briefing, Edeoga expressed his gratitude to his supporters, stating that his decision to return to the PDP was based on a shared vision for the future of Enugu State. He emphasized the need for unity and progress, vowing to work with other party members to foster peace, development, and inclusivity in the state.

โ€œI am returning to the PDP with a clear understanding of the challenges ahead. Together, we will build a better Enugu, one that prioritizes the welfare of its people,โ€ Edeoga said, addressing journalists.

The move is also seen as a major boost for the PDP in Enugu, as Edeoga brings with him a wealth of experience and a loyal following. His return is expected to impact the partyโ€™s future political strategy, especially with the upcoming elections and ongoing efforts to maintain political dominance in the region.

Political analysts have speculated that Edeogaโ€™s decision could be a game-changer for the PDP, positioning him for a significant role within the party, particularly as the state prepares for future elections.

The PDP leadership, in a statement following the announcement, welcomed Edeogaโ€™s return, describing him as a โ€œpatriotโ€ whose contributions will be vital in the partyโ€™s efforts to restore good governance in Enugu State.

As of now, Edeoga has made it clear that his focus will be on unity within the party and on working towards policies that will bring about substantial progress and development for the people of Enugu.

The political landscape in Enugu is undoubtedly shifting, and with this latest development, all eyes are now on the PDP and how it will capitalize on this new dynamic as the state looks ahead to its political future.

Anambra Patriots Donate N30 Million for Soludoโ€™s 2nd Term Nomination Form

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By Izunna Okafor, Awka

As the race for the November 8 governorship election in Anambra State gathers momentum, the Anambra Patriots for Soludo, a quintessential support group comprising notable Anambra stakeholders, committed patriots, and grassroots mobilizers, has once again thrown its weight behind Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludoโ€™s visionary leadership and set the ball rolling towards his re-election for a second term in office.

The group expressed and reaffirmed this unalloyed support for the governorโ€™s vision and transformative leadership as they, over the weekend, donated and presented a whopping sum of thirty million naira to him for his purchase of the expression of interest and nomination form for his second term bid as the stateโ€™s chief executive.

The symbolic presentation of the money, which took place at the Governorโ€™s Lodge, Amawbia, attracted some members of the Management team of the group, as well as top government functionaries, including the Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, and other prominent stakeholders who came to demonstrate their solidarity.

Speaking during the presentation, the National Convener of the group, Arch. Okey Ezeibe, extolled Governor Soludoโ€™s remarkable strides in governance, describing him as a visionary leader whose passion for the development of Anambra State remains unparalleled. He stated that the decision to support the governorโ€™s second-term bid was not only informed by the governorโ€™s commendable achievements but also by the evident socio-economic transformation that has characterized his administration.

Arch. Okey Ezeibe, passionately extolled the outstanding leadership qualities of Governor Soludo, describing him as a rare breed of leader whose transformative vision has set Anambra State on the path of sustainable development.

According to Arch. Ezeibe, the recently-celebrated three-year anniversary of the Soludo Administration marked a significant milestone, as evidenced in the governorโ€™s multi-dimensional approach to development, which has touched various sectors of the state, including education, infrastructure, healthcare, water, and human capital development. He noted that these impactful projects and initiatives have set the state on a progressive path, winning the admiration of well-meaning citizens and stakeholders.

โ€œThese achievements speak volumes of a leadership driven by commitment, competence, and a sincere desire to elevate Anambra State to enviable heights. We, therefore, have no hesitation in supporting the governorโ€™s second-term bid, as continuity is crucial for consolidating the gains of his administration,โ€ Ezeibe added, further reassuring the governor of the groupโ€™s steadfast support throughout the electoral process and beyond.

On his own part, the Chairman of the group, Chief Ejiamatu Damian Enekwechi, also commended Governor Soludoโ€™s unwavering commitment to repositioning Anambra State. He praised the governorโ€™s tireless efforts to bridge infrastructural gaps and improve the welfare of the citizenry, stressing that such a leader deserves the opportunity to complete the good works he has started.

While highlighting the strategic importance of continuity, Chief Enekwechi maintained that a second term for Governor Soludo would undoubtedly fast-track the realization of his developmental blueprint and secure the gains made so far. He stressed that Anambra cannot afford to disrupt the ongoing transformation with untested leadership, urging the electorate to stay focused on sustaining progress.

While appreciating the groupโ€™s collective resolve to support the governor, Chief Enekwechi highlighted that the donation was a reflection of the groupโ€™s belief in Soludoโ€™s capacity to further transform the state. He called on other well-meaning Anambrarians to rally behind the governor, emphasizing that continuity would be key in sustaining ongoing projects and initiatives.

Responding to the generous gesture, Governor Soludo expressed his profound gratitude to the Patriots for their show of support and confidence in his leadership. He acknowledged the groupโ€™s relentless efforts in advocating for good governance and reiterated his commitment to serving the people of Anambra State with renewed zeal and dedication.

The Governor, who described the support as heartwarming and encouraging, further appreciated the group for recognizing the strides his administration has made in reshaping the stateโ€™s socio-economic landscape. He assured them that their support would not be taken for granted, promising to remain focused on delivering the dividends of democracy to the people and making Anambra a livable and prosperous homeland.

Governor Soludo also seized the moment to reassure the citizens that his administration remains resolute in addressing critical challenges confronting the state. He stressed that ongoing developmental projects would be completed, while new initiatives would be introduced to sustain the tempo of progress.

He reiterated his administrationโ€™s commitment to making Anambra a model state, even as he called for continued partnership, unity, and support from all stakeholders, noting that collective efforts would significantly propel the state to greater heights.

The presentation ceremony concluded on a celebratory note, with chants of solidarity and support for Governor Soludoโ€™s second-term bid echoing throughout the Governorโ€™s Lodge.

The Anambra Patriots for Soludoโ€™s endorsement comes as a significant boost for Governor Soludoโ€™s political ambition, as political observers describe the gesture as a demonstration of the governorโ€™s broad-based acceptance and the confidence reposed in his ability to deliver more developmental strides in the state.

2027: Shehu Sani declares interest in Kaduna central senatorial seat

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By Israel Bulus, Kaduna

 

Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has announced his intention to contest for re-election in the 2027 general elections.

Sani made the declaration on Sunday while delivering his Eid-el-Fitr message at his residence in Kaduna.

โ€œAny politician contesting an election depends on the political equation that determines the position to vie for. If the conditions are right and the equations are favorable, I will offer myself to contest specifically for the Kaduna Central senatorial district,โ€ he stated.

He further emphasized that his ambition remains secondary to ensuring the re-election of Governor Uba Sani for a second term.

โ€œFor now, our priority is to see that the incumbent governor, Uba Sani, is re-elected. We will work with all our might and strength to achieve this. We know there will be challenges and opposition, but we are well prepared for all forces,โ€ he added.

Sani also used the occasion to urge Muslims to pray for Nigeriaโ€™s peace and unity during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations. Additionally, he condemned the recent killing of hunters in Edo State, calling on security agencies to apprehend the perpetrators.

โ€œIf citizens cannot move freely across the country, then we are not truly a nation. If individuals take the law into their hands for any reason, it means there is no government or authority,โ€ he lamented.

He called on all Nigerians who desire a better country to work towards peace and unity for the preservation of democracy, despite the challenges being experienced.

Sani also urged the government to uphold fundamental human rights, particularly the right to life, as a crucial step towards national stability and development.