Tuesday, January 20, 2026
Home Blog Page 3

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.

OKEZE DYNASTY OF SERVICE: HON. ONYEISI OKEZE EMERGES AS A TRUE HEIR TO HIS FATHER’S LEGACY

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

The story of Hon. Onyeisi Okeze is not just the story of one man—it is the continuation of a noble lineage of truth, courage, service, and deep-rooted cultural heritage. In Igbuzo, the name Okeze has long stood tall, carried with pride by the late Obi Nwaokocha Okeze, a revered traditionalist, community mouthpiece, and one of the most respected defenders of truth Umueze ever produced. Today, his son, Hon. Onyeisi Okeze, walks firmly in those same footsteps.

Hon. Onyeisi Okeze, widely acknowledged as a true son of his illustrious father, has emerged as a strong voice for the masses across Igbuzo. Known for his unwavering honesty and a moral compass that never bends under pressure, he has become a reference point for integrity in community leadership. Like his father, he carries a deep passion for justice and fairness, always speaking up when the people need a voice.

His firm grounding in tradition and cultural principles earned him the distinguished title Osudi, a name bestowed on him by his kinsmen in recognition of his wisdom, courage, and understanding of the customs that bind Umueze and Igbuzo together. As a traditionalist, Hon. Okeze is respected not just for his knowledge of ancestral ways, but for the dignity and responsibility with which he upholds them.

Beyond titles and lineage, he is an eloquent communicator whose presence is felt in every forum where the welfare of the people is discussed—from village meetings to larger town assemblies. His ability to articulate issues with clarity and depth has made him a bridge between modern governance and traditional values, speaking in ways that resonate with both the people and the gods.

From Umuosudi to Umueze, from Otu-Odogwu to the larger Igbuzo community, the impact of Hon. Onyeisi Okeze is visible and widely acknowledged. His commitment to the development, unity, and cultural preservation of his people continues to inspire many.

As Igbuzo celebrates its sons and honours those whose service uplifts the land, Hon. Onyeisi Okeze stands proudly among them—a worthy successor to a great father, a defender of truth, and a custodian of tradition whose name will continue to echo across generations.

Today, the people say: Well done, Osudi. Keep the torch of service burning.

IBUSA COMMUNITY RAISES ALARM OVER SUSPECTED SHORT-CHANGING ON ACHALLA–IGBUZO ROAD PROJECT

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

The people of Ibusa (Igbuzo) have expressed deep concern over what they describe as an alarming case of unequal construction standards on the ongoing Achalla–Igbuzo–Asaba road project. A recent visit to the construction site revealed a shocking disparity between the portion of the road executed on the Asaba axis and the section extending into the Achalla–Igbuzo corridor.

According to eyewitnesses ( Newsbreeze Crew) and Community monitors, the Asaba section of the road boasts a well-constructed dual drainage system, a wider road width, and a visibly superior construction pattern. However, upon reaching the boundary between Asaba and Achalla–Igbuzo, the road suddenly becomes narrower—with no visible drainage works ongoing or prepared. The stark contrast has raised red flags and stirred fears of deliberate short-changing.

Newsbreeze crew and Community representatives who confronted the site Engineer were initially assured that drainage installations would be included on the Igbuzo stretch. However, fresh investigations suggest otherwise, as there is no sign of boxed culverts, drainage channels, or any preparatory work required for such a critical component of a durable road.

Igbuzo Community warn that proceeding without drainage on both sides of the Achalla–Igbuzo portion is a direct recipe for failure. Without drainage, erosion, waterlogging, pavement collapse, and flooding will destroy the road within months of completion.

A concerned community member lamented:
“If drainage is not included, this road will not last three months. We cannot watch this happen. Igbuzo deserves the same standard as Asaba.”

The community passionately appeals to the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to urgently investigate the project site and inspect the disparity firsthand. They affirm their belief that the Governor holds genuine goodwill for the people of Igbuzo and would not tolerate any attempt to undermine their interests.

However, they fear that unscrupulous individuals within the system may be attempting to short-change the Igbuzo axis, thereby compromising the integrity of the project and the comfort of residents.

Leaders and stakeholders of Igbuzo have made their position clear:
“Igbuzo people will not accept any substandard job. The Achalla–Igbuzo section must match the quality of the Asaba axis. Anything less is unacceptable.”

They insist that Ibusa is part of the Asaba Capital Territory and therefore deserves equal quality, equal attention, and equal infrastructure standards.

The Ibusa community urges the contractor, supervising ministry, and all relevant authorities to take immediate corrective steps. The people vow to continue monitoring the project and raising concerns until the road meets the standard befitting a capital territory community in line with M.O.R.E Agenda of our Amiable governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

The message from Igbuzo is clear and unwavering:
No shortcuts. No disparity. No substandard execution. The Achalla–Igbuzo road must reflect the same quality accorded to Asaba—nothing less.

HON PASCAL ADIGWE REPRESENTS ONE OF THE BEST PRODUCTS [ALUMNI] OF THE GREAT UNIVERSITY OF IBADAN”*

To effectively *’benchmark’* and appreciate the full value, brand image, and import of the recent Award given by the University of Ibadan [ UI ] Alumni Association to my childhood friend, the trained statistician, Hon Pascal Adigwe recently, hence place it in it’s proper perspective empirically, one needs to adopt the global best standard ratings of this [ UI ] amongst other universities in Nigeria, Africa, and globally.

May I therefore attempt to be ‘scientific’ and ’empirical’ in assessing the ‘frontline’ status of the great university of Ibadan in the global and national stage for about the last ten years based on the records from leading organisations like the Times higher education world university ranking; Quacquarelli Symonds [ QS ] a higher education analyst; the Webometrics ranking; the US News and World report, etc.

All these bodies, and many more, ranks UI as number one university in Nigeria, [ one of the very best] consistently, while making sustainably the best ten universities in Africa, and hovering between 800/1000 in one account and between 1000/1200 best university globally. Some bodies few years back even ranked UI 360 and 600 respectively globally.

Thus the products, Alumni’s of university of Ibadan are not only national icons but erudite success ‘fellows’ in their various callings globally whose contributions to the intellectual human capital endowment of Nigeria, nay the world is huge.

From the great Prof Kenneth Dike, to the mathematical genius Prof Alele Williams, to the great literary giant Prof Chinua Achebe and the Nobel Laurette, Prof Wole Soyinka; from the poets Prof JP Clark to Okigbo, etc; the contributions of UI Alumni members are unquantifiable.

Albeit, from this perspective, the recent Award of excellence given by the UI Alumni Association is based on their empirical assessment of the enviable contributions Hon Pascal has made not only in the business world but equally in public service.

May I congratulate him for this laudable Award, and equally reminds him to utilize his goodwill, contacts, network and energy to mobilize both human and material resources to see to the betterment of his great UI, and other schools that mentored him to this shinning star as recognised by UI Alumni.

Jikebe Ezigbo Onyim Paskilo Lord Michael.

*’Ihunaihu Ka wa na Aau okea anu’*

Philip Elueme

Dec 4, 2025

CLOSE
CLOSE