Colourful Evening, As Anambra State Holds 2024 Festival of Carol and Nine Lessons

Izunna Okafor
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Colourful Evening, As Anambra State Holds 2024 Festival of Carol and Nine Lessons

 

By Izunna Okafor, Awka

It was a colourful Friday evening in Awka, the capital city of Anambra State, as the state held its 2024 Festival of Carol and Nine Lessons amidst a spectacular display of music, worship, and cultural elegance.

Organized by the State Ministry of Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, the event, which drew a mammoth crowd from different parts of the state, also served as a platform to celebrate the joy and hope symbolized by the birth of Christ.

Aside from the reading of nine lessons from different Bible passages, the event also featured a plethora of melodious renditions from choristers drawn from different churches and parts of the state, including the Government House Chaplaincy Choir, Singspiration Chorale, Cathedral Choir of St. Faith Awka, Anambra State PFN Mass Choir, and St. Patrick’s (Cathedral) College Choir Awka, among others.

Spiced up by musical accompaniment from Gentle Voice Orchestra and praises by gospel artistes Geo-King and Stephanie-Kelly Uzor, the well-attended program also featured special scenic performances, including the dramatization of the birth of Christ, which left the audience in awe of the creative expressions.

The event, themed “Emmanuel: God With Us,” was also graced by top government functionaries, clergymen, and dignitaries who came to feed their eyes and souls, bask in the yuletide spirit, and reaffirm their faith in Christ, who remains the centerpiece of the season.

Speaking on the significance of the event, the State Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, Mr. Don Onyenji, described it as a unifying occasion that brings Ndi Anambra together to celebrate the essence of Christmas.

According to him, the festival promotes spiritual rejuvenation, cultural preservation, and communal harmony. While emphasizing the spiritual and cultural dimensions of the program, he further explained that it also serves as an avenue to showcase the talents of local choristers and performers.

Commissioner Onyenji also lauded the Chief Host of the occasion, Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, for his unwavering support in advancing culture and tourism in Anambra. He highlighted various transformative initiatives under the Soludo administration, including the revitalization of public spaces and the promotion of arts and tourism, which have greatly enriched the cultural landscape of Anambra State. He also noted the governor’s dedication to ensuring a memorable Christmas in the state and urged Ndi Anambra to reflect on the virtues of Christ’s birth while fostering unity and love during the festive season.

Some of the distinguished guests who graced the occasion include: the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Reverend Dr. Paulinus Ezeokafor; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu; the National Chairman of the All Progressive Grand Alliance, Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Ernest Ezeajughi; and the State Head of Service, Barr. Theodora Igwegbe.

Furthermore, the State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor; Commissioner for Environment, Engr. Felix Odimegwu; Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike; Special Adviser to Governor Soludo on Entertainment, Leisure, and Tourism, Hon. Bob-Manuel Udokwu; the MD, Anambra State Civic and Social Reformation Office, Sir Chuka Nnabuife; the Chaplain, Government House Chaplaincy, Rev. Fr. Dr. Raphael Onyekwelu, among others, were also present at the event.

In their separate remarks and expressions while speaking with newsmen at the event, some of the guests took their turns to commend the state government for organizing such an inspiring and uplifting event. They further described Christmas as a season of love, joy, and reflection on Christ’s teachings of selflessness and service to humanity.

While praising the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo in the state for its proactive and people-oriented policies, they also called on Ndi Anambra to embrace peace, unity, and goodwill during the festive season, even as they encouraged continuous support for initiatives aimed at fostering communal harmony and progress.

The melodious, entertaining, and soul-lifting renditions, alongside the special performances by the participants, formed the high points of the event, leaving a lasting impression on the audience and setting the perfect tone for a joyous Christmas celebration.

ANCISRO Commends Anambra-born World Champion, Nwajagu

Izunna Okafor
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ANCISRO Commends Anambra-born World Champion, Nwajagu

 

For distinguishing himself in an era when many young people engage in crimes and other vices, Chinemerem Samuel Nwajagu has won the commendation of Anambra State Civic and Social Reformation Office (ANCISRO).

The organisation identifies Mr. Nwajagu as an exemplary Anambra youth who typifies the core values of the state.

ANCISRO praises Nwajagu for not taking the fast route to wealth which some disgruntled youngsters have opted to ply. The 23-year-old recently distinguished himself in a very noble way by beating his peers around the world remarkably, to win the Mister International pageant in Bangkok the capital city of Thailand.

