Category: News

By Okey Maduforo Awka

Gubernatorial candidate Mr John Nwosu and running mate of the African Democratic Congress ADC in Anambra state Chief Ndubuisi Nwobu have stated that despite the deoature of Mr Peter Obi, and Alhaji Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso,the party is still intact and would run it’s full course in the 2027 general election.

The duo however lamented that the deoature of Obi is indeed painful but was quick to add that the party must forge ahead .

He said as leaders, Obi and Kwankwaso and other key chieftains of the ADC who suddenly left to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) would have waited to resolve the problems the ADC is facing when it mattered most rather than taking a swift to another fold.

Chief Nwobu bared his mind and feelings of other stakeholders of the ADC while briefing newsmen shortly after the ADC Anambra Leadership Consultative Meeting held on Friday in Awka the state capital.

He noted with nostalgia that the candidate of the Labour Party (LP) during the 2023 general elections, Mr. Peter Obi could have shown restraint and commitment in the ADC even in face of the party’s plethora of litigations pending before different courts than leaving it unceremoniously with others.

He vowed that despite the development, leaders and members of the State chapter of the ADC are resolute to take the full circle of the electoral battle ahead of next year’s general elections and would get to it to successfully.

Accorisng to him, the National leadership of the party was not given the opportunity to settle down even less than 24 hours before the supreme Court judgment on Thursday last week when news about the detection of those who left the party rented the air waves up till Friday and Saturday same week and finally on Sunday when the news was finally blown to the entire world.

Nwobu disclosed that the opposition ADC in the state at the moment parades about nine House of Representatives and six State House of Assembly aspirants who have bought nomination forms to contest the 2027 elections while more have indicated interest to join the epical race.

The ADC stalwart further maintained that all those who indicated interest to contest the various positions are greatly prepared to run the race with high morals.

“We feel pains that these people left the party (ADC); definitely it’s going to affect the gains of the party. There’s no point saying every other thing. That having been said I am telling you that those who remain in the party are resolute and prepared to run the course.

He said the ADC Anambra Leadership Consultative Meeting reaffirm loyalty and support to the National leadership under David Mark as national chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as the National Secretary.

Nwobu who was flanked by Hon. Christian Okeke, Ven. Chris Orajekwe and Arch. Afam Moma, Samuel Ikefuna, and Reginald Akunekwe and Ben Chuks Nwosu said “the state leaders reaffirm loyalty and support of the ADC Anambra state to the National leadership headed by Senator David Mark and His Excellency Rauf Aregbesola.”

“The meeting resolved to commend the founding chairman of the ADC Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu for the exemplary show of representing the ADC platform as an umbrella body for the coalition and his selfless role In navigating the coalition to it’s fruition.”

“And we wish to affirm that the ADC’s best is from Anambra state and Anambra state will not be found wanting in the efforts of the party to achieve success during the 2027 general elections,” he said.

“For our brothers who has moved on tp other platform, we wish them well. I look forward to a day we will all join hands together to salvage this country,” Nwobu stated.

He explained further that no new leadership has been Inaugurated in Anambra,adding that that it’s unnecessary for somebody to say he or she has resigned as the party is still contending on issues of offices, conduct of Congresses at the Federal High court.

Chief Nwobu stated that the Inauguration of officials elected at Congresses across the states would be made on the 11th of this month.

By Chinedu Sabastine

The Enugu State Government, in partnership with the South Sahara Social Development Organisation (SSDO), has intensified efforts to strengthen domestic resource mobilisation (DRM) as part of broader strategies to boost climate finance and promote responsive budgeting.

The initiative aligns with the administration’s climate policy framework, which emphasises sustainable development, a green economic transition, and improved fiscal planning.

This was disclosed during a two-day stakeholders’ dialogue on domestic resource mobilisation for climate-responsive budgeting held at Sylvia Hotel, Independence Layout, Enugu and funded by ActionAid Nigeria.

