Imo Police apprehends Pastor who beats mother, jumps bail

247ureports
-
0
Imo Police apprehends Pastor who beats mother, jumps bail

… Do not release him or I will die -Octogenarian Mother

By Emeka Ifeanyi.

Pastor Ebere Emmanuel Amadi of the Tree of Life Bible Church Irete Owerri West LGA Imo state has been apprehended once again.

He was rearrested in his house near the First Bus Stop Irete last Saturday by 3:40pm.

Pastor Amadi reportedly jumped oolice bail and has been hiding from the police for almost 60 days until last Saturday.

The Imo State Police Command through the Ogbaku Police Station rearrested him through a signal given to them. Later, Scorpion Squad Team whisked him away on handcuffs from the Ogbaku Police Station.


The mother of the suspect, Mrs. Nelly Chidimma Amadi had petitioned the Imo State Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, for alleged assault, malicious damage, stealing, threats to life and activities capable of resulting to death.

However, Ebere Emmanuel Amadi was granted bail never returned for subsequent interviews, but went into hiding until last Saturday.

Though, it was informed that he approached a lawyer, who filled a Fundamental rights on his behalf. This medium gathered, the process, though signed by a court registrar in Owerri has no date of appearance, not to talk of having a particular court for appearance.

In the suit against his mother, Nelly Chidimma Amadi, he joined his elder brother, Emeka Amadi, The Commissioner of Police, Imo State, The Commander of the Scorpion Squad, Vitalis, the Second in Command, Emmanuel, the Investigation Police Officer, IPO, Yaro.

Furthermore, it was learned, that despite going to court to stop the police from prosecuting him for other crimes like beating up his mother, breaking her eyes glass and locking her up in an empty room, he also molested the woman again on Friday December 6,2024 by pushing her on the ground.

Narrating her ordeal, Mrs. Amadi said, it’s unfortunate that she gave birth to a child that beats her up and steals from her.

“I am devastated and it’s unfortunate to have given birth to Ebere Emmanuel Amadi. He molests me so much that I am only living by the special grace of God.

“I am appealing to the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Aboki Danjuma to prosecute him for the crimes he committed against me and even for jumping police bail earlier before he was rearrested.

“Allowing him to return home will be suicidal on my part as he would still threaten me as usual even while on bail.
Ebere my son also refused to carry out all the instructions given to him by the Police before granting him bail, just as he has been boasting that the police is on his payroll”.

Earlier, it was alleged that Ebere Emmanuel Amadi escaped from police headquarters, but a police officer who may not want to be quoted, said, he did not escape, because he was on bail and should not had been monitored while on a visit to the Police Headquarters.

No New Monarch Emerged Anywhere in Oba — Commissioner Nwabunwanne

Izunna Okafor
-
0
No New Monarch Emerged Anywhere in Oba — Commissioner Nwabunwanne

 

By Izunna Okafor, Awka

The Anambra State Government has said that Oba community in Idemili South Local Government Area of the state is yet to elect an Igwe (a traditional ruler), let alone having an Igwe-elect or an installed.

The State Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Hon. Tonycollins Nwabunwanne disclosed this in his reaction to the news making the rounds over the weekend that the people of Oba Community had selected a new traditional ruler.

Speaking in an interview with this reporter, Commissioner Nwabunwanne described the said selection of Oba new traditional ruler as a farce, a disrespect to the court, and totally unacceptable, given the issues and circumstances surrounding the process. He also emphasized that the state government was never part of the said selection of new Igwe and also does not recognize him as Igwe Oba.

Giving further background to the issues, the Commissioner disclosed that the community had two cases with Suit No.: HID/223/2024 and Suit No.: HID/131/2024 before the High Court regarding the contentious selection of new Igwe.

While noting that the Court had (on December 10) delivered a consent judgment on Suit No.: HID/223/2024, in which it establishes legal parameters that should govern the Igweship selection process in Oba town; Commissioner Nwabunwanne, however, stressed that the case with Suit No.: HID/131/2024, which specifically addresses issues related to the Igwe selection, is still pending before the court, as it has a pending motion for injunction in which issues have been joined by the parties.

