BY Emma Igwe

“Those who live ahead of their time should always expect criticism.”

— Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe

Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe reportedly made this statement on two notable occasions.

The first was during the campaign for Nigeria’s independence, when Southern members of the then National Assembly advocated for self-rule while many Northern members opposed the move. When Dr. Azikiwe was interviewed at Heathrow Airport in the United Kingdom, he responded with those words.

The second was during the Nigeria–Biafra War. After advocating dialogue between Nigeria and Biafra, Radio Biafra reportedly labelled him a saboteur. Once again, he repeated the same statement. Supporters argue that history later vindicated his position.

A Religious Reflection

If Jesus Christ, revered by Christians as the Saviour of the world, was persecuted and crucified despite His innocence, then public criticism and unfounded allegations against public figures should not come as a surprise.

It is painful for anyone to be associated with a crime in which they had no involvement.

Sen. David Umahi: A Record of Public Service

Supporters of Sen. David Umahi point to a number of achievements during his political career, including:

1. Becoming the first Deputy Governor in Ebonyi State to openly oppose the imposition of candidates within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), eventually emerging as Governor.
2. Introducing the use of concrete pavement technology for road construction in Ebonyi State.
3. Prioritising infrastructure development over patronage politics and the distribution of public resources.

When Sen. Umahi defected from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC), he faced widespread criticism, particularly in the South-East. Today, many of those who opposed his decision have also joined the APC.

His supporters also argue that his performance as Minister of Works and his strong defence of President Bola Tinubu’s policies have attracted political opposition and criticism from rivals.

The Main Issue: The Death of Ms. Mary Habila

It is not disputed that Ms. Mary Habila died at Sen. David Umahi’s country home. However, the central issue should be determined by facts rather than assumptions.

The mere fact that a person dies at another person’s residence does not, by itself, establish that the owner or occupant is responsible for the death.

Liability can only be established through credible and verifiable evidence.

Among the issues that require proper investigation are:

• Whether there is evidence linking any individual to the cause of the death.
• Whether those present cooperated fully with law enforcement authorities.
• Whether medical assistance was sought promptly and the incident duly reported.
• The findings of forensic experts, medical examiners, and other investigators.

The cause and circumstances surrounding Ms. Mary Habila’s death are matters that should be determined through lawful investigation.

The Legal Position

Both criminal and civil liability must be established through credible evidence demonstrating that an unlawful act caused the death.

Sen. David Umahi has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has stated that he has cooperated with the relevant authorities throughout the investigation.

Ultimately, the circumstances surrounding the incident should be determined by witness testimony, forensic evidence, medical reports, and other admissible evidence—not by speculation based solely on the location where the death occurred.

It is a fundamental principle of justice that every person is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction. Accordingly, any conclusion regarding legal responsibility must rest on established facts and the applicable law, rather than suspicion or conjecture.

The occurrence of a death at Sen. Umahi’s residence, standing alone, is insufficient to establish legal liability without clear and convincing evidence linking him to the cause of the death.

By Okey Nwanguma

Nearly five years after five Nigerian engineers disappeared while carrying out their professional duties in Ebonyi State, the country still has no credible answers. Their families remain trapped between hope and despair, while the justice system appears unable—or unwilling—to establish the truth.

This is no longer merely the story of five missing professionals. It has become a defining test of Nigeria’s commitment to human rights, the rule of law, and public accountability.

On 3 November 2021, Engr. Nelson Onyemeh, Engr. Ernest Edeani, Engr. Ikechukwu Ejiofor, Engr. Samuel Aneke, and Engr. Stanley Nwazulum left Enugu for Ebonyi State to supervise the construction of the Abakaliki Ring Road under a contract funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB). They never returned.

Okey Nwanguma

The engineers were employees of NELAN Consulting Limited, an independent engineering consultancy appointed through an international competitive bidding process to supervise the project in accordance with AfDB standards. Their role was not ceremonial. Independent supervision is central to ensuring that public infrastructure projects meet contractual specifications, maintain quality standards, and protect public resources from abuse.