 

Speaking at the event, the Deputy Director of Climate Change in the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Nnamdi Arum, said the state has integrated climate considerations across its projects and programmes.

 

According to him, while Enugu continues to benefit from international funding support, deliberate steps are being taken to strengthen internally generated resources for climate initiatives.

“Climate change has been prioritised across ministries in Enugu State. Most projects are now designed with green considerations in mind,” Arum said.

He commended Governor Peter Mbah for appointing Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke as Special Adviser on Climate Change, noting that his leadership has helped translate climate policies into actionable programmes.

Arum added that the government is actively engaging diverse groups, including youths and persons with disabilities, to ensure inclusive climate policy development.

On funding gaps, he acknowledged that despite progress, external support remains crucial particularly in the agricultural sector to enhance food security and affordability.

In his remarks, Research Policy Officer with SSDO, Okechukwu Ajah, said the dialogue aimed to bridge the gap between policy formulation and implementation.

He noted that although Enugu has domesticated its climate policy and action plan, challenges such as weak inter-ministerial coordination and the absence of clear climate budget tagging persist.

“Many agencies still operate in silos, and there is no distinct climate imprint in budgeting across ministries. This affects ownership and effective implementation of climate policies,” Ajah said.

He expressed optimism that the engagement would yield practical, implementable recommendations, stressing the need to move from theory to action.

Ajah also highlighted the importance of youth inclusion in climate discussions, describing young people as critical stakeholders in shaping sustainable futures.

One of the participants, Chidera Ekoh, described the dialogue as insightful, noting that it provided practical knowledge on addressing climate challenges.

“Climate change is already impacting our economy. This programme has equipped us with the knowledge to prioritise challenges and mobilise resources effectively,” Ekoh said

The Enugu State Government has disowned a group allegedly defrauding traditional medicine practitioners under the guise of acting on its behalf.
In a disclaimer issued on April 28, 2026, the government warned against the activities of individuals operating under the name Association of Traditional Medicine Practitioners of Enugu State (AMTIPES), describing the body as illegal and unrecognized.
According to the statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Hon. Onyekwere Nwobodo, the group has been harassing practitioners and collecting unauthorized levies despite having no accreditation from the state.
The government clarified that the registration and certification of traditional medicine practitioners in Enugu State fall strictly under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, in line with existing laws. It stressed that no other body has the authority to act on its behalf in this regard.
Authorities disclosed that reports of AMTIPES’ activities have been forwarded to law enforcement agencies. Some individuals linked to the group have already been apprehended and are currently facing prosecution in court.
The government urged members of the public, particularly traditional medicine practitioners, to remain vigilant and avoid any dealings with the impostors.
It further emphasized that compliance with only officially recognized channels would protect practitioners from exploitation, reiterating the warning that “to be forewarned is to be forearmed.”

By Okey Maduforo, Awka

The decade-long chieftaincy tussle in the ancient Awka Kingdom appears to have been laid to rest following the formal denouncement by Ozo Austin Ndigwe of claims linking him to the title of Eze Uzu III of the community.

Recall that Ndigwe had previously been accused of parading himself as the Eze Uzu III of Awka Kingdom. However, the Anambra State Government constituted a panel of inquiry into the dispute, chaired by retired Justice Paul Obidigwe, which concluded in its report that Ndigwe is not the traditional ruler of the town.

Recent reports circulating on social media alleged that Ndigwe had announced activities leading to the Egwu Imo-Awka festival, during which he reportedly addressed himself as Eze Uzu III of Awka.

However, in a letter bearing the letterhead “Aka Ji Ofor Awka,” Ndigwe dismissed the reports, insisting that he is not the Eze Uzu of Awka and that the social media account in question is not his.

The letter, titled “Rebuttal and Disclaimer of Alleged Publications,” reads in part:

“My attention has been drawn to publications currently in circulation portraying me as parading myself as the Traditional Ruler of Awka in defiance of the position held by the Government of Anambra State regarding the rulership of Awka town.