According to the Anambra State office for social reformation Nwajagu who contested as Mister Nigeria and came top in a field of contestants from 46 countries makes Anambra State, Ndị Igbo and Nigeria proud.

He became the first black person to win the Mister International competition.

Born in July 2001 by parents who hail from Akpu in Orumba South LGA Anambra State, the young software engineering graduate who emerged the most handsome man in the world on Saturday, December 14 became the first Black and African to win the Mister International title since the pageant began 16 years ago.

YULETIDE: Anambra Industrialist Fetes Staff, Others with Over 2,000 Bags of Rice

Izunna Okafor
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YULETIDE: Anambra Industrialist Fetes Staff, Others with Over 2,000 Bags of Rice

 

 

By Izunna Okafor, Awka

In the spirit of the festive season and as a show of gratitude for their relentless support, Anambra industrialist and Chief Executive Officer of Zobis Electrical Wires and Cables Limited, Engr. John Ezeobi, has distributed over 2,000 bags of rice to his staff, loyal customers, and residents of Okoti and Odekpe, the host communities of his factory in Ogbaru Local Government Area, Anambra State

The gesture, which has brought smiles to thousands of faces, gas been widely lauded as not just an annual and seasonal tradition, but also as a proof to Engr. Ezeobi’s commitment to improving the welfare of those within his sphere of influence and contributing to their joy in the festive season.

Speaking on the gesture, Engr. Ezeobi, who highlighted its significance, described it as one of his ways of saying “Thank you” to those who contributed to the success of his business in the year.

“Christmas is a time for giving,” he said.

Continuing, he said, “It is a season to show gratitude, and this is my little way of appreciating our staff, customers, and community members who have stood by us through the ups and downs of the year. I hope this contribution brings some relief and joy to their celebrations.”

Engr. Ezeobi also acknowledged the challenging economic climate in the country, which has unarguably affected many businesses and households alike this year. He, however, noted that, despite these hurdles, many progresses and testimonies were still recorded; even as he further expressed his belief in the importance of giving back to society.

According to him, “As entrepreneurs, we must not lose sight of the people who make our businesses thrive. Their efforts, loyalty, and support mean everything, and giving back is not just a responsibility but a privilege.”

Beyond this act of seasonal benevolence, this reporter, Izunna Okafor, also gathered that the benefactor, Engr. Ezeobi had been deeply involved in other philanthropic initiatives aimed at improving the lives of people in his host communities and beyond. Currently, his company is undertaking the reconstruction of a community school in Okoti, Odekpe, to enhance the quality of education for children in the area. He is also funding a road construction project in Ezinifite, Nnewi South Local Government Area, a venture that further showcases his dedication to infrastructural development.

Reflecting on these efforts, Engr. Ezeobi said: “Our commitment to the community goes beyond business. Education and infrastructure are vital to societal progress, and we are doing our part to ensure that the communities we operate in experience meaningful growth. It is our belief that businesses should be catalysts for positive change.”

“If we all take a step toward supporting our communities, the cumulative impact will be transformative. This is not just about corporate social responsibility; it is about humanity and the joy of giving,” he added.

The ripple effects of Engr. Ezeobi’s actions have been widely felt, with many describing him as a source of inspiration and hope in a time of economic uncertainty. Evidences abound that his commitment to improving the lives of others has not only strengthened his bond with his host communities but also set a benchmark for others to follow.

In their separate reactions, the beneficiaries, drawn from various sectors and backgrounds, were full of praises for Engr. Ezeobi, describing him as a man with a heart of gold. Many residents of Okoti and Odekpe specifically expressed their joy gratitude, noting that the rice distribution had significantly eased their burdens and would ensure a merrier Christmas for their families.

They further called on other entrepreneurs and well-meaning individuals to emulate such gestures, stressing that such generosity and collective efforts are necessary to address societal challenges, ameliorate the effects of the hard times on the less privileged members of the society, while also making the society a better place to live.

STAMPEDE: Corpses Litter Ground, As Less Privileged Struggle for Christmas Rice in Anambra, Police React

Izunna Okafor
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STAMPEDE: Corpses Litter Ground, As Less Privileged Struggle for Christmas Rice in Anambra, Police React

 

By Izunna Okafor, Awka

No fewer than 20 persons are feared dead in a stampede that ensued during the distribution of Christmas rice in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The incident, which happened on Saturday, occured during a philanthropic activity of the Founder of the Obijackson Foundation, Chief Ernest Obiejesi, to support the less privileged members of the society, drawn from different parts of the state.

