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Oborevwori Tasks New Delta CP on Firm Security Clampdown Ahead of 2027 Polls

By: Ike Philip Abiagom 

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has charged the newly posted Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Aina Adesola, to intensify the fight against crime and ensure the arrest and prosecution of anyone found in possession of firearms or involved in activities capable of threatening public peace, especially as preparations begin towards the 2027 general elections.

The governor gave the charge on Tuesday in Asaba while receiving CP Adesola and members of his management team during a courtesy visit to the Government House.
Governor Oborevwori described the posting of CP Adesola to Delta State as a welcome development and, indeed, a homecoming, noting that the police boss was already familiar with the security landscape of the state, having previously served in strategic operational roles within the command.

He attributed the prevailing calm across Delta State to effective collaboration among the police and other security agencies, adding that CP Adesola had, within a short period, demonstrated professionalism, experience and a sound understanding of the terrain.
“I am pleased with your posting to Delta State because you know this terrain very well. You have served here before and we are already seeing positive results. For the few weeks you have been here, the state has remained peaceful, and we appreciate your efforts,” the governor said.

Reflecting on the security challenges experienced before 2023, Oborevwori recalled that the open display of firearms by miscreants and criminal elements was once common in some parts of the state. He noted, however, that firm actions by security agencies had since put an end to such practices.

He warned that the state government would no longer tolerate any form of lawlessness or gun-related violence, stressing that the era of open intimidation with firearms in Delta State was over.

The governor commended senior officers of the Delta State Police Command for their dedication and commitment to duty, particularly acknowledging the roles played by ACP Aliyu Shaba and the former Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations in restoring peace to previously troubled areas.
As the state moves closer to another election season, Oborevwori urged the police to remain proactive and resolute, emphasizing that anyone caught with firearms or attempting to disrupt peace must be dealt with in accordance with the law.

“We will not allow insecurity in Delta State. Anyone found with firearms or trying to disturb the peace must be arrested and prosecuted,” he stated.

The governor also appealed to residents to support security agencies by volunteering credible information, describing security as a shared responsibility. He added that peace and security were critical to sustainable development and economic growth, noting that a safe environment was essential for attracting investors.
“Peace creates room for development. Without peace, investors will not come. Delta State is open for business,” he said.
In his remarks, the Commissioner of Police, CP Aina Adesola, thanked the governor for the warm reception and pledged the command’s unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and security across the state.

He assured residents that the police, under his leadership, would continue to work round the clock to ensure that lives and property are protected, adding that Delta State would remain a place where citizens could live and sleep without fear.

Senator Uche Lilian Ekwuife : An Amazon and the True Portrait of a Virtuous Woman

