9News Nigeria

By Nwajiobi Ijeoma 9news Nigeria, Nnewi

The NdIgbo for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu 2027 Forum (NDI-ABAT) on Friday said that following the ongoing federal infrastructure projects under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda across the southeast couple with the performance of the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, and the development initiatives of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, President Ahmed Tinubu and APC will win Ebonyi convincecilly in next year general election.

In a statement in Abakaliki signed by National Coordinator NDI-ABAT Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro and Chairman, Board of Trustees (BOT) Dim Uche Okwukwu the Group declared that Ebonyi State presents one of the strongest opportunities for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) to secure an overwhelming presidential victory in the Southeast in 2027 saying that APC will win 90 per cent of the state’s presidential votes to President Tinubu.

“With confidence, the ongoing federal infrastructure projects under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the performance of the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, and the development initiatives of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru Ebonyi state is sure bet for APC” they said.

According to the Forum, the combination of federal infrastructure investment, state-level development initiatives, political leadership, and grassroots mobilisation gives the APC a significant opportunity to strengthen its electoral position in Ebonyi State.

“The Forum believes that the political influence of Senator Umahi, Governor Nwifuru’s grassroots connections, the mobilisation capacity of elected local government chairmen, and NDI-ABAT’s political structures can help translate that confidence into substantial electoral support”.

The Forum further insisted that the achievements of the Tinubu administration must be communicated effectively to the electorate, particularly the progress of federal road projects and other infrastructure initiatives intended to improve connectivity, stimulate economic activity adding that it will strengthen the relationship between the Federal Government and the people of the Southeast.

NDI-ABAT considered Senator Umahi and Governor Nwifuru as important figures in the APC’s efforts to consolidate its position in Ebonyi calling on both leaders, alongside party stakeholders and grassroots organisations, to intensify lawful political engagement and ensure that the administration’s development record is presented clearly to voters.

The Forum also challenged opposition presidential hopefuls, particularly Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar, to recognise that electoral success in the Southeast cannot be assumed on the strength of political identity, public visibility, or past voting patterns.

NDI-ABAT believed that the APC has a serious opportunity to compete effectively in Ebonyi and contest the wider Southeast with renewed determination.

“Forum acknowledges that the outcome of the 2027 presidential election will ultimately be determined by the electorate and its 90 per cent projection is an ambitious political target, and achieving it will require sustained engagement, credible leadership, respect for democratic choice, and demonstrable results”.

While urging President Tinubu to consolidate his political advantage in Ebonyi, NDI-ABAT cautioned against complacency in Abia, Anambra, Enugu, and Imo states believing that winning wider Southeast support will require a deliberate strategy that addresses the concerns of Ndigbo, strengthens public confidence, and demonstrates the administration’s commitment to inclusive national development.

As the November 9 campaign flag-off approaches, NDI-ABAT called on APC leaders, elected representatives, party members, and supporters to unite behind a disciplined grassroots campaign focused on performance, persuasion and democratic participation.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

A victory wave has swept through Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State following the emergence of Engr. Osborn Nweze Umahi, son of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, as the winner of the Ohaozara Local Government Council election.

Speaking after his victory, Umahi assured the people of Ohaozara that they would not regret electing him to represent their interests and pilot the affairs of the council.

The election was held on Saturday, 22 August, 2026.

He pledged to remain committed and focused throughout his tenure, promising to prioritise the development and welfare of the people.

“I will be committed and focused throughout my tenure. By the grace of God, Ndi Ohaozara will be glad at the end of our administration that we were given this opportunity to pilot the executive affairs of Ohaozara,” Umahi said.

The newly elected council chairman also disclosed that he would not accept any salary or allowance throughout his tenure, stressing that his priority was to serve the people and ensure development of the community rather than personal financial gain.

According to him, he accepted the mandate to contribute to the development of Ohaozara and improve the wellbeing of its people, rather than to make money from public office.

He expressed appreciation to Ndi Ohaozara for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to justify their support through good governance.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

All Government appointees from Management Committee members to Commissioners from Amasiri are hereby sacked with immediate effect.

All Traditional Rulers are dethroned with their certificates of recognition invalidated.

All Community Development Union Presidents and Village Heads are also hereby removed with immediate effect.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The Ebonyi Government on Thursday, said it has procured three aircraft under the Ebonyi Air Outfit that would arrive the state on Jan. 26.

Gov. Francis Nwifuru made the disclosure in Abakaliki during a New Year broadcast to people of the state, noting that it was part of the intensive drive to enhance the state’s economy.

Nwifuru said the move was not about prestige but a calculated initiative aimed at opening Ebonyi to greater economic activity.

“Reliable air transport makes it easier for investors to do business, for professionals to move freely from the state and for our people to connect with other parts of the country and beyond.

“Ebonyi Air will support business growth, encourage tourism and reduce the time and cost of travel.

“This will also strengthen Ebonyi’s position as a state that is ready to engage with the wider economy and attract new opportunities,” he said.

The governor said that by improving connectivity, the state was creating conditions that support trade, investment and job creation, making it more accessible and competitive.

“Additionally, we will commence the establishment of a modern cement factory to harness our abundant limestone deposits.

“Raw materials from different parts of Nigeria have been transported elsewhere for processing and our goal is to add that value at home.

“Processing our limestone within Ebonyi will secure jobs, skills, and income within our communities,” the governor said.

He noted that the cement factory would support industrial development and create direct and indirect employment opportunities for the people.

“The investment will contribute significantly to the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the state and also support construction activities.

“This project is part of a broader plan to move Ebonyi from a consumption to production economy – one that uses its natural resources wisely.

“Economic progress must go hand-in-hand with democratic responsibility as development is strongest when leadership is chosen by the people it serves,” he said.

Speaking on Local Government elections, Nwifuru assured that the state would conduct its own in 2026 and pledged that such would be free and fair.

“Let me state that there will be no imposition of candidates as local government council leaders must emerge through people’s votes and not through appointment or influence,” he said.

The governor reeled his administration’s achievements in the areas of economy, infrastructure, education, health among others and pledged to consolidate on the gains already recorded in all sectors.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Three Ebonyi students from various universities, have been awarded a one-year tuition fee each for emerging winners of the maiden edition of Tertiary Institutions Debate in the state.

The debate was organised by the Ministries of Justice and Solid Minerals Resources and Development in the state, on Tuesday, in Abakaliki.

The theme of the debate is: “Mobilising Collective Efforts for the Actualisation of the People’s Charter of Needs: Mineral Resources as a Catalyst for Peace and Development in Ebonyi State.”

The Chief Judge at the grand finale, Mr Charles Chukwu said 30 students registered for the debate but only six made it to the final stage in Abakaliki.

Chukwu congratulated the participants and urged them to keep the flag flying for greater tomorrow.

“Three students made it to the final Ebonyi Tertiary Institutions Debate.

“Gold Egwu, a 200 level student of Nursing Science, Alex Ekwueme Federal University of Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi (AE-FUNAI) won the first position with 90 points.

“Anyigor Basil, a 400 level student of Physiology, Ebonyi State University (EBSU), secured the second position with 78 points, while Ezekiel Mbam, 200 level, Physiology student of EBSU, came third with 68 points,” he said.

The chief judge noted that the three winners are entitled to one-year tuition fee as a support to their education.

In his remarks, the state Attorney-General, Mr Ben Odoh, urged the youths in the society to embrace mineral resources development for peace building and economic development.

Odoh, also the Commissioner for Justice, lamented the crises that often erupt upon the discovery of mineral resources in the society.

He said that 90 per cent of the crises in Ebonyi communities emanated from poor management of the available mineral resources.

He said the debate was to inculcate in the students, especially the youths, the importance of managing mineral resources for economic growth without causing disorder.

“The debate is not only to encourage the students in their academic pursuit but inform them on the need to use the resources as a catalyst for peace and development.

“Ebonyi is blessed with mineral resources and if harnessed, could translate to economic growth.

“So, as part of charter of justice; to get peace, you must cultivate justice. When there is no peace, there will be breakdown of law and order.

“We must always remember that it is cheaper and easier to prevent crises than to manage it.

“So, the youths should always represent us as an ambassador of peace,” Odoh said.

Mr Chidi Onyia, the state Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, represented by Mr Jacob Ekuma, HoD monitoring in the Ministry, commended the participants and called for the adoption of the debate in the state.

Onyia noted that equitable management of mineral resources could foster peace and unity as well as drive the economy.

“Such management involves the host community and creates jobs for the people.

“So, the aim of the debate is to find a solution on how mineral resources can drive development and not crises,” he said.

The commissioner listed some of the mineral deposits in Ebonyi to include: brine (salt), granite, lead ore (galena), sand, limestone, barites, marble stones, and gypsum among others.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The Commissioner of Police in Imo State, Aboki Danjuma, has launched a manhunt for the killers of two policemen attached to the majority leader of the Ebonyi state House of Assembly, Kingsley Ikoro ( Afikpo North- West).

The CP who spoke through the command’s spokesperson, Henry Okoye, on Monday in a telephone conversation with Okeomanews said that there is no hiding place for the killers of the cops.

He disclosed that the policemen were already combing bushes around the scene of the crime with a plot to apprehend the suspects and make them face the full consequences for their unlawful action.

Some gunmen had on Sunday ambushed the two policemen and killed them at the Okigwe axis of the Road in Okigwe in Imo State.

The policemen were stationed there after one of the vehicles the majority leader and his team were traveling in developed a mechanical fault.

While the other vehicles continued the journey, the two policemen stayed by, only to be ambushed and killed thereafter.

Okoye, informed the the bodies of the cops who payed supreme price have been evacuated to a morgue, while investigations have begun by the police.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Gov. Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi has effected a minor cabinet reshuffle, swapping four commissioners to different ministries.

9news Nigeria reports that Mr Jude Okpor, former Commissioner for Information and State Orientation is currently the Commissioner for Rural Development.

Chief Ikeuwa Omebe, former Commissioner for Rural Development is currently the Commissioner for Information and Orientation.

Prof. Paul Nwobasi, former Commissioner for Education (Primary and Secondary) is currently the Commissioner for Border Peace and Conflict Resolution

Dr Donatus Ilang, former Commissioner for Border, Peace and Conflict Resolution is currently the Commissioner for Education (Primary and Secondary).

Omebe, in his maiden state Executive Council (EXCO) meeting briefing to journalists on Tuesday in Abakaliki, said that the reshuffling was not punitive but an opportunity for the EXCO members to diversify their ministerial knowledge.

“The governor expects his commissioners to have knowledge of events in respective ministries to effectively respond to calls of duty.

“I am presently the commissioner for information and that will make me a better journalist and news manager” he said.

He noted that as part of preliminary requirements for action on the 2026 budget, EXCO received and approved the 2026 – 2028 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF).

“The MTEF is a strategic financial planning document encompassing the Economic and Fiscal Update (EFU), the Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP) and the Budget Policy Statement (BPS) for Ebonyi over the next three years.

“The EXCO received and approved the Ebonyi Business Enabling Reform Action Plan (BERAP) 2024.

“This plan indicates the progressive performance of the state in the State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) Programme,” he said.

He noted that the plan was intended to meet the World Bank eligibility criteria for implementation of the SABER Programme in 2025. 

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has called on political leaders in the Southeast to intensify efforts to grow the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the region.

Speaking at a strategic meeting of Southeast APC stakeholders in Enugu, Governor Uzodimma urged party leaders to embark on a robust membership drive and actively promote the benefits of the Tinubu administration to the public.

He emphasized that the geopolitical zone’s interests are best protected under the current APC-led federal administration.

“You must have seen how sitting governors in other geo-political zones are now joining the APC.

“It is by joining the APC, which is in charge of the government at the center in Nigeria and other sub-national governments—that the Southeast will be very close to the corridors of power.” He said.

The meeting was attended by key figures including Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Chief Benjamin Kalu, former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, Minister for Innovation, Science, and Technology Chief Uche Nnaji, Dozie Ikedife Jnr, and members of the APC Zonal Executive Committee.

Governor Uzodimma stressed the importance of unity within the party and the need for regional cooperation. 

“We have decided to see Southeast as a family, tolerate each other’s shortcomings, and work as a formidable team to achieve the desired results,” he stated.

The leaders at the meeting pledged to strengthen the party’s influence in the region and position the Southeast more strategically ahead of the 2027 general elections.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has expressed strong confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will receive over 70 percent of votes from the South East in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at a public event Today, Kalu emphasized that Tinubu’s administration has made historic strides in addressing the post-civil war neglect of the South East, particularly through the establishment of the South East Development Commission (SEDC).

“No other President has remembered the promise made to Igbo people after the war like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“Fifty years came and passed, administrations came and passed, none of them deemed it right to fulfill those promises made to Ndi Igbo. Only President Tinubu took it upon himself to say, there must be a platform to respond to those proposals.” Kalu declared.

He recalled the unfulfilled pledge by the Yakubu Gowon-led military government in the aftermath of the Nigerian Civil War to rebuild, rehabilitate, and reintegrate the South East, where over three million lives were lost. 

Kalu described the creation and funding of the SEDC by Tinubu as a landmark act of justice and inclusion.

“He answered to our problem to enable us develop the rural communities in Igboland. 

“He signed the SEDC bill into law and has funded it even when naysayers said he won’t. He loves Ndi Igbo, and we Igbos remember those who love us.” Kalu said

In appreciation, Kalu said the region would repay the President with massive electoral support in the next general elections. 

“We are promising the President 70 to 80 percent of votes from Igboland. Let us continue to remain as people that love peace and unity.” He stressed.

9News Nigeria reports that the SEDC is expected to play a pivotal role in addressing long-standing infrastructure and development challenges across the region.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

At least four persons have been reportedly killed in a renewed boundary dispute between the Ogwor community in Ishiagu and the Umuobor Community in Akaeze both in the Ivo local government area of Ebonyi state.

According to Tribune, three persons killed were said to be part of a contingent that entered the disputed land to harvest yams on Wednesday while a woman was killed on Monday.

The two communities have been having a dispute over a piece of land known as Elueke lands for many decades.

The dispute had been adjudicated up to the Supreme Court of Nigeria with Umuobor being declared the rightful owners of the land by the courts.

However, successive state governments have refused to enforce the Supreme Court ruling on the disputed land.

Despite the 1991 ruling, the dispute has persisted with many lives lost as both sides periodically carry out attacks and reprisal attacks against each other.

The crisis intensified late last year with many people on both sides killed forcing the state government to declare the disputed land a buffer zone.

It also set up a committee to mediate and find lasting solutions to the dispute.

Despite placing an embargo on residents from entering the disputed lands, the killings have continued.

A source from Umuobor lamented that the residents of the community have been hard hit with severe hunger due to the ban on entering the land and when they could no longer endure it entered the land to harvest yams.

He said that as they were harvesting the yam, they were attacked by gunmen suspected to be fighters from Ogwor.

“They shot three persons dead while two others have not been found,” the source who pleaded not to be named said.

Coordinator of Akaeze Development Centre, Chinasa Okorie confirmed the killings and described the deaths as unfortunate and pleaded with the community to remain peaceful and not to escalate the matter.

He also advised all parties in the matter to desist from entering the disputed land until the matter is amicably settled by the state government.

“I am aware of the killings. They told me of the killings and I am aware of it. I was even there today to address them and urge them to keep peace and maintain peace. We cannot, because of the killings, try to aggravate the situation.

“That is the predicament. Are they supposed to be there at that particular time? But you know you cannot start blaming when life is lost. So, that is the problem.

“Ordinarily, the governor has said that nobody should enter there and that is not to say that they are not aware of it. But even the people who came to kill them, are equally aware that the governor said nobody should enter there.

“So the two wrongs don’t make a right. That other people entered(the land) does not give other people the privilege to come and kill(them)That is the situation.

“And we have been sounding it, there and then, that the executive order remains. And that there are consequences for trying to violate it,” he said.

Chairman of the Council, Emmanuel Ajah condemned both communities for flouting the directives of government.

“The government has declared it a buffer zone now. If it is a buffer zone and you go there, you are on your own. So, if the government declares it is a buffer zone and you go there, and you definitely know the governor’s directive and still go there, you are on your own.

“The governor set a committee. The committee are working seriously. So, if you go there and something happens, then you don’t need to complain,” he said.

Police spokesperson, Joshua Ukandu confirmed the killing of the woman in the area on Monday.

He appealed to the people to obey the directives of the government for people to stay away from the disputed land.

“The incident about the woman happened on the 17th. That is the one we have information on. And we are also already investigating, we have deployed people to that area.

“And we are still using this opportunity to tell the stakeholders involved to sheath their swords and recognize the state government’s efforts in bringing lasting solutions.

“I think there is this arrangement of meetings happening, and everybody was asked to stay clear of the disputed area, pending when the government initiates its intervention in that matter,” he said.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The Ebonyi State Government has approved over ₦500 million for the sponsorship of Muslim pilgrims to this year’s Hajj in Mecca.

This decision announced on Saturday, 8 February 2025, has sparked debates, considering the prevailing economic challenges in the country.

The allocation, aimed at supporting intending pilgrims from the state, aligns with similar efforts by other Nigerian states and the federal government to ease the financial burden on Muslim faithful undertaking the religious obligation. 

Recall that in March 2024, the Federal Government approved a ₦90 billion subsidy to reduce Hajj fares nationwide, while states such as Kano and Kebbi also provided financial assistance to their pilgrims.

The move demonstrates the government’s commitment to religious inclusivity.

However, some residents and analysts argue that such a substantial sum could be better utilized to address critical infrastructure deficits, healthcare, and education, especially at a time when many citizens are struggling with rising costs of living.

Government officials, in response, maintained that the sponsorship is part of its social responsibility to support religious activities and ensure that Muslim citizens who cannot afford the trip on their own have the opportunity to fulfill their religious obligations.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

In light of the impending 2027 Gubernatorial election, Ohanaeze youths council has warned Governor Francis Nwaifuru to focus on delivering democratic dividends to Ebonyians than engaging in a political rumple of party leadership dominance in the state with a former Governor of Ebonyi and presently a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), which is credited to be the apex socio-cultural youth organization of Igbo youths worldwide, counsels Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru, to focus on the continuation of infrastructural development in Ebonyi State, established by Fmr Gov David Umahi.

OYC told 9News Nigeria that these radical developments prominent in Ebonyi State Nigeria was established by former Governor David Umahi, who in his leadership mindset have Ebonyi State as his first responsibility as governor.

The youth group therefore call on Francis Nwifuru to sheath sword and stop entangling himself in party leadership altercations with his predecessor.

At Abakiliki, Ebonyi, Comrade Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, National President of Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), remarked on January 29th 2025, that the administration of Gov. Francis Nwifuru has witnessed a decline in the pace of infrastructural development.

Comrade Igboayaka warned that the ongoing leadership dispute between Gov Francis Nwifuru and former Gov. David Umahi is hindering the overall economic growth of Ebonyi and the Ndigbo community at large.

Regrettably, Gov Francis Nwifuru’s eagerness to secure the APC Guber ticket in 2027 has prompted him to engage in unwarranted political blackmails against Sen. David Umahi the current Minister of Works before the presidency in a bid to gain the trust of Mr. President, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Ohanaeze Youth noted that unfortunately, Ndigbo are governed by transactional politicians in SouthEast, who deem their re-election more vital than delivering governance to the people ,as 9News Nigeria reports.

OYC alleged that Gov Francis Nwifuru has prioritized All Progressive Congress(APC) party leadership in Ebonyi over addressing the security challenge in his State.

As the SouthEast’s food basket, Ebonyi State is facing economic struggles resulting from the insecure environment hindering farmers from producing agricultural goods.

Regrettably, the raping and killing of farmers by Fulani herdsmen in Ebonyi have affected the agriculture sector, particularly the production of “Ebonyi Special Rice”. Governor Francis Nwifuru’s priorities seem misplaced as he engages in political blackmail against Sen. David Umahi, seeking to secure APC leadership in Ebonyi, rather than addressing the state’s security challenges, which he should present before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

As the Silent killings and kidnapping continue unabated in Effium areas, Gov Francis Nwifuru has fallen short in the paramount duty of Government, namely protecting lives and properties.

The longstanding communal dispute between Effium and Ezza Effium in Ebonyi State, characterized by persistent violence and destruction, warrants intervention by a responsive administration.

It is imperative that Governor Francis Nwifuru quits party leadership tussles and devises a permanent solution to the Effium and Ezza Effium community killings within 90 days.

Obviously Izzi L.GA has been in danger of fulani herdsmen attack, villages like Ndigwe, Ataloga, Odokem, Ekile, Nduobasi, Ekpufu, Obakota etc should have indigenous community vigilante funded by State Government.

Ado and Oju LGAs of Benue State are neighboring communities to Izzi of Ebonyi; our intelligence gathering indicates porous security. Governor Francis Nwifuru must prevent any recurrence of Fulani violence in that area. Implementing preventive measures is crucial to safeguarding the lives and properties of the people.

Concentrated efforts should be made to establish indigenous community vigilantes in areas such as Obeagu, Egedegede, and Nkaleha in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, in order to counter potential attacks. Moreover, the Ebele people in Ngbo community, Ohaukwu Local Government Area, who reside in a remote area, and all communities in Ohaukwu, should establish community vigilantes that are equipped with modern security equipment to ensure their safety.

It would be more beneficial for Gov Francis Nwifuru to concentrate on improving the governance system in Ebonyi State and make it his priority instead of engaging in a political party leadership controversy With Sen. David Umahi because of the recent appointments of Chief Austin Umahi and others.

-Princely Onyenwe reports

For inquiries on this news contact 9News Nigeria @08036856526

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

A mysterious fire has razed down the house of a physically challenged man, Linus Eji at Ododokpa Ndubia Igbeagu in Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

Our correspondent gathered that the fire gutted his house at the early hours of Wednesday when he was sitting outside with his two children, preparing breakfast without removing even a pin from the house as he couldn’t do anything because of his condition.

Speaking with our correspondent who visited the scene of the ugly incident, Mr Eji who is into (Shoe Making) despite his condition said he is depressed and pleaded with good spirited Nigerians for help in order to feed his children in this economic hardship.

According to him ” I was with my two children outside our house around 8am on Wednesday when I noticed that fire has gutted our house and I couldn’t move or do anything because of my condition”.

“Everything in that house was totally burnt down. Not even a pin was removed. I only have this clothing that I am putting on and nothing again”.

“You can see my children here. We plead that good spirited Nigerians should come to our rescue and help us,” he told our correspondent.

See Photos and videos below

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Two Commissioners in the present administration in Ebonyi State, were said to have publicly fought each other in a public gathering at Ezza North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

According to Vanguard, the two Commissioners who are said to be stakeholders in their various communities had a field day as they exchanged blows, not minding those that were watching them.

Speaking with newsmen, an eye witnessed said: “Nobody told me anything about it. I saw everything myself. I don’t know the cause of their fight but they fought and this is the 5th fight between them.

“As a leader of thought in my place, this is embarrassing to me, our people and the people of Ebonyi State. It happened during the defection of some people into APC at Ezza North. “It was a very big fight and it was not hidden.”

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

A Pastor from Afikpo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Ifeanyichukwu Eluu who relocated to Anambra recently has lost a house he paid for and parked into, just because the landlord was informed that the new tenant is an Ebonyi man, generally referred to as “Ndi Abakaliki”.

The Pastor who shared his ordeal on his Facebook handle, said the full money he paid for the apartment where he moved into was sent back to him same day he parked in by the landlord, urging him to quit because he’s an “Abakaliki man”.

However, the Pastor later got an accommodation in another place when he plainly told the landlord that he is an Afikpo man from Ebonyi State.

Pastor Ifeanyichukwu wrote this:
“The last experience I had, getting an apartment in Anambra state wasn’t a good one. I had paid 100% for the apartment to the caretaker, preparing to settle in after signing the necessary tenancy agreement the following day.

“But there was a reconsideration afterwards, we had stayed for a longer time in a hotel. So, we needed to quickly move into the property, of which we informed the caretaker about the move. We rushed to get the basic things to equip the house right away and the same evening, we moved into the house.

“Around 12 midnight, I saw an alert of the exact Money I paid to the caretaker. I called him right away, he said the landlord refunded the Money when he heard we’re from Ebonyi state,” Abakaliki” as generally refered.

“I felt so insulted,embarrassed, as well, very concerned at such level of discrimination against fellow brothers.

“The last place I finally got a house, the Man asked where I’m from,I told him “Afikpo”. Then he said, okay, I know Afikpo, they are partly Abia state, I can consider you, that’s how we settled. But I wasn’t happy that I had to route through such bias just to get a house to live in

“Please, let the concerned handlers review this in time, hence the maxim “Igbo bu ofu”.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The Police Command in Ebonyi has categorically stated that they have no report of alleged manhood disappearance in Ndianwaonya Nsulakpa, Ezzamgbo. SP Onome Onovwakpoyeya, the Police Command’s spokesperson, confirmed that the report is not on their table, indicating a lack of evidence to support the claims. This dismissal by the police adds weight to the assertion that the rumors are baseless.

Mr Ogbonna Tobias, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Internal Security in Ohaukwu Local Government Area, echoed the sentiment that the reports are fake. He emphasized the need for residents to refrain from spreading false information that could cause unnecessary panic and tension within the society.

In recent weeks, rumors of alleged manhood disappearance have been circulating in Ndianwaonya Nsulakpa, Ezzamgbo, Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, causing fear and panic among residents. However, the Police Command in Ebonyi has officially dismissed these reports, stating that there is no evidence to support such claims.

Police said that in order to address the concerns surrounding the alleged manhood disappearance, an investigation was conducted by Mr Ogbonna Tobias in collaboration with other security operatives in the council. The aim was to verify the claims and establish the truth. After a thorough investigation, no evidence was found to substantiate the allegations.

The investigation’s findings supported the police’s statement that there is no credible information or record of such incidents. The lack of evidence further discredits the rumors and emphasizes verifying information before spreading it.

Residents are urged to exercise caution and verify information before spreading it to avoid unnecessary panic and tension within the community. The spread of false alarms can have detrimental effects on peace and order. The dismissal of these allegations emphasizes the importance of verifying information and relying on credible sources. The role of the police in maintaining peace and addressing public concerns cannot be overstated.

In times of uncertainty, it is essential to rely on accurate and verified information to prevent the spread of rumors that can disrupt the fabric of society.

• 9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

By Obinna Ejianya (9News Nigeria – Melbourne, Australia)

Irrespective of a few political skirmishes between Dave Umahi and his political opponents, including his pernicious handling of the IPOB affairs in the state, it is just fairly pertinent to talk of the enormous achievements that Umahi made during his tenor as Ebonyi State Governor.

Through this medium, we will lay emphasis on how Engineer David Nweze Umahi transformed Ebonyi from obscurity to prominence. We will delve into the remarkable journey of Ebonyi State under Governor Umahi’s administration, analyzing his vision, achievements, challenges, and the impact of his tenure on the state.

As a former Governor of Ebonyi State and newly appointed Minister of Works under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the question arises: Will Governor Umahi replicate the transformation of Ebonyi on a larger scale as Nigeria’s current Minister for Works, given his prowess as a structural transformer?

Overview of Ebonyi State before Governor Umahi’s Administration

Before Governor Umahi took the reins of power, Ebonyi State was faced with numerous challenges. The state suffered from a lack of basic infrastructure, inadequate healthcare and educational facilities, high levels of poverty, and unemployment. It was a state that seemed to be forgotten and overlooked in the grand scheme of Nigerian development. However, Governor Umahi had a vision to change this narrative and transform the state into a shining example of progress and prosperity.

Governor Umahi’s Vision for Ebonyi State

Governor Umahi’s vision for Ebonyi State was clear from the moment he assumed office. He aimed to transform the state into a modern and developed entity, focusing on key areas such as infrastructure, agriculture, education, healthcare, empowerment, industrialization, and social welfare. His goal was to improve the lives of the people of Ebonyi State and put the state on the map as a center of excellence.

Infrastructure Development and Urban Transformation

One of the most remarkable achievements of Governor Umahi’s administration is the significant improvement in infrastructure and urban transformation in Ebonyi State. Umahi understood that without a solid foundation of roads, bridges, and other essential infrastructure, the state would struggle to attract investment and create a conducive environment for economic growth.

Under his leadership, the state witnessed the construction and rehabilitation of numerous roads, bridges, and flyovers, connecting previously isolated communities and easing transportation. The flagship project of this transformation is the construction of the Ebonyi International Airport, which has opened up the state to increased trade and tourism opportunities, attracting both domestic and international investments. This airport has not only enhanced connectivity but also boosted the state’s image and reputation.

Agricultural Revolution and Food Security Initiatives

Governor Umahi recognized the importance of agriculture in driving economic growth and ensuring food security. To achieve this, his administration introduced various initiatives aimed at revolutionizing the agricultural sector in Ebonyi State. These initiatives included the provision of improved seedlings, fertilizers, and modern farming equipment to farmers. The government also established agricultural cooperatives and provided training and capacity-building programs to enhance productivity. As a result, Ebonyi State has experienced a significant increase in agricultural output, leading to improved food security and increased revenue from agricultural exports.

Education and Healthcare Improvements

Education and healthcare are critical components of any society’s development. Governor Umahi understood this and took significant steps to improve these sectors in Ebonyi State. His administration prioritized the construction and renovation of schools, providing a conducive learning environment for students. Additionally, the government invested in the training and welfare of teachers, ensuring the quality of education in the state. In the healthcare sector, Governor Umahi’s administration upgraded existing healthcare facilities, constructed new hospitals, and provided medical equipment and personnel. These improvements have had a positive impact on the overall well-being of the people of Ebonyi State.

Empowerment Programs and Poverty Alleviation

Governor Umahi’s administration recognized the need to address the issue of poverty and unemployment in Ebonyi State. To tackle this, various empowerment programs were implemented, targeting women, youth, and vulnerable groups. These programs included skills acquisition training, access to micro-credit facilities, and the establishment of cottage industries. By empowering the people of Ebonyi State with the necessary skills and resources, Governor Umahi aimed to alleviate poverty and create sustainable livelihoods.

Industrialization and Economic Growth

Industrialization is a key driver of economic growth and job creation. Governor Umahi’s administration understood this and embarked on an ambitious industrialization agenda for Ebonyi State. The government attracted local and foreign investors, providing them with incentives to establish industries in the state. As a result, Ebonyi State has witnessed a significant increase in industrial activities, leading to job creation, increased revenue generation, and improved living standards for the people.

Social Welfare Programs and Community Development

Governor Umahi’s administration prioritized social welfare programs and community development initiatives. These programs aimed to uplift the less privileged, improve social cohesion, and foster community development. The government provided support to orphanages, homes for the elderly, and other vulnerable groups. Additionally, community development projects such as the construction of town halls, boreholes, and rural electrification projects were undertaken, ensuring equitable development across the state.

Impact of Governor Umahi’s Administration on Ebonyi State

The impact of Governor Umahi’s administration on Ebonyi State cannot be overstated. The state has witnessed a remarkable transformation in various sectors, including infrastructure, agriculture, education, healthcare, empowerment, industrialization, and social welfare. The lives of the people have improved significantly, and Ebonyi State is now regarded as a model of development and progress. Governor Umahi’s visionary leadership and commitment to the welfare of the people have set a new standard for governance in Nigeria.