This was corroborated by videos currently trending on social media, showing dead bodies that litter the ground at the venue of the event.

Reacting to the incident through a statement issued to newsmen on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ikenga Tochukwu, said the police operatives had taken over the scene.

He said: “Anambra State Police Operatives have taken over the scene in Okija where an alleged stampede occurred in the early hours of today 21/12/2024, that led to some persons being fatally wounded.

“Preliminary information reveals that a known Philanthropist from the Okija Community, on his yearly schedule shares some palliatives to the members of the community to provide succour to the less privileged. Unfortunately, before the event could start, a large number of uncontrolled persons took over the event area which resulted in a stampede.

“Though the details of the affected persons as still sketchy, Police Operatives have taken over the scene for proper investigation, please. Further details shall be Communicated.”

Tragedy In Anambra; 12 Confirmed Dead 32 Injured While Scrambling For Christmas Rice In Okija

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Tragedy In Anambra; 12 Confirmed Dead 32 Injured While Scrambling For Christmas Rice In Okija

 

By Okey Maduforo Awka

At least twelve persons were confirmed dead this Saturday morning in Okija town of Ihiala local government area of Anambra state while scrambling for Christmas Rice .

It is also estimated that over thirty two persons sustained various degrees of injury in the stampede occasioned by the distribution of rice convened by a son of the town and philanthropist Chief Earnest Obiejesi aka Obi Jackson.

It was gathered that the distribution of food items has always been a tradition for the philanthropist Obiejesi most festive seasons and part of his foundation to assist his kit and kin which climaxes in a huge carnival.

However this year’s distribution has been dainted by the scores of deaths and injuries as the surging crowed ran out of the control of the organizers which led to the stampede and ultimately claiming twelve lives so far.

A son of the town who gave his name as Uchenna said;

“It is not our brother Obi Jackson that caused their death but the crowd that refused to comport themselves and the bags of rice that I saw can take care of everyone and even more people but due to the hunger in the land most people feel that the rice may not get to them and that was why this sad incident happened and it is very unfortunate” he cried.

Narrating the incident further Mrs Maria Okonkwo who was going to the venue which is the scene of the tragedy narrated that;

“,The number is too much and more people were still coming to take part in the sharing of the bags ot rice when people started shouting and the organizers where busy trying to control the crowd but there is nothing much they can do because the crowd had over powered them while some chose to carry as many bags as possible when people started falling and some of those that fell down were trampled upon by the surging crowd and that led to the death of those people ”

“I cannot say how many people that died but it could be around ten or thirteen but those that got injured are more than thirty or so and some people about six fainted ” she said.

“Efforts to get to the organizers of the event proved abortive as non of them picked their calls possibly shocked over the incident”

Reacting to the incident the Anambra Police Public Relations Officer SP Tochikwu Ikenga said in a release;

“Anambra State Police Operatives have taken over the scene in Okija where an alleged stampede occurred in the early hours of today 21/12/2024, that led to some persons being fatally wounded”

“Preliminary information reveals that a known Philanthropist from the Okiaja Community, on his yearly schedule shares some palliatives to the members of the community to provide succour to the less privileged. Unfortunately, before the event could start, a large number of uncontrolled persons took over the event area which resulted in a stampede”

“Though the details of the affected persons as still sketchy, Police Operatives have taken over the scene for proper investigation, please”

“Further details shall be Communicated” he said.

Breaking the Silence: Ending violence against women and girls, – By Fa’izatu Aliyu Doma

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Breaking the Silence: Ending violence against women and girls, – By Fa’izatu Aliyu Doma

 

Violence against women and girls is fast assuming the magnitude of a global pandemic. In other words, it is a crisis that transcends borders, cultures and socio-economic backgrounds.  According to the United Nations, one in three women worldwide have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime.  This overwhelming statistic is a compelling reminder of the urgent need to address this pervasive issue.

Violence against women and girls takes many forms, including murder, domestic violence, rape, female genital mutilation and human trafficking.  These acts of violence are often perpetrated by those closest to the victims, including intimate partners, family members or relatives and community leaders.

The consequences of these acts on the victims, are far-reaching and devastating.  Survivors often suffer from physical injuries, emotional trauma, and psychological distress as many are forced to abandoned their education, careers, and social networks,  leading to economic dependence and social isolation.

