Nobody is the creator of life except Allah Almighty. The growing insecurity in Nigeria today has given some individuals, operating under the guise of local vigilantes, the confidence to take the law into their own hands under the pretense of protecting culture and tradition. An interview was conducted with Mr. Ali Osman Musa, whose brother was allegedly killed in 2020. He spoke about the pain and fear his family continues to endure. Excerpt:

Sir, can we know you?
Ali Osman Musa: My name is Ali Osman Musa.

Can you tell us what happened on September 5, 2020?
September 5, 2020, was a black Saturday for my family. On that day, my only brother, Kabiro Ali, was allegedly killed by members of a local vigilante group said to be working alongside security operatives in Maiduguri. Since then, our family has never remained the same.

Why was your brother allegedly killed by the vigilante group?

According to reports, my brother was accused of being involved in a same-sex relationship with one Chiedu Charles Okolo, who was said to have escaped and remains at large. It was alleged that they were discovered at a hotel known as Bread and Breakfast Inn in Maiduguri.
The vigilante group reportedly claimed that the act was against their culture and traditions, describing it as a sacrilege. My brother allegedly paid the supreme price, while Chiedu Charles Okolo escaped during the incident. Since then, they have reportedly declared him wanted, dead or alive.
They also claimed that both men were members of the LGBT community and therefore deserved death. Since that day, they have continued to search for Chiedu Charles Okolo.

Sir, are you also gay?

No. I am not gay, and I never knew my late brother was allegedly involved in such activities until after his death.

Since they are still looking for Chiedu Charles Okolo, what has the situation been like?

There has been a continued manhunt for him since 2020. In fact, on April 28, 2026, some members of the vigilante group and community security allegedly attacked me and the mother of Chiedu Charles Okolo’s child. They accused us of knowing his whereabouts and threatened to kill us if we failed to provide information that could lead to his arrest.
They claimed they wanted to use his blood to “cleanse the land” according to their tradition and culture. Since then, we have been living in fear because our lives are no longer safe.

Do you know the whereabouts of Chiedu Charles Okolo?

No, I do not know where he is. However, I heard that he allegedly attended the event at Teebolus Hotel in Ekpan, Warri, Delta State, on August 27, 2023, when police raided what was described as a gay wedding ceremony. Several persons were arrested during the operation, but it was alleged that Chiedu Charles Okolo escaped. Since then, nobody has known his whereabouts, not even the mother of his child.

What is the way forward now?

We are appealing to the government and security authorities to come to our aid because our lives are at risk. We are innocent people living in fear due to threats from the vigilante group. We do not know the whereabouts of Chiedu Charles Okolo, yet we continue to face intimidation and threats to our lives.

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

The Odogwu of Igbuzo, High Chief Charles Ositadinma Okonkwo, has commended the Duchess Club of Ibusa for its remarkable strides in community development, describing the group as a shining example of selfless service and commitment to grassroots progress.

In a statement made available to newsmen, High Chief Okonkwo praised the non-political association of women for its unwavering dedication to the welfare of the people, noting that their interventions reflect a deep-rooted passion for the growth and well-being of Igbuzo.

He extended commendations to the distinguished matrons, patrons, advisers, National President, Lagos Branch President, and the entire membership of the Duchess Club, as well as honoured guests who attended the project commissioning ceremony.

The community leader particularly applauded the Project Committee for its exceptional performance, highlighting the leadership of its Chairperson, Obi Okpoho (Dr.) Vivian Henry-Ajudua, wife of Obi (Dr.) Henry Chukwuma Ajudua (Ezeudo Igbuzo). He described her as a perfectionist with a proven track record of excellence in community-driven initiatives, noting that her achievements align with her longstanding involvement in impactful ventures through the Vebron Carré Conglomerates Foundation, known for executing similar developmental projects in Igbuzo.

According to him, the Duchess Club demonstrated wisdom in entrusting responsibilities to individuals of proven integrity and diligence, adding that the success recorded stands as a testament to teamwork, discipline, and visionary leadership.

Also speaking, Obi Okpoho (Dr.) Vivian Henry-Ajudua acknowledged the role of donors and supporters whose generosity made the projects a reality. She equally appreciated the consistent support of the Dukes, whose responsiveness ensured seamless coordination throughout the execution phase.

