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OBI(Dr.) HENRY AJUDUA-I: THE SWAGGER OF ROYALTY REDEFINING IGBUZO OBISHIP

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

In every generation, history gifts a community with a rare personality whose presence alone rewrites tradition and elevates identity. For Igbuzo, that rare gift is the Swaggerlious Obi (Dr.)Henry Ajudua-I, Ezeudo I of Igbuzo— The Founder and Chairman of Vebron Carre International, USA,  a man whose carriage, conduct and charisma have taken Igbuzo obiship to a world-class pedestal.

  • A first encounter with Obi (Dr.)Henry Ajudua-I is enough to make even the strongest critics of African tradition reconsider their stance. He does not merely occupy a title; he embodies royalty. He speaks royalty, wears royalty, walks royalty and lives royalty. Every step he takes announces dignity, and every word he speaks commands respect. In him, tradition is not old—it is elegant, relevant and alive.

Igbuzo has always been blessed with illustrious sons and daughters, but the emergence of Obi Henry Ajudua-I has marked a turning point in the town’s traditional history. He has redefined the status and perception of the revered Obiship institution, restoring pride, confidence and global relevance to the throne. What once seemed limited by local boundaries has now found expression on a broader, more dignified stage.

Before now, the red cap chieftaincy in Igbuzo was often viewed as standing apart from the towering traditional institutions of neighbouring towns. Today, through vision, class and unwavering commitment to cultural excellence, Obi Henry Ajudua-I has broken age-long barriers, repositioning Igbuzo’s traditional hierarchy with honour and prestige.

This reality was vividly confirmed during a courtesy visit by a team of community newspaper publishers to his royal mansion in Igbuzo. What greeted them was not just a residence, but a palace of culture, dignity and grace. Royalty was felt in the atmosphere; respect echoed in every exchange. Some visitors, overwhelmed by the aura, assumed he was the paramount ruler—until they were reminded that he holds the highest red cap title in Igbuzo land. The moment left an indelible mark, a memory likened to the rare sight of an eagle in its full majesty.

Till today, those publishers still recount the experience with admiration, a testament to the powerful impression Obi Henry Ajudua-I leaves on all who meet him. Indeed, Igbuzo is a blessed town—blessed with heritage, blessed with personalities, and blessed with a son who has chosen to wear tradition with pride and project it with excellence.

In Obi Henry Ajudua-I, Igbuzo has not just a leader, but a symbol of cultural renaissance, a living proof that African royalty, when rightly worn, stands tall anywhere in the world.

Obi (Dr.) Henry Ajudua-I: Redefining Obiship and Service to Humanity

By : Ike Philip Abiagom 

Philanthropy and empowerment have long been woven into the fabric of the Ajudua dynasty, a family widely known for touching lives and uplifting the less privileged. Today, that noble tradition has found renewed strength and global expression in the person of Obi (Dr.) Henry Ajudua-I, Founder and President of Vebron Carre International, USA, whose leadership and generosity continue to inspire hope across communities.

Obi Henry Ajudua-I has not only sustained the philanthropic legacy of his lineage, but has also elevated it to new heights. By taking the revered Obishi title in Igbuzo to an unprecedented level, he has redefined its meaning and relevance in contemporary society. His reign has set a standard never before witnessed in the history of Igbuzo obiship, placing it on par with respected Obi institutions across the Aniocha nation.

An international personality with strong global connections, Obi Ajudua-I has become a worthy ambassador of Igbuzo on the world stage. Through Vebron Carre International, his impact has been deeply felt at home, where his interventions have transformed lives. His initiatives span scholarship awards, free medical outreach programmes, youth empowerment through skill acquisition, and sustained support for the vulnerable.

Currently, his scholarship scheme is offering renewed hope to brilliant but less-privileged secondary school students whose parents struggle to afford their education. These efforts have not only improved individual lives but have also strengthened the social and educational foundation of the Igbuzo community.

Beyond his numerous charitable works, Obi Ajudua-I has changed the long-held perception of obiship in Igbuzo. Traditionally viewed as a title reserved for the elderly, obiship has, under his leadership, been repositioned as a platform for active service, vision, and global relevance. Today, aspiring title holders must rethink their purpose, as Obi Ajudua-I has raised the bar and taken Igbuzo obiship to an internationally admired standard.

Brave, elegant, humble, and endowed with a heart of gold, Obi (Dr.) Henry Ajudua-I embodies leadership with compassion. He is a source of pride to the sons and daughters of Igbuzo, and a shining example of how tradition and modern service can walk hand in hand.