Violence against women and girls is not a personal issue but a societal one. It perpetuates a culture of fear, shame and silence which can have far-reaching repercussions for the communities.

When women and girls are subjected to violence,  they are denied their fundamental rights,  including the right to life, liberty, and security. This can lead to a breakdown in social cohesion, economic development, and political stability.

Despite the overwhelming odd, there is hope. In recent years,  a growing movement of activists, advocates and survivors has emerged to challenge the menace and demand change.

For instance, the “#MeToo” movement, which began in the United States, has inspired a global conversion about sexual violence and harassment. The movement has encouraged millions of women and girls to come out of their shells and share their stories, seek justice and demand response and affirmative actions from those in power.

Incidence of violence against women and girls in Nigeria, is not as high as the records in the industrialised countries. Also, despite its huge population in the African context, South Africa and Ethiopia are far ahead of Nigeria in regards to cases of female victims of rape, domestic violence and murder.

However, statistics indicate that violence against women and girls has been on the rise in Nigeria in recent years. One of the reasons is the emergence of,”yahoo boys” who murder and decapitate young girls, for ritual purposes. There is also, the factor of insurgents and bandits who abduct young girls for use as sex slaves or for ransom.

Being a patrilineal society, apologists of violence against women and girls justify acts of spousal or domestic physical violence, rape and vaginal mutilation on archaic interpretations of culture, tradition and religion. The incidence of rape also thrive because, victims and their relatives are usually loathe to go public because of the feeling of shame and societal stigma.

Yet, there have always been traditional and institutional measures in different parts of Nigeria aimed at checking or, mitigating incidence of violence against women and girls. Speaking on the subject in an interview with this Reporter, the Andoma of Doma kingdom in Nasarawa state, Alhaji Ahmadu Aliyu Oga Onawo, noted that, “It is impossible to do without violence against women in any community.” He said however, that society must intensify efforts in curbing the negative development.

On victims response to instances of violence especially rape, Alhaji Oga Onawo explained that, “While some parents are patient enough to allow the conclusion of cases of violence against their wards, most often because of stigma parents said the more is heard and known it negatively affects the image of the girl and the family.”

The Andoma affirmed that if anyone is caught in his community, the police is called in to arrest and prosecute the perpetrator.

Also speaking on the subject, the Nasarawa State Committee for women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Aishatu Rufa’i Ibrahim said the government has “strengthened its collaboration with traditional rulers and religious leaders to tackle cases of gender-based violence across the state.”

While pointing out that women and children are the primary victims of abuse, she noted that, “Community leaders, religious leaders and traditional rulers must play a vital role to tackle the phenomenon.”

Hajiya Aishatu called for, “the full implementation and enforcement of protective laws, including the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) law” the measure, she believes, will provide sustainable support systems for survivors of gender-based violence.

Solutions and strategies for combating the evil of violence against women must be holistic and multi-faceted. Government must enact new laws that take into consideration emerging realities while vigorously enforcing existing laws that protect women and girls from violence.

Survivors of violence must be assisted in their rehabilitation by way of access to safe shelters, counseling and medical care.

Heightened and sustained education programmes aimed at enlightening communities on the root causes of violence against women and girls will definitely go a long in changing attitude and behaviours. In this regard, engaging men and boys will go a long way in the solution critical because they play a critical role in the perpetration of gender-based violence.

Gender-based violence is generally perceived to be most prevalent in the industrialised countries of the world, it is also evident however, that a pervading poverty can also be a causative factor. Therefore, the government and communities must engage a programmes and policies that seek to reduce the level of poverty and unemployment among the most active segments of the populace, the youths.

Journalists In Hiding After Fraudulent Sale Of NUJ Secretariat In Imo

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Journalists In Hiding After Fraudulent Sale Of NUJ Secretariat In Imo

 

Ben Osuagwu Narrates How He Turned Down Offer To Share In Proceeds From Illegal Sale

Following the recent court judgment that nullified the fraudulent sale of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Imo State Council’s Secretariat that is located along Port Harcourt Road, Owerri, the Imo State capital, the buyer, an Anglican Priest, named Engr Godson Nlemchukwu who is said to be the proxy of a former Governor of the state has asked Chirs Akaraonye and Juliet Dim who paraded themselves as Chairman and Secretary of Imo NUJ respectively to refund his money.