In the light of the above, the Commissioner further emphasized that the principle of lis pendens —which prevents parties from altering the subject matter of ongoing litigation —requires that the status quo be maintained until the court resolves the case. He, however, condemned the decision of some elements in Oba community to proceed with the Igweship selection while the court is deliberating on key issues related to the selection process.

This, he said, amounts to a charade, lawlessness, and total disrespect to the court, and also stands out as a core premises upon which the state government has based to nullify the said election. He emphasized that the government of Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo advocates and holds law and order to a high esteem, and would not uphold or tolerate any act of lawlessness under his watch.

The Commissioner also shared with this reporter, a 5-point document and earlier warning he issued to the leadership of the community before the said election, which read: I have been made aware that the High Court in Suit no: HID/223/2024 delivered a consent judgment on 10th December, 2024 with respect to the election/selection of a new Traditional Ruler of Oba.

“The consent judgment in Suit No. HID/223/2024 establishes legal parameters that should govern the Igweship selection process in Oba town. This judgment which was arrived at through negotiation and agreement, carries significant weight as it represents a resolution of disputes regarding the Igweship. However, the town’s Constitution currently does not reflect this judgment. Conducting an election under a framework that disregards a legally binding judgment would be improper and could lead to further disputes. An amendment to the Constitution is imperative to harmonize the traditional rulership selection process with the legal consensus reached in the consent judgment. Without this amendment, any election conducted would fack legitimacy and could be challenged as unlawful.

“Secondly, I have been made aware of the pendency of Suit No. HID/131/2024, which addresses issues related to the Igwe selection. This suit has a pending motion for injunction in which issues have been joined by the parties. The motion is seeking to restrain the Igweship selection process. The principle of lispendens-which prevents parties from altering the subject matter of ongoing litigation-requires that the status quo be maintained until the court resolves the case. Proceeding with the election while the court is deliberating on key issues related to the selection process would not only be disrespectful to the court but could also result in a nullification of the election outcome. This would waste resources, exacerbate tensions, and deepen divisions within the community. When a matter is pending in court, it is appropriate to maintain status quo and refrain from taking any further steps on the subject matter, in order not to render nugatory the judgment/ruling of the court.

“Accordingly, the Igweship election in Obe town should not proceed unless and until the town’s Constitution is amended to reflect the consent judgment in Suit No. HID/223/2024 and the pending litigation in Suit No. HID/131/2024 is resolved, or withdrawn. Adhering to these prerequisites will ensure that the election is conducted lawfully, respects the rule of law, and promotes unity and legitimacy in the selection of the Igwe.

“In light of this, you are directed to stay further actions with respect to the appointment or election of the Igwe on the 21 of December 2024 or any other date pending the hearing of the motion on notice in Suit no: HID/131/2024 or until the court further directs otherwise. This is to ensure that the legal process is allowed to run its course without interference.”

He, however regretted that, despite his efforts to ensure that the people maintained status quo and did not proceed with the conduct of the said election pending the outcome of the court’s decision on the matter which is already before it; they still ignored him and went on with their own decision to override the court.

Consequent upon this, Commissioner Nwabunwanne declared that the said Oba Igweship election was null and void and never stands, in the record of the state government. He further warned the said elected monarch to stop parading himself as Igwe Oba, or be ready to face the full weight of the law if he continues to do so.

“I don’t know why people don’t like obeying law and order. I am happy that changing this narrative is a top priority in the agenda of the Soludo Administration. And, as long as this government is concerned, no Igweship election held in anywhere in Oba, and no Igwe-elect or installed monarch has emerged anywhere in the community. The Soludo Administration cannot endorse or be a party to any lawlessness. People must learn to respect the rule of law,” he concluded.

Anambra Govt Rescues 13 Children Arranged for Sale This Christmas

Izunna Okafor
-
0
Anambra Govt Rescues 13 Children Arranged for Sale This Christmas

 

By Izunna Okafor, Awka

 

The Anambra State Government has rescued no fewer than 13 children who were arranged for sale this Christmas period.

The state government, in the rescue mission jointly carried out by the operatives of the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA Brigade), also arrested the suspected principal trafficker, Angela Okechukwu, and her accomplices.

It was gathered that the suspects specialized in adopting and selling children to people from different parts of the country, and had already packaged the rescued children for Christmas sale before the operatives bursted their trafficking enclave.

