Category: News

The immediate past President-General of Amankanu Ohofia Oduma Town Union in Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State, Rev. Dr. David E. C. Okoro, has called on the state government to intervene in the ongoing leadership crisis in the community, insisting that the tenure of the town union’s caretaker committee has legally expired.
Okoro made the appeal in a message addressed to the Enugu State Commissioner for Local Government and Rural Development, C. O. C. Egumgbe, urging the ministry to ensure that justice prevails in the leadership process in Amankanu.
In the message, the former President-General appealed to the commissioner not to view repeated communications from community members as harassment, describing them instead as legitimate calls for justice.
“Please do not take it hard on us if we bug you with write-ups, voice notes or calls on the subject matter in Amankanu Ohofia Oduma. Those means of communication are calls for justice. We are not volatile,” he said.
Okoro maintained that the tenure of the Amankanu Town Union Caretaker Committee officially ended at 11:59 p.m. on March 9, 2026, stressing that the 2025 Amended Laws for Town Unions in Enugu State do not allow tenure extension.
“For the records, the tenure of the Amankanu people Town Union Caretaker Committee ended at 11:59 p.m. on March 9, 2026. The 2025 Amended Laws for Town Unions in Enugu State have no provision for tenure extension. Section 43 refers,” he stated.
According to him, the caretaker committee had earlier constituted an Electoral Committee in October 2025 to oversee the election of new town union executives. The committee was reportedly approved by the community during an emergency meeting held at Eke Ndieke.
However, Okoro alleged that the process was later disrupted.
He claimed that a community leader, Chief Dubem Ekpete, allegedly dissolved the electoral committee unilaterally and appointed his personal assistant, Akachukwu Agụ, as chairman of a new screening committee.
“Chief Dubem Ekpete single-handedly dissolved the Electoral Committee and handpicked his personal assistant and the personal driver and manager of Chief Shadrach Ekene Ekpete in Enugu, Akachukwu Agụ, as chairman of the screening committee. The outcome of such screening is obvious,” he alleged.
Okoro also recalled a similar controversy that occurred in the community in 2017 involving the installation of a traditional ruler.
He said Chief Innocent Okorie Ekpete was allegedly installed as the traditional ruler under controversial circumstances during a gathering held in December 2017, adding that the matter remains in court and is scheduled for cross-examination on March 12, 2026.
The former President-General therefore urged the state government to restore order by ratifying the earlier electoral committee set up in October and ensuring that a credible town union election is conducted.
“Ratify the Electoral Committee set up last October, make necessary replacements in collaboration with the elders, stakeholders and youths, and set aside every arrangement, including the purported Igwe election or screening chaired by Akachukwu Agụ,” he appealed.
He also called on the authorities to investigate how a document described as a “hierarchy or titular constitution” relating to the community was allegedly forwarded to the ministry for gazetting.
“Investigate the source of the document and who forwarded the hierarchy or titular constitution to the ministry for gazetting, because there must be a forwarding letter accompanying the purported constitution,” he said.
Okoro further urged the government to fix a date for fresh town union elections so the community can elect a substantive leadership.
He expressed hope that the stakeholders’ meeting scheduled for March 11, 2026 would provide an opportunity for truth and justice to prevail in the community.
The former President-General also questioned the legitimacy of claims surrounding the traditional leadership structure in Amankanu.
“How can a biological father and his son be Igwe-elects of Amankanu Ohofia at the same time?” he asked.