  • As the community looks to the future with hope, many eagerly anticipate the greater heights God will lead him to. Indeed, Igbuzo is proud of its swagger-filled yet selfless Obi—Obi Henry Ajudua-I, a royal father whose reign is defined by love, service, and lasting impact.

Ibusa Annual Football Competition Celebrates 40 Years of Consistency and Community Spirit

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

The ancient town of Ibusa (Igbuzo) is once again set to come alive with excitement as the Ibusa Annual Football Competition kicks off on December 18, 2025, marking a remarkable milestone—40 unbroken years of sporting excellence, consistency, and community bonding.

What began in 1985 as a modest and seemingly experimental idea has today grown into one of the oldest and most consistent grassroots football competitions in Delta State. Founded by the visionary and sports-loving patriot, Mr. Emmanuel Kwasa Amatokwu, the tournament has stood the test of time, surviving changes in government, economic challenges, and social transitions, yet remaining steadfast in its purpose.

Over the past four decades, the Ibusa Annual Football Competition has become more than just a sporting event. It has evolved into a unifying platform for the people of Igbuzo, especially during the Christmas and New Year holidays, when sons and daughters return home to reconnect, celebrate, and foster communal harmony. Year after year, the competition has provided entertainment, discovered talents, promoted youth engagement, and strengthened the social fabric of the community.

The 2025 edition is particularly special, as it celebrates four decades of uninterrupted consistency—a rare feat in grassroots sports administration. This year’s competition is proudly powered by North West Petroleum Ltd, MTN, and the sons and daughters of Igbuzo, whose support underscores the collective ownership and pride the community has in the tournament.

As the competition takes center stage once again, it is fitting to pause and celebrate Mr. Emmanuel Kwasa Amatokwu, who is not standing alone ,he has the backing of a Sport Exco led by Haji Chukwuuyem Ojeih and the great people of Ibusa.

They vision, resilience, and unwavering commitment have kept this legacy alive for 40 years. What many dismissed as a joke in 1985 has today become a celebrated institution and a shining example of what dedication and consistency can achieve.

Indeed, Igbuzo is proud of Mr. Kwasa and the enduring legacy he has handed down to generations. As the ball rolls off on December 18, the celebration will not only be about football, but about 40 years of perseverance, unity, and community pride—a legacy worth applauding and preserving for the future.

Igbuzo, Anyalabum Youths Protest Marginalisation, Demand Fair Treatment on Asaba–Achalla Igbuzo Road Project

By: Ike Philip Abiagom
Youths from Igbuzo and Anyalabum communities have raised alarm over what they described as years of marginalisation and neglect by past administrations, calling on Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to urgently intervene in the ongoing Asaba–Achalla road project.
Speaking during a joint engagement by the Igbuzo Youth Council and Anyalabum Youth Council, the Anyalabum Youth Chairman, Comrade Steve Momah, lamented what he called the consistent short-changing of Anyalabum by successive governments over several decades. While commending the Delta State Government for awarding the Asaba–Achalla road project, Momah expressed deep concern over the manner in which the contractor is allegedly handling the Igbuzo axis of the project.
According to him, a visit to the Asaba end of the road reveals wide, double drainage systems, while the Igbuzo side, particularly around Anyalabum, has no drainage at all. He described the disparity as unacceptable and appealed to Governor Oborevwori to personally visit the site or direct the contractor to correct the imbalance without delay.
Also lending his voice, the Youth Chairman of Achalla-Igbuzo, Comrade Lawrence Nwanze, decried what he described as the total abandonment of Achalla-Igbuzo for many years. He noted that the community has been left without a motorable road, forcing residents to depend largely on motorcycles as their only means of transportation.
“Achalla-Igbuzo is completely cut off, especially during the rainy season. No vehicle can access our community. The contractor stopped work before reaching Achalla about seven years ago, and since then our people have continued to suffer,” Nwaje said. He questioned whether Achalla-Igbuzo is truly considered part of Igbuzo, given the prolonged neglect, and appealed to the governor to rescue the community from what he described as a long-standing calamity.
On the same vein, executives of the Igbuzo Youth Council, led by the Vice President, Barrister Augustine Elikwu, alongside the Secretary General, Comrade Vincent Ollimah, Comrade Emeka Okolo and other officials, lamented the continued neglect of the Achalla-Igbuzo road. They stressed that the road is long overdue for construction and warned that any attempt to deliver substandard work on the Igbuzo side of the Asaba–Achalla project would not be accepted by the youths.
Barrister Elikwu disclosed that the youth council would set up a monitoring committee to closely follow the project and ensure that the contractor does not short-change Igbuzo. He reiterated their demand that the Igbuzo axis be constructed to the same standard as the Asaba side, including the provision of double drainage.
The Igbuzo Youth Council also appealed to Governor Oborevwori to visit the project site in Igbuzo, as he has done in other parts of the state, describing him as an action-oriented and proactive leader.
The youths, however, commended the member representing the constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Frank Esenwah, for his consistent follow-up on the project. They noted that the lawmaker has visited the site several times on his own initiative to ensure that the Igbuzo and Achalla communities benefit fully from the road project as originally planned.