Challenges and Criticisms Faced by Governor Umahi

While Governor Umahi’s administration has achieved remarkable success, it has not been without its challenges and criticisms. One of the notable challenges faced by the governor was the handling of IPOB rallies and sit-at-home orders. The administration was criticized for its heavy-handed approach while dealing with these protests, leading to clashes and human rights concerns. Additionally, the establishment of the infamous Ebube Agu security outfit faced criticism for its alleged abuse of power and extrajudicial activities. Furthermore, there were accusations of intimidation of opposition parties and suppression of the press, raising concerns about the state of democracy in Ebonyi State.

Conclusion: The Remarkable Transformation of Ebonyi State under Governor Umahi

In conclusion, Governor Umahi’s tenure as the Governor of Ebonyi State has been nothing short of remarkable. His vision, dedication, and commitment to the welfare of the people have transformed Ebonyi State from obscurity to prominence. The state has witnessed significant development in various sectors, improving the lives of its citizens and setting an example for other states to follow. While challenges and criticisms have arisen, the overall impact of Governor Umahi’s administration on Ebonyi State cannot be denied. As Governor Umahi assumes his role as Nigeria’s Minister for Works, the question remains: Will he replicate the transformation of Ebonyi on a larger scale? Only time will tell, but the people of Ebonyi State will forever be grateful for the remarkable transformation they experienced under his leadership.

By Obinna Ejianya @obinna_ejianya – (9News Nigeria – Melbourne, Australia)

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The chairman media and strategy committee of Conference of APC Support Groups Hon. Igwe Ogbonnaya has felicitated with the Senator representing Ebonyi North in the 10th National Assembly Sen. Barr. Onyekachi Nwebonyi on the occasion of his 42nd birthday, describing him as a humble public servant.

Hon. Igwe who stated this in a goodwill message made available to the press, prayed to God to grant the senator sound health and wisdom as he strives to improve the lives of the people of his constituency.

“I celebrate with you and the people of Ebonyi North senatorial district on the occasion of your 42nd birthday. As a politician and public servant, you have served the people of Ebonyi State in different offices with dedication, humility and passion.
You have distinguished yourself as a good and peace-loving administrator by entrenching the principles of democracy in your style of governance and leadership.

Hon. Igwe used the opportunity to also Congratulate the people of Ebonyi north for the gift of Sen. Nwebonyi. He asked them to expect impactful representation as the game changer is in charge.

“As you celebrate, I pray God will bless you with sound health, peace and wisdom.”

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Hon. Igwe Ogbonnaya has Congratulated the newly inaugurated commissioner for ICT Ebonyi State Hon. Comrade Machiavelli Tochukwu Uzor.

In a statement, the chairman media and communication committee of Conference of APC Support Groups described Hon. Uzor’s appointment as a good sign for Ebonyi Youths. He said that it is a great opportunity for Ndi Ebonyi to leap from Hon. Machiavelli’s wealth of experience.
Hon. Igwe is convinced that He’ll perform well and contribute immensely to the growth and advancement of Ebonyi Youths.

Until his appointment by Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, Hon. Tochukwu is the immediate past Development Center coordinator for Anuagata in Ohaozara Local Government Area.

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Passengers yesterday found themselves inside bush after their plane veered off while landing at the Lagos State Airport.

9News Nigeria gathered that the plane took off from the newly built Ebonyi State International Airport constructed by the outgone Governor, David Nweze Umahi.

No casualties were recorded as passengers were seen thanking God for safety.

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A yet-to-be identified gunmen on Wednesday killed three police officers attached to Oshiri Police Division in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

9News Nigeria gathered that the ugly incident happened around 8am yesterday.

This came barely 40 hours after an inspector attached to the Ebonyi State Police Headquarters, Abakiliki was killed on Monday.

The deceased inspector was shot by the hoodlums while on stop and search operation at his duty post near the popular Union Bank roundabout in the state capital.

Two of his colleagues were also wounded in the attack by the hoodlums who operated with a tricycle.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, SP Onome Onovwakpoyrya, who confirmed the separate attacks, said that the tactical team of the command killed two of the hoodlums who killed the three officers in Oshiri.

Onovwakpoyrya noted that a Lexus car ES350 Model, a pack of hard drugs, one fabricated AK 47 rifle, one AK 47 magazine with 7 rounds of ammunition, and one SMG rifle, among other items, were recovered from them.

The PPRO urged the public to report any suspicious move or anyone with bullet wounds to a nearby security station.

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The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has ordered its members and residents of the South-East region to ignore the 5-day sit-at-home exercise called by Nnamdi Kanu’s self-acclaimed disciple, Simon Ekpa.IPOB said it did not issue any sit-at-home while reacting to Ekpa’s earlier directive that people should boycott social and commercial activities from 9 to 14 of December.

According to the Finland-based IPOB member, the sit-at-home would serve as a protest in Igbo land against the forthcoming general elections next year.

Reacting to the call, a statement by IPOB spokesperson, Emma Powerful, on Tuesday, said, “The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) under the leadership of Nnamdi Kanu wish to state unequivocally to the people of Biafra, friends of Biafra, and lovers of Biafra freedom that IPOB leadership did not issue any sit-at-home order on 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th or 14th of December 2022. “IPOB never issued any sit-at-home order on these days mentioned above because we are not miscreants, senseless, or jobless people. “Every Biafran and residents in Biafra Land should ignore such order from untrained and brainless individuals whose agenda is to make Biafra agitation unattractive to our people. Every Biafran must go to their normal business on those days.

”The statement further read, “IPOB who is concerned about our people cannot issue such brainless uncaring 5-day consecutive sit-at-home order to suffer our people during this critical time of the year when people are trying to make up in their businesses for the year.“Their agenda is to create insecurity and unnecessary hardships to make our people jettison Biafra’s freedom. How wicked!”

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Wife of Ebonyi State Politician cries out bitterly for help as Labour Party Senatorial Candidate, Linus Okorie Gets Kidnapped By Suspected Dave Umahi’s Ebube Agu Squad.

The woman identified as Lilian Abaa Okorie took to her Facebook account to make a live broadcast where she was crying bitterly and calling on Ebonyi state indigenes, and Nigerians of different backgrounds to intervene and save his husband from the hand of suspected Ebube Agu Killer Squad allegedly sent by Governor Dave Umahi.

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The Ebonyi chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party State Working Committee has suspended its Chairman, Mr. Okorie Tochukwu, over alleged misconduct.

It was gathered that Okorie allegedly diverted over N53 million from its account without recourse to others who are signatories to the account.

The deputy state Chairman of PDP, Ifeanyi Nworie, disclosed this after the SWC’s emergency meeting in Abakaliki, on Monday, July 4, adding that the suspension was for one month.

According to Nworie, Okorie was suspended owing to his failure to organize executive meetings for four months since he was reinstated as chairman by the Court of Appeal in Abuja.

He said, “At the Emergency SWC meeting today, we reviewed the activities of our chairman, Tochukwu Okorie, and his misconduct.

“The chairman has failed to organize a meeting for more than four months which is against the party’s constitution.

“The Deputy Chairman, the Legal Adviser, the Publicity Secretary, and the Women Leader were among those at the Emergency meeting of today.”

Reacting to the suspension, Okorie described his alleged suspension as illegal, saying, “it is only the national leadership that can suspend me.

“I’m a member of the National Executive Council of the party and no member of the state working committee has the power to suspend me.

“On the alleged gross misconduct, I’m the chairman as directed by the court. I have the prerogative power to access the party’s account in carrying out party activities.”

Back in May, the Court of Appeal in Abuja ordered the reinstatement of Okorie as Chairman of PDP in Ebonyi State and sacked Silas Onu, who was formerly the occupant of the position.

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The Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ebonyi State, Mr. Nwoba Chika Nwoba has been invited by the Department of State Services (DSS) over his wedding cake which was prepared with insignia of the defunct Biafra Republic.

Mr. Nwoba and his wife, Onyinyechi, surprised their guests at their wedding reception on the ground when they unveiled a cake designed with everything that has to do with the defunct Biafra Republic.

The wedding took place on Saturday at St. Joseph Anglican church, in his country home, Ekpelu community in Ikwo LGA of the State on Saturday, June 25, 2022. The reception also took place in the community primary school.

Confirming his invitation by DSS, Mr. Nwoba, in his verified Facebook wall on Monday at about some minutes past 9p.m, wrote that the DSS had summoned him to appear in their Abakaliki office by noon tomorrow, Tuesday.

Nova wrote, “Got an invitation from the DSS, Abakaliki office tomorrow by noon. I knew I would be invited. As a law-abiding citizen, if the road is clear tomorrow, I will honor it.”

Mr. Nwoba’s invitation by the DSS may not be unconnected to his wedding cake.

Recall that the Nigerian government banned everything that’s associated with the defunct Biafra Republic after the proscription of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), which is one of the foremost Igbo separatists agitating for a breakaway from the Nigerian State.

Since the prosecution of IPOB by the Nigerian government, anyone found with an item bearing Biafra insignia faces arrest and prosecution by the Nigerian government.

Now in a telephone chat on Sunday that he did his wedding cake with Biafra insignia as a show of solidarity with Biafra agitation.

According to him, every Igbo man no matter his political affiliation ought to embrace the struggle for the creation of Biafra.

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Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State, Monday stressed that Ebonyi people will not vote for Labour Party, LP, in the 2023 general election in the State. Umahi stated this during the swearing-in ceremony. The Governor insisted that the state will vote only for the All Progressives Congress APC and urged the people not to vote for the Labour Party during the election.

According to him, the votes of the State only belong to the ruling APC.

“We will not vote for Labour Party, we will only vote for APC. Our vote is for APC and not for Labour Party. Our agenda is Ebonyi’s agenda. We will vote for our Presidential candidate in the person of Tinubu. We must strive to liberate Ebonyi State and that is our agenda”.

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There is currently confusion in Ebonyi State as two Governorship aspirants, Rt.Honourable Francis Nwifuru and former Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Chief Elias Mbam, emerged as the candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2023 general elections in Ebonyi State.

Our correspondent reports that Mbam emerged as the APC candidate in a parallel election conducted at his Campaign Office, Mile 50 in Abakaliki while Nwifuru, Umahi’s anointed candidate emerged winner in another election conducted at Pa Ngele Oruta Township Stadium.

The former RMAFC boss scored 741 votes to defeat the Speaker of Ebonyi State House of Assembly, Francis Nwifuru, who scored 7 votes.

Former Senator for Ebonyi Central, Julius Ali Ucha, scored 4 votes .

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Governor Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State says the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, should not be welcomed in the Southeast due to their negative activities.

The governor, who is also vying for the sole presidential ticket of the All Progressives Congress, APC, stated this while playing host to leaders and members of the Nigeria Guild of Editors in Abakaliki at the weekend.

According to Umahi, the agitation by the secessionist group is unhealthy for the region, revealing that he had raised the alarm while still a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

He explained that IPOB succeeded in deceiving the Igbos that the geo-political zone is infiltrated by strangers, alleging that they also engage in hate speech.

Umahi said, “There is extreme politics in this region and it must stop, when we started especially before my defection, we were all working together and I was championing it that IPOB is not good for us because of the kind of agitations that were being meted out was not correct.

“First hate-speeches and from there it developed to violence and they have continued to lie to our people that our place has been infiltrated, it is a lie, it is South East killing South East people and the security people and until we are bold to say this, it will continue”.

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The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, psc(+), NPM, FDC, has condemned the unruly conduct of the Police officer caught in a viral video, singing, dancing, and brandishing a rifle in praise of a particular confraternity (cult).

The officer has been identified as Corporal Matthew Isaac, attached to the Ebonyi State Police Command.

The IGP further warned officers to ensure total compliance with the laws guiding the Force as any breach would be severely sanctioned.

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Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has attacked his Ebonyi counterpart, Dave Umahi again for defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Wike advised the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to scrutinise its aspirants for 2023 election to avert the mistake of handing its tickets to persons who would later join another party.

The presidential aspirant urged PDP delegates to vote for him during the party’s convention because he lacks the propensity to defect with the party’s mandate to another party.

The Rivers Governor spoke while wooing PDP leaders and delegates in Abakaliki, capital of Ebonyi State on Friday, according to a statement by his Special Asssitant, Media, Kelvin Ebiri.

Wike expressed optimism that a day of reckoning awaited Umahi and those who defected from the PDP to the APC.

He said the PDP would continue to fight against injustice meted on it by the defectors to strengthen the country’s democracy.

He said: “My colleague David Umahi, wherever you are, wherever you may be, hear me very well. PDP had sleepless night, PDP won election, and you took the mandate of our people and go to another party.

“If you know you are a man and you are very strong, and any day they fix election you will win, I challenge you to resign as governor and contest election whether you will win again.”

On why he deserved the ticket, he said: “I have never left this party one day. When PDP was in problem, I stood firm and I said PDP will not die.

“Don’t give (presidential) ticket to the person who will run from the party tomorrow . I am the only person Nigerians know will not run from the party.”

The Governor urged Ebonyi delegates to support his presidential ambition because he was the only aspirant with the capacity to defeat the APC in the 2023 presidential election.

Wike reiterated that PDP could not afford another defeat in the 2023 general election and advised delegates to shun ethnoreligious sentiment and vote for him to pull Nigeria out from the brinks.

“What PDP wants now is who can win election. It is not about where you come from. What the party wants today is who can win election for PDP. Give me this ticket let me go and win APC for you”, he said.

Wike lamented the spate of killings across the country, declaring that if he emerged as the next president, he would decisively tackle insurgency, banditry and grow the national economy.

He assured as President, he would encourage women and youths active participation in politics.

“If I am the President of this country, I will not have less than seven women as minister. I will not have less than seven youths as ministers”, he said.

Enugu Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi commended PDP faithful for remaining steadfast despite the recent defection of some members of the party to the APC.

Former Gombe Governor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, told the delegates that Wike has the requisite experience to provide good governance.

He said: “Governor Nyesom Wike, is the person that is prepared for the job in terms of his training, in terms of his character, his courage, his commitment to the party and above all, his determination to work with all of you after he becomes the President of this country. He is strong, he has super energy.

“I have worked with a lot of people including presidents but I want to assure today, Governor Wike is one of the real very active and strong people I have worked with in recent times. He is very strong, he is very committed and he is very determined.”

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has explained why it is yet to take a stance on the judgment which sacked Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State.

Speaking at the end of the management meeting of the commission on Thursday, March 24, the National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), Festus Okoye said they can’t take any action at the moment because of multiple court cases.

Okoye said;

“It will be recalled that the commission met on Thursday 17th March on the matter, decided to defer its deliberation on the Ebonyi cases, and stepped down the listed Memorandum to enable its Legal Services and Clearance Committee to study the new processes served on it in the light of the previously served ones and advise the Commission comprehensively.

“Since then, the commission has been served yet more Court Processes on the same matter, bringing the total to 12.

“The Commission deliberated extensively on these cases and decided to further suspend action on the defection of the Governor and Deputy-Governor of Ebonyi State and 16 members of the State House of Assembly from the PDP to the APC in the light of the conflicting judgments and orders served on it from Courts of coordinate jurisdiction”

The INEC Commissioner also averred that they consider it prudent to stay action on the conflicting judgments and orders being aware of the pendency of Appeals and Motions for Stay of Execution of some of the judgments before various divisions of the Court of Appeal.

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A Federal High Court (FHC), Abuja, on Monday, struck out the motion filed by sacked Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi, seeking for a stay of execution of the March 8 judgment.

Justice Inyang Ekwo struck out the motion after Chukwuma Ma-Chukwu Ume, SAN, counsel for Umahi and his deputy, Kelechi Igwe, prayed the court for the withdrawal of the motion, and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)’s lawyer, Emmanuel Ukala, SAN, did not oppose the application.

The motion for stay of execution was marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/920/21, between PDP Vs. INEC and three others.

Justice Inyang Ekwo had, on March 8, in a judgment, ordered Umahi; his deputy, Kelechi Igwe, and 16 lawmakers to vacate their office and seats, following their defection from the PDP to All Progressives Congress (APC).

The judge also directed the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC) to immediately receive from the PDP, the names of its candidates to replace them, among others.

On March 10, Governor Umahi and others had sought an order of the FHC Abuja, staying the execution of its judgment directing them to vacate their offices over their defection to another political party.

In a motion on notice filed by Ume, the applicants also prayed the court to stay the execution of its order directing INEC to receive another names in their place or hold a governorship election in accordance with Section 177(c) of the 1999 Constitution, pending the hearing and determination of the appeal dated and filed on March 9 by the appellants, among others.

Ume also sought a withdrawal of the stay of execution motion filed on behalf of the lawmakers marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/1041 between PDP Vs. INEC and 20 others.

At the resumed hearing, Ume informed the court of his intention to withdraw the two motions for stay of execution dated March 9 on the grounds that an appeal had been entered at the Court of Appeal on the matter.

Counsel for the PDP, Emmanuel Ukala, SAN, did not oppose the application. In a short ruling, Justice Ekwo struck out the matter.

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Apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has described some recent utterances of Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State on burning national issues as worrisome and tyrannical.

The group in a statement by its Secretary-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro said such disposition would likely destroy Wike’s political career.

He said the Governor was behaving like Idi Amin of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

While accusing Wike of openly claiming responsibility for the recent judgement against Gov. David Umahi of Ebonyi State, Ohanaeze said “we are reviewing the legal implications of
Governor Wike’s vexatious outbursts over the Abuja Federal High Court judgement that sacked Ebonyi Governor, the Deputy Governor, and the House of Assembly members.”

Ohanaeze claimed that “this is a confirmation that there is a grand hooligan operation to destabilize the Southeast, which is unfortunately, coming from a man who denied his Igbo identity”.

Isiguzoro added that, “the massacre of Igbos in Obigbo (Oyibo) in Rivers State is still fresh in our minds.

“The sponsors of the grand scheme and conspiracy to remove the Ebonyi Governor remains a subversive and provocative invasion aimed at distracting the South-East from the 2023 presidential election.

“For how long will Wike realize that he should be a shining light of the PDP and the Niger Delta rather than picking up fights on all fronts?

Ndigbo will forgive Governor Wike if he retreats and apologizes to Umahi, but disastrous consequences await him if he continues in these futile expeditions.”

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Seats of three state lawmakers elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party have been declared vacant by the Ebonyi state house of assembly.

Speaker of the House, Francis Nwifuru announced on Tuesday, March 15, and also read their purported letters of resignation during an emergency sitting of the House.

The affected lawmakers identified as Ali Okechukwu (Ishielu North); Franca Okpo (Abakaliki North); and Victor Aleke (Ebonyi West), were not present alongside five other PDP lawmakers during the plenary. 15 House members of the All Progressive Party attended the sitting.

After reading the alleged letters of resignation on the floor of the House, declared the seats of the three lawmakers vacant.

The Clerk was then directed to write to the Independent National Electoral Commission to notify it of the development and the need to conduct fresh elections in the affected constituencies.

The three affected lawmakers have however countered this, insisting they are still members of the state House of Assembly.

Aleke who commented on the development described the action of the Speaker and the APC lawmakers as illegal. He also stated that the Speaker and the other APC lawmakers who have been sacked by the Federal High Court in Abuja, are no longer lawmakers and should not have sat in the first place.

Aleke said;

“What they have done today by purporting to sit and declaring our seats vacant amounts to contempt of court and the court may declare them wanted if care is not taken.

“We have no reason whatsoever to resign our seats. We are still lawmakers representing our various constituencies and we enjoin our supporters and the general public to disregard what they have done.”

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The Governor of Ebonyi State, David Umahi on Wednesday reversed the alleged uncomplimentary statement made against a judge of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, justice Inyang Ekwo and tendered an apology to the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA).

Umahi apologised while addressing over two thousand members of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, in Ebonyi State at a solidarity rally that took place at the Udensi roundabout, staged to declare their support and loyalty to the governor.

He said that he has mobilized over seventeen (17) SANs to Appeal the judgement of the Federal High court sitting in Abuja led by justice Inyang Ekwo, wherein he was sacked for defecting from the opposition party, Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the ruling APC.

Umahi said he has no regrets in defecting to the ruling APC and threatened to engage in battle with the opposition party, Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in Ebonyi State, especially for trying to distract his administration.

“I’m still the Governor of Ebonyi State and I’m still working. I said the lawyers of PDP are the ones doing forum shopping and I’m going to write against the lawyers to NBA to discipline them because the judge was misled. The blame was not on the judge. The blame is on the PDP lawyers who misled the judge.

“And I’m using the opportunity to let Nigerians know that nobody castigated the judge and we will not and because the matter was not before any judge.

“Today, we have appealed the judgement. We have done three things; we have done the appeal at Enugu, and when I say that, we have two judgements, I say that the judgement in Ebonyi state, which has equal powers with that of Abuja. We said we will obey the judgement in Ebonyi State. We will appeal the judgement of Abuja. We didn’t say we will disobey otherwise we would have not appealed.

“We are before the Appeal of Enugu state and that of Abuja. We have also filed a stay of execution. So, we are still the Governor and Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State” he stated.

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Ebonyi Governor David Umahi has defied his sack by High Court judgement, vowing he remains Governor.

He urged the people of the State to remain calm as he was sure of quashing the ruling at the Appeal Court.

The Governor, who described the Justice Inyang Ekwo judgement as a jungle justice, said he has forwarded a petition against the Judge to Nigerian Judicial Council (NJC).

He noted the Court lacks the powers to remove him as Governor as he is covered by the immunity clause which protects him from any form of litigation that is not pre-election and tribunal matter.

Umahi also noted that there are two other similar cases on the defection of a Governor by an Ebonyi High Court and another in Zamfara which ruled in favour of the Governor.

He said: “The Constitution stipulates that the only way whereby a Governor can vacate his seat is either by death, resignation or impeachment by the House of Assembly.

“There is no other provision that empowers a hatchet man to turn the constitution upside down.

“I have listened to the judgement of Ekwo and it is very obvious that he was on a mission. He was making all efforts to upturn the rulings of the Appeal and Supreme courts on issues like this.

“We have heard the rumours before now that he was determined to give judgement against all known laws and the constitution to embarrass the APC and the Federal government”.

“For me, I do not feel worried but I feel so sorry for the judiciary. The executive may have problem, the legislature may have a problem but the moment justice could be purchased then we are in trouble in this country. And the ruling this afternoon is a clear evidence that this country is in trouble.

“And let me tell you that this same judge has over 10 cases against Ebonyi State Government with him and you can imagine what he is going to rule. We have petitioned him to NJC and we will follow it up to ensure that this man is brought to justice”

“I want you to disregard the judgement, it is null and void there is a subsisting judgement in Ebonyi and Zamfara states. So we have chosen the one to obey, we will not obey his ruling, we will obey the ruling of a competent court of coordinate jurisdiction that says you cannot sue a Governor.

“The sections of the Constitution are very clear, no civil or criminal proceedings could be brought against a sitting governor. This is not a pre-election matter, this is not a tribunal matter. So he has murdered justice in this country and he and his generation will be remembered for this jungle justice which has no leg to stand.

“I am still the Governor of Ebonyi state and he has no powers to remove me,” Umahi said

The Governor also argued that the Judge lacks the powers to declare the seats of the House of Assembly members vacant.

He said previous judgements have made it clear that it is only the presiding officer of the House of Assembly or the National Assembly.

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LEGAL WAR SURPRISES CONTINUE!!!

Abuja (9News Nigeria) – Abuja Federal High Court had on Tuesday ordered that the 16 lawmakers from Ebonyi should vacate their seats after their defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to the ruling judge, Justice Inyang Ekwo, in a judgment, ordered the lawmakers to stop parading themselves as representatives of the people after dumping the party on which platform they were elected into the house of assembly.

Among the lawmakers sacked include Odefa Obasi Odefa, Victor Chukwu, Kingsley Ikoro, Joseph Ununu, Nkemka Okoro, among others.

The court had earlier sacked Governor Umahi and his deputy over defection to APC.

Details later ..

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9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

A Federal High Court, Abuja, on Tuesday, ordered the 16 lawmakers from Ebonyi to vacate their seats after their defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Justice Inyang Ekwo, in a judgment, ordered the lawmakers to stop parading themselves as representatives of the people after dumping the party on which platform they were elected into the house of assembly.

Some of the lawmakers include Odefa Obasi Odefa, Victor Chukwu, Kingsley Ikoro, Joseph Ununu, Nkemka Okoro, among others.

Reports state that Justice Ekwo had, on Jan. 19, fixed today for the judgment in the suit filed by the PDP against the governor and his deputy.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Governor David Nweze Umahi of Ebonyi State has said that he worked with Security agencies to prevent bloodletting in the state.

In a statement made available to 9News Nigeria by the Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mr Francis Nwaze said the report by SaharaReporters that no fewer than one thousand, one hundred and fifty residents were killed in the South-East region by the security agents and herdsmen between October 2020 and December 2021 is not true.

He noted that Governor Umahi at no point aided nor abetted the killings of innocent citizens of Ebonyi State and Ndigbo, rather, Governor Umahi in collaboration with other Leaders of South East worked tirelessly to ensure Security Agencies did not avenge the killing of their colleagues in the course of agitations in the region.

The statement reads,

“Our attention has been drawn to a malicious rambling published by Sahara Reporters, credited to an acclaimed civic group, the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law in which the group claimed that no fewer than one thousand, one hundred and fifty residents were killed in the South-East region by the security agents and herdsmen between October 2020 and December 2021.”

“The same group identified Ebonyi State as one of the States in the South East where herdsmen and Security Agencies killed citizens within the period under review.”

“Most worrisome, the group also stated that among others, Governor David Umahi is ‘complicit’ in the killings of innocent citizens in Ebonyi State and southeast Zone.”

“Ordinarily, we wouldn’t have bothered responding to this lies-infested concoction but we have elected to make a few clarifications to save discerning minds from being misled by the agents of mischief.”

“First, apart from the Ishielu unfortunate attack which was alleged to be a reprisal for an occurrence of years ago, there were no other incidences of herdsmen attack leading to death in Ebonyi State within the period under reference.”

“Second, there were also no incidences of killings of innocent citizens orchestrated by Security Agencies anywhere in Ebonyi State within the same time lag.”

“Third, Governor Umahi at no point aided nor abetted the killings of innocent citizens of Ebonyi State and Ndigbo, rather, Governor Umahi in collaboration with other Leaders of South East worked tirelessly to ensure Security Agencies did not avenge the killing of their colleagues in the course of agitations in the region.”

” It is, therefore, unclear how Sahara Reporters reputed for professional reporting chose to meddle into frivolities rather than crosschecking their facts.”

” While we urge Sahara Reporters to urgently do a rejoinder distancing itself from this jaundiced concoction, we enjoin the general public to disregard the hoax which is an attempt by the disgruntled opposition to score cheap political points targetted at denting the towering political reputation of Governor Umahi and sow a seed of discord between the Governor and Ndigbo as well as Nigerians in general.”

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State on Wednesday presented the 2022 budget estimate of N145,410,597,723.49 to the state assembly for approval.

The governor said that the 2022 budget estimate of over N145 billion has a 46.65% increase when compared with the 2021 revised approved budget of over N99 billion.

The 2022 budget was tagged ‘Budget of Latter Rain’ has N89,763,717,205 as its capital expenditure representing 61.73% of the total budget, while Recurrent Expenditure is proposed to be N55, 646, 880, 517.69 representing 38.27% of the total budget.

According to Umahi “I, therefore, most respectfully present to this Honourable House, a total Budget Estimate of One hundred and forty-five billion, four hundred and ten million, five hundred and ninety-seven thousand, seven hundred and seventy-three naira, forty-nine kobo (N145,410,597,723.49) only covering the Capital and Recurrent Expenditure for the financial year ending 2022 tagged “Budget of Latter Rain”.

“This 2022 Budget Estimate of N145,410,597,723.49 represents an increase of 46.65% over the revised approved budget of Ninety Nine Billion, One Hundred and Fifty-Seven Million, One Hundred and Seventy One Thousand, One Hundred and Fifty-Two Naira, Sixty Five Kobo (₦99,157,171,152.65).

“The 46.65% increase of the 2022 budget over the 2021 revised Budget is due to the carryover of a large part of the Expected receipts in this fiscal year to the next fiscal year. These reasons for the increase and more are clearly listed in the body of the main budget under the Explanatory Notes.”

The governor said the sum of N24,397,499,015.78, covering 16.78% of the total budget sum is for the Ministry of Education, while the sum of N17,498,506,922.44, covering 12.03% is for the ministry of Infrastructural Development for Concession.

He noted that the sum of N24,335,057,558.09, which is 16.74% of the Budget Sum is for the Ministry of Works and Transport, while N3,612,684,038.76, which is 2.48% of the budget sum is for the Ministry of Human Capital Development and Monitoring.

He said that N7,626,686,246.07, covering 5.24% is for the Ministry of Health, while N3,425,238,354.88 covering 2.38% of the 2022 budget sum is for the Ministry of Agriculture.

Umahi further revealed the preparedness of his administration to complete the construction of Flyovers, “we are prepared to make Ebonyi State as an emerging economy to host investors of different sectors of the economy.

He added that his administration will save lives and absorb the employable population of youths and women, “We have not only completed some of the flyovers we started, we have also commenced the construction of more flyovers in strategic junctions. This project will no doubt boost economic activities and create conviviality of atmosphere for industrialization.”

Responding, the Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, EBSHA, Mr. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, commended the governor for the early presentation of the budget and assured him of speedy passage of the bill into law.

The House of Assembly in a motion moved by the leader, Mr Victor Chukwu representing Ezza north west constituency and the deputy leader Mr Kingsley Ikoro representing Afikpo North East Constituency, passed the budget into 1st and 2nd reading.

The House was adjourned till next week Wednesday for the final passage of the bill into law.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

A Professor of Geophysics, Professor, Felix Anyaegbulam has been arrested for allegedly defiling a 13-year-old girl in the State.

According to Vanguard, the arrest of the Professor was effected by the Police after a Gender-Based Violence taskforce in the state reported the matter to the State Police boss, CP Aliyu Garba as the group alleged Police compromise and complicity in the matter.

Anyaegbulam, a Professor of Geophysics working with Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu Alike Ikwo (AE-FUNAI) Ebonyi State was said to have been sexually violating his 13 year old house help (names withheld) who hails from Ezza North local government area of Ebonyi state.

The state Gender-Based Violence (GBV) taskforce team reported the matter to Central Police State(CPS), Abakaliki and the Lecturer was arrested and immediately released.

Dissatisfied with the release of the Professor, the GBV taskforce team reported the matter again to the state Commissioner of Police, Garba Aliyu who took the matter seriously.

The leader of the team led by its state Coordinator, Mrs Faithvin Nwancho who expressed dismay on the immediate release of the suspect at the CPS, called on the Commissioner to ensure justice on the matter, adding that the Professor had once impregnated another teenager which led to her dropping out of school.

According to her: “we have about six cases of abuse which are pending in various divisions of the police force. For instance, there is a Professor at the FUNAI that has been a 13-year-old girl. The girl stays with this man but every blessed day of this girl’s life, this man violates her, he sexually violates her, that is sleeping with her. As God may have it, we were told about it and so we moved into action and the girl was rescued. A complaint was made to the police and arrested has been effected and the man to our surprise has been released, not up to an hour of that arrest which took us some logistics that led that happen.