“I wish to categorically state that I do not operate the social media outlets which falsely presented these publications in my name, nor have I taken any legal steps contrary to the position of the Anambra State Government.

“A forensic examination of the videos will reveal that the individuals involved are law enforcement officers who are no longer serving in Anambra State.

“I urge the general public to disregard these publications, as they were made in bad faith and are clearly designed to implicate me.”

Confirming the development, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Charles Soludo on New Media, Mazi Ejimofor Opara, stated:

“Chief Austin Ndigwe has formally denounced claims that he is still parading himself as the ‘Eze Uzu III’ of Awka.

“In a letter personally signed and submitted to the Governor of Anambra State and the Attorney General, Ndigwe distanced himself from viral social media posts linking him to the Awka throne.

“He described the reports as the handiwork of mischief makers and stated that he never authorized any such publication. ‘Such information seeks to implicate me… they are made in utmost bad faith,’ he wrote.

“Ndigwe affirmed his respect for the government’s White Paper from the Commission of Inquiry on the Awka kingship dispute and reiterated his commitment to peace and stability in the ancient kingdom.”

Attempts to reach Ndigwe for further comments were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to calls. However, one of his sympathizers, Mr. Benji Okolo, declined to comment, stating that he was not in a position to speak on the matter and advised journalists to seek clarification from the Anambra State Government.

Also speaking, Prof. Austin U. Nonyelu, Chairman of the Organizing Committee for the 90th birthday of Eze Uzu II, Obi Gibson Nwosu, said:

“I just heard about it this morning and made inquiries to verify the authenticity of the report. I was informed by my source that it emanated from Uzu Awka himself.”

By Chinedu Sabastine

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Prof. Simon Otuanya, has reaffirmed that the maritime sector remains a vital driver of economic growth, regional integration, and sustainable development, particularly in Africa.

Otuanya stated this during the 3rd International Conference of the Institute of Maritime Studies, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, held at the university premises.

The conference, themed “From Global Maritime Regulations to Tangible Actions: Driving Sustainable Operations in the African Maritime Sector,” focused on translating global frameworks into practical outcomes.

Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Enugu Campus, Prof. Jesophat Onwumere, emphasised that ports, shipping systems, coastal resources, and blue economy initiatives must go beyond mere compliance with international standards to embrace innovation, inclusiveness, and environmental responsibility.

He commended the Institute and its Local Organising Committee for sustaining what he described as a significant intellectual platform aligned with global discourse, emerging regulatory trends, and best practices in the maritime sector.

According to him, while maritime regulations across the world have advanced in areas such as environmental protection, safety, trade facilitation, and security, the real challenge lies in their domestication, enforcement, and measurable impact especially within developing maritime economies like Nigeria.

“For Africa, and Nigeria in particular, the maritime sector remains a critical pillar for economic growth, regional integration, and sustainable development,” he said.

He noted that the conference provides an important platform for collaboration among academia, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to examine existing systems, share knowledge, and develop solutions that are globally informed yet locally relevant.

“As a university, we remain committed to supporting research, innovation, and strategic engagement that contribute to national development and global relevance,” he added.

Earlier, the Director of the Institute, Prof. Florence Orabueze, described the conference as not merely an academic gathering, but a convergence of minds, a meeting of purpose, and a reaffirmation of collective responsibility toward a sector that remains the lifeblood of global commerce and a catalyst for sustainable development.

She explained that the Institute was founded with a clear vision to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice, as well as between law, policy, and industry realities, noting that it has evolved into a centre of excellence driven by intellectual rigour, interdisciplinary collaboration, and practical relevance.

According to her, the Institute has recorded significant milestones, including the development of a robust academic framework integrating maritime law, business, logistics, environmental governance, tourism, engineering, and blue economy studies.

She noted that through its annual conferences, workshops, and the University of Nigeria Maritime Studies and Research Journal, the Institute continues to provide a platform for scholarly exchange and policy dialogue.