The planned Igweship election of Nru Nsukka Autonomous Community in Enugu State has been thrown into uncertainty following allegations of certificate and signature forgery in the community’s constitution.
The disputed constitution, reportedly adopted on March 9, 2021 and sworn to on March 29, 2021, carries the signatures of fourteen individuals out of seventeen listed signatories, including village heads, the traditional ruler, the oldest woman in the community, and the youth leader.
However, the document has come under intense scrutiny after some of the supposed signatories—both living members and relatives of deceased ones—claimed they were unaware of the constitution and did not sign it.
Dispute Over Igweship Rotation
At the centre of the controversy is Section 10 of the constitution, which states that the Igweship should rotate between the Ezema and Evonashi quarters of the community. It also provides that the selection of the traditional ruler should be based on merit rather than village seniority.
But elders and stakeholders in the community have rejected this provision, insisting that the traditional ruler should emerge according to the seniority of villages within the quarter whose turn it is to produce the Igwe.
Some elders accused members of the constitution drafting committee of disregarding long-standing cultural traditions.
“Our culture recognises seniority in everything,” one village head who requested anonymity said. “The eldest village in the quarter should produce candidates for the Igwe. But this constitution ignores that tradition and opens the contest to anyone with influence or money. We reject it.”
The elders also called on Peter Ndubuisi Mbah to intervene to prevent a possible breakdown of law and order.
Allegations of Forged Signatures
Concerns escalated when relatives of some listed signatories alleged that their signatures were forged.
Harrison Ezema, son of Elder Michael Ezema, the village head of Umashi, claimed his father never signed the document.
“My father cannot sign like that. He only uses thumbprints,” Harrison said. “We took him to the village square to ask about it, but nobody could explain who signed for him.”
Similarly, Mrs. Monica Ugwuanyi, the community’s oldest woman, was reportedly listed as a signatory, but her column was signed by a man identified as Obi Ishiwu. She said she had no knowledge of the constitution.
Calls for Dialogue
The traditional prime minister of the community, Onowu Sylvanus Okoro, has appealed for calm and urged stakeholders to resolve the issue through dialogue.
He noted that the constitution had existed for about five years without objection and suggested that the matter could be addressed during a general assembly.
“If it is true that the document was not properly signed, we can rectify it,” Okoro said. “What we want is peace. If we destroy ourselves over the Igwe position, who will the traditional ruler govern?”
Drafting Committee Defends Constitution
However, a member of the constitution drafting committee, Barrister Patrick Omeje, dismissed the allegations, insisting that the constitution was properly drafted and approved before it was submitted to the Enugu State Ministry of Rural Development.
He argued that the same constitution had recently been used to elect the community’s town union executives without any complaints.
“Those alleging forgery should go to court and prove it,” Omeje said. “The constitution is authentic and already recognised by the state government.”
On the controversy surrounding seniority, Omeje said the Igweship election must follow the rotational arrangement between Ezema and Evonashi quarters and be decided through an election, in line with the state’s traditional rulers’ law.
Historical Context
Nru Nsukka Autonomous Community was created during the administration of Chimaroke Nnamani from Nsukka Town, comprising Iheagu, Ezemanedem, and Umuoyo quarters.
While Ezemanedem and Umuoyo retained their names, Iheagu adopted the name Nru Nsukka Autonomous Community.
Some residents claim the controversial constitution was drafted unilaterally by the then town union leadership to influence leadership structures in the community.
Observers warn that the dispute, if not carefully handled, could deepen divisions within the community and further delay the planned Igweship election.
Credit: People’s Voice

By Sabastine Adonu

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of S. Mobile Tech, Dr Ifeanyi Adonu, has called for increased participation of Nigerian youths in the digital economy, stressing that technology and telecommunications remain critical drivers of business growth and job creation.

Adonu made the call in Enugu shortly after receiving the “Icon of Entrepreneurship Award” from the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Enugu State Council.

He noted that the world is rapidly becoming digital and urged young people to acquire relevant technological skills that would enable them create applications, develop innovations and thrive in the evolving global economy.

The telecom entrepreneur described the award as both a privilege and a motivation to continue contributing to economic development through innovation and youth empowerment.

“I am very happy about this award. It is a privilege I do not take for granted. I dedicate it to God and see it as encouragement to continue doing more,” he said.

Adonu explained that his company, S. Mobile Net Zone Limited, operates as a major distribution partner of MTN Nigeria, handling airtime, data and other telecommunications products across the South-East region.

According to him, the company has grown into one of the leading telecom distribution networks in the region, employing about 47 staff members while supporting a wide network of partners and retailers.

He added that the company recorded a major milestone in 2024 when it emerged as the top distributor of MTN products in Nigeria, attributing the achievement to innovative strategies and consistent customer engagement.

“In a competitive industry like telecommunications, strategy is everything. You cannot sit back and wait for customers to come to you. We actively reach out to customers and maintain relationships that encourage repeat patronage,” he said.

Beyond telecommunications distribution, Adonu said he established the S. Mobile Tech Institute to equip young people with relevant digital skills and redirect their talents toward productive ventures.

He explained that the institute provides training in areas such as cybersecurity, robotics, artificial intelligence and software development, with the aim of preparing youths for emerging opportunities in the digital economy.

“The idea is to change the mindset of the youth. Instead of using their knowledge for illegal activities, they can use it to build applications, develop software and create solutions that will benefit society,” he said.