By: Ike Philip Abiagom
Senator (Lady) Uche Lilian Ekwuife (Iyom) stands tall as an Amazon in leadership and a shining embodiment of womanhood rooted in virtue, faith and selfless service. Widely admired across Anambra State and beyond, she represents the true definition of a virtuous woman whose life, values and accomplishments continue to inspire many within and outside the political space.
Graceful in character and firm in conviction, Senator Ekwuife is celebrated not only for her outstanding achievements in public service, but also for her deep sense of responsibility to God, family and society. She embodies a rare blend of beauty, humility and fear of God—qualities that have endeared her to people from all walks of life and earned her respect across generations.
As a proud daughter of Igbo- Ukwu, Senator Ekwuife has consistently projected the values of her people through her conduct and leadership style. Her life reflects love that is genuine, joy that is authentic, faith that is unshakeable and godliness that is lived daily. These virtues have made her a pillar of strength to her family, a devoted wife to her husband, Chief Larry Ekwunife (Ochendo), a loving and exemplary mother to her children, and a worthy ambassador of Anambra State on the national stage.
Distinguished Senator Uche Lilian Ekwuife is a celebrated Nigerian politician, an accomplished banker, a visionary leader and a renowned philanthropist whose career embodies service, resilience and transformational leadership. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Education and Accounting from the University of Calabar, a Postgraduate Diploma and Master’s degree in Business Administration from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, and a PhD in Public Administration from Atlantic International University (AIU), Hawaii, USA.
A firm believer in continuous learning, Senator Ekwuife has undertaken several executive and leadership training programmes locally and internationally at institutions such as Harvard Business School, Lagos Business School, the University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa, and IBFC Agusto Training, among others. She is also a Chartered Accountant and a respected member of several professional bodies, including ANAN, NIM (Chartered), HCIB, and a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Marketing (NIMARK). In recognition of her contributions, she was conferred with an Honorary Doctorate by the Institute of Journalism, Management and Continuing Education, Enugu.
Before venturing into politics, Senator Ekwuife distinguished herself in the banking sector, rising rapidly through the ranks from Branch Manager at Standard Trust Bank to Area Manager and later Head of the Public Sector Unit at United Bank for Africa (UBA). Her exceptional leadership and performance earned her the prestigious Young Banker of the Year Award in 2001.
Her political journey began in 2007 when she was elected into the House of Representatives to represent Anaocha/Njikoka/Dunukofia Federal Constituency, where she served two consecutive terms. During her tenure, she held several key leadership positions, including Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Public Accounts, and Leader of the Anambra State and APGA Caucuses. She also served on numerous standing and ad hoc committees and national assignments, contributing significantly to legislative development and policy formulation.
In 2015, Senator Ekwuife was elected into the Nigerian Senate to represent Anambra Central Senatorial District, making history as the first woman and first South-Easterner to chair the Senate Committee on Petroleum Downstream. She returned to the Senate in 2019 with a historic landslide victory across all seven local governments of Anambra Central, further affirming her people-centred leadership. In the 9th Assembly, she chaired the Senate Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation, where she achieved a landmark feat by securing first-line charge funding for NASENI after 33 years.
Beyond legislation, Senator Ekwuife has distinguished herself as a transformational leader in philanthropy and grassroots development. Through her Youth and Widows Support Scheme, she has built over 38 houses for widows and vulnerable persons. Her scholarship programme, established in 2001, has supported over 10,000 beneficiaries, while her empowerment initiatives have facilitated employment for more than 1,000 youths and attracted numerous federal and community projects across Anambra State.
Her outstanding service has earned her over 1,000 awards and honours, including the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), bestowed on her in May 2023, as well as several chieftaincy titles from traditional rulers across Igboland.
Colleagues and constituents alike describe Senator Ekwuife as a woman of uncommon courage—one who combines compassion with firmness, empathy with resolve, and leadership with grace. In a society yearning for integrity-driven leadership, she has remained steadfast, proving that effective leadership can coexist with strong moral values and deep faith.
As the world continues to celebrate impactful women, Senator Uche Lilian Ekwuife stands out as a timeless symbol of strength, virtue and inspiration—an Amazon whose enduring legacy continues to uplift her family, her community and Anambra State at large.

Soludo shuts down Onitsha Main Market over traders’ refusal to ignore the sit-at-home practice

By: Our Reporter

Anambra State governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo has shut down the popular Onitsha Main Market for a period of one week for observing the usual Monday sit-at-home despite his directive.

 

The governor, who paid a visit to the market on Monday morning (today) was visibly angry that the traders refused to open for business, thereby flouting State government’s directive asking them to disregard the Monday sit-at-home practice.

He therefore said that “The government cannot stand by while a few individuals willfully undermine public safety and disregard official directives meant to restore normalcy. This is plain economic sabotage.

“We are not going to allow this. The closure is a protective measure for law-abiding citizens”, warning that “if the market fails to reopen after the one-week shutdown, it will be sealed for one month.

“You either decide that you are going to trade here or you go elsewhere. I am very serious about this”, the governor warned.

Meantime, The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) is insisting that the Monday sit-at-home is a legal, peaceful civil protest and not a criminal act.

IPOB’s Spokesman, Emma Powerful, in a statement on Sunday described the weekly shutdown as a symbolic act of solidarity with the group’s leader, Nnamdi Kanu presently in jail.