In her speech at the commissioning event, she revealed that following a successful thanksgiving and fundraising exercise by the Lagos Branch, the Club undertook a strategic review of its resources, carefully balancing internal welfare needs with the pursuit of impactful community investments. She commended Duchess Iyabo Okechukwu-Roxy and Duchess Roseline Oligbo for their principled advocacy in prioritising capital projects with long-term benefits.

Highlighting the projects executed, she stated that the Club successfully delivered key infrastructure, including the provision of fifteen modern adjustable hospital beds with safety side rails, the installation of a functional borehole to improve access to potable water, and the deployment of solar energy systems to two community health centres in Ogboli and Umuisagba to enhance service delivery.

These projects demonstrate what can be achieved through disciplined planning, stakeholder engagement, and sustained commitment,” she said, while applauding the Project Committee for its resilience, professionalism, and collaborative spirit.

She expressed gratitude to all attendees, benefactors, and supporters present at the commissioning ceremony, reaffirming the Duchess Club’s commitment to advancing community health and sustainable development in Ibusa.

The Duchess Club of Ibusa, a respected association of women of Ibusa origin and those married into the community, has continued to distinguish itself through impactful initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life across the community.

By: Ike Philip Abiagom 

The Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation has continued to leave an indelible mark on the Igbuzo community, with its wide-ranging humanitarian initiatives transforming lives and strengthening grassroots development.

Over the years, the foundation has distinguished itself through impactful empowerment programmes, including scholarship schemes for students, tricycle (keke) distribution to boost youth employment, free medical outreaches, cash support initiatives, and targeted assistance for widows. These interventions have benefited both indigenes and non-indigenes, earning the foundation widespread commendation.

In response to the growing burden of asthma—a chronic respiratory disease that remains a major public health concern in Nigeria—the foundation broadened its scope to confront what health experts describe as a silent but deadly condition. With an estimated 13 to 15 million Nigerians affected, asthma continues to cause avoidable suffering and deaths due to poor diagnosis, high treatment costs, and environmental triggers.

Driven by a commitment to save lives and improve access to quality healthcare, the founder, Obi Nwaokocha Okeze, established the CIDO Asthma Foundation in Igbuzo two years ago. The facility, widely regarded as a world-class centre, operates on a zero-profit basis, providing completely free services—from hospital registration to consultation and medication.

Since its inception, the foundation has recorded remarkable milestones, currently serving over 900 patients who receive treatment at no cost. Beneficiaries and community members have described the initiative as a rare and life-saving intervention, particularly for low-income families who would otherwise struggle to access proper asthma care. The staff have also been widely praised for their professionalism, compassion, and respectful approach to patient care.

Beyond clinical services, the CIDO Asthma Foundation has remained active in global health advocacy, joining the rest of the world in marking World Asthma Day annually.

This year’s event in Igbuzo recorded a significant turnout, further raising awareness on the importance of early diagnosis and effective management of asthma.

Residents of Igbuzo and neighbouring communities have been urged to take full advantage of the facility, which is considered the first of its kind in Southern Nigeria. Health advocates believe that increased awareness and utilisation will go a long way in reducing asthma-related complications and deaths.

As the Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation continues to expand its humanitarian footprint, its efforts stand as a shining example of how private initiatives can complement public healthcare delivery and bring lasting hope to underserved populations.

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

The CIDO Asthma Foundation on Tuesday joined the rest of the world to commemorate the 2026 World Asthma Day with a massive awareness campaign and free medical outreach aimed at improving the lives of people living with asthma in Igbuzo, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State.

The event, held at the Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Event Centre, attracted residents from Igbuzo and neighbouring communities, health practitioners, patients, caregivers and community leaders who gathered to learn more about asthma prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

World Asthma Day, observed every first Tuesday in May, is an annual global event organised by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) to raise awareness about asthma and advocate improved care for patients worldwide.

The 2026 theme, “Access to Anti-Inflammatory Inhalers for Everyone with Asthma – Still an Urgent Need,” highlights the importance of making inhaled medications accessible and affordable for asthma patients, especially inhaled corticosteroids used in preventing asthma attacks and reducing avoidable deaths.

Speaking during the event, the Team Lead of the foundation, Dr. Pat Adigwe, said the awareness programme was designed to educate the public on asthma symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and emergency management.

According to him, this year’s campaign focused on making inhaler treatment accessible and affordable for all asthma patients.