Adonu disclosed that the institute, which was registered in 2024 and officially launched in September 2025, offers both physical and online learning programmes and has already begun attracting students from within and outside Nigeria.

He further revealed that the organisation provides free one-month training programmes for residents of Enugu to encourage wider participation, particularly among young people who may not initially afford the courses.

While highlighting progress in the telecommunications sector, Adonu noted that businesses in the region still face several operational challenges, including infrastructure limitations and intense competition.

He also identified the vandalisation of telecommunications facilities as a major threat to network stability, explaining that damage to telecom masts often disrupts services and places additional pressure on existing infrastructure.

Despite the challenges, he maintained that sustained investment in technology, improved protection of telecom infrastructure and increased public awareness would help strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy and create more opportunities for young entrepreneurs.

By Sabastine Chinedu

The Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB), Enugu State Chapter, has expressed concern over the rising rate of quackery in building construction across Nigeria.

The Chairman of the association in the state, Bldr. Gyok Luka, made this known during a press conference held at the Press Centre, Rangers Avenue, Independence Layout, Enugu, as part of activities marking the 2026 Builders’ Week.

Luka noted that quackery remains a major factor responsible for the persistent cases of building collapse in the country and called for stronger collaboration among corporate organisations, government agencies, and individuals to address the challenge.

Speaking on the theme of the 2026 Builders’ Week, “Advocacy and Policy Influence Towards Sustainable Reforms for a Resilient Built Environment,” Luka advocated strategic policy reforms aimed at strengthening institutional frameworks within the construction industry.

He reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to promoting professionalism, ethical practice, and adherence to best standards in building production management.

According to him, the institute is deeply concerned about the recurring incidents of building collapse and structural failures reported across various parts of the country.

“These unfortunate occurrences continue to pose serious threats to lives, property, and public confidence in the construction industry,” Luka said.

He noted that investigations into many building failures have consistently revealed that the engagement of unqualified personnel, poor construction management, use of substandard materials, and disregard for approved building designs and professional supervision are major contributing factors.

“As custodians of construction management within the building industry, professional builders remain critical to ensuring that buildings and infrastructure are delivered safely, efficiently, and sustainably,” he added.

Luka further stated that the Enugu State Chapter of NIOB is ready to collaborate with the Enugu State Government, regulatory agencies, professional institutions, and private sector stakeholders to advance policies and initiatives that promote safe, sustainable, and high-quality construction practices.

The institute also called on government regulatory agencies to strengthen monitoring, inspection, and enforcement mechanisms at all stages of building development, stressing that the provisions of the National Building Code of Nigeria must be rigorously implemented to ensure compliance with construction standards and safety regulations.

The institute emphasised that engaging registered professional builders in the supervision and management of construction projects is essential, noting that builders are trained to coordinate the building production process, ensuring effective planning, quality control, cost management, and compliance with regulatory standards.

According to Luka, such reforms should promote accountability, enhance collaboration among built environment professionals, and establish clear responsibilities within the building production process.

The institute also acknowledged the growing impact of climate change on infrastructure and urban development, calling for the adoption of sustainable construction practices such as energy-efficient designs, climate-responsive construction techniques, and the use of environmentally responsible building materials.

Furthermore, the institute stressed the need for sustained public awareness on the dangers of engaging unqualified individuals for construction projects, noting that the safety and sustainability of the built environment require collective responsibility among government institutions, developers, professionals, and the general public.

NIOB therefore urged policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the public to support advocacy efforts aimed at strengthening regulatory frameworks and promoting sustainable reforms within the construction sector.

The institute reaffirmed its commitment to championing policies, professional standards, and innovative practices that will guarantee a safe, resilient, and sustainable built environment for present and future generations.

Following his recent voluntary resignation as the Chairman of the Governing Council of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa was received in a private audience with His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican.
​
In a move highlighting the intersection of public service and spiritual devotion, Sir Chinyeaka embarked on this pilgrimage to seek apostolic blessings and reflect on a career dedicated to administrative excellence and national development.

In what was a ​high-profile delegation ​Sir Chinyeaka was accompanied by the highly revered Cardinal John Onaiyekan, Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja. The Cardinal’s presence added a layer of profound ecclesiastical significance to the visit, symbolizing the strong ties between the Nigerian Catholic laity and the global Holy See.