“Our greatest dismay is that the man was quickly released, not that he was quickly released, its nit actually the point but when we remembered that the man is not even the first offender, that was how he got another girl pregnant, another child about six years ago.

“The same Professor, it happened in 2017 and the girls were dropped out of school and just six years after that, this other case is coming up on his head and quickly he was released without more. We don’t know that kind of investigation that has been carried out around that case but the information we got is that the man got home not even up to an hour he was invited to the police station”.

However, immediately after the GBV team left the office of the Commissioner, Professor Anyaegbulam was re-arrested.

The state Police spokesperson, DSP Loveth Odah confirmed the development.

Odah said, “the suspect of the alleged case of rape is in Police custody as the CP orders discreet investigation into the matter while awaiting the medical screening/report of the victim”.

Also, the Ebonyi State Chairman of HURIDE, a human rights group, comrade Sampson Oko Nweke who added that the victim was a primary 3 pupil added that “his wife who lives in Nsukka is said also to be a professor in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and most of his children are Doctoral Degree holders according to research.”

In an interview, the victims narrated in detail her ugly experiences living with the Prof. She said, ” I was living in the village with my mother. My daddy brought me to live with Prof in Abakaliki. Since June this year, the Prof has been disturbing me. He always comes into my room and be doing what I don’t like. One day around 2 a.m, I ran to my father at the security house and told him that Prof was pressing my breast. My father told me to go back that he will talk with him in the morning.

“Sometimes, I will wake up and see myself naked. The other day, somebody was touching me at midnight, I woke up, put on the light and saw Prof lying on my bed naked. He tried to touch me but I slapped him and pushed him out of my room. I was crying. One day, I woke up and my bed was soaked with blood.

“I didn’t know what happened. I told my father in the morning but he didn’t do anything. He used to tell me that if I leave Prof’s house, who will pay my school fees? That is how the Prof has continued to disturb me until I told my aunty in the school because I don’t like that nonsense Prof is doing”.“

According to the victim’s father: “I am shocked and disappointed. I am the gateman in the compound where the Prof lives. My daughter has been complaining to me about what Prof is doing to her and I have always told Prof that what he is doing is not good. “This professor did the same same thing to my wife’s kid sister who I brought to live with him as a house help in 2017.

“But we didn’t know that prof was having sex with the girl and later got her pregnant. That time, she was 17years and was in class five in secondary school but when the professor impregnated her, she dropped out of school. That time, Human rights people came into the matter and called the police but Prof quickly went to the girl’s village with wine, wrapper and money and deceived them that he wanted to marry her.

“The mother of the girl came to the police with Prof and helped him destroy the case. But after a while, she gave birth to her baby, the Prof collected the baby and sent the girl away”. The baby boy is still living with Prof now but that girl is hawking groundnuts in Abakaliki. It was when there was nobody to take care of the little child in Prof’s house that I went to the village and brought my little daughter to come and look after the child. That is how Prof started sleeping with her. A small girl like this” the man sobbed.

When the suspect was interrogated, he was visibly shaky and apprehensive, as he initially denied all allegations against him but later admitted, albeit reluctantly and incoherently. He, at the same time, pleaded for peace and blamed everything on Satan.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Some hoodlums from Oha Echara village in Ezza North Local Government Area of Ebonyi state,On August 28, 2021, branded a 31 year old wealthy man, Chief Okechukwu Nweke a witch.

They accused him of been responsible for the strange misfortunes that befell the village.

He went to the bank of Akadoro river to observe prayers as a member of Sabath church.

He was wearing a red garment.

He was tied and dragged to the village square where he was beaten to death.

He told them he is a patent medicine dealer at Ogbo Owu market, Onitsha Anambra state but all his plea fell on deaf ears.

They threw him into Akadoro river.

His lifeless body is yet to be recovered.

They went through his phone and transferred five million naira….

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

By Wisdom Nwedene, Abakaliki

A former media aide to Ebonyi State Governor, David Nweze Umahi, Mr Godfery Chikwere who was arrested and detained by the police following a petition by Ebonyi State Commissioner for Information, Barrister Orji Uchenna Orji, has regained freedom.

Our correspondent gathered that Mr Chikwere was released on Friday morning following agitations by different groups.

9news Nigeria had reported that Mr Chikwere ordeal started on Saturday after he was arrested by the police following a petition against him by Barrister Orji for making a publication on his Facebook handle which the government considered as offensive.

He was rushed to the state’s police headquarters clinic for treatment but his condition reportedly worsened as the clinic is said to be inadequately equipped to cater to his health challenge.

Mr Chikwere was subsequently taken to the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki(AE-FUTHA) for further treatment.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Godfrey Chikwere, a journalist and an aide to Senator Obinna Ogba has been hospitalised after being arrested by the police.

A letter of his arrest written by the Ebonyi State Commissioner for Information, Barrister Orji Uchenna Orji has been trending online.

It was gathered that Mr Chikwere was arrested on Saturday after the Commissioner accused him of sharing fake news and hate speech.

It was also gathered that Mr Chikwere was hospitalised following the treatment meted on him in police custody.

More DDetails….

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Governor Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State,has said that Biafra agitation Had Been Hijacked By Cultists, Kidnappers and Other Criminal Elements in the south East region.

The governor made the statement during the inauguration of the new leadership of the South-East Traditional Rulers’ Council headed by Eze Charles Mkpuma in Abakaliki on Tuesday.

IPOB had in July ordered a sit-at-home in five states in the South-East in a bid to force the federal government to release detained leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

Criminal groups had since the beginning of the year killed several security agents and destroyed public facilities including police stations and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) offices in the South-East.

Umahi said: “The declaration of South-East as a red zone by these ministries means that what is due to us would be difficult to come.

“It is time for the zone’s leaders and people to collectively say no to the killings in the zone because we no longer see the real agenda of the agitations.

“The people should support governors from the zone and other leaders to permanently stop this bloodshed because we know the parents and communities of the perpetrators of the heinous acts.

“It is presently difficult for trucks with goods from other parts of the country to come to the zone as we did not harmonise adequately to determine areas of comparative advantage.”

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The new Leadership of the South East Council of the Traditional Rulers led by His Royal Highness, Eze Charles Mkpuma has been inaugurated.

Chairman, South East Governors’ Forum and Governor of Ebonyi State, Engineer David Nweze Umahi inaugurated the Council at the Christian Ecumenical Centre, Abakaliki on Tuesday.

Governor Umahi Congratulated the Chairman of the South East Traditional Rulers Council and other Council members for their inauguration and described the Traditional Institution as the bedrock of Igbo culture and unity.

He also commended the outgoing Chairman of the Council, the Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Majesty Alfred Achebe for his commitment to the preservation of Igbo culture and Traditions.

“You all look very beautiful, very proud to see you. Welcome to Ebonyi State, the salt of the Nation. Let me commend you on your solid approach to the unity of South East.

“We all know that Sit at home has been hijacked by bandits, cultists and criminals. Why are we having killings in South East? Is it still for the same agenda or are there things we do not know about? Our Religious and Cultural Leaders can devise a way of talking to these people. It is time for all of us to collectively say no to insecurity in the South East.

“My advice is that we should do more as leaders of South East so that we would know whether all those who claim to be fighting for us are really fighting for us.

“You don’t shave our hairs in our absence. We must stand to say enough is enough as there is nothing we cannot get in Nigeria through dialogue and understanding.

“The most active people on the social media are the South East people. People take to the Social Media and begin to darken counsel without knowledge.

“On VAT, every State in South East must join me to say we should not obstruct the Status quo, we should rather be asking for the establishment of South East Economic Council to enable us develop our capacities.“

Governor Umahi also appealed to the new Chairman of South East Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Charles Mkpuma to carry his humility and patriotism in the service of Ndigbo.

“Let me congratulate our own Majesty, a man of great honesty, I call him a great peacemaker for his support together with CAN to the development of our dear State”

The Governor announced the donation of a brand new V6 Jeep and a cash donation as take off grant to the office of the Chairman of the South East Traditional Rulers Council andanother donation to members of the Council.

The Secretary to Ebonyi State Government, Dr. Kenneth Ugbala congratulated the new Chairman of the South East Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Charles Mkpuma on his successful emergence and welcomed the Royal Highnesses from other four States in the zone to the epoch making event.

He commended Governor David Umahi for the special attention to the Royal Highnesses since inception of office, including the gift of brand new Jeeps and increment in their salaries.

In a goodwill message, the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Matters and Rural Development, Chief Donatus Njoku welcomed the traditional Rulers and wished them happy stay in the State.

He expressed hope that with the ingenuity of the new Chairman of the South East Council of Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Charles Mkpuma, the South East would be coasting to enduring peace.

The Chairman, South East Chapter of Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Reverend Father Abraham Nwali called for the return to the culture of peace.

The President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Professor George Obiozo represented by the Legal Adviser, Chief Peter Aneke congratulated the Traditional Rulers for the milestone achieved and expressed optimism that the new dispensation would engender nationalism and patriotism among the Igbos.

The outgoing Chairman of the South East Council of Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Alfred Achebe called for more collaboration among Leaders of the Zone to further uplift the fortunes of Ndigbo.

Eze Achebe who is the Obi of Onitsha called on the new Leadership of the Traditional Rulers Council to work for the good of Ndigbo.

In an acceptance Speech, the new Chairman, South East Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Charles Mkpuma thanked the people of South East and members of the Traditional Institution for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to work seriously to take the Traditional Institution and Zone to greater heights.

“My Vision for Igbo Land include promotion of Peace and Unity: To achieve this, I intend to engage with our Elders, Sons and Daughters in dialogue. We must stamp indelible markof love and harmony in our land and only our youths can help as achieve this. A peace united, progressive Igbo Land is all I desíre and shall pursue for the South East.

“We want to strengthen our culture and values especially our language Igbo, dressing, festivals, especially the new yam and new year festival in Igbo Calendar. We are determined foster harmonious living within our communities and stamp out communal conflicts beginning from our traditional ancestral communities. We want Igbos wherever they find themselves to live in peace and unity.

“We intend to build friendly relationship of love across the nation, anchored on mutual trust and devoid of undermining the honor of the Igbo man and short- changing him, when it is his turn to lead.
I assure you that we, your Royal Fathers are here for you. We are available to serve you and we are committed to the progress of Ndi Igbo at home and in Diaspora.”

The inauguration was attended by Traditional Rulers from the five States of South East and other Stakeholders of Ndigbo.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

EBONYI GOVERNOR UMAHI ORDERS HIS COMMISSIONERS TO MONITOR WORKERS ATTENDANCE AGAINST THE SIT-AT-HOME ORDER BY IPOB

BY PRINCELY ONYENWE, IMO

His Excellency, the Governor of Ebonyi State, David Nweze Umahi, has ordered all commissioners and other government officials to take note and monitor strictly the attendance of workers and deal drastically on absentees.

This is in the guideline to the order against the IPOB sit-at-home mandate on the South-East states.

UMAHI, therefore, has directed that all Civil and Public Servants must report to work across the State on Monday and whosoever fails to report to his or her duty post, stands to lose his/her job.

All the Commissioners and other government officials are to take note and monitor strictly the attendance of workers.

2. Similarly, any shop or bank that fails to open for business activities on Monday 13th September 2021, in Ebonyi State, stands the risk of losing the right to operate business or banking operation in the State.
3. The general public is by this announcement advised to go about their normal businesses without fear.
4. Security agencies, Ebubeagu Security, Ebonyi State Command and Akubaraoha Youths are equally directed to patrol 24 hours in all corners of the State to ensure protection of life and property of Ebonyians as they go about their normal businesses.
5. His Excellency, David Nweze Umahi, will personally be on the road, markets and other public places including Ministries and Departments to monitor the level of compliance.

All concerned are to take note and adhere strictly to this important government directive.

IPOB sit-at-home order is cancelled and cannot be obeyed in the south East zone mostly in EBONYI state Nigeria, the governor Insists.

9News Nigeria (Owerri)
For inquiries on this news contact 9News Nigeria Imo State @08036856526

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Following residents’ observance of the sit-at-home order despite its suspension, the Chairman, South East Governors’ Forum, and Governor of Ebonyi State, Engineer David Nweze Umahi on Monday said people of the Zone were complying with the order out of fear.

Governor Umahi while speaking with State House Correspondents after meeting with President Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, said Leaders of the zone in collaboration with Ohaneze Ndigbo were working together on the demands of the youths agitating in the Zone to present them to Mr. President.

He expressed regret that the situation if not tackled would cripple the economy of the region.

“Well, I think is not more or less complying to the directive of IPOB or no IPOB. Suspended or not suspended. It is a question of fear. You know, the easiest thing to do is to carry a weapon and kill somebody, and that’s what happened in the past. And that’s why, you know, some people in South East are afraid of coming out. Even if you go now to the street and say that… or you hold AK 47, you will see everybody will desert the street. So it’s not a question of compliance. It’s a question of fear.”

“The security agencies can have enough personnel in the South East. You’ll find out that no South East man wants to miss a day at work. They like to work, they are into trade, commerce, and they want to earn their daily living.”

“So this is something that the nation Nigeria must know. And it’s something that security agencies must know. Security agencies must know that they owe south East people the duty to protect their lives and this is the reason why it appears that in some states that there is a compliance of sit at home, even though like you said, IPOB has said, it’s suspended. But it’s the worst thing to happen to the south East because it will destroy the economy of the South East. And so I’ve been singing and I have been shouting that southeast people should take into knowledge not to allow such thing to happen because it will cripple the economy of South East.”

Speaking on the purpose of his visit to the Presidential Villa, Governor Umahi said he was in the Villa to appreciate Mr. President for his remarkable Projects in the South East Zone and other far-reaching interventions.

“I came to see, Mr. President. One is to thank him very highly for many megaprojects that he is doing in the southeast. The second Niger bridge is fast becoming a reality. Each time we visit that bridge location is always like a dream. So, we the people of the southeast are very grateful to Mr. President for this. We also thank him for the award of the Eastern corridor of the railway line. This is a project that is going to fast-track the commercial activities of our people. I recall that when I was in school, I used to join train from my state, Ebonyi to Maiduguri where my brothers were staying for my holidays.”

“Mr. President is about restoring that hope. We are deeply very grateful. But I also reminded Mr. President that one of his cardinal objectives is to integrate with the southeast or the state capitals, but in putting together the project through the southeast that the capital of Ebonyi state, which is Abakaliki, and capital of Anambra state, which is Awka, were omitted. And I reminded, Mr. President that the southeast governors had requested that I write which I did, but is not yet approved to by the Honourable Minister of Transport, which Mr. President said he will find out why they were omitted in the first place. I am very, very hopeful that Mr. President is going to approve those two locations. And also the limestone granules to fast track the fertilizer presidential initiative, which has helped the country Nigeria so much in food sufficiency.”

“Let me point out that without the effort of Mr. President, through this fertilizer initiative and other programs in the agricultural sector, it would have been a very difficult time for this country. And so that project is supposed to produce a large set of granules to enable us to produce fertilizers to serve the south-south, southeast, and part of North Central.”

“Mr. President has already approved the funds and released them to Solid Mineral Development Fund. But part of the requirement is that there must be SPV – integration of private sector initiative. They have applied to Mr. President for approval through the chief of staff. So we had to remind Mr. President.”

Engineer Umahi also announced that President Muhammadu Buhari would be in Ebonyi State in November to commission some landmark projects executed by his administration.

“Lastly, four years back, Mr. President was in Ebonyi state about November to commission several projects and lay foundation stone to others. I reminded Mr. President that we are expecting him four years later, which would be November for him to come to Ebonyi State. The last time he spent one night but this time we are asking  him to spend three nights.”

“We have over 20 different projects that we consider good enough for Mr. President to commission. We have completed the Muhammadu Buhari light tunnel bridge complex, the first of its kind in Africa for Mr. President to commission. We have gotten to the stage of completing the best medical center, King  David University of Medical Sciences, the best in Africa. We have completed the largest mall, the most beautiful mall you can see anywhere in West Africa. We have completed additional six twin flyover bridges, well decorated and beautiful. We want Mr. President to commission them. We want Mr. President to commission the St. Margeret international market, the largest market in West Africa. We have built and completed a very mighty building, which we call the medical school for Ekwueme Federal  University, and we want Mr. President to commission it.”

“We have over 200-kilometer Concrete roads in Ebonyi state, some of the federal roads, some concrete roads. And these are the major ones.  We have over 1000 kilometer roads completed, since my first tenure and we want Mr. President to commission them. Of course, the list can be exhaustive. Even the three agric Industrial clusters are ready for Mr. President to commission.”

“We also have several ongoing projects most of which will terminate at the end of 2021. Like the International Airport, which Mr. President two years ago approved. Now we are the first in the whole of Nigeria to build an international airport runway with concrete that is going to be ready for Mr. President to lay the foundation stone. I will invite him next year to commission it. We will have the first flight about May 29th, 2022. We also have many road projects, especially the 199 kilometers of Abakaliki ring road, of which the state government has completed 53 kilometers. And then we have the African Development Bank and IDB bank, the funders and of course, the lenders, the federal government who lent to us. We have this from Mr. President and we want him to lay the foundation stone when he is in Ebonyi  state.”

Governor Umahi also hinted that the President would lay the Foundation Stone of other people-oriented projects during his working visit.

“And of course, the limestone granules is Mr. President’s project and he has to lay the foundation stone. The salt infrastructure is Mr. President’s project and he has to lay the foundation stone and so many other Flyovers, about three projects. There are so many projects that I cannot exhaust all the projects that are completed, and the ones that are waiting for Mr. President to lay the foundation.”

“But I think after Lagos and Abuja, Ebonyi remains, another state with the highest numbers of Flyovers, and Ebonyi Airport remains the largest after Lagos and Abuja. So, this is why we came and I’m happy that Mr. President, is quite disposed towards visiting us again.”

On calls for Igbo Presidency in 2023, Governor Umahi insisted it was too early and distracting to talk about the agenda just a year after the President’s re-election.

“Well, for me, I’m very much entrenched in completing my projects. And I will look into politics when my tenure is remaining one year, which is from May 29, 2022. And I think it is the same thing with other governors of South East and by extension, governors of APC.”

“My position about what you ask is that our people that are in those political parties are making the efforts in selling the need for south East to produce the next president. But I think both the governors and Mr. President should not be distracted, when the elections are done and won, the next thing should be governance. But in this country, the moment the election is completed, the next one starts and is the masses that are being cheated. So those whose job is politics and who are not in an elected position, or appointed positions have all the time and the opportunity to do this conversing. And I think that they are doing it very well. But I continue to say that power rest in the hands of God.

He lauded the South East Ebubeagu Security outfit for being a formidable entity in complementing the efforts of the conventional Security Agencies in tackling insecurity in the Zone. he said: “Talking on Ebubeagu position, it’s quite formidable and doing a great job in synergy with all the security agencies. And if you read through the newspapers, you see a lot of exploits that are being done in the South East. It is quite tasking, security-wise, and we are tackling it.”

Speaking on efforts to fulfill the pledge made to the youths of the region protesting marginalization and the six months grace to present a common position to Mr. President, Governor Umahi said efforts were on top gear to holistically address the myriads of challenges bedeviling the region especially the Youths.

“In terms of the issue of youth protest and asking southeast youths to give the leaders six months, yes, well, we are on that matter. We have met with Ohanaeze and Igbo leaders and they have set up different committees to articulate the goal. We, also as leaders, want to hear from the masses and hear from those in political offices and appointive offices and, the civil service both at the federal and states, the areas of marginalization. Some of them might be illusions, you know, but I continue to insist that our people that also are in political offices at the federal level, and the civil service should also identify with our people because a lot of our people also say those of them in places don’t identify with their people. And so we continue to shout marginalization, we should start from them, they should be able to tell us, you know, being also at the federal level, the areas that matter and let them also tell us what they have done for our people. I’m not talking about all of them, but we need to see their faces, we need to identify with them. So that the people will appreciate the level of marginalization so to say, so this is our position. We are still going to come with some points, if there are merits to meet with Mr. President, then have data to have tet-a-tet  over the matter.”

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

An Ebonyi man, Mr. Christian Uche Obasi has gifted Governor David Nweze Umahi 12 cows to appreciate him for changing the narratives of Ebonyi State.

Mr. Christian holds Masters of Science in Peace and Conflict Resolution and is a successful businessman from Ebonyi State, he is sound, focused, and collected.

He visited Ebonyi State a couple of days ago just to behold the massive transformation in the state which is beyond what he ever imagined and he is appreciating Governor David Umahi, FNSE, FNATE for his effort in changing the narrative of the State.

In a chit-chat with him, he said:” I am not into politics, I do my business and I am grateful to God for where he has brought me.”

“I just need to express my gratitude to Governor Umahi for giving Ebonyians in other states/countries the face to identify where we are coming from. It has never been like this, we have never had it so good.”

“I was returning from Calabar after some years now and I missed my way when I got to Spera Indio, the place is no longer a description that words can easily be used for, you can say that it is a paradise of its own.”

“My gifting our elder brother, Governor Umahi 12 cows is to urge him to continue in the direction he is going and that we are supporting him all round the clock. Umahi is a rare gem that should be celebrated by all. He is a rare breed and anybody that is truthful with himself should be able to speak up and let the world know that we have got a leader in Ebonyi.

“I am equally happy for his switch to the ruling All Progressive Congress, with the way his former party is going today, it tells that he is a man who saw tomorrow as all his statements have been confirmed.

“In sincerity, what I wish is that he will continue to remain in public office where he will keep impacting on the masses and transforming the world. Give him this country and he will run it comfortably and everyone will breathe fresh air.”

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The Presidency has revealed that Governor David Nweze Umahi of Ebonyi State and three others have been given N24b for ranching.

According to the Presidency, Ebonyi, Yobe and Katsina states, as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), have received N24billion.

Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Media, Garba Shehu, stated this last night on Politics Today, a programme on Channels.

He said four received N6billion each for ranching and other associated purposes.

He, however, did not disclose when they got the funds, though he said Katsina was the latest to get it.

Shehu said eight other states will get theirs soon as their applications are being processed.

He said any state that is interested and meets the requirement will get the same grant.

Shehu said: ” Yes, Katsina has been given, but Katsina is not the only state that has been given.

“So far, about N24billion has been disbursed to about four states for ranching and associated activities.

“Yobe has been given. Ebonyi has been given and FCT has been given. More than eight other states are now being processed for this payment.”

Shehu said the programme is one of the ways the Buhari Administration intends to end the farmer/herder clashes.

He said Buhari is fair and just and wants the clashes to end like every other Nigerian.

The revelation that Ebonyi got the funds will come as a surprise to many in the Southeast.

The state and other Southern governors had said they had no land for ranching.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

It is a black Saturday in Ebonyi State as a fully loaded 18 seater bus has plunged into a River along Royal salt by Enyigba.

According to an eyewitness that spoke with 9NEWS NIGERIA correspondent under the condition of anonymity, none of the passenger came out as the bus is yet to be recovered.

According to him, “the bus loaded fully from Abakiliki, capital of Ebonyi and was heading to Ikwo when the bus plunged into a river.”

“None of the passenger has been recovered. They are still inside the river. I beg the relevant agencies to come to their rescue please, he said.”

More details soon….

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

~As EXCO approves the commencement of recruitment process of 3000 civil servants

About 2000 free Business Registration Certificates have been presented to the Beneficiaries in Ebonyi State at the State Executive Council Chambers on Friday.

Governor David Nweze Umahi made the presentation at the old Government House, Abakaliki on Friday.

The Commissioner for Commerce, Industry, and Business Development, Dr. Stephen Odoh said the Federal Government has by the registration given the Beneficiaries a quantum leap in pursuance of their business ideas.

“Let me congratulate those that got their Certificates and to thank Mr. President and Mr. Vice-President for this initiative. Our Country Nigeria is becoming very difficult because Leaders are not just expected to provide food but to also put it in the mouth of the people.

The Governor in company of the Exco members received a report of Justice Omaka Elekwa Commission of inquiry into Effium, Ezza Effium, Aro Effium crises.

Presenting the report, Chairman of the panel, Justice Omaka Elekwa, thanked the State Government for finding them worthy to serve and appealed to them to implement their recommendations for lasting peace in the area.

The Governor later swore in three new Special Assistants to Governor to inject new blood into the Executive Council.

Those sworn-in included Mr. Ozoemena Njoku, SA Solid Minerals, Mrs. Stella Nwagu, SA Adult Education and Chief Chris Uchaji, SA SSG’s Office.

He thanked the Presidency for the initiative of giving credence to the business ideas of citizens through this Business Registration Certificate.

Governor Umahi also restated the commitment of his administration to embark on massive Empowerment of the Youths soon.

“Every Nation that is great has been made great by the people, so everyone has to be involved because Government cannot do everything alone”.

The Governor thanked the Panel of inquiry into the Effium and Ezza Effium crises for a job well done and mandated the Deputy Governor to assemble a team of Lawyers to reduce the report to a miniature proportion.

The Governor announced plans to rehabilitate the Effium regional market before the end of his administration.

He congratulated the new Special Assistants on their swearing-in and urged them to double up their performance.

The Special Assistant to the Governor, Office of the SSG, Chief Chris Uchaji thanked the Governor for finding them worthy of appointment and pledged to justify the confidence.

In a similar development, the Ebonyi State Government has set up a special committee headed by the Deputy Governor, Barr. Kelechi Igwe, to commence the recruitment process of 3,000 Ebonyians into the State’s Civil Service.
“The Committee are to start the advert and start giving people the opportunity to apply”.

Other members of the Committee include:

1. The Honourable Commissioner for Education, Dr. Zeal Nwangele.
2. The Commissioner for Human Capital Development, Mrs. Ann Aligwe.
3. The Permanent Secretary, Office of the Head of Service.
4. The Chief of Staff, Barr. Samuel Okoronkwo.
5. The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Education.
6. The Special Assistant to the Governor on Education.
7. The Special Assistant to the Governor on Labour and Inter-Party.
8. The Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Local Government Matters.
9. The Special Assistant to the Governor on Chieftaincy and Local Government Matters.
10. Commissioner for Finance.
11. The Accountant General of the State.
12. The Chairman of Ebonyi State Civil Service Commission who doubles as the Secretary of the Committee.

The recruitment and empowerment process will be based on Local Government equality. EXCO further states that all Ebonyians who are qualified will either be recruited into the State’s Civil Service or be given empowerment.

The Executive Council also deliberated on the recruitment process for the King David’s University of Medical Sciences at Uburu. The Council approved that all the young men and women from Ebonyi State who have First Class in the Sciences, English, and Mathematics are to submit their application to the Commissioner for education for employment in David Nweze Umahi University of Medical Sciences Uburu while others who have First Class from Arts disciplines are to apply to the Committee headed by the Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State to be given an opportunity for employment into the Ebonyi State Civil Service.

Also, Council agreed that the processes of promotion in the State’s Public and Civil Service should commenced immediately. The promotions should be based on existing vacancies from resignations, abscondment, and deaths. And then, it was deliberated that promotions for the year 2019, 2020, 2021 that is outstanding should be done immediately in the Civil Service and equally in the Public Service; which means, while the Civil Service is doing their own, the Local Government Service Commission will be doing their own simultaneously.

EXCO also ratified the proposal to establish a male football team in line with Gov. Umahi’s promise during the End-SARS protest to establish both male and female football teams for the State. The team, Salt City Football Club will start its campaign from the Amateur League 2 in the Nigerian League to prepare our local boys who are talented to participate and make (up) the team and one of the processes to recruit them is to further organize competitions.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Governor David Nweze Umahi of Ebonyi State has approved the indefinite suspension of Hon. Clement A. Nweke as Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development with immediate effect.

In a statement made available to 9News Nigeria by Ugbala Kenneth Igwe, Ph.D , secretary to the State Government/Coordinating
Commissioner said the indefinite suspension is as a result of insubordination and dereliction of duty.

According to the statement, “Consequently, Hon Nweke is directed to handover all governmental property in his possession to the Permanent Secretary or the most Senior officer in the Ministry before the close of work on Wednesday 11th August, 2021.”

” Please ensure strict compliance to this directive.”

STAY WITH 9NEWS NIGERIA.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

By Francis Nwaze

It is with great pleasure that, I on-behalf of my family most reverentially join the teeming Ekubaruoha fans worldwide to congratulate the 360° performing Governor and Leader of International repute, His Excellency, Engineer Chief David Nweze Umahi, FNSE, FNATE on the celebration of his 58th birthday.

Your Excellency, going by the litany of your infrastructural strides crisscrossing the lengths and breadths of this State within just six years on the saddle, your uncommon transformation of the education system in the state, the reviving of Agriculture and health sectors, etc and bearing in mind that these and more that you have achieved came to existence within just 58 years of your sojourn in this planet, I am more than convinced that Your Excellency is a child of destiny who is on a speed lane to deliver fully the errands of the supernatural.

It is not surprising that Your Excellency has put new songs on the lips of all categories of Ebonyians, Nigerians and diasporas through your trailblazing Leadership that today, the orchestra has become a clarion call for greater service to this nation in 2023.

Based on the foregoing, I, therefore, join your league of friends, fans and well-wishers globally in wishing you a memorable 58 birthday while praying God to preserve and strengthen you to fully run your destinies and accomplish all your life missions.

Once again, happy birthday to the most dutiful, meticulous, and dedicated visionary leader of our time!

Francis Nwaze Is The Special Assistant to the Governor On Media and Publicity.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

During Governor David Nweze Umahi’s presentation of the 2021 budget proposal to Ebonyi State House of Assembly on December 15, 2020, Gov. Umahi had mapped out N23.913bn which is about 19.47% of the total budget to the education sector. This showed his commitment and conscious effort to revamp the sector.

In the words of Nelson Mandela, the former South African President, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”.

The Governor of Ebonyi State, Engr. (Chief) David Nweze Umahi, FNSE, FNATE, being a man with exceptional intelligence did not just internalize these words of Mandela but has pursued it as his educational policy.

When he took over the helms of affairs in Ebonyi in 2015, the educational sector in the state was experiencing a dearth of infrastructure, inadequate teaching staff among other challenges. However, Gov. Umahi rose to the challenges by introducing new all-inclusive educational policies to cater for the divergent needs of Ebonyians. The major thrust of Gov. Umahi’s educational policy is centered on content and quality improvement which has been diligently pursued.

These policies were hinged on the four major pillars of:

1. Teachers training;
2. Effective monitoring of schools;
3. Total overhaul of infrastructures;
4. Providing opportunities for skills acquisition.

To give breath to his plans, Gov. Umahi went ahead to establish two government-owned special schools: the Ebonyi State Vocational College and the King David Gifted Children’s Academy. The Governor, as a practicing Engineer, knew that education should not only be academically based but also serve societal needs as well as provide platforms for technically inclined children from the state to achieve their dreams. The Vocational College is designed to take care of children and even adults with unharnessed special skills, and who may have dropped out of school or may not be good theoretically and academically but have technical abilities.

On the other hand, the King David Gifted Children’s Academy is fashioned in the mould of the Federal Gifted Children’s Academy in Suleja, Niger State. The Children’s Academy is established to accommodate children with extraordinary intelligence quotient, also known as child geniuses or prodigy.