Reacting to the incident, which happened at Umuzumbala Umuzu Otolo Nnewi; the Managing Director of OCHA Brigade, Comrade Celestine Anere reassured the agency’s commitment to sanitizing and riding Anambra state of criminality and all forms of illegalities.

Comrade Anere re-emphasized that the state government would continue to crack down on child traffickers in the state, further warning every child trafficker in Anambra to relocate or face the full weight of the law.

On her own part, the State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs. Ify Obinabo condemned the act, stressing that it sabotages the efforts of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo to make Anambra a livable and prosperous homeland.

The Women Affairs Commissioner also decried the extent of malnutrition the rescued children were being subjected to, adding that the act was primarily driven by selfish desires of the culprits.

While it was gathered that the task force also confiscated fake documents that aided the trafficking, reports have that the rescued children, who are aged between 2 and 12 materials, include four physically disabled persons, one speech impaired, twins, and six toddlers, who were already marked for sellout this Yuletide season before they government authorities came to their rescue.

More details later…

Defections from LP won’t stop ,Obi may dump party too – Okupe

247ureports
-
0
Defections from LP won’t stop ,Obi may dump party too – Okupe
Dr Doyin  Okupe, a former Director-General of Peter Obi Presidential Campaign Organisation and erswhile Labour Party’s (LP) chieftian, says the party’s inability to build  an enduring structure after  the 2023 elections is responsible for the  gale of defections from the party.
Okupe  made the statement in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria(NAN)In Lagos on Sunday.
NAN  reports  that six LP lawmakers recently dumped the party on the floor of the House of Representatives  for  the ruling All Progressives Congress(APC)
The defected lawmakers include Rep.Tochukwu Chinedu Okere (Imo), Rep. Donatus Matthew (Kaduna), Rep. Akiba Bassey ( Cross River) and Rep.Esosa Iyawe (Edo).
Also,a great number of ordinary members of  LP have also  dumped the party for the APC and PDP lately.
 Okupe noted that the mass defections from  LP were expected as elected members would not stay in a party where the future  is not sure.
The former LP chieftain said those leaving the party knew they had to move  for political relevance and survival .
“The Labour Party was one of those common parties that existed mainly for those who could not get tickets in the major parties to come and find expression.
“That is how we also got there. Our presence in the Labour Party then boosted the fortune of Labour Party.
“But what was important and which was essentially neglected by the leadership of the Labour Party and the presidential candidate was political structure
” So those who are in the National Assembly (under LP platform) know that they are on their last card.
 “Even if they cannot return, they need to use their opportunity right now to align with one or two of the major parties and become somebody.
“So, that is why you are seeing all this gale of deflections, and it’s not going to stop,” he said.
Okupe, a former presidential spokesman, said that lawmakers elected under the platform of the Labour Party knew that the situation that brought them would be different in 2027 .
He added: “Those who came on the  of the popularity of the Obedient Movement know, for a fact ,that they would not return because the circumstances are different.
 “The situation has become different. What happened in the South West is not going to happen in 2027. I can assure you. It’s not going to happen.
“People want political success tomorrow  but LP is not ready to build. They are not ready to build and  are not ready to invest in structures,so people will leave” he said
According to him, it is also very possible that Obi, the 2023 LP’s presidential candidate, dumps the party, considering his meetings with some opposition leaders recently.
“Obi was with Atiku Abubakar in Adamawa, recently. So, what does that tell you? That tells you that all options are open. The followers in the Labour Party are not blind,” he said.

Cut N9.4bn presidency budget for travels, meals, N344bn NASS budget, SERAP tells Akpabio, Abbas

247ureports
-
0
Cut N9.4bn presidency budget for travels, meals, N344bn NASS budget, SERAP tells Akpabio, Abbas

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas “to cut the proposed budget of N9.4bn on travels, refreshment/meals, and foodstuff/catering materials for the presidency, and the proposed N344.85bn for the lawmakers, and to use the savings to address the budget deficit.”

SERAP urged Mr Akpabio and Mr Abbas “to request President Bola Tinubu to present a fresh supplementary appropriation bill, which reflects the reduced presidency budget and National Assembly budget, for the approval of the National Assembly.”