He explained that asthma remains one of the most common chronic non-communicable diseases globally, affecting over 260 million people and causing more than 450,000 deaths annually, most of which are preventable with proper care and medication.

Dr. Adigwe stressed the importance of inhaler therapy, particularly during emergencies, urging patients not to neglect prescribed medications.

He noted that many asthma-related complications and deaths could be avoided through early diagnosis, proper management and regular use of anti-inflammatory inhalers.

The Chief Co-ordinator of CIDO Asthma Foundation congratulated members of the organisation for sustaining the yearly awareness initiative and reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to supporting asthma patients free of charge.

He disclosed that the foundation has so far treated more than 850 asthma patients at no cost, including the provision of free drugs and inhalers.

According to him, the foundation remains the only dedicated asthma treatment centre in Delta State offering free treatment services to patients.

He called on the government, corporate organisations and well-meaning individuals to support the foundation in expanding its humanitarian services.

“This foundation is open to every asthma patient. We provide free treatment, free drugs and inhalers because we believe nobody should die from asthma due to lack of access to medication,” he said.
The event also featured health talks by medical experts who educated participants on asthma triggers, prevention strategies and the proper use of inhalers.
Many beneficiaries of the foundation shared emotional testimonies on how the organisation had helped them manage their health challenges and remain alive.

The Chairman of the occasion, member representing Oshimili North Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Frank Esenwah, was represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor, Hon. Henry Mordi.

The representative commended the founder and management of the foundation for their humanitarian services and dedication to saving lives. He urged the government and relevant stakeholders to support the initiative, describing it as a life-saving intervention for asthma patients across the state.

The presence of Hon. Esenwah’s supporters added excitement to the event as admirers displayed placards and banners expressing solidarity and appreciation for the lawmaker’s support for healthcare initiatives in the constituency.

The World Asthma Day celebration ended on a colourful note, with participants describing the programme as highly educative, impactful and beneficial to the community.

By : Ike Philip Abiagom 

The (DSCTDA), alongside the State Task Force on Environment, has stepped up enforcement activities against environmental violations in Asaba, demolishing illegal structures and dislodging traders operating on road setbacks.

The sanitation exercise, which commenced on May 4, covered several strategic locations within the capital territory, including McDon Road, High Court Road near the Event Centre, GRA Estate, Cenotaph area, and DBS Road.

During the operation, officials removed traders occupying unauthorized spaces along roadsides, while makeshift shops and other illegal structures erected in restricted areas were dismantled to restore order and free movement.

In addition to the enforcement, the agency embarked on a sensitisation campaign led by the Corporate Affairs Unit under the supervision of Ms. Ngozi Peter. The team engaged residents, business owners, landlords, tricycle operators, and commercial drivers on the importance of environmental cleanliness and compliance with sanitation laws.

Speaking during the exercise, the Head of Operations, Mr. Isaac Nwosu, who represented the Director-General of DSCTDA, Mr. Patrick Ukah, reiterated the agency’s commitment to sanitising the capital city and ensuring strict adherence to environmental regulations.
Nwosu warned that any residential or commercial property found violating environmental standards would be sealed, while offenders would face prosecution according to the law.

He noted that the Director-General had directed that the exercise should continue across different parts of the capital territory until lasting cleanliness and environmental discipline are achieved.

The agency also appealed to residents and traders to cooperate with authorities by adhering to environmental guidelines aimed at making Asaba cleaner, safer, and more organized.

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

The Duchess Club of Ibusa, a renowned non-political association of enlightened married women of Ibusa origin and women married into the community, on Saturday unveiled a series of community development projects across various quarters in Igbuzo, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State.
Founded on June 20, 1982, in Benin City, then Bendel State, by Duchess Commy Obiajulu Abuah, the women’s organization has over the years earned admiration for its humanitarian and developmental programmes aimed at improving the welfare of the people of Igbuzo and neighbouring communities.

The club, which has grown to seven branches across different locations, has consistently championed initiatives in education, healthcare, social welfare, and grassroots development.

The latest projects were initiated by the Lagos Branch under the distinguished leadership of Duchess Agatha Iyabo Roxy-Okechukwu (née Sualeze) and later presented to the national headquarters for approval. Funds for the projects were sourced through contributions from sons and daughters of Igbuzo and other well-wishers.