Others who are said to have also gone into hiding to avoid the proxy’s wrath are, Innocent Igwe, a former Chairman of the union who unlawfully handed over to Akaraonye when the leadership dispute in the union was still a subject of litigation and Ifeanyi Nwaguma who followed the trend.

A source who pleaded anonymity, said the buyer who is very furious is asking for a refund on the ground that the deal did not materialize despite all the assurance they gave him for which he doled out huge sum of money.

It was also gathered that Chris Akaraonye, Juliet Dim and Innocent Igwe received and shared the sum of #20m while the National President of the NUJ Chris Isiguzo and other national officers of the union allegedly received a larger chunk of the money.

The buyer according to a reliable source who spoke to our reporter said, “the company, Enedo General Services is now counting its losses because they spent so much in the case, yet they lost in the court despite the assurance they given that there will be no problem from any quarters and that the property is not encumbered in any way. Hence, they agreed to invest in the transaction.”

Meanwhile, the immediate past National President of the NUJ, Chris Isiguzo, recently distanced and dissociated himself from the failed fraudulent deal.

Isiguzo, in a release dated December 8, 2024, said, “It has come to my attention that the Blueprint Newspaper and The Conclave blog published reports dated December 8, 2024, alleging that a court has stopped me and Comrade Akaraonye from selling the NUJ Secretariat building in Imo State.

“This publication represents the most irresponsible form of journalism I have encountered in my entire career. I categorically state that the report is false, malicious, and deliberately designed to tarnish my reputation and subject me to public ridicule.

“To set the record straight, I was neither a party to, nor aware of, any legal proceedings related to the sale or lease of the NUJ property in Imo State during my tenure as President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ). It is therefore shocking and deeply disturbing to find my name dragged into an issue of which I have absolutely no knowledge”.

In the same vein, a former Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Imo State Council, Chief Ben Osuagwu, in whose tenure, the secretariat was donated to the union, “when they were sharing proceeds from the fraudulent sale of the secretariat,approached to share part of the proceeds. I rejected the offer outrightly because I knew that it was not fair and just. As far as I am concerned the secretariat along Port Harcourt Road, Owerri is the only place I know as the Imo NUJ secretariat and it is the bonafide property of the union.”

Woman docked for allegedly threatening Seyi Tinubu, I-G

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Woman docked for allegedly threatening Seyi Tinubu, I-G
 A woman, Olamide Thomas, who allegedly threatened Seyi Tinubu with death threat on social media, was, on Friday, arraigned at a Federal High Court in Abuja.
Olamide was arraigned by the office of the Inspector-General (I-G) of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, before Justice Emeka Nwite on three-count charge.
She, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Olamide was arrested on allegations bordering on harassing and threatening Seyi Tinubu, Egbetokun and the Police Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, in a viral social media post
In the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/636/2024 dated and filed on Dec  18 by the police team of lawyers led by A.A. Egwu, Olamide was sued as sole defendant.
Upon resumed hearing, Victor Okoye, who appeared for the police, informed the court that the matter was slated for arraignment and that he was ready to proceed.
After the counts were read to the defendant, she pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The defence lawyer, T J. Aondo, SAN, sought to move an oral application on his client’s behalf but the request was turned down.
Justice Nwite directed Aondo to file a formal bail application and adjourned the matter until Dec  30 for commencement of trial.
The judge, however, assured the defence counsel that as soon as a bail application is filed in form of a motion on notice, the court would not hesitate to hear it.
He consequently ordered her to be remanded in Suleja Correctional Centre pending the hearing of her bail application.
NAN reports that in count one, Olamide was alleged to have, sometime in 2024, knowingly and intentionally transmitted communication in the form of video recording through computer system or network on her social media platforms wherein she made remarks in Yoruba Language.
In the video, she was alleged to have stated “that Mr Seyi Tinubu would die this year, and misfortune and calamity had befallen the Tinubu family, with intent to bully, threaten, harass the person of Mr Seyi Tinubu.”
The communication was said to have placed Seyi in fear of death, violence or bodily harm.
The offence is contrary to and punishable under Section 24 (2) (a) of Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.
In count two, the defendant was alleged to have intentionally transmitted communication in the form of video recording wherein she made remarks in Yoruba Language to bully, threaten, harass the person of Mr Egbetokun.
The communication was said to have placed Egbetokun in fear of death, violence or bodily harm.
The offence is contrary to and punishable under Section 24 (2) (a) of Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.
In count three, Olamide was accused of intentionally transmitting or causing the transmission of communication in the form of video recording wherein she made remarks in Yoruba Language, stating that the children of Adejobi would all die before his eyes.
She was quoted to have also said that “he (Adejobi) will bury all his children in a single day, with Intent to bully, threaten, harass the person of Mr. Muyiwa Adejobi.”
The communication was said to have placed Adejobi in fear of death of his loved ones.
The offence is said to be contrary to and punishable under Section 24 (2) (a) of Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.