SERAP urged Mr Akpabio and Mr Abbas “to promptly disclose the detailed breakdown of the proposed National Assembly budget of N344.85bn, including the details for personnel cost, salaries and allowance of lawmakers.”

SERAP also urged Mr Akpabio, and Mr Abbas “to invite the heads of the alleged corrupt ministries, departments and agencies [MDAs] to explain the whereabouts of the missing billions of naira of public funds, as documented in the recently released 2021 audited report by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation.”

In the letter dated 21 December 2024 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “Any proposed unnecessary spending by the presidency and the National Assembly would amount to a fundamental breach of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended].”

SERAP said, “the proposed huge spending is neither necessary nor in the public interest, especially in the face of the country’s dire economic situation and the level of proposed borrowing to fund the 2025 budget.”

The letter, read in part: “The National Assembly has transparency obligations to disclose the details and breakdown of the proposed budget for the lawmakers. We urge you to publicly commit that the National Assembly will reduce and not increase its proposed budget of N344.85bn for 2025.”

“While the presidency budget for ‘rehabilitation and repairs of fixed assets’ in the 2024 budget was N14bn, the budget for the same item in the 2025 budget is N26bn, an increase of about N12bn.”

“Should the National Assembly and its leadership fail to reduce the unnecessary spending and tackle the systemic corruption in MDAs, SERAP would consider appropriate legal action to compel the National Assembly to discharge its constitutional oversight and fiduciary responsibilities.”

“The National Assembly seems to budget the same amounts in the 2025 budget for the same budget items in the 2024 budget.”

“It would be a grave violation of the public trust and constitutional oath of office for the members of the National Assembly to approve unnecessary spending for themselves and the presidency.”

“Many Nigerians will find it quite odd, unfair and unjust that the government and lawmakers are spending so much money on many of these items in the middle of a public borrowing crisis.”

“The proposed spending could be better allocated to improve access of Nigerians to basic public goods and services.

“Cutting unnecessary spending by the presidency and the National Assembly would show that the National Assembly can discharge its constitutional responsibility of amplifying the voices of Nigerians.”

“It will also show that the body is acting in the best interest of the people. Nigerians have a right to honest and faithful performance by their public officials including lawmakers, as public officials owe a fiduciary duty to the general citizenry.”

“Holding to account the MDAs which are reportedly responsible for the missing billions of naira of public funds would contribute to addressing the widespread and systemic corruption in MDAs.”

“In the consideration of the proposed 2025 budget, the National Assembly under your leadership has a responsibility to ensure the interest of the well-being and prosperity of Nigeria and its citizens.”

“The National Assembly also has constitutional and fiduciary responsibilities to ensure that any proposed budgets for the presidency and the lawmakers reflect the current economic realities in the country, address the debt crisis, and prevent retrogressive economic measures.”

“Persistent borrowing is neither sustainable nor fair to the Nigerian people. The National Assembly has constitutional oversight and fiduciary duties to ensure a responsible budget spending.”

“The proposed spending figures by both the presidency and the National Assembly highlight the lack of political will to cut the cost of governance.”

“The country’s fiscal situation must be changed – and changed quickly – through some combination of cuts in the areas of spending by the presidency and the National Assembly. Cutting waste and apparently unnecessary spending would go a long way in addressing the budget deficit and debt problems.”

“The recommended measures would also ensure that the spending of the country’s maximum available resources to respect, protect, promote and fulfil the rights of the poor and marginalized groups.”

“According to our information, the presidency has proposed N8.74 billion on both local and international trips for President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima in 2025.”

“The details are contained in the N47.9tn appropriation bill titled ‘Budget of Restoration: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity’ presented to the National Assembly this week by the president.”

“The Office of the President proposes N7,014,596,511 for travel and transport expenses. This includes N873,886,689 for local travel and transport, and N6,140,709,822 for international travel and transport.”

“For the Office of the Vice President, N1,732,106,437 is proposed for travel and transport expenses. This is divided into N417,488,198 for local travel and transport, and N1,314,618,239 for international travel and transport.”

“The combined total allocation for the Office of the President and the Office of the Vice President is N11,636,444,082.”