According to him, “Let it be stated clearly and without ambiguity: Anambra is not a military barracks. The people are not tenants in their own land. No governor has the lawful power to compel free citizens to open their businesses or move about against their will, especially when their action is a peaceful, non-violent expression of conscience.

“Treating the sit-at-home as misconduct constitutes a declaration of war on the people’s dignity. The frustration in Igboland is deep. The anger is justified. The pain is historic.

“And the Monday sit-at-home is a token expression of that collective burden. But instead of confronting the injustice that fuels agitation, the governor has chosen the weak and disgraceful route of harassing his own people — to be seen as ‘loyal’ by Abuja power brokers who have shown nothing but contempt for Igbo lives and Igbo dignity”.

The group further warned that any enforcement measures, including task forces or vigilante-style units to compel citizens to work on Mondays, would cross a “red line.”

“We do not force people to sit at home. But no government will force them to go out. The sit-at-home is voluntary. It is a choice. It is a personal and collective statement of solidarity”, the statement added.

Powerful was reacting to the State Government’s announcement that, effective February 2026, salaries of civil servants would be paid on a pro-rata basis in response to the ongoing sit-at-home directive.

Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, said the decision was taken during an end-of-tenure retreat of the Anambra State Executive Council and explained that salaries would be calculated based on a 24-working-day month.

*Source: Punch

COUNTER REPLY: SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT ON NDI EZE IGBUZO AND THE OBUZOR- IN – COUNCIL

By: Ike Philip Abiagom 

The opinion canvassed in the referenced write-up, though noted, is deeply subjective and fails to reflect the true historical, cultural, and institutional standing of Ndi Eze Igbuzo within the Igbuzo traditional hierarchy.

It is both unfair and misleading for any individual or group to equate the Obiship (Ndi Eze Igbuzo) with palace chiefs or Obuzor-in-Council appointees. Ndi Eze Igbuzo are the highest traditional title holders in Igbuzo, and their status is neither local in the derogatory sense nor inferior to any palace-appointed office.

For the avoidance of doubt, no individual can become the Obuzor of Igbuzo without first taking the Eze title and becoming a member of Ndi Eze Igbuzo. This alone underscores the centrality and primacy of Ndi Eze Igbuzo in the traditional governance structure of Igbuzo. To suggest otherwise is to distort well-established tradition.

While Obuzor-in-Council chiefs play administrative and advisory roles, it must be clearly stated that they are appointees of the Obuzor, not holders of titles backed by the collective traditional authority of Igbuzo.

Their positions, important as they may be, do not derive from the same ancestral and institutional roots as the Obiship.
The argument that Ndi Eze Igbuzo is merely “local” and anchored solely on culture misses the essence of tradition itself. Culture is not diminished by evolution, nor is tradition weakened by modernization. On the contrary, traditions that refuse to adapt risk extinction. The globalization and modernization of the Obiship is not an attempt to replace kingship or traditional rulership, but a conscious effort to preserve, elevate, and project Igbuzo’s heritage in a rapidly changing world.

It is therefore appropriate to commend Obi (Dr.) Henry Ajudua-I for embracing a forward-looking approach that situates the Obiship within a broader contemporary context. Modernizing traditional institutions does not erase their roots; it strengthens their relevance and ensures continuity for future generations.

The claim that Obiship has “no place” in global recognition because it does not confer kingship is a narrow interpretation of global relevance. Global visibility is not reserved only for kings and paramount rulers; cultural institutions, honorary titles, and traditional bodies across the world gain recognition through identity, history, and organized engagement.
Ndi Eze Igbuzo have, from time immemorial, maintained internal structures, including their associations both within and outside Igbuzo, to manage their affairs. This is not a deviation from tradition, but a reflection of growth and organization.

In conclusion, tradition and progress are not adversaries. The Obiship remains a foundational pillar of Igbuzo’s identity, deserving of respect, clarity, and truthful representation. Any narrative that diminishes its status or wrongly elevates appointed offices above ancestral institutions does a disservice to history and to Igbuzo as a people.

Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation Empowers New Beneficiaries with Tricycles in Igbuzo

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

The Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation has once again reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots economic empowerment with the distribution of another set of tricycles, popularly known as keke, to beneficiaries in Igbuzo and neighbouring communities.

The empowerment exercise, which has become a regular feature of the foundation’s humanitarian outreach, drew residents from across the community who gathered to witness the life-changing initiative led by the foundation’s founder, Pastor Idowu Okeze. Over the years, the foundation has remained consistent in providing sustainable means of livelihood for individuals and families, especially those facing economic hardship.

One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Ifeanyi Utomi, expressed deep gratitude to the foundation, describing Pastor Idowu Okeze as a compassionate leader whose generosity has positively impacted many lives in Igbuzo and its environs. He pledged to make judicious use of the tricycle, noting that the empowerment would significantly improve his income and support his family.

Another beneficiary, a former security guard, gave an emotional testimony during the event. He revealed that his security job was recently terminated without any just cause, leaving him devastated and uncertain about his future. According to him, he committed his situation to God, not knowing that divine intervention would come through Pastor Idowu Okeze and the Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation. He described the empowerment as a major turning point, stating that it has lifted him beyond his previous level before losing his job.

Speaking at the event, representatives of the foundation, Dr Pat Adigwe reiterated its resolve to continue empowering the less privileged and restoring hope to those facing difficult circumstances.
They emphasized that the initiative goes beyond the distribution of tricycles, as it aims to promote self-reliance, dignity, and long-term economic stability among beneficiaries.

Community leaders and residents commended the foundation for its consistency and positive impact, noting that such interventions play a vital role in poverty reduction and grassroots development.

As the Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation sustains its empowerment programmes, many residents of Igbuzo and surrounding communities continue to regard it as a beacon of hope and a shining example of purposeful leadership driven by compassion and service.

WHY HON. AUSTIN CHUKWUDI NNABUIFE DESERVES CONTINUITY AS APC CHAIRMAN IN OSHIMILI NORTH

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

Effective political leadership is neither accidental nor commonplace; it is earned through experience, discipline, and a deep understanding of the people. In Oshimili North Local Government Area, one name continues to stand out in this regard—Hon. Austin Chukwudi Nnabuife, fondly known as Ojeogbue.

Politics demands a rare balance of firmness and flexibility, and Hon. Nnabuife has consistently demonstrated mastery of this delicate art. Widely regarded as a “political mechanic,” he understands when to apply restraint and when to exert authority, always in the best interest of party cohesion and electoral success. His leadership style reflects a clear grasp of political management, particularly at the grassroots level where elections are truly won.
Grassroots politics thrives on accessibility, empathy, and responsiveness. Hon. Nnabuife’s open-door approach and personal engagement with party faithful have endeared him to many across Oshimili North. His residence has become a rallying point for APC members and supporters seeking guidance, support, and inclusion. This grassroots connection explains why his name, Ojeogbue, resonates deeply among party members and why his meetings often attract large turnouts.

His emergence as Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oshimili North was neither accidental nor based on favoritism. Rather, it was the culmination of years of political apprenticeship and service. Before his association with the late Distinguished Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi, Hon. Nnabuife had already been groomed under the leadership of the late Chief Awele Chukwuka Nwaezeigwe, a former Chairman of Oshimili Local Government Area
, Chief William Ukadike Ikolodo and Dr Austin Nonyalim Izagbo to mention but a few.

These formative experiences shaped his political acumen and strengthened his leadership credentials.

Those unfamiliar with his political journey may underestimate his contributions, but Hon. Nnabuife’s record speaks clearly. He combines humility with decisiveness, approachability with authority, and loyalty with competence.

These qualities have helped stabilize the APC in Oshimili North and positioned the party for future electoral success.