According to Victor Hugo wrote: “He who opens a school, closes a prison”.
It is on note that Gov. Umahi has built and attracted more educational institutions in the state since he was elected as the Governor. These include two major Federal Institutions: the Federal Science and Technical College located at Amuzu, Ezza South and the Federal College of Education in Isu, Onicha Local government area; the King David University of Medical Sciences, Uburu among others.

Gov. Umahi is also leaving one of the best legacies in the state in the education sector with the establishment of the King David University of Medical Sciences. The school when completed will not only be the cradle of knowledge but will also be the hub of medical tourism beyond the country and the continent. Hence, rather than travel to the United States, United Kingdom, India, Pakistan, etc to study medicine and other related science programs, Nigerians and other foreigners will find a safe haven in the state-owned institution. This will create an avenue for the generation of revenue especially now that funds coming to states from the Federation Account have dropped.

The education-loving Governor has also promised to complete two other institutions: Aeronautical University and University of Engineering, before the completion of his tenure in 2023.

The Aeronautical University will be sited close to the Ebonyi State International Airport at Onueke. The institution would be providing manpower and resource to the Airport and its staff. This will no doubt reduce the cost of traveling to the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) Zaria, the Kwara State-owned International Aviation College Ilorin or abroad to solve aviation-related issues.

The Engineering University, to be sited in Abakaliki, the state capital, is a tertiary institution entirely dedicated to the study of engineering courses. The essence is to domesticate the field of engineering. This will further open up the state for academic greatness and provide a source of funds for the state.

Governor Umahi’s educational policy further drives at emancipating Ebonyi people from the slavery of illiteracy. It is on record that the state has been classified as an ‘Educationally Disadvantaged States’ – EDS.

The Governor’s effort is also aimed at accommodating the older generations who could not undergo formal academic learning. In doing this, Gov. Umahi through the Ministry of Education under the State Mass Literacy program has established Centres in various local government areas of the state. The Ministry has also established an adult education center, known as the Tehilli Academy at the Margaret Umahi International Market. This is to ensure that traders could be running their businesses and still have the opportunity to acquire academic skills and certificates.

The efforts of Gov. Umahi’s administration in the education sector have had a positive impact on the citizens. The rate of school dropouts in the state has gone down while there has been a geometric increase in the State’s literacy level. This explains why Ebonyi is the only state in the South-East that was selected by the World Bank for its Better Education Service Delivery for All, BESDA program. This attests to the doggedness of the Governor and his unrelenting desire to change the education statistics and status of the State.

To drive home his commitment to rewarding excellence in education, Gov. Umahi has introduced scholarships to the best graduating students at all levels of education and other incentives. This is aimed at giving added impetus to the battle against educational backwardness in the State.

The intervention of Gov. Umahi in the education sector did not go unnoticed. It has attracted the attention of the National Library of Nigeria. The services of the body were launched in the state on September 11, 2020. This shows the wider acceptability of the magnificent works being done by Gov. Umahi in the sector.

By the time the government of Gov. David Nweze Umahi hands over to another Governor in 2023, Ebonyi State will have been positioned to compete favorably in every phase of education, be it in normal academics or skills acquisition. By 2023, Ebonyians will be proud to chorus the words of Malcolm X, who said:
“Education is the best passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today”.

Indeed, Engr. David Nweze Umahi has given Ebonyians the best passport that its reward is till eternity, education.

Francis Nwaze Is The Special Assistant to the Governor On Media and Publicity.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Ebonyi state is ranked highest in substance abuse among Nigerian states, Eze Ude, Coordinator International Society for Substance Use Prevention and Treatment Professionals (ISSUP), said.

Ude revealed this to newsmen on Friday during conclusion of a three-day workshop.

The workshop was organised by officials of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for the National Association of Patent Proprietary Medicine Dealers (NAPPMED) in Abakaliki.

According to him, the state is rated above 13 per cent in the act of drug abuse, according to United Nations’ statistics.

“In United Nation report of 2018, research shows that globally, we have about 5.6% rate of substance abuse.

“In the country, we have 10.4% rate of substance abuse; when you convert it, the other way round, one will find out that Nigeria per cent in the act out-weighed the globe.

“According to the same statistics, the state is over 13 per cent with this analysis, one can see the rate of substance abuse in Ebonyi and Nigeria in general,” Ude explained.

Ude who is also a Clinical Psychologist at Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, and Chief Executive Officer of Brain Care Foundation said the problem had contributed significantly in mental health of the society.

He said that large number of young men and women at the hospital were usually seen on daily basis going down as a result of drug abuse.

He, however, advised that people should understand its effect and stop the practice.

He further charged NAPPMED members, who are grassroots health care givers, and other stakeholders to synergise towards fight against the trend to avoid other problems emanating from the act.

Mr Aliyu Omamah, state Commander, NDLEA in his speech revealed that between January and May 2021, men of the agency had seized about 105 kilgrammes of different types of drugs in the state.

According to him, 26 per cent of the seizures is psychotropic drugs.

“According to the agency’s survey by EU and UNODC 2020, in Nigeria, 14.3 million people use drug, that is prevalence rate of 14.3 per cent (15-64 years) which is higher than the global rate of 5.6 per cent.

“4.6 million people use prescription opioids such as tramadol or cough syrup with codeine, in the state, prevalence of drug use is 12.8 per cent,” he said

He said that the workshop was to cut the supply chain of prescription drugs and to reduce the demand of the same substances.

He added that various crises confronting the state could be attributed to the use of hard drugs.

The commander stated that problems found in some homes, work places, schools, physical dangers and troubles with the law are common negative consequences associated with the drugs known as psychotropic substance.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Governor of Ebonyi State, Dave Umahi, has called on residents of the state to rise up and fight invaders and killer herdsmen who attack them, instead of waiting for security agents to come to their aid.

Umahi who also offered amnesty to armed youths in the state during an enlarged security council meeting in Abakaliki on Thursday, added that the time has come for the people to take their security more seriously.

“Ebonyi State is not against any agitation for any injustice whether it is at the family level, state, region and national,” Umahi said.

“But as a state, we have resolved not to allow any form of violent agitation in the state or attack on security agencies, people or restriction of movement, freedom of people or attack in any of our infrastructure.

“We demand that any alleged agitation and injustice must be compiled and be given to the leaders of the state for them to address with the leadership at the centre.

“We note that there have been threats from herders with AK-47 sending text messages to Ebonyi State that they are coming to attack us.

“We have resolved as a people to confront anybody, whether he is a herder or criminal that will come into the state with any gun to kill, or anyone that enters the state with the intention to commit assault.

“Protect yourself in all the nooks and crannies of the state; confront anybody that wants to kill our people.

“If the people want to kill with a stick, look for a stick. Don’t look for security people to come, no sleeping day and night, protect yourself.

“No more need to be afraid. If they write you that they are coming, tell them to come, this is our position.

“The traditional rulers, our leaders where the ring roads will pass, have assured us of adequate security.

“And all local government chairmen are to form joint security with the traditional rulers.

“Traditional rulers and their representatives where there is no one alive, the CAN leadership, councilors and leaders should form a very united committee to resolve all communal crises and maintain peace in their areas.”

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Unknown Gunmen have reportedly clashed with Ebubeagu Security Network Members in Ebonyi State.

9news Nigeria gathered two persons were killed during the clash and two patrol Vehicles set on fire.

More details soon…..

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Traders in Ebonyi who comply with the Monday’s sit-at-home order by IPOB would forfeit their shops, state governor David Umahi warned in a state-wide broadcast on Saturday.

Gov Umahi was reacting to the order by the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) to the people of South-East zone.

He directed that all markets in the state should open for business on Monday.

The governor said: “There should be free movement of people in the state on Saturday, Sunday, Monday and other days of the year.“

People should go to church on Sunday to pray for the nation’s fallen security agents, civilians and peace and unity of the state and country.

“I challenge the youths, local government area chairmen, security agents, Ebebeagu security outfit, among others, to ensure that no one is molested in the state.“

Anyone who has nothing to protect himself should do so with cutlass, which should be for protection and not for attack.”

He said that all forms of procession had been banned in the state except those by youths organised by council chairmen.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi, on Friday dissolved the State Executive Council with immediate effect.

The Secretary to the State Government, Kenneth Ugbala, who disclosed this to journalists at the end of the State Executive Council meeting held at the Chamber at the Old Government House, Abakaliki, said the dissolution of the cabinet was in phases.

He added that some key officers were not affected by the first phase of the exercise.

The officers that retained their jobs in the Executive Council were the SSG, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Cletus Ofoke; Commissioner for Finance, Orlando Nweze; and his Information and Orientation counterpart, Uchenna Orji.

“Others were the Commissioner for Internal Security and Border Peace, Stanley Okoro Emegha; Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Investment, Chioma Nweze and Commissioner for Capital City, Onyekachi Nwebonyi; among others,” the SSG stated.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Governor David Nweze Umahi of Ebonyi State has urged security agencies to arrest former Senate President, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim and former Governor of the State, Sen. Sam Egwu for questioning.

In a statement released by the Commissioner for information, Barrister Orji Uchenna said PDP’s style of gambling with allegations and trumping up criminal accusations is a clear manifestation of their servitude to falsehood.

According to the statement, “the publication signed by ‘Ebonyi PDP National Assembly caucus’ dated 18th May 2021 accused the State Government of arming Ebonyi youths with AK 47 to kill perceived enemies, but turned back to withdraw the allegations in their publication made through their National Publicity Secretary. “

” The same PDP officials who were the last to see one Amos Ogbonna before they alleged his kidnap were the first to see him after he was allegedly released.”

“The same PDP officials are making another claim of another case of abduction of one Anyigor Methuselah. Very soon they will ànnounce his release. This same group announced a case of murder of one Shedrack Nwode without mentioning who killed him.”

“They alleged that Ebonyi youths attacked some PDP members without mentioning the suspects. What senseless blackmail! We demand therefore that Senator Sam Egwu, Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim, Elder Fred Udeogu, Ali Odefa, Hon. Linus Okorie should be quizzed by relevant Security Agencies to explain this confusion, more so when they have very unpalatably suspicious records of similar scenario when they were at the helm of affairs.”

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The Nigerian police have killed one unknown
gunmen that attacked the Onicha, Abaomege, and Ohaozara police stations, Ebonyi state which led to the death of some police officers.

The Ebonyi state police commissioner, CP Aliyu Garba, confirmed the death of the gang leader identified as Blood (real name unknown).

CP Aliyu explained that, in his mission to clear the criminals from the state, men of the command arrested two male suspected armed robbers and also recovered firearms, ammunition, and other incriminating items from their house in the Isu Onicha local government area of the state.

The command’s police public relations officer, PPRO, DSP Loveth Odah, in a statement on Monday, said the success was recorded on May 20, 2021.

According to her, at about 5 pm, Thursday, May 20, 2021 following the intelligence reports of movement of arms and ammunition and the report of armed robbers terrorising Isu, Onicha local government area, DSP Odah told newsmen, one Eluu Ekpehu Emmanuel was arrested. He was said to have made useful statements to the police and led police operatives to the house of their gang leader, popularly known as “Blood” (other names unknown), who is alleged to have been terrorising the area, and master minder of the various attacks on three police divisional headquarters in the area, namely Onicha, Abaomege, and Ohaozara.

According to her, the suspect and his group, on sighting the police, opened fire on the operatives who fought back, and that, in the process, Blood was apprehended with gunshot injuries while others escaped into the nearby bush with bullet wounds.

“Blood’s house and premises were immediately searched adding that one (1) double barrel English gun, with eleven live cartridges one (1) locally made single gun, one (1) riot police smoke gunner, stolen from Ohaozara police divisional headquarters when the division was attacked and on the 6th May 2021 were recovered.

“Other items recovered include, three (3) police bartons, one (1) hand grenade, one (1) canister of teargas, two (2) police belts, and two (2) police radio communication handset with chargers, all stolen from Onicha divisional headquarters which was also attacked and set ablaze on 4th February 2021.

She said four (4) Biafra flags and one (1) juju box were also found at his place, adding that

“the wounded suspect was immediately rushed to AE-Federal Teaching Hospital (AE-FETHA) Abakaliki for medical treatment, where he later gave up the ghost.

“The corpse has been deposited at the same hospital mortuary for preservation adding that the gang was responsible for the attacks on government facilities and the killing of security agents in the state.”

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The Chairperson, International Federation of Women Lawyers FIDA, Mrs. Grace Iheanachi China has accused a soldier attached to Nkwegu Military Cantonment of allegedly raping a13yr-old girl at Ezza-Effium, in Ohaukwu local government area of Ebonyi State.

The soldier was among the security personels sent to the warring communities of Ezza and Ezza Effium, to ensure the return of nomalcy to the area and arrest the hoodlums killing and destroying property.

Mrs. Chima who spoke to Leadership alleged that the incident happened on Thursday at about 3pm.

According to her, “the soldier allegedly defiled the girl on her way to fetch water from a neighboring village, Umuezeoka village in Effium community, and abandoned her in an uncompleted building”.

Mrs Grace, stated that FIDA in collaboration with the commandant of Nkwegu Military Cantonment, Lieutenant Connell Erhabor Igbinadolor, they were able to fish out the suspect.

“As we speak, the ball has been set rolling to drag the suspect to Enugu State for Martial Court”.

“The little girl was defiled by a solider at the war zone in Effium. The soldier brutally had carnal knowledge of her that she bled for many days at the hospital. It was so bad that she underwent some operations to correct the damage done on her during the incident.

“FIDA’s attention was drawn from the point she was admitted at Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, for the surgery.

“So I personally went there and saw her bleeding profusely. Immediately, FIDA petitioned the Nkwegu Military Commandant. Because of the seriousness, I personally delivered the letter to the Commandant and speedy action was taken. Few days later, the suspect was apprehended.

“The Commandant called to inform us about the development and we went there and saw him. We were asked to bring the victim and her mother which was done and they wrote down their statements. We were told that the soldier will be taken to Enugu State for Martial court proceedings, so that is the stage we are now.

“We have obtained medical records, took pictures, did video when she was bleeding. It is our duty to ensure that justice is given to the girl and that we are out to do. So we are waiting for the date for the proceedings in Enugu”. Ends.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Governor Dave Umahi of Ebonyi has directed all native doctors and traditional medicine dealers in the state to register with the state government and the police within seven days.

Umahi gave the directive on Wednesday after the weekly state security council meeting in Abakaliki.

“There would be an executive order to this effect and anyone caught doing otherwise would be arrested and prosecuted,” he said.

He also directed that all wake-keeps and other social activities in the state must end by 6 p.m., charging council chairmen and relevant security outfits to enforce the order.

“Anyone who defies this directive would pay a fine of N1 million as criminal activities are perpetrated through these wake-keeps which last through the night,” he said.

He called for a cessation of the killings of security personnel, civilians and destruction of public facilities, noting that they are purely criminal activities.

“The perpetrators post such killings and destruction on the social media, claiming that they are members of the Indigenous People of Biafra or the Eastern Security Network.

“I am not standing for either group but they continued to deny that they are not into violence.

“I direct security agencies to crack down on all criminal activities in the state and prosecute all culprits,” he said.

Umahi regretted the rampant circulation of fake news in the state and warned that the government would no longer tolerate such.

“Someone posted on Wednesday that herders attacked a school in Abakaliki and schools began to close and people running in panic.

“Anyone who circulates fake news whether from the opposition or in agreement with me would be arrested and prosecuted,” he said.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The European Union and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) yesterday expressed concern at the in-creasing rate of defilement, rape cases and other forms of violence against women, girls and children in Ebonyi State and called on the judiciary to ensure accelerated justice to serve as deterrent to others.

The UNICEF desk officer in the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Ebonyi State, Mr. Uchenna Unah made the comment during a sensitization programme on ending violence against women, girls and children in Abakaliki local government area of the state.

According to Mr. Unah; “The incident of rape and defilement in Ebonyi State is high, especially the children and the infants. We have consistently been getting reports of defilement.

The worrisome situation is that some of the cases we have been getting involved infants within one year being defiled”

.He, however, commended Ebonyi State Police for being up and doing in ensuring that such cases are adequately investigated.

“The Ministry of Woman Affairs and Social Development and the Ministry of Justice Ebonyi State have also not left any stone unturned in handling such cases.

“We will also advocate that such cases be given accelerated hearing and justice meted out to the perpetrators to serve as deterrent to others. I can tell you that there are many cases of defilement, rape and other forms of vio-lence against women, girls and children in the state and we are optimistic that they will do justice to such cases,” he said.

Mr. Unah called on the women, girls and children to always voice out when they are violated or raped, adding that from available records, perpetrators of violence against women and girls are mostly neighbours, friends, class-mates and strangers.

The UNICEF/NOA desk officer noted that the agencies would continue to campaign against physical and emotional abuse, neglect and sexual abuse which have been identified as major cases of violence against children in Ebonyi State.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB Wednesday accused Nigerian Security agencies of aiding and abating murderous herdsmen to kill Biafran people of Ebonyi and Enugu States.

IPOB while reacting to the alleged killing of herdsmen in Ebonyi State, through its Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, said they in IPOB and ESN are chasing Fulani terrorists, herdsmen, in the whole of South East and South-South and we will spare terrorists when they get them.

IPOB statement read in part, “It is now clear and open to the public how Nigeria security agencies are aiding and abetting murderous Fulani terrorists herdsmen to kill our Biafran people in Ebonyi and Enugu States.

Nigeria security agencies are giving them cover to attack the villagers in these two states because Nigeria Army and Police in uniforms are terrorists Nigerians and Nigeria as a country are suffering today.

“If Nigerians and communities want to be free from terrorism, they must openly reject Nigeria security operatives in the country, they are all terrorists and working for terrorists.

“How can security agencies that are supposed to protect and secure innocent citizens will be providing cover for terrorists to attack people, that is what IPOB is talking about.

“IPOB and ESN are chasing Fulani terrorist herdsmen in the whole of South East and South-South and we won’t spare terrorists when we get them”

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

By Wisdom Nwedene, Abakaliki

Suspected gunmen, on Monday morning, attacked Ezza community in Ebonyi State, killing at least five persons and burning many houses.

According to resident of the area, Monday’s attack was a reprisal to an attack on Nwekendiagu village in Effium last Thursday.

“I can confirm to you that we were attacked this morning, if the State Government cannot help us, we call on the Federal Government to intervene in this crisis”.

“Three persons were killed this morning and many houses burnt to ashes, we don’t know where to run to,” he said.

9news Nigeria gathered that the crisis was fuelled by a leadership tussle at the area’s branch of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, involving old and new executives.

Recall that last week, some yet-to-be-identified gunmen attacked Nwekendiagu village in Effium, in the Ohaukwu Local Government Area of the state.

The gunmen on Thursday invaded the village in the early hours of the day, killing at least 15 persons and burning over 200 houses, including a fuel station located in the area.

According to a resident of the area that fled from the village due to the crisis fingered Effium warriors to be behind the attack.

He said, “Yes, the Effiumite warriors attacked a village called Nwekendiagu and killed more than 15 persons and burnt more than 200 houses including fuel station.”

The attack on Ohaukwu LGA has been recurrent in recent weeks. On March 9, suspected gunmen from Uffiom attacked Omege People in Ebonyi State, killing people in their dozens.

It was gathered that houses were equally burnt and five persons kidnapped from Omege village.

The crisis ensued as a result of a misunderstanding between two factions of the Effium branch of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, over which group to be in charge of collecting revenue in the Effium motor park.

Residents of the area said over 1,000 persons had been killed in the crisis, but the state government had characteristically downplayed the incident, claiming that only eight persons were killed.

Governor David Umahi had vowed not to free the stakeholders until peace returned and made a U-turn recently, by releasing them with a charge to go to their area and ensure that absolute peace returned.

The stakeholders, in compliance with the government directive, returned home to preach peace to their people, but fillers from the area indicate that their efforts yielded no result, as hostilities between the two clans have continued to persist.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Following the persistent killing of people and destruction of properties worth millions of Naira in Effium Community of Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, the Ezza-Effium Consultative Assembly, has fingered the Ohaukwu Council Chairman, Clement Odah has been behind the crisis.

In a statement made available to 9News Nigeria , the group said Clement Odah is using the Ohaukwu council funds to hire and arm mercenaries to annihilate Ezza people of Effium extraction, yet Ebonyi State government, is looking the other way.

The group noted that in spite of the security reports indicting Clement Odah and his cohorts in this genocide against our people, the Ebonyi government under Governor Umahi, doesn’t want to take any practical and pragmatic actions, even when the Uffiom people have breached several ceasefire agreements.

The Statement reads,
Recall that on 8th March, 2021, we called similar press conference in Abakaliki and alerted the world of the evil plots to exterminate the Ezza people, not only from Effium Community but other parts of Ebonyi State.

However, recent developments in the ongoing pogrom are already giving credence to the allegations that the government of Ebonyi State under David Umahi is an interested party in the ongoing genocide against Ezza people of Effium extraction.

Evidence abound which are in the public domain, how Uffiom people and their sponsors have blatantly disregarded every peace effort towards ending the ongoing genocide against our people, because, they believe that their evil and premeditated plans to completely wipe Ezza people out of Effium community, have not been 100% achieved and are hellbent on achieving it.

For instance, on February 23, 2021, the governor of Ebonyi State, Dr. David Umahi convened separate meetings with stakeholders of Ezza and that of Uffiom at Ecumenical Centre and the old EXCO Chambers, Government House, Abakaliki, respectively; with the aim of finding lasting solutions to the needless crisis.

It is in the public domain that, while the Governor was still meeting with stakeholders of Ezza clan at Ecumenical Centre on February 23, 2021, reports came in that Uffiom warriors and their hired mercenaries were attacking Ugoeze and Onueroro villages where they succeeded in killing over 21 of our people and burnt down houses.

On 24th February, Governor Umahi also convened a joint meeting with our stakeholders and the stakeholders of Uffiom clan, but it was disheartening that while the meeting was still going-on, report also came in, that Uffiom warriors and their hired mercenaries were attacking Okpobashi where they ended up killing over 20 of our people and setting many houses ablaze, including a church.

It was quite clear from what was presented that following the two days peace meetings which Governor Umahi personally presided over, far reaching resolutions towards ending the crisis were made, part of which was that our people and Uffiomites were given two weeks to make wider consultations in order to have a common ground that would enable the state government take a decision that would bring lasting peace in our community.

The Governor also threatened to hold responsible, stakeholders of either Ezza or Uffiom who allowed their people to foment trouble in the area again, while the government searches for a lasting peace.

But it is regrettable that while our people embraced peace, the Uffiom people refused and continued to massacre our people.

Following the unabated killings of our defenseless children, mothers and fathers, the state government on March 23, 2021, again hbeld another peace pact with the stakeholders of both clans, which was presided over by the Deputy Governor, Dr Kelechi Igwe at the old government house,Abakaliki.

In the peace meeting, the stakeholders of both clans agreed to end any form of attack in Effium community.

But, on March 24, 2021, barely 24 hours the peace pact was reached, the Uffiom warlords and their hired mercenaries invaded and raised down Nwekendiegu and other parts of the community where our people live, killed hundreds of them and razed over hundreds of houses.

What has continued to worry us and giving us great concern, is the lukewarm and weak attitude of Ebonyi State government under Governor Umahi, whose actions and body language are clear indication of connivance with the Uffiom people to exterminate our people, using a surrogate, Mr Clement Odah, who is the Executive chairman of Ohaukwu LGA and native of Uffiom clan for the execution of the evil agenda.

Recall further that on 28 December 2020, when the Ohaukwu people payed a Christmas visit to the governor in his Uburu country home, the governor while addressing them told the gathering that he had forgiven the Ohaukwu council chairman, Clement Odah all his sins and the one he is yet to commit, hence this actions.

Again, on Monday 22nd March, 2021 in a peace meeting conveyed by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kelechi Igwe for both parties, the DSS arrested four persons of Ezza-Effium extraction, who include, Hon Chinedu Awo, Dr. Ignatius Unah, Sir Emmanuel Uzo and Dr J.O.J. Utobo, leaving the Uffiom people to walk their ways in celebration.

These are few of the impunity against our people, otherwise, why would the same Governor Umahi that vowed to arrest and prosecute stakeholders of Ezza or Uffiom that allow their people to cause further trouble in Effium community be keeping quite as if he is not aware of the renewed killings of our people by Uffiom warlords and their hired mercenaries.

The actions of Ebonyi State Government under Umahi towards resolving the crisis have been more like a smokescreen and window dressing, apparently aimed at achieving the reality of the script already written before the genocide began.

If not so, what proactive measures have government under Umahi taken to address this issue?

As a people, we don’t want to believe yet, the allegation in some quarters, that Ebonyi State government under Umahi is backing this genocide against our people because of his interest in a mineral deposit in Effium community.

The Ohaukwu Council Chairman, Clement Odah whom the governor has severally called his son, always deceive the state government into calling for futile peace meetings, within which period, he uses as a cover-up to plan and executive fresh attacks on our people.

Mr Clement Odah is using the Ohaukwu council funds to hire and arm mercenaries to annihilate Ezza people of Effium extraction, yet Ebonyi State government, is looking the other way.

In spite of the security reports indicting Clement Odah and his cohorts in this genocide against our people, the Ebonyi government under Governor Umahi, doesn’t want to take any practical and pragmatic actions, even when the Uffiom people have breached several ceasefire agreements.

This is a clear confirmation and indication that governor Umahi has derailed from the constitutional oath he took to protect the lives and properties of Ebonyians because of selfish political and economic reasons.

Indeed, to prove that the ongoing carnage and genocide against Ezza people in Effium Community is premeditated, in 2016, an Uffiom man killed an Ezza man in Okporo forest of the community and it didn’t lead to war. Our people allowed the law to take its course, rather than engaging in reprisal.

But just a mere fight between two of the loyalists of the chairman over motor park leadership, has led to an unending war of this nature, which confirms that there had been a game plan to wage war against our people by Uffiomites and their sponsors.

In view of the foregoing, we call on Governor Umahi to act now or resign.

We can’t fathom why a Governor would place political and economic interests above the lives of the citizens he swore to protect.

We also call on the federal government to intervene in the ongoing genocide in the area, having observed the insincerity and inability of Ebonyi State government to do the needful.

We want to also use this medium to call on the stakeholders of Ngbo, Ntezi, Ezillo and Nkalagu clans to call their youths to order, because security reports available to us have revealed that some disgruntled elements within these sister clans are are being hired by Uffiom people and their sponsors to aid the prosecution of the ongoing genocide against our people; and a lot of them have been caught by security agents in the evil act, in recent time.

Else, we might be forced to believe that these clans have joined forces to exterminate our people in Effium community.

Once again, we have resolved as a people that there will be no going back to defend our collective rights and ensure that even the last man standing will continue to push on until we reclaim our rights.

Thank you.

Signed:

Mr. Aligwe Mathias Chukwuma,
Chairman, Ezza-Effium Consultative Assembly.

Mr. Bernard Orichi,
Secretary, Ezza-Effium Consultative Assembly.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

An angry mob on Sunday set a heavy duty truck ablaze for crushing a motorcycle operator along the popular Abakiliki-Ogoja highway in Abakiliki metropolis in Ebonyi state.

Daily Trust learnt that the motorcyclist died on the spot while the woman who the deceased was carrying survived but with serious injuries.

Samuel Nwite, a vulcanizer in the area, told Daily Trust that the deceased was coming with his passenger from the mechanic village route to join the highway when he was crushed by the truck.

“So the accident would have been avoided if the truck driver who was coming into the town from Onuebonyi axis was on the speed lane but he was not or if the bike man had looked very well before joining the highway.

“That was what provoked the youths and others who saw the accident to start beating the driver and his conductor while that was happening, another group were interested in saving the life of the woman he was carrying. The accident happened around 2pm.

“Yes! the bike man died at the spot but the woman he was carrying survived but her leg was badly injured in fact broken and I doubt if she would even walk again with the leg

“And for the driver, I also doubt if he will survive the beating they gave him because some people hit him with stone, stick and rod and it was the policemen that stopped the angry mob from killing him here.

“But the conductor was lucky because he ran through the highway not the bush as the driver did,” he explained.

When contacted, the police Public Relations Officer, Loveth Odah, said normalcy has been restored in the area.

She, however, warned youths in the state not to take laws into their own hands but to always report such matters to the police for appropriate action.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

BY PRINCELY ONYENWE,IMO

Deputy Speaker, Ebonyi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Odefa Obasi Odefa was present at the invitation to the burial ceremony of Late Chief Emmanuel Nwodom in his country home Agbaja.

The event took place at Ndioruta Agbaja community in Izzi Local Government Area, Ebonyi State.

The Deputy Speaker in his words of condolence, noted that from all indications, the late Chief Nwodom was a notable community leader in all fronts whose peaceful disposition cannot be quantified in prints and words

He recalled the possible reason the good people of Ndioruta Agbaja honoured him with the chieftaincy tittle, EZE UDO 1 OF NDIORUTA AGBAJA, was examplified in his virtue.

He therefore implored the bereaved household to be strong in this moment of grief as they mourn the sudden departure of their dear father as they shall see again in the resurrection morning when they shall meet to part no more.

In a heartfelt sympathy, he urged them to accept the sincere commiserations from his family, constituents and humble self.

EBONYI state government officials and dignitaries were too numerous to mention here.

9News Nigeria (Owerri)
For inquiries on this news contact 9News Nigeria Imo State @08036856526

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Following herders and farmers crisis rocking the country, three southern states , namely Ekiti , Ondo, and Ebonyi States have said they will donate any land to be used as grazing reserves for herdsmen under the National Livestock Transformation Programme.

Recall that the Federal Government had in February said it had mapped out 30 grazing reserves across the country for the planned implementation of the NLTP.

The government said the implementation of the programme would result in a lasting solution to the farmers -herders crisis in the country .

The Ebonyi State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Uchenna Orji , confirmed the state’ s participation in the programme , adding that it would improve the agricultural sector of the state.

He said , “ Yes, we want to take advantage of the National Livestock Transformation Plan to improve our agriculture to ensure that our farmers are involved in livestock production.

“ So , it’ s going to be wonderful , because it will involve the rearing of different types of animals. It is going to be an integrated farm and that is why it is called a livestock programme . We want to be part of the programme . ”

Similarly , the Ekiti State Commissioner for Agriculture , Olabode Adetoyi , said the state government was committed to the NLTP, noting that it was in the process of reactivating the Oke Ako and Irele cattle ranches in the state to cater for the interest of cattle businessmen .

Adetoyi said , “ We are committed to the NLTP. We have our Irele and Oke Ako ranches which we want to reactivate and give to any businessman that approaches us for ranches. ”

He said a two – day training programme for the committee set up by the NLTP and the state government was already billed for this month.

However, six state governments , namely Delta, Cross River , Anambra , Akwa Ibom , Oyo , and Edo have said they will not donate any land to be used as grazing reserves for herdsmen under the National Livestock Transformation Programme .

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

EBONYI STATE HOLDS #ENDSAR #SUMMIT IN NIGERIA – WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW

BY PRINCELY ONYENWE, IMO

Ebonyi state governor, His Excellency Engr UMAHI has assured Nigerians most especially the youths to make the world an offer it cannot reject by empowering the world through self-efforts.

Ebonyi #ENDSARS Youth Summit held in Africa’s biggest Ecumenical Centre Abakaliki from 3rd to 10th March 2021 was second to none.

Umahi spoke sense into the youths and they went home with a lot of power packaged and development driving mindsets.