“Both offices also plan to spend N546,215,080 on food stuff/catering materials supplies and N71,431,389 refreshment and meals in the coming year. The combined allocation for Honorarium and Sitting Allowance across both offices is N87,576,661.”

“Other recurrent expenditures for the offices include: drugs and medical supplies, N79,671,849 (Office of the President only); postages and courier services: N3,919,783; publicity and advertisements: N26,460,195; welfare packages: N24,907,558 (Office of the Vice President only); and sport activities: 3,098,655 (Office of the Vice President only).”

“The proposed budget for the National Assembly is over N334 billion [N344,852,880,669]. However, the lawmakers have not disclosed the details of the budget.”

“Section 14(2)(b) of the Nigerian Constitution of 1999 [as amended] provides that, ‘the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.”

“Under Section 16(1)(a)(b), the National Assembly has the obligations to ‘harness the resources of the nation and promote national prosperity and an efficient, a dynamic and self-reliant economy’, and to ‘secure the maximum welfare, freedom and happiness of every citizen.’”

“Section 15(5) of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended) requires public institutions to abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power. Section 16(2) of the Nigerian Constitution further provides that, ‘the material resources of the nation are harnessed and distributed as best as possible to serve the common good.’”

“Section 13 of the Nigerian Constitution imposes clear responsibility on the National Assembly to conform to, observe and apply the provisions of Chapter 2 of the constitution.”

“Section 882) of the Nigerian Constitution provides the National Assembly shall have the powers to ‘expose corruption, inefficiency or waste in the execution or administration of laws within its legislative competence and in the disbursement or administration of funds appropriated by it.’”

JUST IN: Izuchukwu Ejikeme Reinstated as 30th SUG President After Court Judgment

Izunna Okafor
-
0
JUST IN: Izuchukwu Ejikeme Reinstated as 30th SUG President After Court Judgment

 

By Izunna Okafor, Awka

The authorities of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, have reinstated Comrade Izuchukwu Ejikeme Francis as the President of the 30th Students’ Union Government (SUG) of the institution.

This was disclosed in a memo made available to newsmen over the weekend, highlighting the 6-point orders and declarations of the SUG High Court (UNIZIK) after its judgement on the said impeachment by the Students Senate Council of the University.

It would be recalled that Comrade Izuchukwu Francis was reportedly declared impeached as the 30th SUG President of UNIZIK on July 23, 2024, shortly after the removal of Prof. Joe Ikechebelu as the Vice Chancellor (VC) of the institution. This was following the allegations that he (the SUG President) violated certain rules governing the office and the school, which allegedly included the instigation of protest against the then new acting VC, Pro-Chancellor and the school Governing Council without the prior approval of 2/3 members of the Union.

However, following the recent directive of the University authority that the said impeachment be thoroughly investigated, the SUG High Court reviewed the case and delivered a landmark judgment on December 18, in which the Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Victor C. Amete invalidated the removal of Comrade Izuchukwu as the President of the 30th Students’ Union Government (SUG) of the institution, describing as both unconstitutional and a mockery of law. The Court, consequently, ordered Comrade Izuchukwu’s immediate reinstatement as the legally recognized President of the 30th Students’ Union Government (SUG) of UNIZIK.

Justice Amete, in the landmark and well-celebrated judgment, also slammed a fine of three million, five hundred thousand naira (N3.5 million) as damages against the Students’ Senate Council of UNIZIK and two others who are parties in the case, in favour of Comrade Izuchukwu, and should be paid to him by the defendants on or before March 14, 2025.

Also highlighted in the memo was an order of the Court invalidating and vacating (with immediate effect) the swearing-in of Comrade Onyinye Nwachukwu as the Acting President of the 30th Students’ Union Government (SUG) of the University.

Jointly signed by the officials of the Students’ Judicial Count, and copied to the authorities of the University, the memo read: “The SUG High Court, UNIZIK, has delivered its landmark judgment today, 19th December 2024, in the highly contentious case of Izuchukwu Ejikeme Francis v. The President, Students Senate Council, NAU & 2 Others. The court ruled decisively in favor of the claimant, Comr Izuchukwu Ejikeme Francis, issuing the following declarations and orders:

“A DECLARATION that the impeachment process undertaken by the Students Senate Council, NAU, was conducted without due process is unconstitutional and is consequently null, void, and of no legal effect.