The late Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi repeatedly emphasized that “all politics is local,” a philosophy he embodied in his reliance on grassroots mobilizers like Hon. Nnabuife. late Senator Nwaoboshi openly acknowledged Hon. Nnabuife’s capacity for organization and mobilization, describing him as indispensable to the APC’s fortunes in Oshimili North. It was for this reason that he consistently advocated for Hon. Nnabuife’s continued leadership as APC Chairman, urging party leaders to preserve stability by retaining him in office.

As preparations gradually shift toward the 2027 general elections, the APC in Oshimili North faces a critical decision. Party leadership must prioritize competence, experience, and grassroots strength over experimentation. Replacing a proven leader with strong local support could undermine the party’s structure and momentum.

Hon. Austin Chukwudi Nnabuife’s political influence is firmly rooted among the people. He understands their aspirations, commands their loyalty, and possesses the organizational capacity required to mobilize votes when it matters most. These qualities make him not just suitable, but essential to the APC’s electoral strategy in Oshimili North.
Political success is ultimately measured by the ability to win and retain the confidence of the electorate. On this score, Hon. Nnabuife remains unmatched. Continuity in leadership, anchored on proven grassroots strength, offers the APC its best chance of victory in 2027.

In the interest of party unity, stability, and success, retaining Hon. Austin Chukwudi Nnabuife (Ojeogbue) as APC Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government AreaNJ remains the most strategic and responsible choice.

Tinubu’s Administration and the Unprecedented Federal Attention to the South East

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

President Bola Tinubu

More than two years into his administration, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has, by measurable records, extended significant federal attention to the South East—arguably more than any Nigerian leader since independence. This is noteworthy, especially against the backdrop that the region did not support him at the polls in the 2023 presidential election.

Despite this reality, acknowledgment of these developments has remained difficult in some quarters, largely due to deep-seated political emotions and longstanding grievances. Yet, facts remain stubborn.
Across the South East, federal road construction is ongoing on a scale not witnessed since 1999. Long-abandoned highways in Abia, Enugu, Ebonyi, Anambra, and Imo states—many of which had become symbols of neglect—are now active construction sites under the current administration. These projects include the rehabilitation and completion of strategic federal highways linking the region’s commercial centres to other parts of the country.

Beyond road infrastructure, the South East is experiencing renewed federal engagement in areas such as infrastructure planning, proposed rail development, and emerging economic corridors designed to integrate the region more effectively into the national economy. While critics argue that roads alone cannot solve economic hardship, infrastructure remains a foundational driver of trade, investment, and long-term growth

The administration has also made conscious efforts to include South East professionals and technocrats in key federal positions, reinforcing a sense of national inclusion. Additionally, federal projects are now spread across Alaigbo in a manner that reflects a broader and more coordinated approach than has been seen in previous administrations.

On the security front, insecurity in parts of the South East is receiving more focused attention, contrasting with earlier periods when such challenges were often overlooked or underplayed. Importantly, the region has not been treated as adversarial territory despite its electoral choices—an approach that underscores a commitment to national unity over political retribution.
Admittedly, the government’s economic reforms have been painful, and many citizens continue to feel the strain.

However, proponents argue that these policies are intended to lay long-term foundations from which the South East’s entrepreneurial and business-driven population stands to benefit.
The broader truth, uncomfortable to some, is that the South East has not previously experienced this level of simultaneous federal engagement across infrastructure, appointments, security, and economic planning—neither under military rule nor during successive civilian administrations.
Continued refusal to acknowledge these realities, analysts warn, risks trapping the region in grievance-driven politics that may ultimately hinder progress. Political disagreement is legitimate, but persistent rejection of verifiable developments can amount to self-sabotage.

As history has often shown, regions that advance are those able to balance memory of past injustices with pragmatic engagement in the present. The South East’s challenge, many believe, is to recognise opportunity when it appears—regardless of political sentiment—and leverage it for collective advancement.

HON. FRANK ESENWAH: A RECORD OF SERVICE THAT SPEAKS FOR ITSELF

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

History is often kind to leaders who serve with sincerity rather than self-interest—those who work quietly, consistently, and with genuine concern for the people. Hon. Frank Esenwah stands out as one such leader whose impact on his constituency has been both practical and deeply felt.