OBI NWAOKOCHA OKEZE FOUNDATION SET TO HOST GRAND IGBUZO PRAISE NIGHT 2025

By: Ike Philip Abiagom
The Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation is set to light up Igbuzo with a spirit-filled encounter as it organizes the Igbuzo Praise Night 2025, scheduled for 27th December 2025. The highly anticipated event will hold at the St. Thomas’s College Compound, Umueze Farm Road, Igbuzo, and promises to be one of the most transformative worship gatherings in the state.
The event will be held under the distinguished chief host, Pastor Idowu Daniel Okeze, a renowned philanthropist whose generosity and commitment to spiritual growth continue to uplift countless lives in Igbuzo and beyond. Pastor Okeze, through the foundation, has dedicated the praise night to promoting salvation, renewal, and divine encounter for the entire community.
This year’s edition will feature world-class gospel artistes, including the inspirational Ada Zion, the electrifying Lola Solarin, and other anointed ministers of praise. Attendees will also be blessed with life-changing messages from respected guest speakers such as Barr. Pastor Ben Okoji. Adding colour and excitement to the night, celebrated entertainer Chief Imo will serve as the Master of Ceremony.
According to the organisers, the Igbuzo Praise Night will be “a day of signs, wonders, and miracles,” as the foundation continues to sow seeds that will strengthen faith and build unity in the community.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to attend and experience the overwhelming presence of God.
Come one, come all, and witness the salvation of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Igbuzo will rejoice, destinies will be transformed, and the name of God will be glorified.

Ibusa Lagos Island Unites Sons and Daughters in Lagos for a Colourful 2025 End-of-Year Festival

By : Ike Philip Abiagom 
 
The Ibusa community in Lagos came alive on Saturday as the Ibusa Lagos Island Association (ILIA) hosted one of its most vibrant and well-attended gatherings since its formation. The 2025 End-of-Year Celebration, held at the elegant Empresa Hotel in Ajah, brought together a remarkable crowd of Ibusa natives and friends from across the country.
 
From as early as 11:00 a.m., guests streamed into the venue, with some indigenes flying in from other regions to reconnect with their kinsmen. The atmosphere was warm, festive, and deeply cultural as families, professionals, elders, and young people gathered in the spirit of unity and home-town pride.
 
In his welcome address, ILIA President, Mr. Greg Enurah, reflected on the association’s impressive strides since its establishment in January 2023. He attributed these successes to the dedication and collective spirit of members.
 
He highlighted key initiatives undertaken by ILIA, including the 2023 health-support outreach where the association donated essential drugs to Ibusa General Hospital and Holy Cross Hospital; welfare packages for frontline health workers; interest-free financial aid to members; as well as educational assistance to less-privileged indigenes.
 
According to him, ILIA remains committed to strengthening community bonds and contributing meaningfully to the development of Ibusa, both in Lagos and back home.
 
Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mr. Jude Akaeze, described the event as “a celebration of the unity, resilience, and shared identity of the Ibusa people.” He noted that despite challenges and triumphs, members have continued to stand together and support one another.
 
Guests were entertained by the legendary Anioma highlife icon, Ogbogu Okonji, whose electrifying performances kept the hall dancing throughout the afternoon. The venue was adorned with a sea of white and Akwa-Ocha, the iconic attire of the Anioma people, giving the celebration a rich cultural flair.
 
One of the attendees, speaking to Pen Master, expressed delight at the impressive turnout.
 
 “The average Ibusa person loves their heritage. Give them a leader who genuinely cares, and they will always come out in numbers,” she said.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Sir Dr. Anthony Ajudua appreciated members, supporters, and invited guests for making the occasion a memorable one, while wishing everyone a safe trip back home.
Since its inception in 2023, the Ibusa Lagos Island Association has remained committed to fostering friendship, collaboration, and cultural advancement among Ibusa people living in Lagos, while supporting meaningful development initiatives in the homeland.