“A DECLARATION of this Honourable Court that Comr. Izuchukwu Ejikeme Francis remains the duly elected and legally recognized 30th President of the Students’ Union Government, NAU.

“An ORDER vacating the swearing-in of Comr. Onyinyechi Nwachukwu as the Acting President of the 30th Students’ Union Government, NAU.

“An ORDER is hereby made by this Honourable Court mandating the immediate removal of all official publications regarding the impeachment from every official every social media platform.

“An ORDER is by this Honourable Court directing the Students’ Senate Council to issue a public statement declaring that the said impeachment was unconstitutional.

6. An ORDER is hereby made by this Honourable Court awarding the sum of three million and five hundred thousand Naira (N3,500,000) as general damages to the claimant, to be paid jointly and severally by the 1st and 2nd defendants on or before the 14th of March, 2025.

“This judgment, delivered on this day, 19th December 2024, represents a significant affirmation of constitutionalism and due process within the Students’ Union Government. It sends a strong message about the importance of adhering to laid-down procedures and upholding the rule of law in governance.”

Orders of the SUG High Court

How Former Nigeria President, Buhari Became Stranger In His Own Govt – Dalung

247ureports
-
0
How Former Nigeria President, Buhari Became Stranger In His Own Govt – Dalung

 

From Joshua Chibuzo Andrew

Solomon Dalung haa revealed how some elites in Nigeria highjacked power from former president Mohammadu Buhari in 2015 after power was taken from The then president Goodluck Jonathan of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Hon. Solomon Dalung, a Nigerian lawyer, academic and politician who served as the Minister of Youth and Sports of Nigeria from November 2015 to May 2019 has expressed disappointment with his political party, All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a media interview obtained by the impartial observers on Sunday, Dalung regretted that his party has failed Nigerians expectations.

Ok

He revealed that what they told Nigerians in 2015 electioneering campaign against president Jonathan is false.

In his words;
Am completely disappointed, what we told Nigerians in 2015 was not what happened, we lied.

“Even though we used people Deceiving people for campaign against Jonathan administration at least now we are a replica of what we called Jonathan and the PDP.

“Former president Buhari was used and dumped, his charisma was needed In 2015 just to eliminate Jonathan government and shortly they succeeded, the same elites highjacked power from Buhari and he became a stranger in his own government.

“When I went to see the then president, Buhari in 2020 after I was out of the government, I told him that the present condition of Nigeria is not what we promised the people during campaign.

“I told him about the economic situation in Nigeria, the insecurity we have today. With instances Buhari was shocked like he did not know what was happening in his administration.

“Am not surprised, I remembered while I was serving as a minister it was me that informed the then president Buhari about how the EFCC And DSS were triggered-droned, they held the entire environment in hostage here in Asokoro for three days but the president did not know.

“When I informed him, he was angry and didn’t know what was happening, I expected the incident to be part of the agenda to be treated in the Federal executive council meeting but surprisingly we finished meeting without discussing that, then president Buhari left, we ended the meeting without a closing prayer.

“Buhari was deceived, his political value was a bite needed to eliminate Jonathan administration” Solomon Dalung said.

My Arrest & Prison Detention for 54days: Imo Journalist Nonsonkwa Makes Shocking Revelation

247ureports
-
0
My Arrest & Prison Detention for 54days: Imo Journalist Nonsonkwa Makes Shocking Revelation

 

Vacation well spent;

“Over one thousand Imo Youths Languishing and Dying in Prison ;

Tiger Base , IPOs responsible !

“At about 4:30pm on Sunday 20th October 2024, I was ambushed at exactly opposite Teachers House Ph road, by Ebubeagu militants and tiger Base officers led by one Chidiebere Nwosu who ordered that I should be thrown inside the booth of the lexus 300 they ambushed me with.
There was nothing different from kidnappers and those who arrested me. Nothing to distinguish them as security agents!

“However, I was taken to the State CID, locked up at the intelligence department without telling me why I was arrested.

“On Monday 21st October at about 11:14am, I was brought out by two Tiger Base operatives named Innocent and Philip. The one named Innocent was the IPO who presented three petitions to me.