From the moment he assumed office, Hon. Esenwah set a clear tone for his administration, anchoring it on accessibility, service delivery, and meaningful development. Over the years, that commitment has translated into tangible interventions across communities.
Residents have witnessed improvements that touch everyday life, including the installation of solar-powered streetlights, support packages for farmers and traders, and skills acquisition programmes aimed at empowering young people through entrepreneurship. His tenure has also seen sustained backing for community development projects, financial assistance to indigent students, and medical support for vulnerable households.

While these interventions may not always dominate public discourse, their impact is evident in the improved welfare of families and communities. They reflect a leadership style focused on results rather than publicity.

Beyond projects and programmes, Hon. Esenwah has earned respect for his humility and approachability. He maintains close contact with his constituents, attends community events personally, listens attentively to concerns, and relates with people across all age groups with respect and courtesy. This personal connection has strengthened trust and goodwill throughout the constituency.

As conversations about the future gather momentum, many see the prospect of a second tenure not merely as a political consideration, but as an opportunity to consolidate progress and ensure continuity in development. Allowing a committed leader to build on existing achievements, they argue, offers stability and sustained growth for Oshimili North.

With 2027 on the horizon, supporters believe it is time to acknowledge proven leadership, value humility in public office, and reaffirm confidence in a representative who has consistently delivered.

Hon. Frank Esenwah is widely regarded as more than a legislator—he is a dependable steward of the people’s trust. For many in Oshimili North, continuity remains the pathway to lasting development.

Birthday Felicitations to Ogbu (High Chief) Agiliga Umuna (Ugbana)

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

Today, we join family, friends and well-wishers to celebrate a man of honour, strength and uncommon brotherhood—Ogbu (High Chief) Agiliga Umuna, fondly known as Ugbana, as he marks his birthday.

High Chief Agiliga Umuna is not only a dependable friend but a true brother whose life reflects wisdom, humility and commitment to community and humanity. His counsel is sound, his hands are generous, and his presence commands respect. Over the years, he has distinguished himself as a pillar of support to many, a custodian of culture, and a man whose word carries weight.

As he adds another year today, we celebrate his journey, his achievements, and the positive impact he continues to make in the lives of those around him. May this new chapter bring him good health, long life, renewed strength and greater accomplishments.

Happy Birthday to a rare gem, a trusted friend, and a worthy son of the land. May your days be filled with peace, honour and abundant blessings. 🎉

CP Aina Adesola Begins Familiarisation Tour, Visits Asaba Area Command, Asagba’s Palace

By: Ike Philip Abiagom 

The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Aina Adesola, has commenced a familiarisation tour of Area Commands across the state, aimed at strengthening operational efficiency, enhancing stakeholder collaboration, and deepening police–community relations.
The tour began at the Asaba Area Command, where CP Adesola was received by the Area Commander, ACP Alex Udeze. He held meetings with senior officers, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and other personnel under the command, charging them to remain professional, disciplined, and proactive in the discharge of their duties. The Commissioner emphasised the importance of intelligence-led policing, respect for human rights, and effective service delivery.
During the visit, CP Adesola also interacted with key stakeholders in the Asaba metropolis, including traditional rulers, community leaders, youth representatives, transport unions, and members of the business community. He called for sustained cooperation and partnership in tackling security challenges and enhancing public safety.

As part of the tour, the Commissioner paid a courtesy visit to the palace of the Asagba of Asaba, where he was received by His Royal Majesty, Obi (Prof.) Epiphany Chibuogu Azinge, SAN, OON, and members of the traditional council. CP Adesola commended the traditional institution for its continued support to the Nigeria Police Force and reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to collaboration in promoting peace, security, and public confidence.

The familiarisation tour is expected to continue across other Area Commands in Delta State as part of the Commissioner’s broader strategy to assess operational needs, boost personnel morale, and reinforce community-oriented policing.
The release was signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Delta State Command, SP Bright Edafe.

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