The video below is a replica of what the #Endsars# empowerment scheme should be.

Happy watching

9News Nigeria (Owerri)
For inquiries on this news contact 9News Nigeria Imo State @08036856526

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Umahi To Ebonyi Youths: Remove Your Minds From Politics, Succeed First

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Ebonyi State Governor, Dave Umahi, has cautioned youths of the state against indulging in politics, telling them to be successful first.

The governor gave this directive on Wednesday during an Ebonyi State #EndSARS Summit hosted by the state government in Abakaliki.

Umahi said, “Remove your minds from politics and succeed first. Those who are manipulating politics are the wealthy men and women.

“That man that made every one of us be a councillor, go and find out his situation. Has he made any progress? The answer is no.

“I hear government should provide jobs. Let us even say jobs are provided, N30, 000 minimum wages. In one year, it is N360, 000. What are you doing with that?”

The governor said he is under pressure by the people in his village, noting that his predecessors had employed people from their villages while being at the helms of affairs in the state.

He told the youths that his decision not to follow the path of ex-governors of Ebonyi State was not impoverish the people who he said were the future leaders.

Governor Umahi recalled that while he served as the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, the executive members of the party were business people.

“You can only give what you have. Some of you run after the politicians, some of them never went to school. Some of them have nothing to offer, they brainwash you.

“You become their thugs, their families are overseas. It is our own, what are you doing at a party? A party you know in Ebonyi State is me,” he added.

The governor also charged youths in the state to remain steadfast in the pursuit of their dreams.

The event brought together youths from the 13 local government areas served as an avenue to inculcate right values that aim to make them better citizens.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Igbo presidency won’t solve Nigeria’s problems.

Former Group Managing Director, Diamond Bank Plc and two-time governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, has opined that handing the Igbo Nigeria’s presidency would not solve the problem of Nigeria, as some fundamental structural problems must be handled for an egalitarian society to be institutionalised.

The renowned economist also stated that insecurity would continue in the country until poverty among the citizens is addressed.

Speaking to Sunnewsonline, he said: “A situation where close to 90 million people, representing 43 per cent of our population, live below the poverty line of less than 1.90 dollar per day, makes the country a veritable candidate for insecurity of the highest order.”

“If you have followed my politics, you would realise that I do not believe in primordial sentiments. I believe that tribe and religion are basically smokescreens used by politicians to drive personal interests.”

” Having said that, I also know that arrangements about power shift have remained the fulcrum of our politics in Nigeria. That is not to say that our salvation is going to come from that.”

” Given that arrangement that has had power move from North to South and power having been in the North for two terms, it should naturally move to the South. Since South-West and South-South had been in power, it should naturally shift to the South East. That is the extent to which I believe in Igbo Presidency.”

“Would that solve the problem of Nigeria? I think not. There are some fundamental structural problems that must be dealt with for an egalitarian society to be institutionalised.”

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

BY PRINCELY ONYENWE, IMO

Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi authorised hundreds of murky cash withdrawals from the state treasury between 2016 and 2019, Peoples Gazette has found based on newly-obtained financial records of the state government.

This records was unveiled by the Gazette reporters whose revelations on David Umahi’s financial misdeeds in public service have left their reporters receiving frequent harassment and death threats from his aides and goons

The governor and his proxies pulled as much as N3,051,248,300 from state-run accounts in cash withdrawals for reasons that the Gazette could not independently verify despite giving the governor and his aides several weeks to justify all or some of the humongous withdrawals.

Bank records of Ebonyi’s earlier reviewed by the Gazette uncovered a sustained trend of illicit deals between state coffers and Brass Engineering & Construction Nig. Ltd., a company founded and chaired Mr. Umahi since 1993.

Although the governor threatened to sue the Gazette and made a dubious push to contradict official records, the Gazette has now obtained further documents relating to how Mr. Umahi has been running Ebonyi, which Bretton Woods and UN agencies considered as the poorest of 17 states that make up southern Nigeria.

Ebonyi bank statements seen by the Gazette showed that on November 14, 2016, EBSG Rice World account 1014675613 with Zenith Bank transferred N10 million twice on the same day to Okonam Uchenna Onuoha of the state ministry of finance, Abakaliki. The purpose of the payment was not stated.

The same Zenith account paid N10 million to Mr. Onuoha on the 16th, 17th, 22nd and 29th of the same month with no payment description.

In 2017, the Umahi administration withdrew N1,060,661,300 in over 100 suspicious transactions, records said.

On April 4, 2017, the Ebonyi State Government House Special Fund Account 2031366184 with First Bank made a string of six unclarified transactions of N10 million each to Onyeabor Pius, office of the principal secretary, Ebonyi State Government House.

The next day, April 5, a string of nine transactions of N10 million each was made to Mr. Pius from the state’s Government House Special Fund account with no reason indicated.

A week later, on April 12, N10 million and N5,215,300 were paid in different transactions from the state’s Government House Pay Office account to an official identified as Nneka Egbuaba from the office of the principal secretary, Ebonyi State Government House.

On April 27, a string of 10 transactions of N10 million was paid to Mr. Pius from the state’s Government House Special Fund Account. Seven of the transactions were ambiguously described as “3rd Party.” The same account paid N10 million five times on the same day to Mr. Pius on May 2.

Six days later, on May 6, N10 million was transferred 15 times on the same day to Mr. Pius from the state’s Government House Special Fund account without any stated reason for the transactions.

Similarly, N185 million was paid from the same account to Ms. Egbuaba in 19 transactions between June 14 and July 28, 2017.

Ms. Egbuaba also received N98,660,000 from the Government House Pay Office account in ten unexplained transactions between September 9 and December 12, amongst others.

In 2018, N1,200,587,000 was moved in unclear circumstances from Ebonyi coffers, our examination of the state’s accounts shows.

The press also saw how over N1 billion was transferred to Ms. Egbuaba from the Government House Pay Office account in 108 opaque transactions between January 17 and December 20, 2018.

In 2019, Ms. Egbuaba again received N650 million spread across dozens of unexplained transactions made from the state’s Government House Pay Office account, while another official identified as Juliet Ogenyi received N80 million in separate transactions from Ebonyi government’s EBSG Rice World account — totalling N730,000,000 in 2019.

The dates of 15 transactions in 2019 could not be seen in the records, indicating that criminal elements within Nigeria’s banking industry have colluded with state officials to tamper with financial records and buck public accountability.

The Gazette’s revelations on Mr. Umahi’s financial misdeeds in public service have left our reporters receiving frequent harassment and death threats from his aides and goons.

The governor has also sought N1 billion as “atonement” for the Gazette’s examination of his underhand dealings while threatening legal action if our stories are not retracted.

He also suspended allowances to many of his commissioners and advisers in what aides told the Gazette was part of a “dangerously erratic” turn which the governor has taken amidst our revelations, which he falsely claimed was a plot to expose him from within his own government.

Mr. Umahi has long cut an image of a kind and incorruptible leader, a rare trait in the poorest southern Nigerian state he governs, and his anger stemmed from the rude shock he felt after being exposed as another regular Nigerian politician with questionable use of public funds, his aides said.

For several weeks, both the governor and his media assistants failed to advance reasons for the suspicious
withdrawals of public funds in large volumes, despite multiple requests from the press.

9News Nigeria (Owerri)
For inquiries on this news contact 9News Nigeria Imo State @08036856526

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Ebonyi State Police has arrested a young woman believed to be a sex hawker after her attempt to sell her baby-boy for ₦40,000 was foiled.

9News Nigeria gathered that the 32-year-old woman identified as Victoria Chukwube was arrested while trying to sell her four-month-old baby boy to raise money to start a business that involves selling drinks.

Victoria confessed to the police that she was broke and had nothing doing, so she decided to sell her baby for ₦40,000 to enable her to start a business.

Ebonyi state police spokesperson, Loveth Odah said Chukwube was arrested following a tip-off from someone that had knowledge of the criminal plan.

Odah said;

“So her name is Chukwube Victoria, she told us she is a commercial sex hawker and that she has this baby which she carrying.

“She said if she leaves here she would continue to look out for prospective buyers.

“But we tried to talk to her and to make her see the value of being a mother, but she refused.

“She even told us that if we allow her to go home with the baby she will throw the baby away and that she can’t tell who got her pregnant.”

Upon being interrogated, the lady refused to disclose her state of origin or local government but maintained that she does not have the financial ability to take care of the child.

Chukwube said;

“I am from Nigeria, 32 years old, a commercial sex hawker and my baby is just four months old.

“I want to sell the baby at the rate of N40,000 to start up a business. I have a fridge and I reside at Ogbe Hausa in Abakaliki.”

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Omoha Nduka John, an award winning Nigerian real estate entrepreneur, investor and philanthropist is currently trending. He is the chairman of Prince luxury group and founder of Prince omoha foundation.

Omoha Nduka was born in the city of abakaliki on 3 September 1995, he hails from umuebe ezzamgbo in Ohaukwu local government area of Ebonyi state, Nigeria.

He did his primary and secondary school both in ebonyi and proceeded to ebonyi state university where he obtained a bachelors degree in political science.

Omoha’s persistence and strong desire for success had made him started a recharge card business while studying at the age of 14.

The turning point in his life was between 2010 to 2011 when he visited his elder brother in Lagos. After two time visits he decided to join his brother in his business where he made a substantial savings and ventured into mining business.
Everything moved into greater heights after he got his first million dollar contract with a Chinese company to supplied mineral stones.

Thereafter he traveled to Hong Kong for business and later returned back to Nigeria and established Prince Luxury Group in 2016 which has now become one of the fattest growing company in real estate sector, his company specialises in Morden residential Homes in Lagos, Abuja and other parts of the country.

Prince Omoha as famously called is a philanthropist who uses his platform “Prince Omoha foundation” to supports young entrepreneurs in Nigeria and Africa and as well the less privileges in Nigeria.

Omoha Nduka is rated as one of the young richest and most influential real estate entrepreneur in Nigeria with an estimated net worth between $4.3million to $5 million US dollars as of October 2020 according to Forbes and Bloomberg latest index’s

He was recently nominated by Forbes Africa 30 under 30 class of 2021.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

10 YEAR OLD CROWNED KING IN IGBOLAND AFTER DEATH OF FATHER
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A boy, Oyeachonam Okonkwo, 10, has become the youngest king in Igboland after he was crowned following his father’s death.

His father, Igwe Akuebisi, the Olame 1 Of Iyiora Anam. Anambra state, was buried in December 2020 and the boy was crowned on Thursday, January 7, 2021.

The boy was crowned the Igwe Olanme II of Iyiora Anam.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Arrest Anybody Trying To Discuss About Killer of Fulani Herdsmen – Umahi Orders Ebonyi Commissioner of Police

Governor David Nweze Umahi of Ebonyi State, on Monday, directed the immediate arrest and prosecution of some persons alleged to be circulating a video and audio message on social media that Fulani herdsmen were under attack in the state, journalists report

Umahi made this known while speaking with journalists shortly after an emergency meeting between the state government and the leadership of Miyeti Allah, which took place at the cabinet office.

The Governor said the video and audio circulating social media were already causing panic and tension in the country, especially in the state.

He, however, alleged that the opposition party and other perceived enemies of the government are behind the circulation of such videos, with the intention to breach the existing relationship between the Ebonyi State government and Fulani herdsmen.

He said: “I have noted that the video and audio circular on social media platforms are creating fear. In Abakaliki local government area last night, two cows were killed and so, my directive is that the security agencies should wake up.

“They should arrest anybody that is trying to discuss any matter that is between life and death including the Fulani herdsmen.
This must be taken seriously and I will not accept the delay in retrieving this fake news that is causing panic already in all over the country.

“That is not a good thing, because we kept quiet.

“I want the attorney general and commissioner for justice and local government chairmen to direct the herdsmen to keep watch over their cattle.

“I also want the local government to check if we can provide extra security around the herdsmen at the local level” he stated.

Meanwhile, the leadership of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, MACBAN in Ebonyi has disassociated itself from the purported controversial video and audio.

The Chairman of MACBAN, Alhaji Usman Ishaku, in a communiqué in Abakaliki denied the allegation making the rounds that herdsmen were attacked and chased out from the state.

“The audio and video in circulation on social media platforms alleging that herdsmen were being attacked and chased out of Ebonyi State, are false, fake, misleading and an orchestrated attempt by mischief makers and enemies of peace to cause disharmony between the peace-loving people of Ebonyi and Fulani herdsmen residents in the state” the group stated.

Alhaji Usman Ishaku maintained that herdsmen were enjoying their stay in Ebonyi and that there was no violence.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The Senator representing Anambra South Senatorial District at the Red Chambers, Senator Dr Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah has made a strong case against the non inclusion of the south east in HYPADEC Governing Council.

Senator Dr Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah (YPP-Anambra) during plenary yesterday , speaking under Order 43 of the Senate Rule, drew the attention of Senate President, Ahmad Lawan to the non-inclusion of South East in the list of nominees. He said some states in the South East have capacities for hydro power, hence the need for their inclusion in the governing council of HYPADEC.

The Senate President in his wisdom, however, advised him to come up with an amendment bill to amend the law establishing HYPADEC to allow for their inclusion.

Meanwhile, the Senate, in the same plenary, confirmed President Muhammadu Buhari’s nominees for appointment as members of Governing Council of Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (HYPADEC).

The confirmation was sequel to the consideration of a report of the Committee on Power, Chaired by Sen.Gabriel Suswan(PDP-Benue) at the Committee of the Whole.

Presenting the report, Suswan said that the committee after its screening found out that the nominees were qualified to be appointed, given their relevant experiences and pedigree.

He said that security checks carried out on them got positive response from security agencies.

He said that the committee found all the nominees worthy of appointment into the governing council of HYPADEC.

Those confirmed included -Ityav Joseph Terfa as Chairman(Benue) and Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa Managing Director (Kebbi).

Others confirmed as members were Isa Ozi Salami(Kogi), Tahoheed Daud Toyin (Kwara), Mikail Bmitosahi(Niger), Saleh Mohammed Kanam(Plateau), Aminu Ganda (Sokoto) and Utum Eteng (Cross River).

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Ebonyi State Governor, Dave Umahi, on Sunday reiterated that the shut Kingdom Model Secondary School, belonging to the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in Ezza South Local Government Area of the state, Friday Agbom, would remain closed.

The school, located in Idemba community, in the Ezza South Local Government Area of the state, was shut down on the orders of the governor for allegedly harbouring cultists.

But the owner, the chairman of the PDP in the Ezza South Council, Agbom, said he was being forced by the governor to defect to the All Progressives Congress, adding that his refusal to do same led to the closure of his school by powers that be in the state.

Umahi, who spoke during a special thanksgiving service at the Christ Embassy Church, Abakaliki, on Sunday, vowed to go after cultists in the state, no matter their status.

He said, “I insist that the secondary school in Ezza South Local Government Area of the state, which was shut down for alleged cultism, remains shut no matter the criticisms it has continued to generate in the state.

“In the few days, we have had very terrible cult activities, but let me warn that we are starting war against cultism again. There are big people that are involved and I will not spare you. I will not spare you and our trouble will not be here, you will be taking to Abuja.”

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

People’s Democratic Party, PDP, in Ebonyi has suspended the three Senators from the state and five House of Representatives members over anti-Party activities.

The suspension came as a surprise as the elected members on Wednesday vowed to remain in the party, despite the defection of Governor Dave Umahi to the APC.

But the PDP Chairman, Barrister Onyekachi Nwebonyi suspended them, accusing them of anti-party activities.

The three Senators are Sam Egwu, a former governor of the state, Michael Ama Nnachi and Obinna Ogba.

The suspended House of Representatives members are Chukwuma Nwanzunku, Sylvester Ogbaga, Livunus Makwe, Idu Igariwey, Victor Aleke and Chris Usulor.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Mass resignation is set to rock the camp of Governor David Nweze Umahi of Ebonyi State, 9NEWS NIGERIA has learnt.

According to a source that spoke with our correspondent under the condition anonymity, many of Umahi’s political appointees will resign their appointments and stick to the People’s Democratic Party, PDP ahead of Umahi’s official defection to the ruling party, All Progressives Congress.

9NEWS NIGERIA had reported that Umahi’s Commissioner for Intergovernmental Affairs , Hon. Laz Ogbe resigned his appointment on Thursday.

According to our source, his resignation is connected to Umahi’s moves to join APC ahead of 2023 General elections.

Recall that The Punch, had reported that Umahi on Tuesday met with the National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Prince Uche Secondus and told him that he is leaving PDP for APC.

Although, Umahi’s camp is yet to react over the report, Senator Julius Ucha, an APC Leader in Ebonyi on Sunday declared that Gov. Umahi is actually on his way to join the party from the PDP.

Ucha, the Former Senator representing Ebonyi Central zone at the National Assembly and presently a member of the National Assembly Service Commission, disclosed this during the party’s stakeholders meeting in Abakaliki.

The former Speaker of the Ebonyi House of Assembly and an APC Gubernatorial Candidate said the matter had been concluded at the appropriate quarters and was no longer a joke.

“This will ensure that for the first time, APC will be in control of governance in the state and will make the governors of other south east states to declare for the party.

“I told President Muhammadu Buhari during his visit to the state in 2017 that governors are very powerful individuals who could not be ignored in any way.

“We should continue praying that nothing stops this move because the world’s greatest wireless connection is prayer,” he said.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Obaseki assures players, visitors of security as Edo hosts Super Eagles Nov 13

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has assured the safety and security of players, supporters and all other visitors coming to the state for the Super Eagles’ 2021 AFCON qualifier against the Leone Stars of Sierra Leone at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, the state capital.

The game doubles as the first competitive match for the Super Eagles since the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the first major competitive game to hold at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium since it’s reconstruction.

The match will be played on November 13, a day after the inauguration of Governor Obaseki and his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, for their second term in office.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, reaffirmed the readiness of the state to host the teams and lovers of football, expressing confidence that the Super Eagles will be victorious.

According to him, “We are proud to play host to the AFCON qualifier between our Super Eagles and Leone Stars of Sierra Leone at the world-class Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.

“This match is dear to us as it is coming barely 24 hours after the inauguration of Governor Godwin Obaseki on November 12.

“As a sport loving government, the Governor Obaseki-led administration has made concerted efforts to ensure the safety and security of all players, supporters and visitors who would be in the state for the football match. The governor has promised that the Super Eagles won’t lack any form of support to come out victorious in Benin City on November 13.

“The very competitive match will also be an opportunity for the governor to showcase to Edo people and Nigerians the holistic transformation of the stadium into a world class facility. Players and supporters alike will be treated to one of the best sporting facilities in the world, which features a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

By Wisdom Nwedene

Following the EndSARS Protests which have been hijacked by hoodlums, the South-east Governors are currently in a closed-door meeting, at the Government House, Enugu.

Our correspondent in Enugu State reports that other dignitaries in attendance include Chief Nnia Nwodo, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, Senator Rochas Okorocha and other Religious leaders.

9NEWS NIGERIA recalls that hoodlums on Monday attacked two police stations in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State capital and set them ablaze.

The hoodlums equally injured policemen on duty before escaping with some of their guns.

More details soon….

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

…Gov. Umahi tasks council bosses to fish out hoodlums in seven days

Governor David Umahi has announced that the government of Ebonyi State has set aside the sum of 2.6bn naira for over 2600 youths drawn from the 13 council areas of the state.

Governor Umahi made this known on Wednesday at the New Government House, Ochudo Centenary City, Abakaliki during a courtesy call on the governor by the Deputy Inspector General of Police, DIG, Celestine Okoye. The event was also aimed at tightening security loose ends in the area in the wake of police station attack in Ezza South Council Area of the State yesterday.

He explained that there is an urgent need for the youths to be economically empowered to steer off every form of violence which is why he has called for a roundtable dialogue to know exactly what the youth expect
of his administration.

The governor further stated that the empowerment will go a long way in giving the youth sound economic footing because an “idle man” is in popular parlance, “a devil’s workshop”.

Governor Umahi also appealed for peace and
ceasefire while explaining his readiness to rehabilitate the youths who have gone the wrong way of looting, killing and destroying government property in the state. He urged all to join the onerous tasks of building the state for greater economic growth, development and prosperity.

“My position as the Governor of Ebonyi State is that whether you are IPOB, militants, criminal, or a cultist, I have put down the SME fund, the loan we got from the CBN to give it to you and that is 2.6bn. That will be for 200 people per LGA.

” Again and again, I call on the youths, the good, the bad, the ugly, we have 2.6bn. We want the local government chairmen, the coordinators, let us identify these 200 people. Not when we ask you to do these, you go and write your brothers and sisters that are working or on government appointment. We need to take off 200 youths from the street.

“So, we believe we can rehabilitate these people, retrain them and then get
them something doing. It is an olive branch which I am offering to them.

“The good ones and the bad ones can also benefit from it”.

Governor Umahi tasked the Council Area bosses to fish out the perpetrators of the heinous act within the next 7 days and bring them to him for possible amnesty; ” I have called the three Local Government Chairmen and the Coordinators to task you, the people that came to destroy us are from these three local government areas. They have shown themselves. Some of them that have bullet wounds have also confessed. So, I have called you to demand that you bring them to me. I am going to be giving you seven days to bring them to me and there will be no excuses.

“Two ways we can approach it; if you bring them, I can show them amnesty and rehabilitate them but if you don’t bring them, I will fish them out of the forest.”

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Ebonyi state house of assembly Monday issued a 7days ultimatum to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to summon the National Executive Committee of the party and zone the position of the Presidency to the southeast zone.

Speaker of the House, Francis Nwifuru made this known while briefing journalists in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State capital on the speculation making round that the Governor Engr David Umahi has joined the All Progressive Congress.

According to the lawmaker, the southeast has prominent personalities who have served for the development of the country and beyond.

He maintained that since the inception of democracy in 1999, the southeast has paid its dues having worked assiduously and massively voted for all the presidential candidates of PDP.

He further warned the PDP not to remove the National Chairman of the Party, Prince Uche Secondus as it is customary that the zone (South) from where the National Chairman comes from produces the Presidential Candidate of the Party, stating that otherwise, it will further divide and destabilize the party along sectional and regional lines.

His words: “The unity of our beloved country, Nigeria, has always been hinged on the principles of equity, justice, and fairness. It is on such conventional wisdom that the country has striven to grow and develop equally across all her geopolitical zones.

“In furtherance of the above principles, we, the Honourable Members of the sixth (6th) Ebonyi State House of Assembly, wish to draw the attention of our great Party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to the rightful yearning of our industrious and peace-loving people of the southeast Nigeria, that the position of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria come 29th May 2023, be zoned to the South East.

” Since the inception of this democracy, the zone has paid its dues having worked assiduously and massively voted for all the presidential candidates of our great party – Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), when the people of the South West in the year 1999 and 2003, the people of North West in 2007, the people of South-South in 2011 and 2015, the people of the North East in 2019, all contested for Presidency. It is on record that since the inception of democracy in this country, from 1999 till date, the five (5) States of the South East have always delivered the presidential candidates of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), 100 percent.

” It is only appropriate in the spirit of democracy, equity, justice, and fairness that the position of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria come 2023, be zoned to the South East.

“South East has presidential personalities, people who are globally renowned, reliable, acceptable, tested, and trusted to the position; having discharged their duties efficiently and effectively in the positions held before now. Persons like Peter Obi (Former PDP Vice Presidential Candidate in the 2019 elections and former Governor of Anambra State), Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim (former Senate President and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation), Sen. Ike Ekweremmadu (former 3-time Deputy President of the Senate), Sen. Theodore Orji (former Governor of Abia State), Achike Udenwa (former governor of Imo State), and a host of others. So we have qualified people who are very much available for this position. We did not mention our Governors not because they are not qualified but these highly qualified persons are not holding positions currently and there are other eminent qualified Igbo leaders as well who are trusted, competent, capable and reliable. That tells you, gentlemen of the press that we are not asking for what we don’t have, so our party should not turn this request down.

“On this note, we are giving our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), 7 days ultimatum to convoke the National Executive Committee of the party and zone the position of the Presidency to southeast Nigeria, especially as INEC has officially announced the date of the presidential elections.

“In no minimal measure, this will further develop and unite our dear country. Equally, the party should not contemplate removing the National Chairman of the Party, Prince Uche Secondus as it is customary that the zone (South) from where the National Chairman comes from produces the Presidential Candidate of the Party. If this advice is not adhered to, it will further divide and destabilize the party along sectional and regional lines.

” Failure to adhere to these kind requests will cost our party heavily and we, the Honourable Members of the 6th Ebonyi State House of Assembly will leave no stone unturned in taking decisive actions to ensure that traditions and dividends of democracy are respected in our party

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Speculations that the Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi, has dumped the Peoples Democratic Party for the ruling All Progressives Congress may likely be confirmed this week.

On Saturday, speculations were rife that Umahi had moved to the APC even though he and his media aide denied the move.

The member representing the Ezza South/Ikwo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Chinedu Ogah, on Saturday, confirmed to our correspondent that Umahi had joined the APC and charged anyone doubting the information to quote him anywhere and at anytime.

He had said, “Yes, Governor Umahi’s defection to our great party, the APC, is a step in the right direction. We cannot afford to remain in opposition. We must join the ruling party to continue to reap the dividends of democracy.

“I am calling on other governors in the South-East to toe the line of Governor Umahi and join the APC. We have to be at the centre; we have to join mainstream politics for the overall development of our zone and the country in general.

“President Muhammadu Buhari has done well. Everybody should join the APC to encourage him.”

Rumours of Umahi’s defection to the APC were rife after he was said to have held a series meetings with several leaders of the APC, including the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), on Friday.

Also, a source in the Presidency, who spoke to our correspondent on condition of anonymity, said Umahi’s defection had been concluded and a document to that effect had been taken and filed at the “Blue Room” in Aso Rock.

The source described the “Blue Room” as a special room in Aso Rock, where any document or item kept therein was regarded as sacrosanct and regarded as being of utmost importance by the Presidency.

It was also gathered that the governor, on arrival from Abuja, where he had spent close to two weeks, on Saturday held a crucial meeting with all the 13 local government area chairmen and communicated the seeming move to them.

Thisday

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

By Wisdom Nwedene, Abakaliki

Despite the dissolution of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS, #ENDSARS protesters on Thursday staged a heavy protest in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State capital.

9NEWS NIGERIA correspondent monitoring the protest reports that the protesters stormed Old Government House in Abakaliki before moving to Sperandio and Presco Junction.

They were seen with different ply cards, demanding for prosecution of the erring SARS Operatives.

As at the time of filing this report, the protesters are still moving to different streets in the state capital.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The lifeless bodies of late Mr Onya Oko and his wife Ngozi Onya were found on their farm at Amata in Oziza Afikpo South LGA on Friday 9th October, 2020 after missing for 24 hours since Thursday 8th October, 2020. According to reports, the couple left for farm healthy but did not return alive.

When the news about their missing reached the community leader and other Community dwellers, the traditional leader immediately called on the Nigeria police Afikpo division. They went in search of the couple and found them murdered on the farm.

After series of investigations by the police and medical experts, it was confirmed that the wife late Ngozi Onya, who was pregnant, suffered bruises in her private part as a result of multiple penetrations and rape by the murderous Fulani herdsmen.

The husband was tied with ropes to die slowly as he watched his beloved wife being rapped helplessly.

Culled from Hope for Nigeria

BENUE info-pedia

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The road accident which occurred along Akaeze-Ishiagu highway in Akaeze Development Centre, Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, in which a bus plunged into a river is said to have claimed lives of about thirty occupants of the bus.

9news reports that, the victims were said to be retruning from a burial ceremony in the State, and as the driver attempted to overtake a trailer, lost control and veered into the river and got submerged in a twinkle.

The source said about thirty passengers were feared dead as at the time of filing this report, while five persons rescued to the hospital to hospital were reported to be  in critical conditions.

‘’An accident just occurred at Akaeze Development Centre. A 608 bus carrying 36 persons returning from a burial in Ebonyi heading to Enugu while trying to overtake a trailer, the driver lost control and the bus jumped into the river. Up till now, more than 20 minutes after the incident none of them has been found,’’ the source said.

#9news Nigeria further reports that, the Ebonyi State Police Command Public Relations Officer, Loveth Odah, confirmed the incident describing it as a “very unfortunate incident’, adding that about five persons had so far been rescued from the river, while efforts were on to rescue others.

”It is a very unfortunate incident. The DPO of the area just told me that about five persons have been rescued and rushed to the hospital while efforts were on to see if some other persons can be rescued too. Our men are already on ground to see what can be done to help the situation,” she said.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Governor David Nweze Umahi of Ebonyi State, on Saturday, cast his vote as the state’s conduct local government elections.

9News Nigeria gathered that At exactly 2:05 pm, Governor Umahi appeared at 013 Polling Unit, Onuofukuru to exercise his franchise on the ongoing LGA elections in Ebonyi State.

To the astonishment of the onlookers and participants, Governor Umahi joined the queue as can be seen in the attached pictures. The Governor believes in the equality of every man, he is a uniting factor and a peace ambassador.

Governor Umahi followed the due process as he waited patiently for over 30 minutes before it got to his turn and he cast his vote.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Ebonyi has banned under aged herders from operating in the state.
It warned under aged herders caught will be arrested while the chief herdsman would be arrested and prosecuted.

These were part of the communiqué at the end of an expanded Security Council Meeting in Abakaliki, the state capital.

The meeting had in attendance leaders and members of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association in the state.

Heads of various security agencies were also in attendance at the meeting chaired by Governor David Umahi.

“The various communities are by this meeting empowered to arrest and handover to the police any under-aged herders within your community and the chief herder who is the custodian of such under-aged persons must be prosecuted by the police, in accordance with our law,” said the communiqué read by Deputy Governor Kelechi Igwe.

It warned henceforth members of Miyetti Allah and their leadership must take responsibilities for any destruction of farms, crops, properties, including attacks on any community in Ebonyi.

“They must produce within seven days for arrest and prosecution the perpetrators of such bastardly acts from amongst their membership,” the communiqué added.
It added community leaders and traditional rulers, development centre coordinators; local government council chairmen and political office holders must take responsibility and produce attackers and killers of herdsmen or the cows for arrest and prosecution within seven days whenever such occurs.

“Henceforth, herders must reside in the community where they graze their cattle.
“All persons carrying cow by foot on the tarred road, on our concrete roads must be arrested and handed over to the police within seven days of prosecution by the community within which such infractions come,” the communiqué added.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Governor David Nweze Umahi of Ebonyi State is currently leading Igbo Investors under the aegis of Ogbako Ndigbo in Computer Village, Lagos to some economic viable mega projects completed by his administration like the International Market and the Shopping mall.

9news Nigeria learnt that the group had earlier indicated an interest in massively investing in the state through the already constructed projects by the Governor. They were in total amazement when they were shown in reality the projects.

See pictures below.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Men of the Ebonyi State Police Command have rescued a middle-aged woman, identified as Mrs Ngozi Chukwuani who was chained to a pillar for ten hours by her husband, at their residence in Abakaliki, the state capital.

The abusive husband, identified as Uche, reportedly fled with the key of the padlock.

According to Neighbours who spoke with Tribune Online, Uche hit his daughter’s head with the chain while she was trying to stop him from beating Mrs Chukwuani.

