By : Ike Philip Abiagom

Since assuming office as President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the political and economic landscape of Nigeria has witnessed bold reforms and far-reaching policy decisions that many political observers believe may strengthen his chances ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Despite the initial hardship that accompanied some of the economic reforms, supporters of the President insist that his administration has demonstrated courage, proactive leadership, and a determination to rebuild the nation’s economy from its foundation.

One of the major achievements frequently highlighted by analysts is the improved financial stability currently being experienced by many state governments.

Unlike in previous years when several states struggled to pay workers’ salaries and pensions for months, many states are now meeting salary obligations more regularly due to increased federal allocations and fiscal reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration.

The removal of fuel subsidy, though controversial at the beginning, has significantly increased revenue available to states through the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC). This development has enabled governors to embark on projects, clear salary arrears, improve workers’ welfare, and strengthen developmental programmes across their respective states.
Observers also point to the implementation of Local Government autonomy as one of the defining reforms of the current administration.

The policy is widely seen as a bold move aimed at strengthening grassroots governance and ensuring that funds allocated to local governments directly reach the people at the grassroots level without unnecessary interference.

Many Nigerians believe that if fully implemented, Local Government autonomy will accelerate rural development, improve healthcare delivery, support primary education, and create more economic opportunities for local communities.

In the area of infrastructure, the Tinubu administration has continued to push major road rehabilitation and construction projects across different parts of the country.

Ongoing investments in transportation, power, industrial development, and urban renewal programmes are also being viewed as part of a long-term strategy to reposition the Nigerian economy for sustainable growth.

Political observers further note that under President Tinubu’s administration, reforms in the power sector have opened new opportunities for state governments to actively participate in electricity generation and distribution. The decentralization of power-related responsibilities is being viewed as a strategic move that could improve electricity supply and encourage industrial expansion across the federation.

Supporters of the President further argue that his administration has shown strong political will in confronting difficult national issues that previous governments avoided for years. They maintain that although some of the reforms may appear painful in the short term, the long-term benefits could reshape the country’s economic future and strengthen national development.

Political analysts also note that President Tinubu remains one of the most experienced politicians in Nigeria, with a strong political structure, nationwide alliances, and deep grassroots connections that continue to give him considerable influence across the country.

While opposition parties are expected to challenge the ruling government ahead of 2027, many supporters insist that the President’s reform-driven agenda, infrastructural projects, improved state revenues, local government autonomy policies, and proactive governance style may make him a formidable candidate in the next presidential election.

As Nigerians continue to assess the impact of the ongoing reforms, the coming years will ultimately determine how the electorate judges the Tinubu administration and its vision for the future of the nation.

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

The numerous empowerment programmes championed by Pastor Idowu Chukwudi Okeze through the Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation have continued to attract widespread commendation from residents of Igbuzo, who described his humanitarian services as genuine, people-oriented, and completely free from political influence.

For several years, the foundation has remained actively involved in improving the lives of the people through various interventions, including human capital development, scholarship schemes, tricycle empowerment, free medical outreach programmes, widows’ support initiatives, cash empowerment, health insurance schemes for vulnerable persons, Christmas packages for the less privileged, youth skill acquisition programmes, and vocational training aimed at reducing unemployment among youths.

The foundation has also facilitated several empowerment opportunities attracted from the Federal Government, thereby expanding support for many residents and creating more opportunities for community development.

Many beneficiaries and community stakeholders have maintained that Pastor Okeze’s commitment to the growth and development of Igbuzo goes beyond politics, stressing that his passion for community service is deeply rooted in his love for his hometown and its people.

According to residents, Pastor Okeze has consistently demonstrated uncommon dedication toward the progress of Igbuzo by supporting both indigenes and non-indigenes residing in the community without discrimination.
Community members noted that his empowerment programmes were never designed as political tools or avenues for personal gain, but rather as sincere efforts aimed at uplifting the less privileged, restoring hope to vulnerable families, and creating opportunities for young people to become self-reliant.

Speaking on recent criticisms trailing the foundation’s activities during the World Asthma Day event held on May 5, 2026, at the Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Event Centre, some concerned residents condemned attempts by certain individuals to politicize the foundation’s humanitarian efforts.

The event, which featured free medical services, asthma awareness campaigns, and support programmes for vulnerable persons, reportedly attracted a large number of beneficiaries from within and outside the community.

However, some individuals at the event allegedly claimed that the empowerment programmes carried out by the foundation were politically motivated and not genuine.

Reacting to the allegations, supporters of the foundation described such comments as unfortunate, misleading, and unfair, insisting that the visible impact of Pastor Okeze’s interventions across Igbuzo speaks louder than mere criticisms.

They further stated that Pastor Okeze’s empowerment record remains unprecedented in the history of the community, noting that countless families, youths, widows, students, and vulnerable persons have benefited directly from his generosity and community-driven initiatives.

Residents also praised the cleric for maintaining consistency in his philanthropic activities despite prevailing economic challenges in the country, emphasizing that his programmes have continued to restore hope, improve livelihoods, and strengthen grassroots development across different sectors of the community.

Many described Pastor Okeze as one of the foremost advocates of grassroots empowerment in Igbuzo, adding that his passion for service, humility, and dedication to humanity have earned him admiration and respect from many within and outside the community.

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

Residents of Ebu Kingdom in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State have raised fresh concerns over the deteriorating state of healthcare services in the community, lamenting decades of alleged neglect and abandonment by successive governments.

The agrarian community, which has reportedly suffered from lack of basic infrastructure for more than 30 years, said the situation in the health sector has become alarming, with increasing cases of preventable diseases and avoidable deaths.

Community members disclosed that the only general hospital serving Ebu and surrounding communities has gradually deteriorated from what was once a functional healthcare facility into what they described as a “mere local clinic” due to lack of equipment, drugs, manpower and government attention.
According to residents, the hospital currently operates with only one medical doctor, a development they say is grossly inadequate for a growing population battling different health challenges.

They further lamented that the absence of potable water in the community has exposed residents to waterborne diseases such as cholera and other infections, while poor healthcare facilities continue to worsen the plight of the people.

A community source noted that many residents now depend largely on divine intervention for survival because access to quality healthcare has become almost impossible.

How can a general hospital in a community like Ebu operate with only one doctor? Even when doctors are posted here, many of them are unwilling to stay because the community lacks basic amenities such as electricity, good roads and clean water, the source said.

Residents also alleged that a doctors’ quarters renovation project awarded during the administration of former Governor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa was abandoned shortly after work commenced.

According to the community, the contractor handling the project allegedly removed roofing materials and wooden structures from the building during an inspection and never returned to complete the work.

The removed zinc and woods have now become another story entirely. Nothing has been done on the project till today, another resident lamented.

The people of Ebu said the community has endured years of hardship and appealed passionately to Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, to urgently intervene and rescue the community from what they described as decades of suffering and neglect.

They stressed that improved healthcare, potable water, electricity and road infrastructure would go a long way in restoring hope and improving the living conditions of residents in the area.

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

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

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

Why was your brother allegedly killed by the vigilante group?

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

Sir, are you also gay?

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

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

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

Do you know the whereabouts of Chiedu Charles Okolo?

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

What is the way forward now?

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

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By: Ike Philip Abiagom 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By : Ike Philip Abiagom 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By : Ike Philip Abiagom

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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