The first phase of the project took place at the Ogboli Primary Health Centre, where the club donated a borehole and eight hospital beds to improve healthcare delivery in the area. The projects were Commissioned and unveiled by the Chairman of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission, Dr. Austin Obidi, alongside the Odogwu of Igbuzo, High Chief Charles Okonkwo.

The second phase was held at the Umuisagba Primary Health Centre, where the association donated Ten(10) hospital beds and installed a complete solar power system to provide electricity for the facility. The projects were unveiled and commissioned by the Ide of Igbuzo, High Chief Austin Izagbo, in the presence of other dignitaries and community members.

Speaking during the event, the Lagos Branch Chairman, Duchess Agatha Iyabo Roxy-Okechukwu, said members of the club were united in their resolve to positively impact the lives of people in Igbuzo by giving back to the community.

She commended members of the project committee led by Duchess (Dr.) Vivian Henry-Ajudua (née Njideka Obi Okpoho) for their dedication and commitment towards the successful execution of the projects.

According to her, As members of this noble club, we resolved to touch lives in our community through meaningful projects that will improve healthcare services and the wellbeing of our people.

Also speaking, the National President of the Duchess Club of Ibusa, Duchess Florence Nwamaka Abdul (née Ajufo), said the projects were part of efforts to improve water supply, sanitation, and healthcare services in the community health centres.

She appreciated club members, donors, partners, volunteers, and especially the matrons of the association for their support and cooperation in ensuring the success of the initiative.

Among prominent members and dignitaries acknowledged during the event were the National Secretary, Duchess Philomena Ngozi Oputteh of the Benin Branch; Duchess Agatha Iyabo Roxy-Okechukwu of the Lagos Branch; Mrs. Okonkwo, the Ibusa Chaplain; Mrs. Pat Olaitoh of the Ibadan Branch; and Mrs. Josephine Egbochionye of the Abuja Branch, who represented the Abuja Branch President.

The event attracted traditional leaders, healthcare workers, women groups, youths, and residents who praised the Duchess Club for its sustained commitment to community development and humanitarian service in Igbuzo.

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

As part of efforts to raise awareness about asthma and promote access to quality healthcare, the CIDO Asthma Foundation has concluded plans to celebrate the 2026 World Asthma Day on Tuesday, May 5.

World Asthma Day is observed annually across the globe to educate people on asthma, a chronic respiratory condition that affects the lungs and makes breathing difficult for millions of people. The annual event also highlights the importance of early diagnosis, proper treatment, and continuous medical care for asthma patients.

Speaking ahead of the celebration, Dr Pat Adigwe, Co- ordinator of the Foundation noted that asthma can become life-threatening when poorly managed, stressing that adequate awareness and access to medical attention would help patients live healthy and productive lives.

As part of activities lined up for the celebration, staff and volunteers of the CIDO Asthma Foundation will embarked on awareness rally through several communities to sensitise residents on the dangers, symptoms, and management of asthma.

The rally, which attracted health advocates and supporters, moved through various towns before climaxing in Igbuzo, home to a world-class medical facility dedicated to the treatment and management of asthma-related conditions.

This year’s World Asthma Day celebration is themed: “Access to Anti-Inflammatory Inhalers, Especially Corticosteroids.”

According to the Foundation, the theme underscores the urgent need for asthma patients to have easy access to life-saving inhalers and essential medications capable of reducing severe attacks and complications associated with the disease.

The Foundation further disclosed that more programmes and health initiatives would be unveiled during the main celebration on Tuesday, aimed at improving asthma care, strengthening public awareness, and supporting individuals living with the condition.
Residents have been encouraged to participate actively in the activities and seek proper medical attention whenever symptoms of asthma are noticed.

By: Ike Philip Abiagom – Newsbreeze

The Igbuzo Youth Council has purchased the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Assembly nomination form for Hon. Frank Esenwah, the incumbent member representing Oshimili North Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, in a strong show of solidarity and confidence in his leadership.

The nomination form was formally presented to Hon. Esenwah at his residence on Friday by the leadership of the youth body, led by its President, Comrade Ifeanyi Asiodu, alongside prominent APC stakeholders from Ogboli and a former Legislative Aide to late Senator Peter Nwaoboshi.

Speaking during the presentation, the youth council described Hon. Esenwah as a worthy representative who has provided proactive and people-oriented representation for the entire Oshimili North Constituency over the past three years.