Their disappearance would have been shocking under any circumstances. But the allegations that preceded it make the case especially disturbing.

According to the families, disagreements had arisen between NELAN and the Ebonyi State Government over project supervision, certification of completed work, and control of payments. They allege that the engineers refused to compromise their professional obligations by certifying work outside the procedures required under the AfDB-financed contract.

These allegations have been denied, and no court has established that they are connected to the disappearance. Yet they provide a context that any serious investigation cannot afford to ignore.

The rule of law demands neither blind acceptance of accusations nor premature dismissal of them. It demands an impartial investigation guided solely by evidence.

Instead, the public has been presented with a series of troubling contradictions.

The engineers disappeared without trace. Government officials reportedly attributed the incident to communal violence. Later, public statements suggested they had been killed based on alleged confessions, even while investigations were reportedly still ongoing. Yet no bodies have been conclusively identified.

Perhaps the most disturbing aspect is the reported DNA evidence. According to the families, skeletal remains presented as belonging to the missing engineers were subjected to independent DNA analysis, which reportedly excluded them as belonging to the victims. One set of remains was reportedly identified as female.

If accurate, such findings raise fundamental questions. What became of the original investigation? Why were contradictory forensic findings not fully explained? What happened to the search for the missing engineers?

These are not political questions. They are questions of justice.

Equally troubling are reports that prosecutions proceeded while the fate of the victims remained uncertain and that the proceedings have since become stalled. Justice delayed is often justice denied—not only for defendants but also for victims and their families.

The wives of the missing engineers have refused to allow the case to disappear into official silence. Their petitions to the President, the National Assembly, the National Human Rights Commission, security agencies, and professional bodies reflect not merely personal grief but an insistence that the Nigerian state fulfil its constitutional obligations.

Their central demand is simple: tell us the truth.

The Constitution guarantees the right to life. International human rights law imposes on governments a positive obligation to conduct prompt, effective, impartial and transparent investigations whenever people disappear under suspicious circumstances. Families also have a right to know the truth about what happened to their loved ones.

These obligations do not expire with time.

Nor should they depend on the political status of those whose actions may come under scrutiny.

It is equally important to emphasize that allegations against any individual, including former Ebonyi State Governor and current Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, remain allegations unless established through credible evidence and due process. Justice demands accountability, but it also demands fairness. The objective is not to convict people in newspaper headlines or on social media, but to establish the truth through lawful investigation.

Precisely because allegations and counter-allegations have persisted for years without resolution, there is now a compelling case for an independent federal-level review of the investigation. Such a review should involve investigators with no prior involvement in the matter, modern forensic expertise, and transparent public reporting.

Nigeria cannot afford unresolved disappearances involving professionals carrying out public duties on major infrastructure projects. If engineers, auditors, consultants, journalists, lawyers, or civil servants cannot discharge their professional responsibilities without fear, public accountability itself becomes endangered.

This case is therefore about far more than five missing engineers.

It is about whether public institutions inspire confidence or suspicion.

It is about whether forensic evidence is pursued wherever it leads.

It is about whether political influence can overshadow justice.

Above all, it is about whether every Nigerian life carries equal value before the law.

The families have waited for nearly five years. That is far too long.

Justice demands answers.

The rule of law demands accountability.

Nigeria demands the truth.

The attention of Enugu State Government has been drawn to a salacious report in the social media, credited to one Igboayaka O.Igboayaka, purportedly of Ohaneze Youth council, wherein he made an obvious, clearly laughable attempt to drag the name and office of Executive Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, into odious travails of disgraced former Minister of Science and Technology, Uche NNAJI.

It was obviously a convenient, last ditch effort to deflect attention and liability by dragging the name of the Governor into the mess Uche NNAJI had single-handedly inflicted on himself!

Pray, up until this moment, at what point in this matter did the name of Dr Mbah, feature in all these, whether as complainant or witness?

When did red herring become an acceptable defence against certificate forgery?

On all available records, the Federal Republic of Nigeria is the complainant in the criminal complaint against Uche Nnaji, definitely NOT Peter Mbah!