Emeka Anyaoku Advocates for Reading Culture among Children

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Emeka Anyaoku Advocates for Reading Culture among Children

..as Foundation Holds Children’s Christmas Party

By Uzo Ugwunze

The former Common Wealth Secretary General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, Igwe Chidubem Iweka (Eze Iweka III of Obosi) and others have called on parents and Guardians to give adequate attention to their children’s reading, writing and speaking culture saying that the advent of handsets, social media and home movies have become a major distraction militating against sound education of young minds.

Chief Emeka Anyaoku who spoke through the Director, Emeka and Bunmi Anyaoku Foundation(EBAF), Mrs Oluchi Nguzoro Nnoli during a Free Christmas party for over 300 school children which held at the Foundation’s Library/Museum, Obosi, Idemili North LGA, Anambra State emphasized the importance of education as the basic foundation for a child who would become responsible and not a liability in the future.

Emeka Anyaoku Advocates for Reading Culture among Children
Emeka Anyaoku Advocates for Reading Culture among Children

“Chief Emeka Anyaoku is promoting reading and learning. He encourages children to read and speak correctly both our lingua franca and vernacular unlike what you see today, most Igbo children and adults can neither read or speak English language nor speak Igbo language without the combination of both.

“Parents should encourage their children to read books. They can read for their children to emulate them.Now, instead of leaving their phones for their children to watch cartoons and play games, there are apps in our phones which can read out stories for kids until they can come to the age to read on their own.

“By the help of our esteemed Sponsors like Eze Iweka III, Chief Hyman Udemba Akamposi Obosi, Hon. Chidoka, Anambra Commissioner for Works Engr Ifeanyi Okoma and many others, we celebrated Christmas with nothing lesser than 310 children for free. We are not just having fun,we are using this opportunity to teach, educate them in a friendly atmosphere. Spelling Bee, Reading aloud and Singing competition were part of today’s Christmas party program”.

EBAF Obosi is a library and Museum with over 20,000 books for both students and researchers. Emeka Anyaoku gave out this platform today because of his passion to touch lives especially youths and he wants to leave a lasting impression of beautiful memories on these young minds,” said Mrs Nnoli.

According to Igwe’Chidubem Iweka, I advise parents to limit the time their children spend with phones. The handset and social media have been a major distraction to reading. Families should return to the old culture of reading books which has been relegated.

“The words given to these children according to their class levels were not difficult to read or spell but some of them could not express themselves which shows that reading standard is falling,” said the monarch.

Eze Iweka further advised the children to be of good behavior, make friends with good peers and brilliant school mates if they want to amount to anything meaningful in life.” The early you make the right choices with determination, the more successful you become. No one is aqlllll science student or Arts student, whatever career you chose, focus, hardwork and discipline will make you gain mastery of any subject or course”.

Moreover, the President Obosi Urban, Chief Emeka Asimone Dikedioramma advised children to always listen to their parents and school teachers if they want to become great leaders of tomorrow urging them to avoid bad friends which leads to cultism, violence and other forms of crime.

Highlights of the maiden EBAF Christmas party was the arrival of Father Christmas (Santa Claus from Russia) and mickey mouse to gift and entertain the kids.

Soludo Sets to Begin Documentation of Herbalists in Anambra

Izunna Okafor
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Soludo Sets to Begin Documentation of Herbalists in Anambra

 

By Izunna Okafor, Awka

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo said his administration would begin to document all the native doctors practicing in the state, as part of the strategies to combating the alarming rate of insecurity in the state.

Governor Soludo declared this on Friday at the 2024 Public Service Day celebration in the state, which held at the Jerome Udorji Secretariat Complex, Awka, Anambra State capital.

Themed “Ensuring Safety and Health at Work in a Changing Climate”, the event, which is an annual ceremony to celebrate the public servants in the state, also attracted top government functionaries and public servants from different MDAs in the state.