According to the group, the decision to purchase the form was informed by the lawmaker’s performance, accessibility, and commitment to the welfare and development of the constituency.

The council also emphasized the strong ancestral ties between Hon. Esenwah and Igbuzo, noting that although his father hails from Illah, his mother is from Igbuzo, making him a true son of the community.

“We are proud of Hon. Frank Esenwah and the quality representation he has given to Oshimili North. He has shown capacity, dedication, and commitment to the people. That is why the youths of Igbuzo decided to support him by purchasing his APC nomination form,” the council stated.

The youth body further pledged total support for the lawmaker ahead of the forthcoming election, assuring him of overwhelming votes from Igbuzo and other parts of the constituency.

We will mobilize massively for him because he has performed creditably well. The youths are proud of his representation and we believe he deserves another opportunity to continue his good work, the group added.

Responding, Hon. Esenwah expressed gratitude to the Igbuzo Youth Council and APC leaders for the gesture, describing it as a demonstration of love, trust, and confidence in his leadership.

He assured the people of Oshimili North of his continued commitment to quality representation, grassroots development, and the advancement of the constituency if re-elected.

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

Igbuzo communities in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State on Thursday staged a peaceful protest at the Government House, Asaba, demanding urgent intervention from Governor Sheriff Oborevwori over the alleged abandonment and poor execution of the Achalla–Ibusa road project.

The protesters, made up of youths, women, elders, and community leaders, decried the deplorable condition of the road, describing it as the only major access route linking Achalla and Ibusa communities to Asaba and neighboring areas.

The protest was led by the Secretary General of the Ibusa Youth Council, Comrade Vincent Ollimah; Anyalobum Youth President, Comrade Steve Mamoh; President General of Achalla Ibusa, Comrade Lawrence Nwanze; and Community Secretary, Comrade Emeka Okolo.

Carrying placards with different inscriptions, the demonstrators appealed to Governor Oborevwori to urgently intervene in what they described as years of neglect, hardship, and suffering caused by the failed road project.

According to the community leaders, information available to them suggested that the contract awarded for the construction of the Achalla–Ibusa road may terminate several kilometres before reaching Ibusa town, a development they described as unfair and unacceptable.

The protesters questioned why the road project would allegedly stop short of Ibusa despite the community being part of the Delta State capital territory.

We want to know what offence Ibusa people have committed. Why should the road stop after Asaba without getting to Ibusa? Are we not part of the capital territory? one of the protesters asked.

They noted that the Achalla–Ibusa road remains economically strategic to both Ibusa and Asaba, lamenting that years of neglect had turned daily commuting into a nightmare for residents.
According to them, residents of Achalla travelling to Asaba are often forced to take longer alternative routes through Ibusa town, a journey that ordinarily should take only a few minutes but now stretches into several hours due to the poor condition of the road.

The Community leaders also alleged that the project earlier awarded to a contractor identified as “Ebube Dan” had been abandoned, leaving residents in untold hardship.

Speaking during the protest, the leaders acknowledged Governor Oborevwori’s infrastructural development efforts across the state but appealed for similar attention to be extended to Achalla and Ibusa communities.

They stressed that the situation has worsened with the onset of the rainy season, making transportation increasingly difficult and exposing residents to serious risks, especially during emergencies.

Despite their grievances, the protesters reaffirmed their support for Governor Oborevwori, insisting that they still believed in his administration’s commitment to development and inclusive governance.

Addressing the protesters on behalf of the state government, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, commended the community members for conducting a peaceful and orderly protest.

Aniagwu assured the protesters that Governor Oborevwori was fully aware of their concerns and remained committed to ensuring fairness and transparency in the execution of projects across the state.

He explained that the government would carefully examine the issues raised by the community, noting that road construction during the rainy season requires proper planning to guarantee durability and quality delivery.

The commissioner further assured the community that the Oborevwori administration does not abandon projects once awarded and promised that their complaints would receive prompt government attention.

The protest ended peacefully with a vote of thanks delivered by the President General of Achalla Ibusa, Comrade Lawrence Nwanze, who passionately appealed to Governor Oborevwori to act swiftly in addressing the plight of the communities.

We are in serious pain. Our people have suffered for years because of this road. We are appealing to the governor to come to our rescue and ensure the completion of the Achalla–Ibusa road project, Nwanze said.