On the conference theme, she described it as both timely and critical, saying, “Africa stands at a crucial stage in its maritime development, with vast coastlines, strategic shipping routes, and expanding port infrastructure,” she said.

Also speaking after receiving an Award of Excellence for his contribution to maritime development, Brig.-Gen. Chibuzor Okwuosa commended the Institute for its resilience and dedication to the sector.

He reiterated his commitment to the development of the maritime industry, describing it as a vital tool for economic growth.

Highlight of the event was presentation of award by some dignitaries such as the MD/CEO of SEDC, Hon. Ben Etiaba, Brig.Gen. Chibuzor Okwuosa, DVC Enugu campus, Prof. Jesophat Onwumere and others.

Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State has come under renewed public scrutiny following a series of allegations levelled against its chairman, Chibueze Offorbuike, bordering on financial mismanagement and misconduct linked to overseas empowerment initiatives.

In a statement circulating among community stakeholders, a former local government official and Awka-based resident claimed that Aguata LGA generates significant monthly revenue, reportedly receiving allocations of up to ₦500 million alongside internally generated revenue (IGR) estimated at ₦200 million. The claims question how such funds are being utilized, alleging a lack of visible, commensurate development across the council area.

According to the account, while some projects such as market construction, rural road repairs, and culverts have been cited by associates of the chairman, concerns persist over the quality, scale, and sustainability of these developments. Some residents reportedly described several of the roads as deteriorating or impassable despite recent interventions.

The statement also raised concerns about alleged property acquisitions linked to the chairman, suggesting that multiple high-value real estate deals have been executed in Awka. It further alleged that individuals close to the administration may have benefited financially from such transactions, though no official documentation has yet been publicly verified.

More troubling are claims from some families regarding overseas “empowerment” trips reportedly sponsored by the local government. The trips, which included destinations such as South Africa and Dubai, were initially perceived as youth development initiatives. However, the statement alleges that some participants, particularly young women, returned with psychological distress, prompting calls for a deeper investigation into the nature and conduct of these programs.

The author of the statement indicated that efforts to obtain official financial records through the Freedom of Information Act have been hindered by bureaucratic obstacles, but promised that further details—including land documents and allocation certificates—may soon be made public.

The allegations have not been independently verified, and no official response has yet been issued by the Aguata LGA authorities as of the time of this report.

Observers note that the development comes amid broader calls for transparency and accountability in local governance across Anambra State, under the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, who has consistently emphasized a shift away from transactional politics toward development-focused leadership.

By Okey Maduforo, Awka
The Onitsha South Local Government Area has concluded plans to appeal a judgment delivered by the Federal High Court, Awka, which ordered it to pay N5 million in damages to Lake Petroleum over the demolition of its property in 2024.
The council had carried out the demolition of what it described as illegal structures in the area, in line with Anambra State laws.
Following the demolition, Lake Petroleum instituted legal action for the enforcement of its fundamental human rights. The court ruled in favour of the company and also restrained the council from making further use of the disputed land.
Speaking to reporters, the Secretary of Onitsha South Local Government Area, Mr. Paul Onuachalla, stated:
“The property in question is known as Ndende Market and Ose-Nkwu Market, which are old local markets originally owned by the Onitsha Local Government Area and later by Onitsha South Local Government Area. We do not understand how Lake Petroleum came to lay claim to the land, and that is what we are challenging.”
He further explained:
“We are appealing the judgment on the grounds that the applicant sought enforcement of fundamental human rights, which is not applicable to the issues in dispute.”
Onuachalla added that the core issue is the ownership of the land:
“The matter in contention is the title to the land, which Lake Petroleum is presenting. We are challenging the authenticity of the documents they have submitted, and that forms part of the grounds of our appeal.”
He also expressed dissatisfaction with the court’s restraining order:
“We are not satisfied with the order restraining access to the land, especially as the issue of title was not addressed by the court.”
According to him, the council’s legal team has applied for the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment and will soon proceed with the appeal.
If you want, I can also tighten it into a punchier newswire version or adapt it for social media publication.