“The first petition was the accusation of arson written by a faceless organisation whose grammatical sequencing could best be described as ‘cut and join’ lacking in substance and merit, poorly constructed. The faceless writer never made any reference to the TVC News where Nonsonkwa quoted in his video broadcast.

“The second petition was written by one SP Davidson of the intelligent department of the Imo police Command where he accused me of inciting the public against the government for saying that the LGA Chairmen signed their resignation letters as a holden charge if they don’t part with a certain percentage of the local government allocation.

“The third petition also written by SP Davidson was that I am planning to cause anarchy for organising a protest against police Extortion.

I made my statements accordingly.

“I was told I would see the CP for an interview but I never saw the CP till I was hurriedly bundled to the Magistrate court 1 on Wednesday Oct 23rd where i was renamded in prison custody even when the Magistrate knew she has no jurisdiction over Treason charges brought against me!

I was taking notes!

“When I arrived at the Federal Correctional Center Owerri, there was excitement from the inmates when they saw me! I was taken to records department where I was documented by friendly warders and wardresses.

“I was later shown to my cell ( F Line) where I shared the space with the General Provost of the prison and four others.

“The next day I was taken to the Clinic department of the prison where I tests where conducted on me and a medical file opened for me.

“The friendly nature of the inmates made me settle down without difficulties. They were happy seeing Nonsonkwa. It was an opportunity to listen to their challenges and what brought them to prison.
It was a life time opportunity to hear from those who were there during the jail break and what exactly happened and those who returned after the jailbreak and of course their reasons for returning.
Of course, there were some of them who were bundled back to prison by their people.

“It was a worthwhile sitting and discussing with real criminals who told me they did what they were condemned for . They were those who are innocent yet they were sentenced & condemned. I had to peruse through the various judgement rulings of some of those sentenced or condemned and I could see loopholes and miscarriage of justice. I told such prisoners to appeal the judgement but the challenge remains money to hire a lawyer!

“Meanwhile the number of those on awaiting trial is shocking. About eight hundred inmates have no access to the law court.

“Some have spent two to ten years in prison without going to court. I took it upon myself to gather every necessary information about them for action.

“My project for 2025 is hugely for the welfare of prisoners and inmates. To offer help to those yet to go to court and assist those yet to meet their bail conditions, then organise a monthly visitation for the inmates.

“To this end, I will form a Prisoners Welfare Partnership with like minds to assist the inmates on a monthly basis. By January I will announce the procedure for those interested.~ *Mazzi* *Chinonso* *Uba* {NonsoNkwa)}”