Speaking at the occasion, Governor Soludo, who highlighted the various giant strides and achievements recorded by his administration in different sectors and different parts of the state, further lauded the state’s workforce and its leadership for giving their best, and for their exceptional support, efforts, and inputs which, he said, had contributed significantly to progress of the state.

He also reiterated the administration’s commitment to its vision of making Anambra a livable and prosperous homeland, emphasizing that his administration’s projects, policies and programs are usually targeted in such a way that they can benefit everyone, irrespective of class or social status —all in the spirit of Onye Aghana Nwanne Ya (Leaving No One Behind). These projects, policies and programs, the Governor noted, have contributed in massive influx of people into the state, as a destination hub it’s envisioned to be.

While acknowledging that Anambra used to be a home for all, Soludo, however, emphasized that the state should be home for all law-abiding citizens, and not for anyone who would come to distort the peace and progress of the state.

The Governor, who said that over 70% of the hoodlums and criminal elements so far arrested in Anambra are non-indigenes, also recalled that his administration recently briefed the citizens on the security situation in the state, where he also rolled out some kinetic and non-kinetic mechanisms and strategies towards combating the situation, one of which is the launching of a new security force, known as “Udo Ga-Achị.”

Soludo also noted that the formation of the security force proposed to take full operation by January 2025, has already partially kicked off, with some activities already on motion to actualize that. He further reassured that his administration would stop at nothing in its efforts to weed out and crush the criminal elements terrorizing the Anambra if they refuse to repent or leave the state.

The Governor, however, observed that hard drugs and some diabolic native doctors in the state are part of the forces aiding and fueling the evil and criminality therein. The native doctors, he noted, encourage and deceive the hoodlums by preparing different kinds of charms and protectives for them for their operation. He also revealed that even kidnap victims are being kept in the shrines of some of the native doctors, showing that they work hand-in-hand with those criminal elements, who use their shrines as hideouts.

Consequent upon this, therefore, the Governor, who assured that the government would sustain the ongoing war against drug abuse in the state, also declared outright war on all the evil and diabolic native doctors in the state. As part of the step towards effecting this war, the Governor declared that all the herbalists in Anambra must be comprehensively captured and documented, for government to have their full details and know about their operations, including the kinds of medicines or charms each of them prepares.

While noting that anyone with a record of preparing evil charms will be dealt with and have his/her shrines destroyed; Governor Soludo also urged Ndị Anambra and all the Presidents-General to help expose all the evil native doctors in their communities and areas, for decisive actions from the government. He further warned that any PG who shields or fails to expose and let the government know about any evil herbalists in his community would be sacked, arrested and prosecuted, as an accomplice and shielder of criminals.

Earlier speaking at the event, the Head of Service, Barr. Theodora Igwegbe, also took time to enumerate some of the various projects, policies and programs of the Soludo Administration that have specifically benefited the state workforce.

The most recent of these, she highlighted, include the approval of the ongoing re-construction of the State Secretariat Road, payment of monthly minimum wage of N71,000 net pay and above to civil servants, prompt payment of salaries on 25th of every month, installation of solar-powered streetlights and CCTV cameras in the environs of the Secretariat Complex. Others, she further highlighted, include the constitution of the Civil Service Commission, constitution of the Minimum Wage Act Implementation Committee, monthly payment of N10,000 to every pensioner in the state pending the review of pension, resolution of the 17-year-old industrial disputes between the state government and the staff of the defunct Anambra State Water Corporation and Anambra State Environmental Protection Agency by approving the payments of their salaries and clearance of their accumulated benefits, among others.

While commending the Soludo Administration for prioritizing the welfare of Anambra workers, the Head of Service, who, though, made an 8-point request from the Governor —generally centering on enhancing the welfare, operational efficiency, safety and better working condition of the workers— further reassured him of the commitment and support of the state’s workforce in helping his administration fully accomplish its vision of making Anambra a livable and prosperous homeland.

The event also featured the delivery of a public lecture on the theme of the event —“Ensuring Safety and Health at Work in a Changing Climate” by the Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Health, Dr. Mrs. Obiageli Uchebo, among other remarks and goodwill messages.

This reporter, Izunna Okafor, gathered that the event also had in attendance, the Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi; State Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA); Barr. Ifeatu Obiokoye; President-General of the Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU), Barr. Titus Akpudo; Commissioners, Permanent Secretaries, Directors, public servants, leaders of organized labour, among others.

 

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