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Uwolo Nwaenie Hails Chief Charles Okonkwo on Coronation as Odogwu of Igbuzo

Uwolo Amaechi Nwaenie, Uwolo of Ibusa, heartily congratulates High Chief Charles Ositadinma Okonkwo, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Life Guard Limited, on his well-deserved coronation and installation as the Odogwu of Igbuzo.

This historic honour, will be conferred on February 7, 2026, by His Royal Majesty, Obi (Prof.) Chelunor Nwaoboshi, the Obuzor of Igbuzo, stands as a profound recognition of High Chief Okonkwo’s exceptional courage, visionary leadership, and selfless service to his people and society at large. The Odogwu title, being one of Igbuzo’s revered traditional warlord honours, is reserved for men of proven integrity, strength of character, and uncommon commitment to community advancement—qualities High Chief Okonkwo has consistently exemplified.

Uwolo Amaechi Nwaenie notes that this coronation not only celebrates the personal achievements of High Chief Okonkwo but also serves as an inspiration to younger generations to embrace service, unity, and excellence.

The gathering of sons and daughters of Ibusa, alongside friends of the community from across Nigeria and the diaspora, further underscores the significance of this milestone.

On behalf of the people of Ibusa, Uwolo Amaechi Nwaenie prays for wisdom, good health, and continued strength for High Chief Charles Ositadinma Okonkwo as he assumes this noble responsibility, wishing him a reign marked by peace, progress, and enduring honour.

Delta Police Arrest 11 Suspected Cultists, Recover Arms in Ughelli, Sapele Raids

By: Ike Philip Abiagom 

The Delta State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on cultism and violent crimes, recording the arrest of eleven suspected cultists and armed robbers, alongside the recovery of weapons, ammunition and other incriminating items in coordinated operations across Ughelli and Sapele.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Aina Adesola, ordered an intelligence-led manhunt following recent cult-related clashes and killings in Ughelli and other parts of the state. Acting on this directive, operatives of the Command’s Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) have made significant breakthroughs.

In Ughelli, CP-SAT operatives led by ASP Julius Robinson dismantled a cult killing network linked to recent violence in the area. Acting on credible intelligence, the team initially arrested two suspects — Warri Ochuko (40) of Orogun Community and Lucky Okohwoake (23) of Afiesere Community, both in Ughelli North Local Government Area.

Police sources said the suspects made confessional statements during interrogation, providing information that led to follow-up operations across the Ughelli metropolis. Six additional suspects were subsequently arrested. They include Richard William (28) of Uwheru Community; Onorode Pius (27) of Otor-Udu Community, Udu LGA; Sunday Jakpor (20) of Orhunwhun Community, Udu LGA; Victory Ogbemudia (25) of Oleh Community, Isoko South LGA; Raymond Arhiakpore (39) of Agbara Community; and Precious Wanogho (34) of Orogun Community.

A locally made gun and four live cartridges were recovered from the suspects. Preliminary investigations revealed that they are members of the Supreme Vikings Confraternity and allegedly participated in the killing of one Alex Adanike (37), who was murdered on January 15, 2026, at the Iwhrekpokpo area of Ughelli.

In a related operation in Sapele on January 26, 2026, CP-SAT operatives raided a suspected criminal hideout at the Irapa area of the town, arresting three suspects. They are Kome Temienoro (25) of Jesse Community, Ethiope East LGA; Ogaga Omogene (17) of Ugbuwe Community, Ethiope East LGA; and Biokoro Francis (42) of Okogborode Community, Sapele LGA.
A search of the premises led to the recovery of a wooden-carved pistol, a battle axe, a bulletproof vest, quantities of illicit drugs and other incriminating items. Police also recovered a white Toyota Venza vehicle suspected to have been used for criminal operations.

The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, said investigations are ongoing to determine the suspects’ roles and possible links to cultism, armed robbery, kidnapping and other violent crimes.
The Commissioner of Police reassured residents of Delta State of the Command’s resolve to rid the state of cultism and violent criminality, urging members of the public to continue to provide timely and credible information, with assurances of strict confidentiality.

Vebron Carre Conglomerates Congratulate High Chief Charles Okonkwo on Odogwu Coronation

By: Ike Philip Abiagom- Newsbreeze

We, Obi Dr. Henry Chukwuma Ajudua and Obi Okpoho Dr. Vivian Onyebuchi Henry-Ajudua I, Patriarch, Obi Ajudua Dynasty
Principal and Managing Director, Vebron Carre Conglomerates, USA,
warmly congratulate High Chief Charles Ositadinma Okonkwo on his well-deserved coronation and installation as the Odogwu of Igbuzo.

Your emergence as Odogwu is a profound recognition of your character, courage, leadership, and outstanding contributions to the growth and progress of Igbuzo Kingdom. It is a testament to a life of service, commitment to community development, and unwavering dedication to the values that define our rich cultural heritage.