Nigerian Police IG Orders Commands To Strengthen Security For Courts, Judges Nationwide

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

The Nigeria Police Force has ordered all commands nationwide to reinforce security for the judiciary following directives from the Presidency.

According to a wireless message sent on December 8, 2025, by the Inspector-General of Police’s Secretariat in Abuja, all Commissioners of Police across the 36 state commands, the Federal Capital Territory, and various zonal and specialised units were instructed to prioritise the protection of courts and judges within their jurisdictions.

The message, addressed to senior police officers including Deputy Inspectors General, zonal AIGs, and heads of specialised units, emphasised that commands without existing Judges Protection Units (JPUs) should establish them immediately.

Officers were told to ensure that all judges and court facilities under their Area of Responsibility (AOR) are adequately protected at all times.

Police commands are required to confirm compliance with the directive without waiting for reminders, highlighting the urgency and importance of the order.

The communication was marked “very important” and “immediate.”

The directive follows broader presidential guidance on the withdrawal of police personnel from general escort and guard duties, signalling a shift towards more focused protection of key judicial figures and institutions.

BREAKING: Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara Dumps PDP For APC

By: Ambrose Elofu Dike

Dike Fubara’s defection marks a significant shift in the political landscape of Rivers State, a South-South state traditionally considered a stronghold of the PDP.

The Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The governor reportedly announced his defection on Tuesday during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Government House in Port Harcourt, the state capital.

Fubara’s defection marks a significant shift in the political landscape of Rivers State, a South-South state traditionally considered a stronghold of the PDP.

It is also expected to have wider implications for party alignments and power dynamics ahead of future elections.

Newsbreeze reported that on Saturday, December 6, that Fubara said that he was still serving as a governor of the state after the six-month emergency rule period because of the “special favour” of President Bola Tinubu.

Fubara made the remarks at the combined 37th and 38th convocation ceremony of theyy Rivers State University (RSU), Nkpolu-Oroworukwu, Port Harcourt, where he reiterated his administration’s commitment to fully funding the institution and supporting its staff and students.

Addressing concerns raised by the university management, the governor said the challenges were a consequence of the political instability that affected the state earlier in his administration, according to The PUNCH.

“Like you said, a report was given to us. But you all know what happened in the life of our administration,” Fubara said.

“It is only by the special grace of God, the special favour from Mr President, that we are standing here still as the ones presiding over the affairs of Rivers State.”

He assured stakeholders that his government had resumed full administrative responsibility and would address all issues presented during the ceremony.

Rivers State was plunged into months of political turmoil following the bitter rift between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, leading to a series of institutional standoffs, legislative defections, parallel assemblies, and clashes between rival political structures.

The deepening crisis prompted the Federal Government to impose a six-month emergency rule to stabilise governance, suspend rival legislative activities, and prevent a breakdown of law and order.

During this period, key aspects of state administration were overseen by federal authorities, with many state-level decisions put on hold.

Fubara’s eventual return to full executive powers was widely viewed as the outcome of negotiations facilitated by President Tinubu, who intervened repeatedly to de-escalate tensions between the factions.

It was against this backdrop that Fubara acknowledged the President’s role, stating that his continued tenure was not guaranteed without high-level intervention.

Last Friday, no fewer than 16 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by the Speaker of the assembly, Martin Amaewhule, had dumped the PDP for the ruling APC.

The defection by the lawmakers loyal to the former governor of the state and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Wike, validated an exclusive report earlier published by SaharaReporters.

Newsbreeze earlier reported that fresh political intrigues were unfolding in the state as Wike was losing ground with President Tinubu amid mounting pressure from both domestic and international stakeholders.

Sources close to the Presidency indicated that Tinubu’s inner circle had grown increasingly wary of Wike, who has faced a string of controversies since joining the federal cabinet.

 

 

OSHIMILI NORTH ’S SECURITY ON THE BRINK: WHY OUR POLICE, LOCAL VIGILANTE NEED URGENT SUPPORT NOW

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

The rising wave of insecurity across Oshimili North, Delta State and Nigeria at large has again brought to the fore the urgent need to strengthen the nation’s security architecture. While citizens continue to demand safety and swift response from security agencies, many do not realize the harsh reality on the ground: our police officers lack the basic tools required to effectively confront the criminals threatening our peace.