It is, therefore , absurd and disingenuous to think that accusing a perceived adversary of involvement in one’s unsavoury situation, in itself, would mitigate assured fate, tilt public opinion or hamstring legitimate law enforcement.

It is germain to state categorically here, that Governor Peter Mbah has filed no complaints against Uche NNAJI anywhere, civil or criminal.

Is being a sitting Governor sufficient to make one accountable for all criminal liabilities of any or all his opponents?

It would have been better for cheap hirelings like Igboayaka to explore available legal and/or judicial means under the law, to assist Mr NNAJI prove his innocence swiftly, rather than spending precious time and effort seeking to drag in someone that has nothing whatsoever, to do with his situation.

And threatening a statutory institution like ICPC, to dissuade it from performing it’s lawful duty, because a politically exposed person is involved, would set a dangerous precedent: availing criminal immunity to all manner of fugitives, who ordinarily deserve to be in jail.

It is unhelpful, indeed unnecessary here, going into the merits or demerits of the case against suspect, Uche Nnaji, but it would have made better sense to channel his endeavours to mounting a credible legal defence for self, than procuring charlatans and social media goons, to seek to use blackmail and intimidation to help him escape justice.

The best a well-advised accused person can ask for, is an expeditious, free and fair trial, not immunity !

Uche NNAJI should be anxious and ready for his impending day in court,so he can have the chance to prove his innocence, once and for all…

His Excellency,Governor Peter Mbah, is focused on governance, and has neither interest in, nor time for frivolities.

Signed:

Onyekwere Nwobodo
Special Adviser on Media, to the Executive Governor.
July 8,2026.

By Isaac Nwoye

At every turn of events, God’s will for His people manifests in ways that often defy logic and human understanding.

This enduring reality brings to mind the virtues of loyalty, patience, and trust as the political journey of Chief Israel Ikeje Asogwa reaches a defining moment. His story reflects the timeless principle that commitment, steadfastness, and service ultimately attract their reward.

A man of few words, Ikeje Asogwa is widely regarded as a builder of men and an exceptional manager of resources. His public service record spans several strategic positions, including Managing Director of the Enugu State Housing Development Authority (ESHDA), Executive Chairman of the Enugu State Universal Basic Education Board (ENSUBEB), State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Governorship Aspirant. He is also a recipient of numerous awards and a member of several professional bodies.

During his tenure at ESHDA, Ikeje Asogwa transformed the fortunes of the agency within a remarkably short period. He pioneered large-scale housing estate development and became the first Managing Director to embark on such ambitious projects without relying on direct government allocations.

Under his leadership, estates such as Diamond Estate, Divine Estate at Ninth Mile, Zoo Estate, and others were developed through internally generated revenue. These estates were built to high standards, featuring tarred roads, dual drainage systems, and electricity infrastructure, making them highly sought after by residents and investors alike.

His contributions to housing development remain a significant part of Enugu State’s history, particularly for the many citizens who benefited from affordable housing opportunities created under his administration.

Following his success at ESHDA, Ikeje Asogwa was appointed Chairman of ENSUBEB, where many described him as a “game changer.” His tenure was marked by competence, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Within months of assuming office, he initiated the rehabilitation of the board’s facilities and revitalized the workforce. His administration introduced rigorous monitoring mechanisms and improved compliance standards, leading to noticeable improvements in public primary education across the state.

Schools throughout Enugu State experienced significant upgrades, while contractors became eager to undertake projects because payments were processed promptly once certificates were approved. Quality standards remained uncompromised, and project execution was closely monitored.

As State Chairman of the PDP, Ikeje Asogwa maintained the same reputation for efficiency and pragmatism. Those who worked closely with him often describe him as a solution-oriented leader who preferred practical answers to prolonged complaints. His leadership style was defined by decisiveness, strategic thinking, and an ability to inspire confidence.

His political profile rose further when former Governor Sullivan Chime reportedly considered him among potential successors. Although the eventual choice was Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Ikeje Asogwa accepted the decision in good faith and went on to serve as Campaign Director, working diligently for the party’s victory.