The Odogwu title is not only an honour but a sacred responsibility, symbolizing strength, wisdom, and selfless service to the people. We are confident that you will uphold the dignity of this revered position with humility, vision, and a deep sense of duty, while continuing to be a beacon of inspiration to the present and future generations.

As you ascend this noble traditional office, we pray that Almighty God grants you good health, wisdom, and enduring strength to serve Igbuzo Kingdom with distinction and grace.

Once again, congratulations, Odogwu of Igbuzo. May your reign usher in greater unity, peace, and prosperity for our people.

Signed:

Obi Dr. Henry Chukwuma Ajudua &
Obi Okpoho Dr. Vivian Onyebuchi Henry-Ajudua I

Historic Day for Igbuzo as High Chief Charles Okonkwo Emerges New Odogwu

By Ike Philip Abiagom

  • The ancient Igbuzo Kingdom is in a festive mood as preparations peak for the final coronation and installation of High Chief Charles Ositadinma Okonkwo as the Odogwu of Igbuzo.

The historic event, which represents a major milestone in the cultural and traditional heritage of the Igbuzo people, officially commenced on Saturday, February 7, 2026, setting the stage for a series of traditional rites, celebrations, and royal activities marking the conferment of the revered title.

High Chief Okonkwo, fondly known as “Charlie Coupe,” and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Lifeguard Limited, is being installed in accordance with age-long customs by the Obuzor of Igbuzo, His Royal Majesty, Obi (Prof.) L. C. Nwaoboshi. The installation ceremony is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. at the Palace of the Obuzor of Igbuzo, where traditional rulers, chiefs, elders, and distinguished guests are expected to witness the solemn rites.

The Odogwu title is one of the highest traditional honours in Igbuzo Kingdom and is reserved for individuals of proven courage, integrity, selfless service, and commitment to the development of the community. The emergence of High Chief Okonkwo has been widely applauded, with many describing it as a well-deserved recognition of his contributions to Igbuzo and the larger society.

Following the palace ceremony, a grand reception will hold at the Ibusa Girls Grammar School, Umueze Farm Road, Umueze, Igbuzo, featuring colourful cultural displays, music, and festivities that highlight the rich traditions of the Igbuzo people.

In a statement, the Chairman of the Odogwu Conferment Committee, Onowu (Sir) Osy Nwadei, invited all Igbuzo sons and daughters, friends of the kingdom, and well-wishers to attend the ceremony and be part of what he described as “a historic and culturally significant occasion.”

He noted that the installation of the Odogwu goes beyond celebration, serving as a reaffirmation of the enduring values of unity, bravery, leadership, and service that define the Igbuzo Kingdom.

As drums roll and traditional rites unfold, the Igbuzo people stand united in celebration, ready to welcome a new Odogwu and record yet another proud chapter in the kingdom’s enduring cultural history.

How Late Senator Peter Nwaoboshi Institutionalised Political Equity and Stability in Delta State

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

The late Distinguished Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi has been widely remembered as a statesman who bequeathed Delta State a rare and enduring legacy of political equity and balance. Unlike in many parts of Nigeria where power zoning and rotation have often generated tension and deep political divisions, Senator Nwaoboshi played a defining role in shaping a system that fostered fairness, inclusion and stability in Delta State politics.

As the pioneer State Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State, Senator Nwaoboshi laid the foundation for an informal but widely respected zoning arrangement that ensured equitable power sharing among the state’s diverse ethnic and political blocs. Though never codified in the constitution, the arrangement gradually evolved into a political culture and guiding principle that has been embraced by Deltans across board.

Political observers note that under this framework, leadership succession in the state became predictable and largely accepted, reducing rancour and unhealthy rivalry. Today, citizens of Delta State—young and old, political actors and ordinary residents alike—can easily identify where the next governor of the state is expected to emerge from, a testament to the deep-rooted acceptance of the equity principle championed by the late senator.

Senator Nwaoboshi’s vision was anchored on the belief that fairness and inclusiveness were essential to peace, unity and sustainable development. By promoting a sense of belonging among all sections of the state, he helped to strengthen trust in the political process and provided a stabilising compass for successive administrations.

Many have described this achievement as one of the most significant contributions to Delta State’s political evolution, noting that it has spared the state the acrimony and instability often associated with power struggles in other parts of the country. His leadership as PDP chairman set a tone of consensus-building and mutual respect that continues to guide political engagement in the state.

Though Senator Peter Nwaoboshi has passed on, his legacy of political equity remains firmly entrenched in Delta State. It stands as a silent but powerful policy—respected, practised and protected by the collective will of the people. For many Deltans, this enduring framework is a fitting tribute to a leader whose impact transcended his time and whose vision continues to shape the destiny of the state.

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.