The Executive Chairman of Enugu East Local Government Area, Engr. Pst. Beloved-Dan Obi Anike, has been celebrated for his participation as a distinguished speaker at the 4th International Conference on Management and Indigenous Entrepreneurship (ICMIE) 2026.
The conference, held on April 29, 2026, at the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, brought together academics, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and members of the public to discuss innovative approaches to business and economic development. Themed “Emerging Innovations in Business and Entrepreneurship: A Catalyst for Sustainable and Inclusive Economic Development,” the event focused on strategies for driving growth in emerging economies.
Speaking during the virtual session, Engr. Anike delivered a presentation on “Platform Economies and Sustainable Development in Africa.” He highlighted the critical role local governments can play in fostering small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs), promoting youth-driven innovation, and creating inclusive economic opportunities at the grassroots level.
Participants at the conference commended his practical insights, noting that his contributions reflected real-world governance experience and a results-driven approach to development.
Observers say his participation underscores the growing importance of local leadership in shaping broader economic conversations, particularly in areas of entrepreneurship and sustainable development.

ENUGWU AGULERI — The Ancient Iduu Eri Kingdom has inaugurated a high-powered Planning Committee for the 2026 World Eri Festival (Olili Eri) and the Golden Jubilee celebration of its revered monarch, His Majesty Ezedigbo, Ezeora the 34th (XXXIV), Aka Ji Ovo Igbo.
The dual event is set to commemorate the ancestral arrival of Eri, widely regarded as the progenitor of the Igbo people, while also marking the monarch’s 50 years on the throne.
Speaking during the inauguration, His Majesty described the forthcoming celebration as a defining moment in the cultural renaissance of the Igbo nation, urging committee members to embark on a global mobilization of Ndi Igbo and key stakeholders.
“This is not merely a jubilee,” the monarch stated, “but the beginning of a new dimension in the cultural upliftment of the Igbo race, whose ancestral roots are traced to this Kingdom.”

The three-day event is scheduled to take place from November 7 to November 9, 2026, and is expected to attract participants from across Nigeria and the diaspora, including cultural custodians, diplomats, and development partners.
Committee Leadership
The Planning Committee is chaired by High Chief Kingsley Umeh Chibuike, Nnam Odum Na Iduu Eri (Odum Aguata). High Chief (Prof.) Raphael A. Chikwenze, the Palace Secretary (Aka-Eze Eri), will serve as Deputy Chairman, while High Chief Rabbi Ikechukwu Ogugua (Onyishi Nchu Aja Eri) assumes the role of General Secretary.
Programme of Events
Activities lined up for the celebration include:
November 7, 2026: Grand Symposium featuring scholarly discussions on Igbo history, identity, and a book launch.
November 8, 2026: Mass Remembrance Pilgrimage in honour of the progenitors of the Igbo nation.
November 9, 2026: Cultural displays and conferment of chieftaincy titles on distinguished individuals and institutions.
Among dignitaries expected at the event is the Ambassador of Poland to Nigeria, Ambassador Michał Cygan, who recently paid a courtesy visit to the Obu-Gad Palace to strengthen cultural ties with the Kingdom.
Chairman’s Remarks
In his acceptance speech, the Committee Chairman, High Chief Kingsley Umeh Chibuike, pledged a commitment to excellence, transparency, and diligence in delivering a world-class event.
“Our mandate is to organise a celebration that reflects the dignity of the throne and the global relevance of our heritage as the Igbo nation,” he said. “This Golden Jubilee will embody the majesty of our past, the strength of our present, and the promise of our future.”
The committee has commenced work to ensure the successful execution of the historic celebration.
Media and Sponsorship Enquiries
The Palace Secretary
Obu-Gad Palace, Enugwu Aguleri
The Ancient Iduu Eri Kingdom