Oba people Elect Emelobe as Traditional Ruler Amidst Controversies 

247ureports
-
0
Oba people Elect Emelobe as Traditional Ruler Amidst Controversies 
By Chukwudi Ebele
After six years of uncertainty, litigations and counter litigations with various stakeholders and groups singing discordant tunes, causing tension and heating up the polity, Oba Community in Idemili South LGA, Anambra State has elected Engr Augustine Chiedu Emelobe as their Igwe Elect to occupy the vacant EzeOkpoko throne.
Since 2018, when Late Igwe Peter C. Ezenwa, EzeOkpoko 1 of Oba passed on to the great beyond, Oba community has hoped for a peaceful transition without bloodshed to having the EzeOkpoko II. This quest has met several brick walls and oppositions both from within and outside the community but they decided to take the bull by the horns to choose their Traditional Ruler despite advice from the Anambra State Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs to defer the Igweship election.
Oba people Elect Emelobe as Traditional Ruler Amidst Controversies
However,on December 21, 2024 out of the two candidates who reportedly met all the Oba constitutional requirements after the Igweship selection/election screening process Engr Augustine Chiedu Emelobe from Okuzu village,Oba emerged winner with 1,135 votes as against his opponent, Chief Barr. Sir Vincent Ananti from Isu village, Oba who boycotted the election.
Oba people Elect Emelobe as Traditional Ruler Amidst Controversies
According to the result announced by the Returning officer/Electoral Committee Chairman, Pastor Onochie Emekaekwue,  1,420 eligible voters who came for the election from the Nine villages/quarters of Oba were accredited. There are 1,187 valid votes and 32 invalid votes. Engr. Augustine Chiedu Emelobe polled 1,135 votes while Chief Barrister Vincent Ananti polled 20 votes. I hereby declare Chief Engr Augustine Chiedu Emelobe as winner of the election and the Igwe Elect of Oba community.
In his acceptance speech, Engr. Augustine Chiedu Emelobe thanked the electoral Committee, Oba Patriotic Union OPU Executive, people of Oba community for a successful election pledging to work together with other Igweship aspirants and everyone to bring peace and progress in the community.
“Today marks a new dawn in the history of Oba as a town. Oba people came together as one to exercise their right of choice through a transparent election and have chosen Engr Augustine Chiedu Emelobe as the EzeOkpoko II of Oba.
“I thank the OPU , Mayor Idemili South LGA, Hon Amaka Obi and Anambra State Governor,Chukwuma Soludo. I thank all those who made this election a success. Let the aggrieved calm down,let us come together and move Oba forward. So that we can get more developmental projects for our town,” said Emelobe.
In their seperate speeches the duo of OPU Vice President II, Hon Ogonna Ndozie and OPU Secretary General, Nze Nwabueze Emebo thanked God for a peaceful election saying that finally the choice of the people have been elected through a transparent election. “Kingship is not contested but from divine. Oba people are happy today because our Igwe Elect Engr Augustine Chiedu Emelobe has come to unite Oba people”.
Former Speaker, Anambra State House of Assembly, Barr. Emeka Anyaenetu urged the Government of Anambra State to allow and uphold the choice of the majority of Oba people on the matter of who they want as their Traditional Ruler.”I urge the Government of Anambra State to recognize Engr Augustine Chiedu Emelobe since he is the person that Oba people want”.
However, Earlier before the election, Chief Barr. Sir Vincent Ananti in a viral video announced that he was not going to take part in the election urging his followers to boycott the election saying that the state government has cancelled it.
“As I said yesterday, Government has cancelled this election being prepared because the ‘Terms of Settlement in the recent judgement shows that Oba constitution should be amended to be effective. As a lawyer, I will not disobey the government. So as it stands, I am not contesting in this election. I beg my supporters not to bother themselves by going to vote for me because the Government which should recognize what we are doing said that what we are doing now is cancelled,” said Ananti.

Deaths Across The Country; National Disaster Says Ekwunife

247ureports
-
0
Deaths Across The Country; National Disaster Says Ekwunife

 

By Okey Maduforo Awka

The Director General South East Governor’s Forum and former Senator of Anambra South Senatorial District Iyom Uche Ekwunife has described the mass deaths across the country during distribution of palliatives as a National Disaster stressing the need for safety during future outreaches.

Referring to recent incidents in Okija (Anambra State), Abuja, and Ibadan, the senator described the occurrences as a “national disaster” and emphasized the need for immediate and proactive measures to prevent future occurrences.

In her Special Assistant on Media and Publicly Mr Tony Ezike, Ekwunife lamented the devastating loss of lives, particularly during a time when Nigerians are expected to celebrate the Christmas season in joy and peace.

She emphasized the vital need for deploying effective crowd-control measures during events that involve distributing palliatives or charitable items.

In her words, “Proper planning is essential.” It is common knowledge that these gestures attract large crowds, as everyone wants to secure their share of the items being distributed. Unfortunately, this can lead to uncontrollable rushes and, as we’ve seen, disastrous outcomes.”

The senator pointed to the tragic stampede in Okija, which occurred during a charity event organized by the CEO of Obi Jackson Foundation, Ernest Obiejesi, as an example of the need for better preparedness.

Similar incidents in Abuja and Ibadan within the same period further highlight the urgency of addressing the issue nationwide.

Ekwunife extended her heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the government of Anambra State, and Nigerians as a whole, describing the tragedies as collective losses.

“These incidents are painful reminders of the need to prioritize the safety and well-being of our people.

I urge event organizers and relevant authorities to collaborate in implementing effective crowd-management systems for such initiatives in the future.”

The senator also called for a national conversation on preventing similar disasters, urging both state and federal governments to provide the necessary resources and guidance to ensure the safety of citizens during mass gatherings.

She concluded by offering prayers for the peaceful repose of the souls of the deceased and comfort for their families in this difficult times.

123...5,408Page 2 of 5,408