NIGERIAN NOTCH

Nollywood actress Chika Ike has finally broken her silence on the swirling rumors surrounding her pregnancy. In a statement on her Instagram handle, Ike categorically denied claims that billionaire politician Senator Ned Nwoko, who is married to actress Regina Daniels, is the father of her child.  Ike's response comes after Nwoko himself dismissed the rumors as "false and baseless" on his social media handle. Ike emphasized that she is not ready to be a seventh wife to anyone, stressing that polygamy is not for her.  The actress also expressed frustration at the constant media scrutiny and rumors surrounding her personal life. "There have been all sorts of lies peddled about me in the media for years, but I always treated them like what they are – rumors that needed no response," she said. Ike's statement has sparked a mix of reactions from fans and followers, with some praising her for setting the record straight and others expressing skepticism...

The Enugu State Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Patrick Nwabueze Ubru, has officially endorsed the Nzuko Umu Ntorobia N’ Enugu State initiative, expressing his commitment to supporting the program and participating as a discussant in its forthcoming event. Hon. Ubru, while acknowledging the relevance of the initiative, emphasized the importance of engaging youths in meaningful discourse that fosters development across various sectors, including agriculture. He assured the organizers of his willingness to contribute both his expertise and presence to ensure the success of the program. In response, *the convener of Nzuko Umu Ntorobia N’ Enugu State, Comr. Humphrey Edeh,* expressed profound appreciation for the Commissioner’s endorsement and support. He commended Hon. Ubru for the remarkable progress recorded in the agricultural sector of the state under his leadership, noting that his contributions have significantly impacted food security and economic development. Comr. E...

The Anambra State Police Command has activated an operational plan to re-arrest two suspects who escaped during an operation to apprehend those involved in the murder of Late Hon. Justice Azuka, a member of the State House of Assembly. According to the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, the command has deployed its human, operational, and intelligence assets to ensure the suspects are re-arrested and brought to justice. The CP also directed immediate disciplinary action against the officers responsible for the suspects' escape. The police had initially arrested the suspects and were using them to track down the receiver of stolen goods and recover operational vehicles used by the gang. Although the receiver was arrested and two stolen vehicles were recovered, the two suspects managed to flee the scene. The Anambra State Police Command has assured the public that it is committed to combating crime in the state and will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that the escaped sus...

By Izuchukwu Adichie When the word “compassion” is mentioned in Anambra today, no one exemplifies it better than Soludo. He has transformed this word from a mere expression of empathy into a cornerstone of his political philosophy. Soludo has built a foundation based on compassion for Ndi Anambra, consistently demonstrating his commitment to addressing their problems selflessly. In just a few days, his administration will officially hand over the 624 open stalls Solution Market Ekwulobia, which is currently under construction, to the roadside traders who were displaced from their original trading location at the Ekwulobia roundabout. One of Soludo’s key strengths is his ability to connect directly with his people, especially the downtrodden. It takes a Governor with a genuine heart to provide shelter and support for those engaged in hawking, marketing, and trading along the major highways and streets of Anambra. Through these acts of compassion, Soludo continues to demonstr...

Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of two Nigerian elder statesmen, Chief Edwin Clark and Pa Ayo Adebanjo. Chief Clark, a renowned leader of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), passed away on Tuesday at the age of 97, while Pa Adebanjo, a prominent Afenifere leader, died at 96. Governor Soludo described Chief Clark as an extraordinary Nigerian patriot who served the nation with uncommon dedication. His voice, Soludo noted, resonated not just for the Niger Delta but for the entire nation. As a lawyer, educationist, and elder statesman, Chief Clark's interventions on national issues were marked by wisdom, foresight, and a commitment to national unity.  The Governor also acknowledged Pa Adebanjo's relentless advocacy for true federalism, praising his contributions to the country's democracy and constitutional development. The Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF) also mourned the passing of the two stat...