Years later, he again played a key role as Campaign Director during the successful gubernatorial campaign of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, demonstrating unwavering loyalty to the party and its leadership.

Despite hailing from Enugu North Senatorial Zone, Ikeje Asogwa did not contest the Senate seat in 2023, respecting both party decisions and the existing zoning arrangement within the district.

However, following the passing of Senator Okey Ezea, the people of Enugu North were presented with the responsibility of identifying a worthy successor. For many across the zone, Ikeje Asogwa emerged as the natural choice — a round peg in a round hole.

From Igboeze South to Igboeze North, from Udenu to Uzouwani, and across Igbo Etiti and Nsukka, his candidacy has reportedly generated widespread support and enthusiasm.

While Igbo Etiti hosted the official flag-off of his campaign, Nsukka Local Government Area is expected to host the grand finale ahead of the by-election.

For many observers, Ikeje Asogwa’s emergence represents more than a political contest; it is viewed as the culmination of years of dedicated service, loyalty, patience, and commitment to the growth and development of Enugu State.

Those who value equity, good governance, and sustainable development in Enugu North Senatorial Zone and Enugu State at large are encouraged to support a man many believe has earned his moment through years of sacrifice and service.

Isaac Nwoye writes from Affa, Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.

By Christian Aburime

Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, has called for a structured and intellectually driven engagement on the “Igbo Question” in Nigeria, urging stakeholders to embrace reasoned debate and constructive dialogue rather than agitation.

Governor Soludo made the call at the Light House in Awka after watching The Tale of Two Nnamdis, a stage play written by Tobe Osigwe and directed by Prof. Uche Nwaozuzu. The production was performed by students of the Theatre Arts and Film Department, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

Commending the students for stimulating a conversation he believes has long been neglected in both academic and political circles, Soludo said the time had come for a serious and evidence-based interrogation of the challenges confronting the Igbo people and their place within the Nigerian federation.

“I was at UNN last month and recalled that the Biafran War was literally declared there. I am glad that you people are now leading the way. That conversation must begin in a very structured manner,” the governor stated.

Soludo expressed concern over what he described as the absence of sustained intellectual engagement on the future of Ndi Igbo, stressing that the subject should be approached through rigorous debate and strategic thinking.

He also criticized methods of agitation that, in his view, have harmed the people they were intended to benefit, citing the prolonged sit-at-home order that affected economic and social life across the South-East for several years.

Drawing from personal experience, the governor reflected on the devastating impact of the Nigerian Civil War, revealing that his mother died during the conflict while his father lived with a bullet lodged in his body for 11 years after the war.

“I saw the war very clearly,” Soludo said. “I am a Pan-Africanist and a proud Nigerian. Ndi Igbo need Nigerians, Nigerians need Ndi Igbo, and the same applies to the wider world. Our prosperity will accelerate if we take advantage of a wider space.”

While acknowledging differing opinions on the future of the region, Soludo emphasized the importance of dialogue, negotiation, and political engagement, drawing inspiration from the legacy of .

“Zik helped us; he bargained in the First and Second Republics. He taught us the politics of bargaining,” he noted.

The governor also challenged Ndi Igbo to confront what he described as a paradox in their political aspirations—seeking Nigeria’s presidency while simultaneously expressing deep skepticism about the Nigerian project.

“It is true that Ndi Igbo want the presidency, but the paradox has to be addressed. As a people, where do we stand? How can you govern a people who don’t know your stand?” he asked.

Reaffirming his commitment to open engagement, Soludo said he was willing to participate in structured discussions with various groups and interests, including those aligned with , provided such engagements remain civil and constructive.

He concluded by stressing the need for tolerance of opposing viewpoints and pledged support for initiatives that promote thoughtful and peaceful discourse on the future of the Igbo people within Nigeria.

“Any group that advances the conversation of the Igbo Question in Nigeria will have our support. The beauty of our republican nature is that you cannot muscle your way through it—you must engage,” the governor said.