The Special Assistant to Governor David Umahi on security and utility, the capital city, Mr Nchekwube Saints Anakor, while condemning the husband’s action, said; “This evening (Tuesday) at no.1 Ike street, Mr Uche Chukwuani chained his wife to a pillar in their building and ran away with the key. Thanks to Ekeaba police whose timely response saved the situation I had to send a welder who cut the chain.

One question kept on coming to my mind, what did this woman do to warrant being chained like a dog by her own husband. Does whatever transpired warrant such dehumanization? Always be careful in what you do for ignorance is no excuse in law. I am always on patrol till daybreak expecting to hear from you.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

By Wisdom Nwedene, Abakaliki

The Governor of Ebonyi State, Engr. David Nweze Umahi has commiserated with the families and the Nigeria Police for the loss of 4 servicemen who were on their official duties, escorting Money in Bullion Van from Enugu to Ebonyi yesterday, describing it as a colossal loss.

A statement made available to 9News Nigeria on Thursday by the Special Assistant on Media to the Governor, Mr Francis Nwaze said the culprits will never go unpunished.

He said : “It is with great sadness that I received the news of the death of our dear servicemen who died yesterday while serving our dear country – escorting bullion van from Enugu to Ebonyi State. The loss is a big blow on our corporateness which the culprits will never go unpunished.

“I heartily commiserate with the family of the deceased police officers and the Nigeria police in general, praying that God grants them the fortitude to bear this colossal loss.”

The governor assured Ebonyians not to panic as everything is under control.

“Let me also assure the public that the Ebonyi State Police Headquarters is already giving all efforts, harnessing all available intelligence to bringing the culprits to book as they have tightened the boundaries against the entrance of hoodlums.

“Remain calm and do not panic.”

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Report reaching 9News Nigeria this evening has it that a gang of unknown gunmen waylaid a bullion van carrying cash to one of the popular banks in Ebonyi state.

The gunmen who were armed to the teeth had intercepted the bullion van at Ezzamgbo junction in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi state and straight away opened fire killing 4 escort policemen that were accompanying the vehicle on the spot. Two other persons were reportedly injured at the scene following shooting by the gunmen.

It was not clear yet at the time of this report whether the gunmen were able to cart away any cash from the bullion van before bidding for their escape.

Details later…

For more information on this report, please contact 9News Nigeria at info@9newsng.com

www.facebook.com/9NewsNG

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

By Wisdom Nwedene, Abakaliki

A pregnant woman and her little kid have been crushed to death by a trailer in Ebonyi State.

According to an eyewitness who shared the report to 9News Nigeria, the woman and her little kid were on their way to a popular market located in Ndubia, Izzi local government area of Ebonyi State to sell cassava in order to pay hospital bills of her sick child.

As at the time of filing this report, the community has been thrown into mourning as the conductor of the vehicle has been rushed to St-Vincent Hospital Ndubia for medical treatment.

The driver of the vehicle is not injured but has rushed to a police station to avoid being attacked by angry mob.

More Details soon….

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

In a bid to address the health needs of the people especially under the COVID-19 pandemic and other related diseases in the state, the Ebonyi State Governor, Engr. David Umahi on Monday innaugurated a 150- bed COVID-19 Isolation and Treatment Centre.

The General Hospital, Elinwovbu, Amagu, community in the Abakaliki council was overhauled, reconstructed, and equipped with lasting medical equipment and its capacity strengthened to handle complex medical needs of the people.

The State Government had earlier during the state’s weekly briefing resolved to revamp the General Hospitals in the state.

The decision to upgrade the 13 General Hospitals was to improve capacity and speedy response to the pandemic in the rural areas since the newly completed world-class Isolation Centre and Virology Centre in Abakaliki serve the need of the entire Southeastern zone of the country, making it necessary to stepdown the medical services to the rural areas.

Speaking during the inauguration, Umahi observed it is the part of the already laid measures to enhance and prompt response that informed the revamping of the hospital, adding that it will be a leading centre for COVID-19 management.

He said his administration accords the highest priority attention to the salary of workers, health and security of the people arguing that the pandemic is a test to the integrity of the leadership of any nation, expressing hope that interventions in the health sector at this critical time is a welcome development.

“Every other thing should wait because our priority is on salary, health, and security. We set up this Committee to monitor what is going on.”

“We must do everything possible to get all the 13 General Hospitals in the state to be functional.”

“In addition to this, we will also be releasing one million naira monthly to these hospitals as running costs of fuel and equipment maintenance.”

“This virus has tested the capacity of leaders to handle emergencies”, Umahi restated.

Meanwhile, the commissioner for Health explained that oxygen, ventilators and other medical equipment have been installed.

Earlier, Mrs. Ann Aligwe the chairman of the Renovation Committee commended the Governor for such timely response to global health emergency by the renovation of the General Hospitals in the state.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

…From Vision To Reform And Now Transformation

The quest for quality, credible, and effective leadership is an age-long one. Its enormity of benefits has made man defied odds in search of a leader that will place the burnings of the masses on the front row when far-reaching policies and decisions are taken. From all indications, taste and desire for purposeful leadership are inherent in man. And until such is achieved, man will keep searching.

The scramble for the partition of Africa which culminated in the nationalist resistance against foreign domination and subjugation, one hand, the burning desire for indigenous leadership as against the former on the other hand, led to mass resistance -which eventually birthed Independence that ushered in freedom and flexibility in governance to the aborigines.
This work does not intend to take you through historical scenes, rather bring to your awareness of how the supplications to God were answered through the installation of the Divine Mandate administration in Ebonyi State..

You may recall that the people currently occupying the geopolitical landmass now known as Ebonyi State like the ancient Israelites have a chequered history. From old Eastern to, Anambra, Enugu, Imo, and recently Abia state, it has been one form of dominations, embarrassment, and brazen neglect. This utter dereliction of social covenant was characterized by guinea worm, erosion of values, and a dearth of infrastructure.

The essence was either to get the then Ebonyi man out of his mind, or out of town, whichever comes first. One writer painted a grotesque picture of the post-democratic era of Ebonyi “they are known for nothing, it was a guinea worm- ravaged location”. He added, “no facilities save their salt capable of taking the people to the global market – they were uninformed, with trappings Dark ages”.

The rest is history. Through providential intervention, the late Sani Abacha finally, in 1996 gave the people their present location – thus opening new vistas of opportunities for the state. A new Ebonyi which came into existence effective May 29th, 2015 began with a conscious effort with the benefits of hindsight to rewrite the ugly history of the people and change the narrative.

The state of emergency declared on infrastructure in the state by Governor David Umahi, was billed strip off the raiment of anonymity and make it visible to would-be investors. That was the forthrightness of Umahi.
The faced off facilities, stadium, markets were replaced with new ones. That done. The state of emergency was extended to the construction of flyovers/ rural development with a view of urban decongestion.

In the areas of human capital development which is a major driver of economic growth and development, the Governor has invested hugely. Same with his industrialization drive -Waster Recycling Plant – plans which had reached an advanced stage, to establish clusters of integrated technology hubs otherwise called Smart City.

The ultramodern medical institute designed to attract medical tourism into the state and the Ebonyi industrial clusters, spread across the 3 zones of the state will provide over 300,000 direct and indirect jobs for our people.

From the rear, Ebonyi State has occupied front rows in the comity of states. The narrative has changed. It is not just an investor’s preferred destination, but the fastest growing city in the West African subregion. Everywhere is Ebonyi. It is the only state with massive concrete roads in the whole of West Africa!

In the midst of these interventions, it is regrettable to note that some beneficiaries of these facilities have continued to throw tantrums on the person of the divine mandate Governor, David Umahi.

At their gathering, these ungrateful elements, with their warped view, discredit his effort forgetting so soon the condition of Ebonyi, prior to Governor Umahi’s adminstration that ushered in good governance which they are key beneficiaries.

Some whose overzealousness overtook their sense of reasoning met a brick wall. To stay afloat in the scheme of events, they took to social and conventional media to fault the governor. These strange bedfellows, most of whom were lifted from cesspools to where they’re have vowed to pillory Umahi’s image.

It is high time the people rise in defense of this god-fearing administration in Ebonyi State.

The democratic dividends delivered to us is for us all and we must show gratitude.

Francis Nwaze
Special Assistant to the Governor
(Media and Publicity)
15th June 2020

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Gov. David Umahi of Ebonyi has directed the Nigerian Army and Police to take over Isinkwo-Ukawu and Abaomege communities of Onicha Local Government Area of the state and immediately restore law and order in both communities.

The directive which is contained in a statement signed by Mr Uchenna Orji, the State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, on Sunday stated that the governor is saddened by developments in both communities.

The statement said that the governor expressed dismay over the activities of the youth in both communities who resorted to taking ‘laws into their hands’ and inflicting injuries on the people because of land dispute.

“The state government has henceforth taken over the disputed land effective from June 6, 2020, in line with the laws of the state.

“The governor has directed the state Commissioner for Lands and Survey to immediately acquire the disputed land for the government, in overriding public interest,” the statement read.

The statement added that Umahi further warned both communities to ‘pull out’ completely from the disputed land.

“All concerned are to take this matter seriously,” the statement read.

News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that similar violence had erupted in Izzi recently where over seven houses were burnt at Amuzu villge in Igbeagu community of Izzi Local Government Area, over a village headship tussle.

The crisis resulted in the arrest of no fewer than eight persons by the police including the traditional ruler.

(NAN)

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Pastor Okochi Obeni of God’s Descendants Assembly, Amasiri, Afikpo North Local Government Area, Ebonyi State, was recently tortured, brutalised and forced by his tormentors to drink water from the gutter, for allegedly criticising the council chairman, Ogbonnaya Oko Enyim. The cleric, who is currently hospitalised at Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, shares his experience with EDWARD NNACHI.

What kind of relationship do you have with the Chairman of Afikpo North Local Government Area, Ogbonnaya Oko Enyim?

I’m a social media activist. Both of us are from Amasiri community so he is the chairman of my local government area. As a social critic, I criticise bad governance and people in power not doing well. The same way I criticise people in positions of authority not doing well is the way I criticise the chairman. The perceived negative relationship I have with him started when he was asked to build a kilometre of road like his counterparts in other local government areas of the state.

The governor told them to construct a kilometre of road anywhere in their councils. He was unable to do that. It took him quite some time to take action as regard the road construction. So, I wrote about it. I criticised it. So, when he was seeking re-election, I wrote again that any local government chairperson who could not build a kilometre of road in their council was not worthy of being re-elected. It was from that point that I started having problem with him.

He started hurting me, using different means. He reported me to the Anti-Kidnapping Squad of the Nigeria Police, saying I was attacking him on social media. I went there and my statement exonerated me. I told them I did not have any personal issue against him and that I was only trying to hold him accountable as a public office holder.

Did you ever suspect that your posts and comments on Facebook could put you in harm’s way?

As a social media activist, I’m not afraid of what people would do to me, since I’m not lying against them. For sure, those in government who are not doing well will in one way or the other try to make people keep mute or accept their ill-governance style. I was not afraid because I was expecting it. But I didn’t know it would be come in a barbaric manner like what I experienced.

But one thing is sure, there is no way they can stop the media in this state. The media is the fourth arm of the government. Other arms of government have their critical roles to play in society. Just like that, the media have a critical role to play to ensure the survival of the society. So, if they don’t want to be criticised or hate criticisms so much, they should stay away from public offices. I knew and had preempted that what the chairman and his agents did to me on Thursday, May 14, 2020, would come some day. But one thing I know is that injustice to one, is injustice to all.

Can you narrate how you were tortured?

I was expecting to be treated badly by these people, but I did not envisage it would take that form. That day, I was called by one Amadi Julius Nyerere, who is a nominee of the chairman and a Technical Assistant to Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi. He called and said the Essa age grade chairman wanted to see me. I thought the plan was to reconcile me with the council chairman, so I went there. On reaching there, I discovered that all the aides of the council chairman, Isi Oru age grade members, and Essa age grade chairman (who is related to the council boss), and his executives, were all there. It dawned on me that there was a plan already on the ground that was being followed using all means available since their plan to use policemen in Ebonyi State Security Neighbourhood Watch had failed.

So, they resorted to attacks. I never experienced the kind of ugly treatment they gave me. They tied my hands behind my back and up till this very moment, I can’t make use of my hands. I can’t hold any object; you can see how I’m struggling to hold my phones. They forced me to drink gutter water and did all sorts of things to me. They put my body through all manner of inhuman treatments, aside from flogging me 36 times.

I want people to know that public service should not be a do-or-die affair. If you know are not competent to be in a position of authority and can’t tolerate criticisms, please stay off and let people who understand what governance entails take up positions of authority. Also, allow the media to do their work.

You were seen in the video apologising in your native dialect and asking for forgiveness; why were you apologising if you knew you were right?

As I said earlier, my hands were tied behind my back. Those people made to stay on my knees for over two and a half hours inside a gutter. So, to be honest with you, my strength was failing me and I needed freedom. I lost consciousness twice. All I needed was freedom. I noticed blood was not flowing through my veins anymore. Whatever anyone told me to say at the point to regain my freedom, I would say. If you watched that video, you would hear where in my dialect, I was begging them to loosen the knot in the rope used to tie both my hands together.

They said they would ask me some questions and if I answered them correctly, they would free me. I said I would answer their questions. It was a terrible experience. And so, whatever I said in that video, I said under duress. Whatever apology or pleas I made in that video were for the sake of my freedom. I knew they weren’t going to be binding on me and I never meant them. I’m a human rights activist and I must continue to make those in positions of authority to be accountable to the people and be transparent in their dealings with the people.

They are paid with public funds; therefore, the public and the press must be able to hold them to account. Therefore, whatever I said was said under duress.

How is your condition now?

At first, I thought it was going to be a minor thing after the doctors here treated the wounds I had. However, after the treatment, I discovered I could not make use of my hands. I also realised I could not make use of my buttocks because I hardly sit properly and easily now. Just as I was rejoicing that I was going home to meet my family, a doctor examined me and discovered that most of my veins and nerves had been damaged because of the long hours that my hands were tied and I was beaten.

He said the health challenges could become permanent if I didn’t treat them quickly. He said it could lead to paralysis. They further advised that I should be moved to the physiotherapy centre of the hospital and that’s where I am currently. I have been receiving treatment here but I still can’t hold any object. I can’t easily close my hands or open them. I still feel so much pain all over my body, but it is better than how I felt on the day of the incident.

My worst fear is that these current health challenges might lead to permanent paralysis in the future. I’m begging people to pray for me to recover quickly.

What do you want as justice?

The people who tortured me should all be arrested. I’m still surprised and worried that Ogbonnaya Oko Enyim has not been arrested. It doesn’t give me joy that somebody would commit such a heinous crime and be walking freely on the streets of Nigeria. I’m still begging the police to do something about it. I heard that the Nigeria Police Force Public Relations Officer in Abuja, Mr Frank Mba, said some arrests had been made; I am not yet satisfied. Ogbonnaya Oko Enyim, Okpara Akpu Mbe, Oko Olughu, Amicable, and others should have been in police custody by now.

They instigated the attack; they were the ones videoing me and telling the Isi Oru people what to do to me. So, I’m begging the security agencies to come my rescue by bringing these people to justice. It is not all about me; it is about other practitioners and journalists whose lives are very much in danger in the state. Let them do justice to this matter and when they do, I will be glad and will be able to beat my chest and say Nigeria is a safe place for the media.

Would you still have the courage to be critical of the local government chairman and other political leaders in the state who you think are not doing well?

Well, this is the first time I was threatened. The chairman once took me to the state Criminal Investigation Department for criticising his style of governance. But that didn’t bother me. He once sent members of the Ebonyi State Security and Neighbourhood Watch to my family; they came and threatened my wife, which I also ensured was published to draw attention of the public to the situation and that the lives of my wife and kid were at stake, but that also didn’t stop me. So using the Isi Oru and other traditional means illegally to frustrate me cannot also stop the fighting spirit in me.

I only want to see good governance, not bad governance in our land. Those in authority should be accountable to the people; that’s what I have been saying and that’s why the local government chairman is angry with me and everyone that criticises him. Those at the grass roots should feel the impact of governance. This is the crux of my agitation; this is why I have been involved in active social media activism. They can’t stop me. When I recover, I will still investigate and write to condemn evil and all violations against human rights in Amasiri, Afikpo North Local Government Area in Ebonyi State.

What’s your greatest regret amid all these?

My regret is that the elite in Amasiri are keeping quiet over this issue. They think it is about me alone. It is about the general interest of Amasiri land. I read that the local government chairman called some journalists (The PUNCH not included), community people, government officials and others to his house and told them that torturing me was in line with our tradition.

Amasiri community is where the only Senior Advocate of Nigeria in the entire Ebonyi State hails from and you are telling the world that barbarism or inhuman treatment is part of our culture.

It baffles me. I’m lost. But I thank God that the custodian of our culture and tradition, (Ezeogo) Patrick Aja (The current Isakaogu of Ndukwe Kingdom), has debunked the media report because barbarism and inhuman treatment are not part of our culture. I had expected all educated Amasiri men and women to stand up and condemn this barbaric action. My only regret is that people are not saying anything about a development that can jeopardise the future their children. I don’t regret holding government to be accountable to the masses.

What was your criticism of the local government chairman about?

Well, I’m not criticising the council chairman, I’m only criticising his style of governance, I mean, his bad leadership tendencies. I do not hate him. I don’t hate him as a person. All I’m against is the way he runs the affairs of the council. You should take governance to the people who own it. But we can’t find this kind of thing happening here.

Good enough, he is the first chairman of Afikpo North Local Government Area to have come from Amasiri land. The roads in Amasiri are dilapidated.

We don’t have good drinking water, and he is from here. If we don’t hold him accountable, the ugly trend may not change anytime soon.

It was because I engaged him on social media that he started the one kilometre road in the first place and he has not been able to complete it after over one year. And when I write about it, he will come and attack me again.

But when we hold leaders accountable, they will know that journalists are watching them and do what is expected of them.
©Punch

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

By Ogochukwu Anioke, Abakaliki

Ebonyi Governor, David Umahi has suspended all Development Centre Coordinators of Afikpo North and Ivo local government areas of the State for alleged incompetence, sabotage and dereliction of duties in the fight against COVID-19.

He also suspended the leadership of the Town Union in the state.

The Governor, in a statement, expressed regrets and disappointment that he arrested over ten passenger vehicles with over 50 passengers coming from Abia, Port Harcourt and Lagos States.

The Governor alleged that those on the road blocks at the borders took bribes and allowed the passengers and vehicles to pass as there was no presence of town unions in those locations.

Umahi said: “What I saw yesterday at Ivo local government last night has left me worried about our honesty in doing this job.

“Between 6.30 pm to 12 mid night I entered Afikpo north and moved to Ivo, I was so much disappointed.

“In Ivo I arrested over ten passenger vehicles with over 50 passengers coming from Abia, Port Harcourt and Lagos. Those on the road took bribes and allowed them to pass.

” I had no option than to arrest those who were said to be doing the work but were only there taking bribe and they are already at the holding centre in Abakaliki. No presence of town union in those locations”.

As a result, he declared: “All Coordinators in Afikpo North and Ivo LGAs are hereby suspended from office effective Sunday.

“They must handover to member one in their development centres including vehicles.

“All political appointees from these two LGAs are to remain on half salary until normalcy is returned including all traditional rulers from Afikpo north and Ivo LGA”.

He added: “Commissioner for Local Government and Permanent Secretary are to serve one month working suspension without salaries and if there is no improvement in the running of LGA, they will be removed. The chairman and leadership of town union in Ebonyi state are hereby suspended”.

The Governor noted that it was a shame there was no monitoring by the Commissioner for Security, Coordinators or the Local government chairmen.

Umahi directed the Commissioner for Local government, Sam Okoronkwo, to account for the N15 million released to each of the 13 council chairmen to tackle the pandemic.

The Governor threatened he would raise about 140 boys from each of the communities if the problem continues.

He said he was depressed with the lack of commitment of security agencies despite payment of all allowances.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Two Chinese expatriates have been kidnapped by suspected gunmen in Ishiagu, Ivo Local government area of Ebonyi state

The incident has been reportedly confirmed by the police commissioner in Ebonyi, Awosola Awotinde.

Awotinde, however, promised that the victims will be rescued as soon as possible, saying that the police are on the trail of the suspected kidnappers.

Meanwhile, the four Turkish expatriates who were kidnapped by gunmen in Gbale, Edu Local Government Area of Kwara, have been rescued by the police.

The victims had spent six days with their abductors before a police team secured their release on Friday evening from the hide out of the kidnappers at Gbugbu community in the state.

Addressing newsmen at the police headquarters in Ilorin, the state Commissioner of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, said the police had been on the trail of the kidnappers since the incident was reported.

Egbetokun explained that a combined team of the IGP Tactical Squad, the anti-robbery team as well as members of the Miyyeti Allah and the vigilance group in the area had intensified their search for the expatriates.

Earlier, The Herald reported that a Chinese firm in Nigeria, Mutual Commitment Company Ltd, has donated medical face mask and hand gloves to Nigerian military as part of the effort to curb the ravaging coronavirus pandemic in the country.

The Chief of Defence Training and Operations, Maj.-Gen. Lucky Irabor, received the items on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Gabriel Olonisakin on Monday at the Defence Headquarters.
©Herald

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Ebonyi State Governnor David Umahi had said that five persons are in self observation in the state.

Among the five is an Indian, who arrived the country recently and a staff of First Bank who had contact with a returnee.

The Governor stated this while briefing journalists on recent developments in the state on the Coronavirus outbreak.

He said that 4 persons,(including the Indian) came into the state from different countries that have outbreak of the coronavirus while one person was said to have had contact with a retunee.

He said that the Indian citizens is a staff of Royal salt Ikwo.

Hé said banker visited his mother in Anambra, who just came back from one of the countries with the outbreak.

He, however, said their is no cause for alarm as the self isolation is precautionary, adding that all the 5 persons are doing fine.

“We send health personnels to check their vitals everyday and so far they are not showing any symptoms. The Indian also has a nurse staying with him and monitoring him, so far his vitals are normal,” he said

He revealed that he has directed the Ezza South and Ikwo Council Chairmen to liase with security agencies and ensure the immediate arrest of families that conducted burial in the state on Thursday.

He said that the arrest would serve as a deterrence to other families that would disobey government order.

The Nation reports the State government had last week Monday gave a directive banning burial, weeding ceremonies, conferences and other social activities in the state.

Umahi, who expressed his displeasure with the disobedience to the directive, insisted that all those behind the conduct of the burial no matter how highly placed must be arrested.

He also ordered for the immediate arrest of the mortuary attendant at the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu Alike Ikwo who released the corpse to the family for burial.

Governor Umahi also directed the Vice Chancellor of the Federal university, Prof Chinedu Nwajiuba to henceforth stop the release of corpse to any family.

He ordered the 13 council Chairmen alongside Development Center Coordinators to move round the rural communities and all the nooks and crannies of the state to ensure that no burial or wedding is conducted in the state tomorrow.

He warned that he would not hesitate to sanction anyone that allows or compromise to the directive adding that there must concerted effort by all to ensure that the state does not with an outbreak of the virus in the state.

The Governor also said that from tomorrow it would take over some hotels in the state to enable the health workers reside there for optimum productivity, adding that government would pay all accrued bills generated while the period last.

The Nation

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) on Monday declared a two-week warning strike to protest the non-payment of salaries of lecturers not enrolled in the Federal Government’s Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS)

National President of the union Biodun Ogunyemi made the declaration after ASUU National Executive Council meeting in Enugu.

NEC resolved to embark on two weeks warning strike action with effect from Monday 9th March 2020, to compel the Government to implement the agreement and resolution,” Ogunyemi said.

He said the strike action was to compel the government to implement the agreement and resolution of Memorandum of Action it had with the union from 2009, 2013, 2017 and 2019.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Former Governor of Ebonyi State, Chief Martin Elechi, was on Thursday, spotted bowing before the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, David Nweze Umahi.

In the picture which is currently trending online, Elechi can be seen bowing before Umahi while extending a handshake.

9news Nigeria recalls that Elechi and Umahi had a misunderstanding towards the 2015 Governorship Election after Umahi emerged as the Peoples Democratic Party candidate.

Also, in 2015, before the primaries of the different parties in the state were held, the general impression was that whoever emerged as the candidates of the ruling PDP in the state must first have the ‘blessing’ or ‘anointing’ of Governor Elechi and his key associates or allies.

But contrary to the ‘predictions’, candidates who were given the PDP tickets for the various offices, never received the nod of the governor; indeed, they all got the tickets against the wish of Elechi.

The development, somehow, caused some problems for the PDP and created room for opposition in the state, using the LP, said to be backed by the government.

However, with recent happening, it seems both leaders have reconciled as this is the second time they can be seen together this year.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Governor David Nweze Umahi of Ebonyi State has felicitated with Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo on his birthday.

9news Nigeria reports that today marks Obasanjo’s 83 birthday.

In a statement sent to 9News Nigeria on Thursday by Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Francis Nwaze, Umahi described Obasanjo as not just a statesman but a man who has contributed his entire life to the development of the country.

Umahi said : “He has served in several capacities both in military and democratic administration and remained one of the very best presidents Nigeria have had.”

Umahi wished the Former President more life, more Gods grace and greater heights in the service delivery of the country.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The Governor of Ebony State, David Umahi says the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu is a deceiver.

According to the Governor, Nnamdi Kanu is using his Biafra cause to defraud gullible Igbo people.

He said, “Our people are being deceived to spend huge among of money to finance what they know nothing about while Nnamdi Kanu spend it on his personal issues.”

He said Kanu has resorted to using cheap lies and blackmails against his government on social media to gain the empathy from some Igbos, asking the public to disregard such information.

The Governor said he had to respond to the IPOB leader so as to let the public know his new antics, and be wary of him.

He said IPOB is acting like a dying horse, having now realised that their fraudulent activities in the name of IPOB have been exposed and that Kanu is being used to destabilise Ndigbo by deceiving people into believing that he can give them Biafra.”

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Governor David Nweze Umahi of Ebonyi State, on Wednesday, said he is a full member of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and nothing.

Umahi who noted that he is 100% PDP said politics should be separated from personal relationship.

He further said that he was in deep consternation of how mischief makers could skew and slant issues to gain favour.

Umahi made this known while reacting to alleged reports that he belongs to the ruling party, All Progressives Congress, APC and Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

In a statement made available to 9News Nigeria on Wednesday by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Francis Nwaze, Umahi said he is enamored by President Buhari’s leadership style. And this father-son relationship has, in some jaundiced quarters, pitted him against some power brass who positioned media attackers to misconstrue and quote him out of context at every occasion.

The statement reads,

“After reading the write-up published in one of the reputable tabloids – The Nation by a faceless writer, alleging that Governor David Umahi, FNSE, FNATE shares dual loyalty to the ruling party, APC and the leading opposition party, PDP, I stared into space in utter disbelief and in deep consternation of how mischief makers could skew and slant issues to gain favour”.

“This is not healthy for our enduring democracy. In a clime such as ours where sycophancy reigns supreme as against sincerity, creating a smooth relationship with elder statesmen with zilch considerations to political and creedal leaning, become a problem – leaving one to wonder which way becomes the best Pretense, rather than sincerity? The answer is in the negative.”

“Recall on innumerable occasions have Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State vowed never to be swayed or carried away by the euphoria of power and start swimming in the dirty and murky waters of unhealthy criticisms of the opposition party – especially at the centre.”

“Governor Umahi said President Mohammadu Buhari has proven beyond doubt his irrevocable commitments to right too many wrongs done by corruption in our dear country, Nigeria, by waging war against corruption. He maintained that the President’s posture is for the nation’s interest and should be supported by all. And he has been supporting Mr. President by not making acidic comments on the person of the President on his policy issue even as a member of the opposition party as he believes that party is different from personal relationship.”

“Governor Umahi said he is enamored by President Buhari’s leadership style. This father-son relationship has, in some jaundiced quarters, pitted him against some power brass who positioned media attackers to misconstrue and quote Governor Umahi out of context at every occasion.”

“It was precisely on 29th December, 2019 during the Christmas season that delegates from Onicha and Ishielu Council Areas of Ebonyi State came to celebrate the yuletide with Governor Umahi and thank him for the new Federal College of Education that was graciously given to Ebonyi State by President Buhari.”

“While responding to them, Governor Umahi remarked that many National Assembly members have kept on claiming being responsible for the siting of the College in Ebonyi when in actual sense, it was an executive order and never influenced by any legislature. He thanked Mr. President for the approval of the siting of the college in Ebonyi State while advising some political stakeholders from the state especially members of the National Assembly to stop playing politics with the new Federal College of Education.”

“He explained that the College was not subjected to political and party lense before being given it to Ebonyi State, cautioning: “stop running from one party to another, my loyalty is hundred percent for PDP.”

“I have highest degree of respect for President Buhari even though it makes them accuse me of anti-party but Politics should be separated from personal relationship…”.

“Since Governor Umahi made that remark, enemies of the State took to social and mainstream media to lash at him – concocting all manner of write-ups geared towards smearing his image before the public.”

“Governor David Umahi has declared that he is not available to discuss politics until it is about one year to the election period as he maintained that now is time to work for those that voted him and not to do politics.”

“There’s no possibility of being both in APC and PDP at the same time.”

“He is an elected Governor under the People’s Democratic Party, a Fmr. State PDP Chairman and Fmr. Deputy Governor under PDP and his landmark and envious achievements speak volume.”

“Rather than getting the polity turbocharged by incendiary comments of opaque and self-serving elements masquerading as journalists, may I urge members of the public to ignore the charade making the rounds on social and mainstream media about Governor Umahi’s dual political loyalty as such exist in the wild imagination of the author.”

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Different professional groups, today, visited the hometown of Governor David Nweze Umahi of Ebonyi State to celebrate the Yuletide.

9news Nigeria reports that the road leading to the Governor’s hometown was extremely busy as the different groups queued up to take turn to celebrate the yuletide with the Governor.

Speaking during the colourful event, the leaders of the groups thanked Governor Umahi for transforming the State.

They pledged their support for him and prayed to God to keep guiding and protecting him for the good people of Ebonyi State.

They also presented different gift items to the Governor for his good works in the State.

However, speaking with 9news Nigeria correspondent after the event, the Special Assistant on Media to Umahi, Mr. Francis Nwaze said what happened at the Christmas homage at the Governor’s home on Monday is a proof that being good is rewarding as the sea of heads from different groups only came to say THANK YOU to the Governor for the too many to mention good deeds he has been doing for the state, both Ebonyians and Non-Ebonyians residing in the state.

See more photos from the event below,

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi on Monday said he will not allow an older Politician to succeed him in 2023.

He spoke in UburU, his country home while addressing members of the State Executive Council who paid him a Christmas Homage.

They were led by the Deputy Governor, Kelechi Igwe.
The Governor said his successor will never be older than him as there are several benefits of having a young and vibrant person as the Governor.

“I will not support anyone that is older than me for Governor come 2023. We need someone that is energetic and ready to lead with every commitment.”

“I will not engage in 2023 politics now, I can only talk politics a year to the end of my tenure not now. We are more concerned to developing the state and cannot be distracted by desperate people who are hungry for power and not for the betterment of the people”.