In communities such as Ibusa, Illah,Akwukwu- Igbo,Okpanam where cases of kidnapping attacks have become worrisome, the police have been stretched to their limits. Investigations reveal that even the anti-kidnapping squad operating in local government area does not have a single operational vehicle. Officers are forced to rent vehicles in order to pursue kidnappers or carry out rescue missions—an unimaginable situation for Police men expected to risk their lives daily for public safety.

Even more disturbing is the absence of modern crime-fighting technology. There are no surveillance drones, no tracking gadgets,motor bikes and no specialized equipment to penetrate the thick forests where most kidnappers operate. These forests, which stretch across several local government areas in Delta State, have become safe havens for criminals simply because security personnel cannot access them. The officers are willing, capable, and trained—but you cannot give what you do not have.

Yet, in the face of these overwhelming challenges, the public is often quick to criticize the police, local Vigilantes forgetting that courage alone cannot replace adequate resources. With proper support, the Nigerian Police Force has the manpower and expertise to drastically reduce crime, but their hands remain tied by severe underfunding.

This is the time for government at all levels, individuals, and corporate bodies to step forward. Insecurity is no longer a distant issue—it affects everyone. The private sector must recognize that safety is a foundation for economic growth, and communities need to understand that security is a shared responsibility, not a burden left only on the government.

Local government councils especially must shift their attention to securing the vast forests within their domains. Empowering local vigilante groups—who understand the terrain better than anyone—should be made a priority. Providing them with communication tools, mobility, and collaborative frameworks with the police will create stronger frontline defence systems against kidnappers and bandits.

Oshimili North cannot afford to wait until the situation becomes irreparable. A state of emergency must be declared on our forests and border areas, where criminal activities silently flourish. Equipping the police is not a privilege; it is a necessity for national survival.

The time to act is now. Our police and Local Vigilantes need vehicles. They need drones. They need communication equipment. They need community collaboration. Above all, they need the full backing of government, traditional institutions, private organizations, and citizens.

Security is everyone’s business. If we fail to support our security agencies today, we all pay the price tomorrow.

NEW PHONE ROBBERY TRICK IN ASABA: KEKE(TRICYCLES)GANGS DEVISE SMART METHOD TO STEAL PASSENGERS’ PHONES

By: Ike Philip Abiagom 
 
As the festive season draws closer, residents of Asaba, Delta State, are being urged to stay vigilant following the emergence of a new and increasingly common trick used by Keke robbers to dispossess unsuspecting passengers of their mobile phones.
 
According to multiple reports gathered across the metropolis, a syndicate operating with commercial tricycles has devised a coordinated method that exploits the trust and distraction of passengers.
 
The scheme typically begins when a passenger boards a Keke already carrying two or three occupants. After moving a short distance—usually two or three electric poles—the driver suddenly brings the tricycle to a halt, pretending that the Keke has developed a mechanical fault.
 
Witnesses say the driver then steps out and, with a sense of urgency, asks the passengers to assist him in lifting the Keke so he can “shake the fuel tank” or “check the carburetor.” Believing it to be a harmless request, unsuspecting passengers join in helping to raise the tricycle.
 
However, unknown to the victim, one of the supposed passengers—who is actually part of the gang—has already targeted the victim’s phone. Once the victim focuses on lifting the Keke, the thief quietly removes the phone from the person’s pocket or bag.
 
As soon as the Keke is back on the road, the gang member carrying the stolen phone quickly drops off under the guise of continuing on foot. By the time the victim discovers that his or her phone was  missing, the thief had vanished, and the remaining “passengers” blend in innocently, leaving no one to hold responsible.
 
This method, now trending across different parts of Asaba, has left several residents recounting similar experiences in recent days.
 
Security watchers warn that the tactic is especially rampant during the festive season when there is increased movement, overcrowding, and higher incidences of crime.
 
They advise:
 
SAFETY TIPS FOR COMMUTERS
 
If a Keke driver stops suddenly and asks for help to push or lift the tricycle, politely decline and get down immediately.
 
Do not assist in lifting a Keke under any circumstance—simply walk away and take another ride.
 
Keep your phone and valuables inside zipped bags or in front of you where you can feel them.
 
Avoid entering tricycles already crowded with unfamiliar faces.
 
Stay alert during festive periods when criminals become more active.
 
Concerned citizens are calling on security agencies and vigilante groups to increase surveillance, especially around major junctions and busy routes in Asaba.
 
As the Xmas and New Year approach, residents are reminded that personal security begins with personal awareness—and staying one step ahead of criminal tricks like this could prevent painful losses.
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