​Highlights of the Visit included moments of prayer and reflection where Sir Chinyeaka recieved a formal blessing from the Holy father, a gesture often extended to those who have concluded significant chapters of leadership as Sir Chinyeaka has done in various walks of life including ESUT.

The visit further served as
​a spiritual transition, marking the formal conclusion of Sir Chinyeaka’s leadership role at ESUT. Beside being an affirmation of values, recognizing his contributions to education and public infrastructure in Nigeria through the lens of faith-based service, the visit is
​a diplomatic gesture, strengthening the spiritual bond between the Nigerian laity and the Holy See.

Speaking to our reporters, Sir Chinyeaka said that, “Service to humanity is an extension of service to God. This visit is a moment of gratitude for the opportunity to have led ESUT and a chance to seek divine guidance for the chapters ahead.”

​Sir Chinyeaka is a veteran administrator and retired Federal Permanent Secretary. His tenure as the Chairman of the ESUT Governing Council was marked by significant strides in institutional stability and academic focus. His visit to the Vatican underscores a lifelong dedication to the Church and the principles of integrity in leadership.

No doubt, to transition from the rigors of university governance to the serene halls of the Vatican is a testament to Sir Chinyeaka’s commitment to grounding leadership in faith.
​

The leadership crisis in Umuchigbo Iji-Nike Autonomous Community has been resolved after the community adopted recommendations of a peace and reconciliation committee set up by the chairman of Enugu East Local Government Area, Beloved-Dan Obi Anike.
The Umuchigbo General Assembly, the highest decision-making body of the community, accepted the committee’s report aimed at restoring peace and unity after months of disagreement that caused tension and misinformation among residents.
The committee, made up of respected leaders and representatives of government institutions, was mandated to review the crisis, rebuild trust and recommend a stable leadership structure for the community.
Among its key recommendations are a review of the Igweship selection process, restructuring of the community’s governance system to clearly define the roles of the Igwe and President General, and a comprehensive review of the community’s over 30-year-old constitution.

The committee also condemned the killings, destruction of property and alleged hiring of thugs during the crisis, recommending support for affected families and assessment of damaged houses and vehicles for possible compensation.
To promote fairness and stability, the community also agreed that key leadership positions would rotate among the kindreds.
As part of the resolution, the assembly recognised Chief Afam Ogbene as the elected Executive Chairman of the community, with additional executive positions created to ensure wider representation.
Community leaders expressed hope that the resolutions would usher in lasting peace, urging residents to work together for the development of Umuchigbo.

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The Enugu State Government has announced a 90-day amnesty for property owners whose buildings lack approved plans, as part of efforts to strengthen regulatory compliance and promote orderly urban development across the state.
The initiative was disclosed in a statement issued on Friday in Enugu by the Managing Director of the Enugu State Geographic Information System (ENGIS), Mr. Chiwetalu Nwatu. According to the statement, the amnesty will be implemented in collaboration with relevant planning authorities and is aimed at allowing owners of existing buildings to regularise their properties without facing sanctions.
Under the amnesty programme, owners of buildings without approved plans are required to submit as-built drawings for approval through ENGIS. Property owners who do not have existing drawings have been advised to engage certified architects to prepare as-built plans that accurately reflect the current state of their structures and submit them within the amnesty period.
ENGIS explained that the measure is designed to improve compliance, sanitise the built environment, and reinforce structured physical development in line with the state government’s urban planning agenda.
The agency also issued a strong warning on future compliance, stressing that no building plan approval will henceforth be granted without a registered land title. Acceptable documents, it noted, include a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) or a registered Deed of Assignment.
Furthermore, the agency cautioned that no construction should commence without both a valid land title and an approved building plan issued by the appropriate authority, including ENGIS, the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), or designated town planning offices.
ENGIS also called on individuals and corporate bodies holding land under Power of Attorney arrangements to regularise their documentation by registering proper title instruments, to ensure eligibility for building approvals and full legal protection.
Speaking on the policy, Mr. Nwatu described the amnesty as a corrective and forward-looking intervention.
“This window is not punitive; it is an opportunity for property owners to come into compliance without penalties, while helping the state build a more organised and secure urban environment,” he said.
He added that the move aligns with the state’s broader land administration reforms.
“Going forward, we are institutionalising a culture where land title and building approval go hand in hand. This is critical for protecting genuine property owners and ensuring that Enugu grows in a planned and sustainable manner,” Nwatu stated.
The 90-day amnesty took effect on Friday, February 27, 2026.