The Governor , however, said he is at the moment preoccupied with the development of Ebonyi State and hence is not bothered with 2023 political permutations at the moment.

He noted that he cannot be distracted by desperate people who are hungry for power and not for the betterment of the people.

Governor Umahi while thanking the members for the support they have been giving to him urged them to work in unity in 2020 as no every good work comes without a reward.

He added that in 2020, every Council member must present one person for business empowerment.

Earlier, Mr Igwe told the Governor that they were in Uburu to thank the Governor for his unflinching support towards them and his ability to transform the state in a short period of time.

The Council members prayed the Governor not to relent in his avowed commitment in ensuring that Ebonyi became one of the top developing states it has become under his watch.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The Ebonyi State of House Assembly, on Wednesday, approved the letter seeking for the upgrade of three Local Government Areas in the State to Urban Areas.

The letter which was written by Governor David Nweze Umahi to the House had Afikpo North LGA, Ohaozara LGA, and Ivo LGA as the key areas to be upgraded.

In a statement made available to 9News Nigeria on Wednesday by the Special Assistant on Media to Umahi, Hon. Francis Nwaze said the Ebonyi State House of Assembly under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonnaya Nwifuru approved the request.

More details soon…

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

A Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi state, Hon. Charles Oko Enya, has approached a Federal High Court in Abakiliki, Ebonyi state, to direct the National Assembly and the Attorney-General of the Federation and minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, to remove constitutional clauses hindering elected President and state governors from seeking a third term in office.

In his suit with No: FHC/AI/CS/90/19, which was filed at the court last Wednesday and made available to journalists by his counsel, Barr. Iheanacho Agboti, the APC member is seeking for possible expungement of section 137(1) (b) and 182 (1) (b) in the 1999 constitution (as amended).

He insisted that the sections were infringement on the fundamental human rights of the likes of President Muhammadu Buhari and all state governors excluding the legislators.

The defendants in the suit were the Clerk of the National Assembly, Mr Mohammed Sani-Omolori, the National Assembly and the Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami.

Our reporter recalled that the applicant, (Hon. Enya), had served as the organising Secretary to President Buhari in the last 2019 polls.

According to him, “that section 137(1)(b)of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,1999 (as amended) restricting the president to only two terms of four years each, is inoperative by virtue of its discriminatory nature in relation to the executive and legislative branches of government in Nigeria, and therefore null and void and thus inapplicable”.

Enya, who is earnestly awaiting the hearing of the matter soon, says he’s seeking the order of the court to direct the first and second defendants to delete and expunge sections 137(1)(b) and 182(1)(b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

He also tasked the third defendant as the Chief Law Officer of the federation to give the needed support to the first and second defendants to commence a constitutional amendment that would remove the restrictions and the alleged discrimatory sections on tenure limits.

He added that he is seeking “Order of the court nullifying and setting aside section 137(1)(b) and 182(1) (b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).

“And directing the first and second defendants to delete and expunge sections 137(1)(b) and 182(1)(b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, (as amended).”

More details soon…

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The executive Governor of Ebonyi State, David Nweze Umahi, on Tuesday, delivered a lecture adjudged as most critical in returning Nigeria on the part of dignity and economic advancement at the University of Nigeria Nsukka, UNN.

9news Nigeria had reported that Umahi graced the event with his amiable wife, Rachael Umahi, and other top dignitaries from Ebonyi.

9news Nigeria reports that after Umahi delivered the lecture which centred on
“PREPARING EBONYI STATE FOR TOMORROW’S ZERO OIL ECONOMY”, he received accolades, awards, gifts from many organisations.

Speaking with 9news Nigeria correspondent after the lecture, the Special Assistant on New Media and Project Documentation to the Governor, Mr. Francis Nwaze described Umahi as a prayer on the lips of many states.

He noted that Gov. Umahi is a rare gem and a genius.

He said : “There were so much accolades in form of awards, gift items, etc from notable organizations to our working Governor as he stormed University of Nigeria, Nsukka on Tuesday with his wealth of Knowledge to deliver a lecture on preparing Ebonyi State for a Zero Oil Economy.”

“Truly, Governor Umahi is now a prayer on the lips of many states to have a like of him steering the wheel of leadership in their states just as he is doing in Ebonyi.”

“The picture attached in the post got me thinking. Irrespective of the fact that the camera could not capture the long queue who were following up to make present to Gov. Umahi but a sight of the struggle to show him appreciation settled my mind with the fact that there could be no better way to live a long and happy life without being good and leading by example.”

“So far, I am yet to see another governor that goes on canvas, seen on polo, mount on construction equipments, pass through the muddy roads on foot, visit construction sites even at 1:00am etc just to ensure that quality and speed are not compromised.”

“Governor Umahi is not just a construction specialist, he is filled with wisdom and he hears and obeys directives from God. These are what Professor Chukwuemeka Ike, The King of Ndikelionwu saw in him after delivering a lecture at UNN and recommend his lecture as a must read for every Nigerian and leaders of the country to enable them think towards strengthening the economy instead of depending on Oil.”

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The chairman of the South East Governors Forum and governor of Ebonyi State, Chief David Umahi, on Tuesday lamented how he was embarrassed and humiliated in New York City during the just concluded 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
Umahi, who said he accompanied President Mohammadu Buhari to the UNGA meeting, noted that he was specially singled out, humiliated and searched, just because he is a Nigerian.
Umahi made this known while addressing a mammoth crowd of Ebonyians who attended the 59th anniversary of Nigeria and Ebonyi state at 23, that took place at the Pa Ngele Oruta township stadium, Abakaliki capital of Ebonyi state.
The governor further noted that, he will be travelling with President Mohammad Buhari again to South Africa to find solution to the lingering crisis between Nigerians living South Africa and the citizens of the host country.
According to him “Let me assure Ebonyi people and the entire southeast that the closure of the Akanu-Ibiam International Airport at Enugu was for the safety of our people.
“As the chairman of south East governors forum, I had a meeting with Mr president and we have agreed on modalities for quick execution and of cause comprehensive over haul of that airport.
“We are seeking for a special funding with Mr president and as i travel with him, i will also reveal to him how much we have gone in the release of the funds for the quick completion of that project.
“We have provided two coaster buses, 10 pick up vans and a brand new liaison zone office in Owerri, this will assist our people who are travelling to the airport there.
The governor, however, warned against speaking ill of President Buhari and governors of various states in the country, noting that castigating the President will not add any value to the progress of the country.
“Castigating leaders openly will not add any value to what we seek rather our eyes should be on the ball.
“We must as Nigerians do everything to uphold our cultural value and better ourselves outside the country. The way we are treated outside the shores of this land is not encouraging, we must have to do empirical evaluation of ourselves, we get devalued a lot in other nations.
“I got calls from people in Ghana, saying that a lot of them are about to be sentenced, some people have been imprisoned for 1000 years and some 500 years imprison.
“And so, it is important that as Nigerians, we should reevaluate our statues and our values because the way we are treated even as a governor, you don’t wear governor at the airport.
“When I was in America, they singled some of us out and conducted a thorough search, it is an intimidation. We will not continue to live in such manner that bring humiliation to our nation, it is very important,” he noted

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

NO fewer than 16 lives have reportedly been lost to an outbreak of yellow fever virus in Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

Several other victims were receiving treatment at the Virology Centre and Iboko General Hospital in the state as at the time of filing this report.

The virus had reportedly been ravaging the community since July before the information got to the state’s ministry of health which thereafter moved in to curtail further spread.

The Permanent Secretary in the state’s Ministry of Health, Dr. Chris Achi, confirmed the incident on Friday in a chat with journalists in Abakaliki.

He said the Federal Ministry of Health and Nigeria Centre for Disease Control had intervened in the matter.
Achi blamed the death of the 16 persons on patronage of quacks and use of herbs to treat the outbreak.

He appealed to the people of the state to always access health facilities located in their areas. According to him, a specie of mosquito called AEDES transmits the virus to humans and it has three to six days incubation period in human body.

“Yes, that is why we appreciate the community giving early information to the authority especially when they notice that there is an unusual happening. We have always insisted that people should make use of our health facilities. In all the 171 political wards in Ebonyi State, we have health centres that will serve them.

“On July 16, somebody called me from one of the villages in Izzi Local Government Area saying that there was a way people were dying in the village and that he was suspecting that something might be wrong. I called health workers there who said no such case came to their clinic.

“I sent our rapid response team to visit the place, lo and behold, when they got there, it was a case of yellow fever but unfortunately, we had had about 16 deaths from the place. So we moved to the place and conducted case search. Those who already had the symptom, we moved to the health facility at Ndungele and when it was serious ,we moved some to the general hospital at Iboko and Virology Center here in Abakaliki.

“But the problem about the outbreak was that our people did not believe that they would have to go to hospital when they experienced yellowness of the eyes. They believed that they could be treated with local herbs and that’s why we recorded causalities which should not have been.” Achi said they state government notified federal ministry of health and Center For Disease Control immediately they knew about the outbreak.

“For the past two weeks, they have been in Ebonyi State to ensure control and they equally came with drugs and consignments.”We are equally doing much to ensure that it does not spread to the capital city. Yellow fever is not transmitted from human to human. It can only be transmitted through mosquito. There are forest monkeys that equally carry yellow fever virus and if mosquito bites the monkey and bites somebody in the forest it will pass the virus and if the mosquito bites another person, it will continue to transmit the virus.

That is the way the virus spreads. Yellow fever comes with fever, typhoid and if it is not detected on time, it will start draining the victim’s blood and the person will go into coma,” Achi explained.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State, on Wednesday, disclosed that many of the citizens of the state were jostling for various political positions in his government.

Umahi, who made the disclosure during the swearing-in of the the newly appointed Head of Service and Senior Special Assistants, said that following government advertisement, over 10,000 Ebonyians had applied as Commissioners, Senior Special Assistants, Special Advisers, Senior Technical Assistants, Technical Assistants and Coordinators of Development Centres across the state.

It would be recalled that early this month, the Ebonyi State Government had called for applications from members of the public to apply as members, Local Government Advisory Committee, STAs, TAs, Coordinators and Management Committee Members.

Speaking during the swearing-in of the HoS and 22 SSAs at the Executive Council Chamber of the Government House, Abakaliki, Governor Umahi, expressed dismay at the rate at which the people sought after political appointments.

He said, “What is trending in Ebonyi state is everybody saying I want to be SSA and SA. Imagine the cabinet we have, everybody wants to be SA. If I am making more SAs, it must not be up to ten per cent of the SAs I have appointed. It is my opinion that we find something else doing.

“My Commissioners will come last. I want to let them know that this job can be done without anybody. My former Commissioners started a very bad trend for the state and for me.

“Everyday, they are discussing the Governor, going from one office to the another. They were going about saying that there were not being given anything and not taken care of. If I get complaints again, I will get rid of that person.

“Anybody we will appoint now, we will tell the person, ‘this is not come and chop, it is come and work’. So, from day one, if you do not want to sacrifice to work for the people, you better go and look for another opportunity. If I get anybody complaining there is no money, I will get rid of the person. This is no longer going to be a gossip workshop. People are called to work.

“This is not the era of coming with files. You have to create wealth. Let’s look beyond the money we get.”

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

President Muhammadu Buhari has called on the Academic Staff Union of Nigeria Universities to call off the industrial action embarked upon by its members in the overall interest of the nation.

The President made the call in Ndufu-Alike, Abakaliki, during the third convocation of the Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ebonyi State.

Represented by the Deputy Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission, Mr. Victor Onuoha, Buhari said the Federal Government had provided the requisite environment for teaching and learning in Nigerian universities.

“Consequently, I urge ASUU to suspend its ongoing industrial action in the overall national interest.

“This administration is not unmindful of the fact that funding for education may not be adequate largely due to lean resources and other competing national needs. I want to assure Nigerians that we will continue to do the needful within the limited available resources,” he said.

The President also congratulated the university and felicitated with the graduating students for completing their university education.

While urging the graduates to be good ambassadors of the institution, he said, “These fresh minds represent our hope for a better future as they are expected to invest their time and intellectual resources in the development of our nation and the world at large

“The Federal Government of Nigeria is determined to provide the requisite environment for teaching and learning in the university system. This result is one of the reasons for the energising education programme we have started and the Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, is one the nine beneficiaries in the first phase.

“Universities have critical roles to play in nation building. They must justify this through excellent, innovative ideas and empowering the youth with right mental attitude, functional knowledge and saleable skills to be globally competitive and develop our nation.

“Nigerian universities should ensure that students are provided with capacities to discover their innate qualities and use same to impact positively on the global economy,” he added.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The Ebonyi Government on Tuesday sealed the Abakaliki Rice Mill Limited over the alleged infiltration of poisoned and adulterated rice in the mill.
Dr Kenneth Ugbala, the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Internal Security, who announced the state government’s decision at a news briefing, said that the closure was with immediate effect.

Ugbala noted that the state Executive Council (EXCO) had received the news of the poisoned and adulterated rice with shock and deliberated extensively on it to save lives of citizens.

“The EXCO subsequently directed the concerned Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of health, agriculture, commerce and industry and internal security to seal the rice mill for full investigations to be carried out.

“The Ministry of Environment, which firstly received the report, informed us that the products are not fit for human consumption.

“The primary aim of every government is to protect the lives of its citizens as we want to prevent unsuspecting citizens from purchasing such products,” he said.

Commenting further on the situation, Sen. Emmanuel Onwe, State’s Commissioner for Information and Orientation, noted that the government did not know the source from which the products infiltrated the market and the type of poison involved.

“We do not know whether they are rat or other type of poisons but the commissioner for environment quickly dispatched a team to the mill on receiving the news of the infiltration.

“The team confiscated some samples of the product and they had labels of ‘not fit for human consumption’ boldly written on them.

“We will not go into the semantics of such labels but any responsible government should take precautionary measures immediately such development is discovered.

“This government being a responsible one took the normal, precautionary step to safeguard its people’s lives,” he said.

The New Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the SSA on Internal Security and other authorities involved in the sealing left the EXCO chambers immediately to enforce the directive.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

National chairman of the party, Adams Oshiomhole , was at the rally, which received defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP ), including Senator Sonni Ogbuoji; former Minister of Power and Steel , Chief Goddy Ogbaga; former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Bernard Odoh; and former Attorney – General and Commissioner for Justice , Chief Augustine Nwankwegu.

Onu noted he pleaded with people of the South East in 2015 not to put their eggs in one basket , but that his pleadings fell on deaf ears.

“ Today, I want them to compare the 16 years of PDP with the three years of APC.

“ The time has come for the South East to be in the mainstream of Nigerian politics by voting for President Buhari and APC in 2019,” he added .

According to Oshiomhole , the current security challenge in the country is devoid of religious or ethnic colouration .

At another forum , Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi chided Oshiomhole for asking him to apologise for allegedly refusing an APC faction in Ebonyi the use of Pa Ngele Oruta International Stadium for a rally.

Umahi’s Chief Press Secretary (CPS ), Emmanuel Uzor , described the statement as not just childish but pure blackmail aimed at gaining public sympathy .

“ It is very shameful for Oshiomhole to have made the statement credited to him while in the state . He has not disappointed Nigerians on his usual macabre dance when he said Governor Umahi denied a faction of his party usage of Pa Ngele Oruta International Stadium, which is undergoing reconstruction.

It became more childish considering that he had earlier called Umahi on phone and informed him of his coming, knowing well that the rally had been shifted to August 11.

“ One would have expected Oshiomhole , as a senior comrade to show respect to a sitting governor , if he was not hypocritical in his alleged relationship and tolerance for opposition .

But he decided to fly into Abakaliki , enjoy the ambience of a serene environment and drive round a beautiful city with the best road network in the country and then mount the podium and start spewing his usual political blackmail, which he has been known for .

“ More worrisome is his visible silence over the factions in his party in the state and his inability to fuse the divided party into one , but has descended so low to demand apology from a sitting governor over a stadium that is under construction , ” Umahi said.

©Guardian Ngr

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

A community in Ebonyi State was on Sunday thrown into pandemonium following the murder of one Nwode Nwignoaka and his seven years old daughter by his 25 years old son, Julius Nwode.

The incident happened at Ifelemenu community, Ekpaomaka in Ikwo Local Government Area of the state.

According to an eyewitness, Julius went berserk killing his father and sister before attacking six other residents of the community who came to intervene in the matter.

He inflicted serious machete cuts on the six other residents of the area before he was later gunned down by a husband of one of the victims of his attack, a source said.

While the reason for his actions could not be ascertained, a source who did not want to be named, said the suspect had taken hard drugs when he came into the house.

An altercation reportedly occurred between him and his father who asked him where he had been.

“When he was attacking his father with machete, Julius’ sister came out and asked him why he was attacking their father. And he descended on her and macheted her to death after killing the father.

“Some neighbours who saw what happened came to the scene. Julius attacked about six of them with the machete. As he was leaving the area wielding the machete, a man called Peter whose wife was among those macheted, went inside his house, brought his gun and shot him and he died instantly,” he narrated.

The corpses of the victims have been deposited at the Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki while the injured are currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital in the state.

The spokesperson of the police in Ebonyi, Loveth Odah, confirmed the incident to PREMIUM TIMES.

She, however, said Julius reportedly killed himself after killing his father and sister.

“The boy is about 25 years and he burns candle and reads some religious books. So he came home and attacked his father and seven years old sister with Axe and machete. Thereafter he killed himself,” she said
She said the police were still investigating the incident and she has not been properly briefed on the number of casualties.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The Presidency says it considers a communiqué issued by some ethnic and sectional groups assembled in Abuja recently as the shedding of crocodile tears by selfish leaders.

Malam Garba Shehu, the President’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, stated this in a statement issued in Abuja on Friday.

He noted that the affected leaders felt alienated after a transparent and accountable system halted their disproportionate survival on resources of the state.

The communiqué issued by the leaders of some socio-cultural organizations led by the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) and some ethnic and sectional groups had accused the Muhammadu Buhari administration of incompetence in handling the security situation in the country.

However, the Presidency urged Nigerians to ignore ”the unholy alliance by these groups who are stepping up their assault on the All Progressives Congress administration as it expands its national dominance and moves closer to securing an outright victory in the elections next year.”

The Presidential aide noted with dismay that the refrain about President Buhari not doing anything about security in the country had turned into the number one fake news item being peddled in the media.

”The Presidency refers all the purveyors of falsehood to a State House press release published a few days ago and signed by Special Adviser to the President, Femi Adesina,” he said

He added that the statement had clearly outlined the government’s major achievements and initiatives in tackling security challenges from January to July, 2018.

Shehu observed that the press release which was titled: “Combating Insecurity in the Country: Lest We Forget – Presidency’’ listed out ongoing security operations across the country.

He said the operations included the Nigerian Army’s Exercise Ayem Akpatuma covering Benue, Taraba, Kogi, Nasarawa, Kaduna and Niger States launched in February to tackle cases of kidnappings, herdsmen/farmers’ clashes, among others.

Shehu maintained that Nigerian Air Force had also established three new Quick Response Wings in Taraba, Nasarawa and Benue States apart from the deployment of Special Forces personnel.

He added that President Buhari had also approved the establishment of a new Battalion of the Nigerian Army and a Police Area Command in Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State, as part of measures to scale up security in response to the banditry affecting the area.

”We advise Nigerians to read Adesina’s statement if they haven’t yet, or re-read it for better understanding of the efforts to ensure peace in the country.
”It is sad and misleading for anyone to say that President Buhari had not responded to the security challenges in the country.

”No one can honestly say that President Buhari is doing nothing about security.

”It’s just a fake news item being peddled by selfish politicians with vested interests in keeping Nigerians incensed, and it risks being entrenched as reality if we don’t educate ourselves with the truth,” he concluded

(NAN)

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

THE Sultan of Sokoto, Mohammed Sa’ ad Abubakar, yesterday, warned that the quest for peace in the country may continue to elude it until leaders embrace justice in their actions.

This was even as the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, identified lack of birth control as Nigeria’s biggest problem, saying the development was time-out waiting to explode.

They spoke yesterday,in Abuja, at the National Stakeholders’ Summit on the 2019 election integrity, organised by a civil society organization, under the aegis of Youths Off The Street Initiative.

The Sultan of Sokoto, while regretting the spate of killings in the country, insisted that resort to justice and equity by those in the affairs of leadership was a panacea to addressing the ugly trend.

He enjoined religious leaders, especially of the Christian and Muslim faith to take active responsibilities in educating adherents of their religions on the need to embrace peace and harmonious living among one another.

Hear him:”Leaders across the length and breadth of the country must ensure that justice stand as the strongest of what we must do especially if we want to have a God fearing society.

” We cannot claim to be God fearing when, as a leader, there is no justice in whatever you do.

” If you know the consequences of holding a public office when you are going to face the almighty God, you will not want to hold a public office. People feel you just come into public office, take whatever you want to take, go about in convoys.

” That is not leadership. If you are elected by people, let them come near you so that you feel their pains. You can’t be in an office and nobody comes close to you. A leader must take decision concerning his people by consultations.
” You don’t just wake up and enact a law that is totally against my freedom. These are things that we must continue to speak out as religious and traditional rulers.

“There is nothing to fear about because if we don’t tell the truth, it will one day work against you and you will find yourself in a bad place and you will be struggling to get out of it and you won’t be able to. God is a merciful God,
“He is for all and is not a wicked God. He is mainly with the downtrodden and He hears their cry faster that the leaders.

“If you hear so much cry, then something is wrong with the leadership and that leadership must take correction so that we see how to get things right. As religious leaders we must come together and realize that there are so many things we have in common than the few things that we lead us astray and those few things can lead you to hell fire as religious leaders. We must be very serious about how we do things as religious leaders and if we want to have a country.

” We must be serious about the cry of the common man who is crying daily for one thing or the other. We think that things are right. Definitely, things are not right and when you know that there is a problem, then it is half solved. We must agree that there is problem so that we now know that we have half of the solution. The more we come together and talk, the more we come closer to the solution.”

Continuing, the Sultan said:”As Othman DAN Fodio said, a country can endure with unbelief, but country can’t endure injustice and that is why as leaders, we must put justice first as the strongest pillar.

“There are so many organizations, some very small and others big, but one thing that is clear is that everybody is talking positively about what must happen in Nigeria and that is what we must do, by insisting that things must happen the way the constitution which is the law of the land and our religion permits them to happen.

“As Christians and Muslims, we know the sacredness of life. We cannot go about killing innocent people and claiming to be doing so in the name of religion.

” This is not right and must be condemned and must be removed from our communities. All of us must rise up against those people and let them know that this is not our religion.

” We have done this over time. There is too much blood shedding in Nigeria, the blood of innocent people who do not even know what is happening or what is governance.

“This is happening across the country and if we don’t stop this and recognize the sacredness of human life, we cannot see peace, we cannot have peace and development in any place.

” Nigerians must wake up and know that we must come together because our religion does not allow us to kill people, but preach peaceful coexistence, loving your neigbour as your self and things like that.

” So. When people spread a different notion about what Islam or Christianity said about loving your neigbour by killing him or abusing him everyday and calling him all manner of names, I don’t know.

“The CAN President speaks for the millions of Christians in the country and I speak for my own brothers and sisters who are Muslims.

“You don’t have to bring everybody. You just need to bring the leadership to a room to discuss, but we must discuss what we believe in and what our religion order us to.

“Once we go out, we can through the Media spread that campaign. It is one thing to come to a meeting and say one thing, it is another to go out and implement those that things we agree on.

” In Islam, for you to do what you don’t believe in is very bad and so, you can not say one thing and do another. So, we must do what we say and work with what we believe in.”

While decrying actions of most politicians in politics, the monarch cautioned that decency must be imbibed if the nation’s democracy must grow.

“People see politics as do or die. We should not see it that way. That is why we tell out politicians always that they should not feel they must be in a particular office always. You can contribute to the development of the country or your community by being an independent person. It is not by force for you to go into a public office.”

He spoke further:”As Christians and Muslims. We came together to fight the issue of mosquitoes. Mosquito does not have any religion, they go to church on Sunday and mosque on Friday. We came together to fight that common problem. Now, we have a very common problem of thuggery, violence, terrorism, shedding innocent blood among others. We must come together and solve this problem and when we take decision on this, please let us go back and implement those decisions.

“The youths are the main problems of this country because you are the ones being used by the big men to go and kill people. The children of these big men are never part of these noise making. They are studying abroad and living in highly fortified houses and when they go out, there is always a society man with them. But you take a few naira from the politicians and go out to shout and kill people. We must ensure that there is a peaceful election in 2019 and that we have one man, one vote, one woman one vote, one youth who is not under age, one vote and the vote must count. We must work hard to ensure that the votes count and the election must be peaceful, campaign must be carried out with respect. If we believe that you are good enough, we vote for you.”

On his part, the Oni of Ife, while charging citizens to see Nigeria first before their personal interest, noted that:”The common thing that binds us together is our dear nation Nigeria.”

” The name Nigeria is greater than all of us. The day we know that the name is above all of us irrespective of our religion or beliefs concerning different political affiliations and class, a lot of things will be better.

” I am opportunity to be a traditional ruler not by my power, but because it was ordained by God. We have had many leaders in different areas and they have done their and left the stage, including several presidents.

” But this country still remain. It is time for us know that something is greater than us and so, we should respect the land. Nigeria is a brand that we can all, not do without. But how well are we treating the brand, right from leadership to fellowership? Something is fundamentally wrong in this country.

” We should know this and not treat it with lip service. This country is growing every day and nobody is talking about birth control.”

The Ooni of Ife decried lack of birth control in the country, saying it was a serious problem waiting to confront the country ahead.

“Lack of birth control is a serious problem of this country and nobody is talking about it.

“The population of Nigeria now is between 190 and 200 million. GSM subscribers right now is about 120 million people, the registered voters released by INEC is over 70 million. The population of Nigeria now is getting to 70million. People under 30years of age constitute about 60 percent of the population and that is a lot of human power. People above 50 are less than 30 percent of the population while the leadership demography of this country is less than 1 percent. They have been ruling us since 1960.

” Let us compare notes and be realistic and face the fact that there is a problem in this country. Let us not hide under any color. The active population of this country is about 150 million people with a bleak future.

The young men that were apprehended and paraded for kidnapping the Chibok girls are below the age of 30..

” They thought they were doing business because they are very ignorant of what they were doing. There is problem in this country. What are our leaders doing to orientate them? How are we orientating our youths? Anytime we want to destroy this country, we go to this set of Nigerians, give them a few money and the whole problem will start and the leaders won’t be able to handle it.

“The oxygen of ideal politics is the people, but in Nigeria, the oxygen of Nigerian politics is money, see and buy. What a nation? We are not all safe. It is about time for us to know that the leaders of this country are not safe, same thing with the followers because a lot of the youths of this country are ignorant.

What they want to do is sustain themselves and they need basic things to do that. Are we going to fold our hands and keep talking and the walk?
” The problem is our problem.

Election is coming now and we are talking about one man, one vote. We can do all the talks for forever, but what are we doing. There is true leadership and true followership. We all know that oxygen is life and the oxygen of Nigerian politics is money. But everybody that is in leadership position should know that man made money and it has expiration date. Where is the sense of integrity and content of your character? What are our religious leaders doing? How well are we installing values in people that are so low to us. Our leaders will celebrate construction of roads and building bridges.

” What are you there to do? The way it is designed is that there should be leadership and there should be followership. Leadership is about accountability. Every time, you must leave your doors open.

” Leadership is examination and you will not hear the result of your examination when you are still a leader because people will be hailing you. When you leave that position, your phone will stop ringing and they will move to another leader. When are we going to have a very strong character and moral in our society. The problem is not just our leader, but all of us. It is very important for us to invest in Nigeria Youths because the oxygen of politics of money.

“This country belong to all Nigerians and the welfare of every Nigeria must count. The way the votes of Nigerians will count individually, the welfare must also count. We are going into the next political dispensation, let us talk to ourselves. Thieves, armed robbers, terrorists are not faceless people. They live in our midst and we can fish them out if we are serious enough. If we are serious enough, then we should let them know that they can ostracized from the society and that they don’t have a place in this society. We should all come together and see how to better the lots of our youths.”

©Vanguard!

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The minister of interior, Mr. Bello Dambazau on Tuesday vowed that the killings and wanton destruction of lives and property resulting from the boundary dispute between Ebonyi and Cross River states cannot be taken for granted.

The land dispute between the two states has resulted to the displacement of over 7000 persons from both States.
Dambazau made this known while addressing stakeholders, including the Governor of Ebonyi state, Chief David Umahi at the exco-chambers, Government House, Abakaliki during his two-day working visit to the state.

“My aim is to ensure that we find lasting solution to the problem because this is the problem that affects the common man, affects people in the rural communities who depend on farming to survive. This is a problem that has resulted to the loss of lives and destruction of properties. This is a problem that impacts on food security.

“The loss of lives and destruction of properties cannot be taking for granted. So, ours is to see how this problem could be solved because our visit is not to apportion blame but to ensure that the problem, by the grace of God gets solved. We cannot solve the problem unless we sit down and talk and identify all the factors in order to arrive at valid conclusion.

“We visited the IDPs camp and most of them are children and women and their conditions are terribly bad. So, therefore we want to appreciate Ebonyi State for the support given by the state.
“It is the duty of government to ensure that lives of the people and their properties are well protected and their welfare is also guaranteed and that is what we are pursuing.

“Whatsoever we can do to deal with this situation, we will do it. Outside dialogue, there is issue of impunity and we cannot allow people to go freely carrying out violence against people who have no knowledge about what is happening,” he said.

He called on security agencies at all levels to ensure that the perpetrators of the dastardly acts were prosecuted as soon as possible.

“The police and other security agencies must continue to do what they have been doing. I want to appreciate all the efforts of the security Agencies, especially the G.O.C of 82 Division. I know all the efforts he has been making and that has been attested by the both States.

“We cannot leave this to security personnel only because we don’t want a situation whereby there will be crisis, instead we need peaceful and secured environment,” he stated.

Responding, Governor Umahi thanked the federal government led by President Mohammadu Buhari for the initiative that is targeted towards securing the lives and properties of Ebonyians.

“The crisis as I was told is over 100 years back, and I believe that every problem comes with seed of solutions. Leaders are appointed by God for different purposes and I believe that we leaders have been appointed to secure the lives of the defenceless women and children that are being slaughtered along those borders.

“Our confidence in this movement is that we have made so much effort to get the government of Cross River to talk to us because I believe strongly that God brought me to leadership to bring peace to those areas.

“We are ready to assist the minister to do whatever thing that can bring peace. We condemn the killings and destruction of properties. We declare our readiness to work with the minister to ensure that peace and order returns to the warring zones.

“I will also want you to direct the police here in Ebonyi to liaise with the police at the Cross River and have a common denominator of dealing with this matter,” he stated.

©Daily Post

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9News Nigeria

According to the story shared by Chizzy, a man was found today hanging on a tree in Ishieke, Ebonyi state. It is unclear whether he killed himself or by other people. Below is what Chizzy wrote….

‘Oh what a world we are into, no wonder the Bible said that the heart of a man is desperately wicked. Please can someone tell me what on Earth can make a man to take his life. This happened this morning here in ishieke.

May his precious soul rest in peace’

See photos below:

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9News Nigeria

Tragedy struck in Abakaliki, the capital of Ebonyi State, on Wednesday, as a 17-year-old girl, Chidimma (surname withheld), strangled her eight-month-old baby, identified as Emmanuel, to death.

The incident happened at No 4 Obubra Street in the state capital.

Emmanuel, according to the residents of the area, was a product of a relationship between Chidimma and a 36-year-old man whose name was given as Ajibore. At the moment, the duo have been arrested by the police.

Ajibore, it was gathered, hails from Osun State. He is a tricycle mechanic at No. 72 Ogoja Road, Abakaliki, but resides at Jemeni Street.

According to Chidimma’s aunty, Lovelyn Nwode, Ajibore allegedly abducted the girl who was preparing for her WAEC this year and impregnated her.

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9News Nigeria

President Muhammadu Buhari has commissioned the 700m length of the Dr. Akanu Ibiam Twin Flyover Bridges over the African Trans-Sahara route running from Enugu to Cameroon.

President Buhari who is on official visit to Ebonyi State also commissioned the 14.5km Federal Road constructed by the Ebonyi State Government.

He also unveiled the Statue of Dr. Akanu Ibiam and also laid the foundation stone for Ebonyi City Mall, foundation stone for President Muhammadu Buhari Flyover Bridge/Road Tunnel.

The President further commissioned Senator Offia Nwali Flyover.

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9News Nigeria

There was pandemonium and chaos in Abakaliki while final year students of Ebonyi state University were joyfully celebrating writing their final examinations. According to reports, a drunk driver who was trying to reverse his vehicle ended up crashing through the seated crowd cheerfully drinking in one of the bars.

The car came to a halt after crushing all the tables and chairs on its path – sending the occupants scattered on the ground with broken bottles everywhere.

Those who were injured were rushed to the hospital immediately after the crash.

Ebonyi state Neighborhood watch invited alongside the Police team arrived the scene to stop to the crowd from throwing bottles.

See photos from the scene below

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9News Nigeria

No fewer than 30 persons yesterday escaped death in an accident that occurred at the boundary between Enugu and Ebonyi state expressway.

An eyewitness who spoke to journalists on the condition of anonymity, said the accident occurred when the driver of an 18-seater bus travelling from Abakaliki to Enugu tried to avoid a police checkpoint and collided with another Hiace bus returning from Enugu.

Another eyewitness, Rev. Fr Stephen Nnorom of the Catholic Diocese of Buya Cameroon who was among those that rescued the victims and conveyed them to hospitals, described the accident as tragic and regretted the attitude of some sympathizers who could not volunteer their vehicles to evacuate the victims to hospitals.

He advised motorists to always obey law enforcement agencies at the road to avert road accidents.

Two other eyewitnesses, Mr. Chinonso Okeke and Mr. Ifeanyi Igwe blamed the police at the checkpoint for the accident and explained that it would have been prevented if the two drivers were patient.

On his part, Mr. Chukwudi Maduabuchi disassociated the police from the accident but blamed the drivers for their recklessness.

In a swift reaction, a federal road safety special marshal, Macks Nnaji
who assisted in rescuing the victims said the accident was caused as a result of the road block.‎

He appealed to the Inspector-General of Police to ensure that the ban on all road blocks was implemented in the south east region.

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9News Nigeria

Youths in Uburu community, Ohaozara local government Area of Ebonyi state, the home town of the Minister of Science and Technology, ICT, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu at the weekend threatened to stone the minister for petitioning against the release of the 150 million dollars to the state government.

According to them, others to be stoned include the former governor of the State, chief Martin Elechi, former Commissioner for Works and Transport, Engr. Paul Okorie. They consequently barred them from plying the roads constructed by the present administration.

In their separate statements, the special Adviser to governor David Umahi on youth mobilization, Mr Mark Onu said the youths in the state are immuned to resist or take any action against the minister for working against the state governor who is poised to develop the state.

He noted that the youths were determined to ensure that their words are put into action, expressing dismay that the minister failed to develop his community even when he was the governor of old Abia State.

Onu noted that the youths will do everything possible and within their reach to block the minister and others from coming into the state hence they are working against the release of the over 150 million US dollars to the state government aimed at reconstructing the ring roads which connected 8 LGAs in the state.

Also, the state PDP youth leader Elder Sam Igwe accused the minister of being the enemy of the state, stressing that, “the governor has done what he suppose to do. He is not collecting the loan to do any other thing but to develop the state.

‘It is unfortunate that these miscreants including the minister are working against the release of the 150 million dollar loan to the state government.

“Ogbonnaya Onu was the governor of old Abia state but he didn’t do anything for Uburu people and now we have a good governor who within two years has developed the entire state.

“We the youths of Ebonyi state will resist him and others who are working against the release of the 150 million dollars to the state because they lack integrity” he stated.

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9News Nigeria

Ebonyi State Gov­ernment yesterday banned embalm­ing and keeping corpses in homes.

The government said the practice was not ac­ceptable, describing it as criminal, unhealthy and barbaric.

The ban followed dis­covery that some persons in some communities in the State had been em­balming and keeping corpses in their houses for long time preparatory to burial.

Addressing newsmen in his office yesterday, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr Daniel Um­ezuruike said the govern­ment will not hesitate to sanction anyone found in the act.

He noted that embalm­ing and keeping corpses in the home can lead to an epidemic and called on those practicing the act to desist from it.

“Any mortician that in­dulges in this is a disgrace to his profession and will be arrested and prosecut­ed. This is because a lot of diseases can be transmit­ted through that means. There is also a form of putrefaction taking place and building up of micro-organism when you do this. The agent (chemical) used in this embalment is not healthy, it causes aller­gy and reactions of vari­ous levels to human be­ings. So, it is unacceptable.

“Anybody you see do­ing that, report the per­son to the police and to us because it is the duty of the police to ensure that a dead person should be kept in a right place,” he said.

Source – The Authority

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9News Nigeria

Angry youths have reportedly buried alive a suspected armed robbers, Chukwudi Omaka, who along with his gang members allegedly robbed and killed a businessman.

The businessman, Idam Ogbonnia, was killed at Amaisri community in Afikpo North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. Police yesterday paraded three of those who reportedly killed Ogbonnia.

A witness, who is a resident of the community, Emmanuel Udu, said Omaka was also among robbers who robbed a cold room known as Etuelughu, belonging to Oko Udu Monday and another businessman identified simply as David, selling provisions.

He said: “The handsome boy (Omaka) was beaten thoroughly. Despite that, he refused to name his members. He was later buried alive by Amasiri youths.”

It was learnt that after burying Omaka, youths planted a tree on the grave in accordance with the customs of the community against anyone who committed a crime. The tradition has been as old as the community.

Those paraded included Gideon Omaka, Chukwudi Omaka’s brother and Idam Nwabueze Amadi. Parading the suspects before journalists at the state Police Command Headquarters, Abakaliki, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Dr. Jude Madu, said the suspects lay an ambush for the team of Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and shot about three policemen.

He said the incident occurred last Friday and that some suspects, including Gideon Omaka, were arrested.

Madu said the state commissioner of police had declared war on criminals by deploying policemen to fish out criminals in the community.

Gideon (29), told journalists he was a former convict but did not know anything about the robbery for which his brother was killed. He said: “I was in my house when people attacked me and killed my brother, Chukwudi. I ran away.

They said my brother was one of those who robbed Idam Ogbonnia in my village.

My brother was the one who was buried alive when I ran away. The people later arrested me. “I just returned from prison that was why the people said I knew about the robbery that took place in my community for which my brother was accused, attacked and buried alive. I was released from prison March this year.”

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9News Nigeria

Yesterday, IPOB and its leadership worldwide have berated Governor Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State for allegedly unleashing his henchmen to invade Abakaliki Central Market to attack the traders there for the rousing welcome they accorded Kanu, when he visited the state.

IPOB in a statement by its Media and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Emma Powerful, said: “The governor exhibited the highest level of rascality by instructing his henchmen and miscreants to attack the innocent traders who turned out en masse to welcome their leader in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital.

IPOB also noted that Ebonyi is not the first state to grant Kanu a rapturous welcome and neither will it be the last, and, therefore, warned that such infantile and envious clamp down on traders and IPOB officers in Ebonyi State will hasten Umahi’s return into political oblivion.

“The governor should know that at this moment, IPOB is, without doubt, the largest and most potent freedom fighting outfit anywhere in the whole world. We are firmly entrenched in Ebonyi State and we want to warn him that picking a fight with IPOB will bring about his downfall; we can pull him down with our supporters by just word of mouth, not violence. He should be warned.”
“We also want to tell him that should he wish to continue serving his Northern political masters, he should relocate to Sokoto because Ebonyi State is one of the strongest states in Biafran land, where the citizens are seriously determined to restore Biafra and Governor David Umahi cannot quench the desire of Ebonyi people in this regard, rather Ebonyi people are ready to dump him because of attacks against IPOB and its leadership.

“This Governor David Nweze Umahi of Ebonyi State, ordered his henchmen to invade the Abakaliki Central Market yesterday to terrorize traders, by destroying their goods and properties worth millions of naira as punishment for shutting down their businesses in order to come out enemas to welcome our leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, what a jealous act”

“That attack directed by Governor Umahi was wholly barbaric and uncivilized behavior, coming from an elected public official of his caliber, it is indicative of the moral decay at the heart and height of governance in Nigeria especially, Ebonyi State that has not witnessed any meaningful development, since the inception of this administration that is only interested in protecting the Fulani herdsmen that has been attacking his state.

“That the Governor sought to belittle his office by ordering the

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The state government described IPOB’s attack on the state as embarrassing and self-serving, maintaining that it has never vilified anybody or trader on issues of the agitators.

The state government said it views the statement credited to the spokesman of IPOB as a great embarrassment and one that is self serving.

Umahi’s Chief Press Secretary, Emmanuel Uzor, in statement, yesterday, said the State government has never vilified any trader let alone attacking them over purported visit of Nnamdi Kanu to the state.

Uzor said: “As a matter of fact, Governor David Umahi who was not and is still not in the country at the time of the visit of the IPOB leader could not have attacked any trader over the so called visit.

“Therefore, it has come to our notice that some self serving politicians operating under various platforms have hijacked the agitation of IPoB in the state and have resorted to blackmail and unnecessary attacks on the state government.

“While the state government is not against any group geneuingly agitaitating for whatever right they beleieve in, there is need for any agitation to conform with the principle of rule of law to the extent of guranteeing maitanance of law and order.
“It is therefore unfortunate that those responsible for the dissemination of information in IPOB could not do the needful of carefully investigating any information fed them by some interested groups including opposition political party in the state before rushing to the press.
“Let it be known that there was no attack on any part of the state on any trader as the state government is currently opening up the markets for optimum commercial activities by providing them with necessary amenities to ease business activities.

“Ebonyi State government therefore calls on peddlers of this rumours to look beyond political interests and focus on whatever interest that fuels their agitations as the governor is niether disturbed by the presence of the Biafran groups nor ruffled by their activities but is rather concerned about the welfare and security of Ebonyians.”
Source: Vanguard

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9News Nigeria

A visit by the leader of the pro-Biafra group, Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, on Monday visit to Abakaliki, brought the Ebonyi state capital to a halt as thousands of residents left their businesses to catch a glimpse of the controversial separatist leader.
Mr. Kanu, who is pushing for an independent Biafran state, is facing treason charges brought against him by the Nigerian government.
He was released on stringent bail conditions in May after about 18 months in detention. Amongst other conditions, the pro-Biafran leader was barred from granting interviews and holding rallies.
Mr. Kanu has gained popularity since his release from detention. Monday was his first official visit to Ebonyi State since his release, and residents eager to see Mr. Kanu, thronged major streets of Abakaliki chanting solidarity songs as his motorcade drove by.
The convoy entered the city via Presco flyover from the Enugu Abakaliki expressway into Ezza Road, causing traffic gridlock for hours.
It then proceeded through Ogoja Road, Afikpo Road back to Ogoja-Abakaliki Expressway, before terminating at Ezenwuba Primary School near mechanic village where he addressed the large crowd.
As the motorcade went along, it grew in length as residents joined with their vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles and on foot.
Police and other security agencies were on hand to escort the crowd to maintain order and forestall break down of law.

Addressing the crowd, Mr. Kanu who was garbed in Jewish regalia, said he was preparing for a bigger visit to the state.
“When next I visit Ebonyi, I promise you I will shut down Ebonyi state. Ebonyi is part of Biafra, let no one tell you otherwise,” he said.
“I will teach our enemies what they don’t know. I will teach them that nobody can stop Biafra because Biafra has come to stay. I will transverse all parts of Biafra land and other areas without anybody stopping me including police and soldiers who are always in the habit of harassing our people.
“I will continue to walk in the midst of these security agents as you can see and nobody will arrest me. They know they can’t stop Biafra. I have come to declare Ebonyi a Biafra state and when next I come, I will shut down the state for three days,” he said.

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9News Nigeria

The Ebonyi Government says it has concluded arrangement for the relocation of the Abakpa Main Market, Abakaliki to its permanent site at the International Market.

Mr Peter Nwogbaga, the Special Assistant to Gov. Dave Umahi on Market Development, disclosed this at a meeting with traders at the market on Thursday in Abakaliki.

Nwogbaga said that government was committed to repositioning markets in the state to enhance their viability and boost commercial activities.

He said that traders who obtained and processed their forms would be allocated shops, adding that allocation would be on “first-come, first-served basis.’’

The governor’s aide, who briefed the traders on the outcome of the peace meeting held between government and the executive of the market association, urged them to sustain the prevailing peace in the market.

He advised the traders to form cooperative associations in order to benefit from the state government’s loan facilities to boost their trade.

“We have concluded preparations for the relocation of the Abakpa Main Market in Abakaliki to its permanent site at the International Market, Ochoudo city.

“The move is part of efforts by government to reposition the market to enhance its commercial viability as well as provide more space and accommodation for traders.

“We are going to conduct the allocation on first come first serve basis.

“Let me also use the occasion to inform you that the governor is interested in your welfare in the market and will do everything within his statutory powers to ensure that you do your business in good and conducive environment.

“We urge you to form yourselves into cooperatives to benefit from the state government’s loans facilities to boost your trade,’’ Nwogbaga said.

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9News Nigeria

A hoodlum in a millitary camouflage, one Uchenna Chima who specializes in vandalization and selling of street light cables and other criminal activities in the state has been arrested by security operatives.

Chima was arrested on a tip off by some security agents working with the state governor David Umahi along the major streets of Abakaliki.

The governor has expressed shock over the involvement of 3 staff of the Ministry of Power who was indicted by Chima of sponsoring his criminal activities.

He described their action as economic sabotage noting that the state government would stop at nothing in prosecuting the civil servants.

Recall that Umahi had on last Friday during the handover and commissioning of some equipment procured by the state government for the Ministry of Power regretted that a senior staff of the ministry had procured and installed substandard cables for the streetlight project and called for its immediate removal.

He described their action as more grievous than kidnapping and urged the police and all other relevant authorities to ensure that all those arrested were made to face the full wrath of the law.

While handing over the suspect to the police, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Security, Dr Kenneth Ugbala explained that the suspect has been linked to various violent crimes ranging from snatching of tricycles and the recent killing of an innocent Nigerian along water works road Abakaliki.

Ugbala alleged that the suspect used to disguise in Millitary camouflage, enter tricycle going towards Nkwegu cantonement and rob other passengers on the way and sometimes snatch the tricylce from the driver.

Meanwhile, the state government has closed down the scrap market located near Akanu Ibiam roundabout Abakaliki due to suspected connicvance of some dealers with hoodlums who specialise in exhuming and stealing electricity cables.

Ugbala announced the closure when he visited the complex and discovered some of the cables stolen by the suspect in the market.

“With the directive and permission of the State government and the Governor of Ebonyi state, David Umahi this market is hereby closed down.

“Closing it down is for security agencies to carry out full investigation of this place”.

It was gathered that the Police later took the suspect to his house where some more exhibits including roles of electricity cables, army camouflage and caps were discovered in his house.

The landlord of the suspect, Gabriel Ukpaja said he had noticed some criminal activities by the suspect which made him to issue him with a quit notice to pack out of his house on or before 1st August 2017.

Reacting, the suspect alleged that one Ejike from Ikwo, Odumeke also from Ikwo and one Uchenna, all staff of Ministry of Power usually sell the cables to him at the scrap market.

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9News Nigeria

DAVID Umahi, Ebonyi State Governor, thursday deplored perceived unguarded use of the social media, lamenting that given its unregulated state, the platform possesses the tendency to destroy the country.

Umahi made the remark while answering question from State House correspondents over a report that he rejected the current calls for restructuring of the country particularly from the South.

A national daily had reported that Umahi strongly opposed the agitation for restructuring insisting that the state was not yet economically viable to seek independence.

The governor who denied ever opposing restructuring, said instead, he remained an advocate of restructuring, fairness and equity, insisting that if he were the president of Nigeria, he would take far reaching decision against the use of social media.

“First, l was falsely reported. What we said was that we stand for unity of our great country Nigeria. We stand for restructuring, a country where there is fairness, there is equity, there is love. If l were the president of this country, l will do something about the social media. I think it’s destroying our country.

“We have to agree to that and we are afraid of a bill being passed. I think everyone needs to account for whatever he or she writes. So, we stand for restructuring. We stand for a more united Nigeria where everyone will respect one another,” he said.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Recall that 9NEWSNIGERIA brought you a report early today which the governor of Ebonyi state said, Ebonyi is against Biafra agitation and he does not support restructuring equally. But it seems the Governor was misquoted….

*****CLARIFICATION:
I support Regional restructuring, says Umahi

Ebonyi state governor, Engr. David Nweze Umahi, yesterday noted that he is strongly in support of any move that would promote national unity and peace, as he added that Ebonyi state would not exempt itself in the current agitations by eminent Nigerians for restructuring of the country into the regional zones.

Umahi, who is the chairman of the south east governors Forum stressed that the need for regional restructuring cannot be overemphasized to address some of the imbalances and marginalization being recorded in some zones of the country in a way that would not jeopardize national cohesion.

He said “we are not against regional restructuring”. When somebody talks about restructuring, we should know the type of restructuring he or she wants. We are completely in support of regional structuring. My interest is the peace and unity of Nigeria and its citizens. We have to live in peace, unity and oneness”.

The governor also advised that everybody should not make inflammatory statements that would lead to rancor or division and further called on all Nigerians to maintain peace and learn to live in unity with other segments of the Nigerian society. He noted that the country’s political space had been troubled by various hate speeches from various parts of the country and maintained that it was time to let go of all hate speeches and embrace peace as the only panacea for development.

BY Benjamin Nworie, in Abakaliki, Thisday Newspaper.
———–

Background: Governor Umahi was misquoted today in a national newspaper article. This retraction & clarification by the source of the misquoted article is a welcome development. Thank you all for understanding. – Maria Ude Nwachi (Afikpo Chic).

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Ebonyi State’s first lady, Mrs Rachael Umahi has called for the arrest of a female police officer, Joy Okoshi for reportedly pouring hot water on her 15-year-old househelp identified as Chinyere Igwe in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State capital, after officials from her office and the State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development rescued the girl from the policewoman’s home.

It was gathered that a hot pot of soup was emptied on Chinyere’s body, for not following her ‘madam’s’ instruction, before she also poured hot water on the poor girl.

Chinyere who spoke to newsmen, said she has been subjected to abuses from the woman for the past two years. Here’s what she said;

“I failed to follow her instruction and in anger, she came out and carried the pot of soup together with the egusi (melon) and threw at me and it landed on my back. She also carried iron and hit me on my body and ordered me to bend down and raise my leg up but I refused because my back was paining me seriously. She locked me up in a room while she went to boil water to pour on me. I pleaded with her to have mercy on me but she went inside and brought tear gas, then I started crying when she rushed to get hot water and poured on me.

“Only my mother is alive and I have been living with my madam for over two years now. This is as a result of my father’s death coupled with my mother’s financial handicap.

“Her husband also beat me up, but he was not aware that I had such injury because it was in the night. He later apologised and asked his wife to use honey to treat my back” she said.

Chief Press Secretary to the governor’s wife, Donatus Owo in a statement last Saturday said the victim is receiving treatment.
“The matter has been reported to the police while the victim was taken to Police Clinic for medical treatment,’’ she said.

See photo of the lady below

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9News Nigeria

Ebonyi State Police Command on Thursday paraded a court-marshal soldier, Kingsley Onugbu,for car snatching. .

Kingsley, who was serving at 7 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maidugri, Borno State, was paraded alongside Okechukwu Chika for the crime. .

Kingsley, who hails from Ezza North LGA, possess as a soldier to illegally cross vehicles from the border for car dealers. He is also said to have been snatching cars from members of the public. .

9newsnigeria learnt that the suspect and Okechukwu Chika allegedly snatched a Toyota Camry from a man, who died during the operation.

9News Nigeria

The Police Command in Ebonyi has urged the state government to prohibit the use of the pond at the International Market, Abakaliki it said endangered children’s lives in recent times.

Dsp Jude Madu, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for the command gave the advice on Tuesday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abakaliki.

Madu was reacting to the recent drowning of Master Chinonso Nwokporo, a Senior Secondary School (SS1) student of Abakaliki High School inside the pond located at the Market.

“This is the third reported case of drowning inside the pond which claimed the lives of all victims; the best option is the permanent closure of the pond to public.

“The government, in the interim, can provide safety measures such as safety items and materials at the pond and similar measures at every stream, river, pond, lakes and other water sources in the state,” he further urged.

The PPRO also urged parents to monitor their children’s movement and watch the type of friends they keep to ensure their safety.

“Individuals living around the pond are mostly concerned with this advice as the command assures the public of the continued protection of their lives and property”.

Nwokporo’s corpse was found floating on the pond last week with blood gushing from mouth, ears and nose.

An eyewitness and friend of the deceased, Master Okechukwu Eze, said that he and the deceased had gone to the pond to swim, as was the practice by the children within the vicinity.

“We went to the pond to swim, though none of us know how to swim, this made us to stay at the shallow part of the pond that people normally fetch water.

“Immediately we reached the pond, he plunged into it and later started shouting for help as I tried unsuccessfully to rescue him.

“I absent-mindedly jumped into the pond and started drowning but miraculously came out from it with the shouts of Jesus, but no help came for my friend,” he said.

He noted that a security man stationed at the market heard his shout but said he did not know how to swim, but rushed to Nwokporo’s house to inform his mother.

Contributing, Mr Ephraim Ononye, the Chairman of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) also advised the state government to prevent further drowning in the pond through the provision of various security measures.

Source – NAN

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9News Nigeria

Source – NAN

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9News Nigeria

The Dean, School of Basic Medical Sciences at the Federal University, Ndufu-Alike Ebonyi, Prof. Robert Nneli and five others have died in two road accidents.

He died in one of the two accidents recorded Thursday night at the notorious 131 junction of the Abakaliki-Enugu federal highway.

Nneli, 69 years old, joined the University in 2012 after spending close to 20 at Abia State University.

Mrs Stella Uchendu, Sector Commander of the FRSC in Ebonyi confirmed the two accidents in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

She said both accidents occurred between 9 and 11pm.

According to her, it was raining heavily when the accidents occurred and attributed to possible reckless driving, over-speeding and poor visibility.

“In the first accident, the articulated vehicle’s driver blinded with his headlight the driver of the white-coloured Toyota Camry vehicle which made him lose control as he was on top speed.

“The vehicle then veered off its lane and collided with the on-coming articulated vehicle. The car was crushed by the truck.

“The professor died in the accident as his son and another occupant sustained serious injuries and are receiving treatment at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki.

According to Uchendu, the second accident involved an SUV with five occupants which also crashed into stationary articulated vehicle due to over speeding and poor visibility.

“When we concluded our evacuation, the police men on duty told us that they would tow the articulated vehicle off the road but they never did.

“The SUV apparently crashed into the articulated vehicle as all its five occupants died and their corpses evacuated to the Federal Teaching hospital Abakaliki,” she said.

She commended her officers for their prompt response to the crashes and urged motorists to always obey traffic regulations.

“Motorists should ensure that when they are confronted with headlights from oncoming vehicles, they should reduce their speed and and keep to their right side.

“Motorists should also avoid night travels, driving under the rain and ensure they obey road regulations to save lives,”

A witness said that the drivers of the Camry and the SUV were to blame for driving recklessly under the rain.

“The FRSC should increase its enlightenment of motorists especially on night journeys and driving under the rain, in order to check the incessant loss of lives on the road.

DSP Jude Madu, the Ebonyi Police Command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRP) absolved his men of any complicity by failing to tow the articulated vehicle.

He blamed the FRSC for failing in its duty.

“No police officer would reject an offer of assistance to tow vehicles off the road, in order to save lives as my officers stayed on the road till day break to enforce law and order.

“They even signaled to approaching cars to divert to the other lane of the road but most drivers including that of the SUV, failed to heed to the diversion signals,” he said.

Source – NAN

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A man identified as Ifeanyi Nwafor 29, slumped and died as he was digging the grave of a dead elderly woman in the village.

He reportedly died inside the grave he was digging.

The incident occurred in Onunwankwo village, Umuhuali community in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

Narrating the incident to journalists, a member of the Youth Assembly in the area, Mr. Nonso Ekuma, said the deceased young man hailed from Azuegu village and participated in all the burial activities of the deceased woman, Madam Alioke Mgbanya.

Ekuma said, “At dawn, Ifeanyi Nwafor participated in the digging of the grave for the burial of the old woman, and that was where he met his death.

“Nwafor had participated in the drinking episode of the wake keep till dawn, when they began to prepare the grave before the arrival of the Parish priest to bury the dead woman.

“When Nwafor got into the grave with a digger, he dug two times and on the third round could not bring down the digger, but slumped and died inside the grave.”

Ekuma said all the efforts of sympathisers — including warming his feet with fire to see if he could be revived — proved abortive.

Nwafor has since been buried in his own grave on Saturday at the Azuegu village Umuhuali, Ekuma said.

An eye witness who preferred anonymity said Nwafor was a driver, and he was survived by a wife and two children.

Efforts to reach the Ebonyi State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Jude Madu, for confirmation was not successful as his telephone lines were not reachable.

Source – Punch

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The All Progressives Congress (APC), Ebonyi chapter, has begun a reconciliatory move aimed at reconciling aggrieved members ahead of the 2019 general election.

Pastor Eze Nwachukwu, Ebonyi APC Chairman, who spoke in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abakaliki, said that zonal committees were set up to reconcile the aggrieved members.

According to him, the move would reposition the party and ensure it comes out strong in the 2019 general election as well as enhance the unity and progress of the party in the state.

“We inaugurated the three zonal committees with a charge to reach out to all aggrieved members who, for one reason or the other, left the fold during the leadership crisis.

“As we gradually approach the election year 2019, it is imperative that we put our acts together by ensuring unity and progress of the party, without which we can hardly wrest power from the ruling party.

“The reconciliation exercise is a mile stone achievement, and I am happy that the move was embraced by party elders and stakeholders, ” Nwachukwu said.

He said the committees were equally directed to study the earlier report of another committee on reconciliation, headed by Chief Mike Okoro, in order to be properly guided in the assignment.

“The committees are expected to take the message of peace, love and unity to these aggrieved members in their various zones and woo them back to the party.

“The initiative is to restore the unity, oneness and love that once existed in the party and I have confidence in the ability of men and women saddled with the responsibility, “he said.

Nwachukwu said that the committees have two weeks to submit their reports.

He added that the party was yet to decide on whether or not to participate in the forthcoming Ebonyi local government council elections.

Source – NAN

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Acting President Yemi Osinbajo on Tuesday waded into the boundary demarcation dispute among Ebonyi, Cross River and Akwa Ibom states.

Although the outcome of the mediation was not made public, the stakeholders attended a meeting which Osinbajo presided over at the State House.

The Acting President’s Spokesman, Mr Laolu Akande, simply wrote that the meeting was “to review updates on boundary and boundary demarcation issues’’.

The Governors of Cross Rivers, Mr. Ben Ayade; Akwa Ibom, Mr Udom Emmanuel; Ebonyi, Mr Dave Umahi; and the Deputy Governors of the states were in attendance.

Also in attendance were officials of the National Boundary Commission led by the Director-General, Dr Muhammad Ahmad.

The clan head of Ipollo community in Cross River, Chief Stephen Odom, and senators from the states were also at the meting.

Source – NAN

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Ebonyi State Government is to establish technology village in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area.

Governor David Umahi announced this during the Umunaga-Ikenegwu Union Day, held at his compound in Uburu.

Umahi, who thanked the people of the union for their strong support to his administration, said that the technology village would provide Ebonyi youths who are technically gifted to hone their skills; it would give fillip to his administration’s desire to develop the state in all sectors through technology.

He added that with the technology village, the state would become one of the major hubs for inventive activities in the country.

The governor assured the people that the on-going reconstruction of the Amasiri-Okposi-Uburu road would be completed and asphalted this year while the construction of most of the internal roads in Uburu and adjoining communities would commence soon.

Umahi also announced that the construction of water project to serve the entire Uburu and beyond had already started.

He affirmed that his administration was poised to establish rice mill and other industries on the piece of land already acquired by the Ikenegwu union.

The governor called on the people of Uburu to embark on large scale farming, which he said had become the policy thrust of his administration, adding that mechanized farming would be in vogue in the state.

Earlier, the interim President of the Umunaga-Ikenegwu Union, Chief Mike Agwu Umahi, had explained that the occasion was to thank God and celebrate their son, Governor Umahi, whom he said, God used to enthrone quality leadership in the state.

He assured the governor that the people of Umunaga-Ikenegwu were solidly behind him.

Chief Umahi said, “You have awarded contracts for road construction in Uburu, including Umunaga. You have also given us street light, motorised boreholes and even started a new water scheme in Uburu.

“You have given our people scholarships and empowered some of our women and youths. We cannot enumerate all your efforts in changing our histories and persons”.

Many people who spoke, including, Eze Adu 111 of Uburu, Dr. Lazarus Umahi, gave Kudos to the governor for transforming the state. He assured the governor of the total support of the Uburu community.

Source: Today.ng 

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Ebonyi State government Monday raised the alarm over the whereabouts of the 15-year-old girl Uzoamaka Chukwu.

Uzoamaka was stripped naked, laid on broken bottles and flogged with electricity cables by some members of her Uburu community on the allegation that she was caught making love with a man in her father’s compound.

A local gin known as kaikai was poured in her private part after the torture while the video and her nude pictures were circulated on the social media by the suspects.

The Coordinator of Ohaozara West Dvelopment Centre, Ene Odii, his two brothers and three police officers were last week arraigned before a magistrate’s court in Okposi Development Centre, Ohaozara Local Government Area and later granted bail while the matter was adjourned to 13th of next month.

But during a visit to the girl’s home Monday, Governor Dave Umahi raised the alarm over whereabouts of the girl.

According to him, the state government has no clue of her whereabouts and should not be blamed if anything happens to her.

“The matter is before a competent court jurisdiction but from what we saw we feel very bad as a government and as a people and as brothers and sisters of the little Uzoamaka. We feel that it is a gross violation of her rights and man’s inhumanity to man.

“So we are very sad about it that is why I directed that all of us should come to take over the responsibility of the girl. So government is asking wherever she is, she should come back so that we take over her training from secondary school to university level. We will also rehabilitate her.”

– New Telegraph

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