From Rose Obi,  Anambra  A renowned Human Rights lawyer, Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Chief Edwin Clerk and Pa Ayo Adebanjo, two prominent Nigerian statesmen. In a heartfelt statement released on Tuesday, Ejiofor described the deceased as courageous leaders dedicated to justice, democracy, and equity.  Ejiofor said, "With deep sorrow, I mourn the passing of two towering figures in Nigeria’s history - Pa Ayo Adebanjo and Pa Edwin Clark. These revered statesmen embodied courage, integrity, and an unwavering dedication to justice, democracy, and equity. Their demise is an irreplaceable loss, not only to the Yoruba and Niger Delta communities but to all Nigerians and beyond, particularly those who cherish truth and fairness. "Pa Adebanjo and Pa Clark were not just political leaders; they were moral compasses and fearless advocates who championed the cause of justice with steadfast resolve. Through decades of unwavering activis...

The political family of late Senator Dr. Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah has announced that it has not endorsed any aspirant for the 2025 Governorship Election in Anambra State. This declaration was made today 18th February 2025 at La Luna Hotel and Suites Awka, by Chief Dr. Vincent Onyeka, Director General of Ifeanyi Campaign Organization, which boasts the largest political structure in Anambra State prior to the senator's passing. The late Senator Ubah's political family comprises various groups, including the Ifeanyi Ubah Foundation, Ifeanyi Ubah Solidarity Movement, Ikemba Women Initiative, Ubah Disciples, Afa Igbo Efu Na Solidarity Movement, and Ubahnation Media Center. The family's decision not to endorse any aspirant yet is significant, given their considerable influence in Anambra State's politics. Furthermore, Chief Dr Vincent Onyeka said that " Our political structure is built on the principles of human capacity development, infrastructural transformatio...

By Amaka Ezedebego Leadership is often romanticized, but at its core, it is a battlefield where only the boldest emerge victorious and where governance is measured not by intentions but by outcomes. In three years, Anambra has become a living blueprint of structured transformation, a case study in how strategic governance can reshape a state’s trajectory. Soludo has not only rewritten Anambra’s development history but has done so with a clarity of purpose that leaves no room for mediocrity.  This has earned him a new identity among Ndi Anambra, “Oluatuegwu”!  Soludo inherited a state grappling with infrastructural decay, economic vulnerabilities, and security challenges. His response was neither reactionary nor populist. Instead, he applied the principles of systemic change, prioritizing efficiency, resource optimization, and long-term sustainability. The results are measurable. Over 400 kilometers of roads completed out of 800km awarded roads, not just...

The political family of late Senator Dr. Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah has announced that it has not endorsed any aspirant for the 2025 Governorship Election in Anambra State. This declaration was made today 18th February 2025 at La Luna Hotel and Suites Awka, by Chief Dr. Vincent Onyeka, Director General of Ifeanyi Campaign Organization, which boasts the largest political structure in Anambra State prior to the senator's passing. The late Senator Ubah's political family comprises various groups, including the Ifeanyi Ubah Foundation, Ifeanyi Ubah Solidarity Movement, Ikemba Women Initiative, Ubah Disciples, Afa Igbo Efu Na Solidarity Movement, and Ubahnation Media Center. The family's decision not to endorse any aspirant yet is significant, given their considerable influence in Anambra State's politics. Furthermore, Chief Dr Vincent Onyeka said that " Our political structure is built on the principles of human capacity development, infrastructural transformatio...

By Chinwe Onuigbo,   Awka  In a statement by Prof. Mike Ozekhome, SAN, the public presentation and launch of a landmark book on retired Justice Samson Odemwingie Uwaifo will take place on February 19, 2025, in Lagos. Titled "A Legacy of Kurisprudential Wisdom and Substantive Justice",  the book encapsulates the essence of Justice Uwaifo's illustrious judicial career. "This book confirms all I have written and reflected on regarding the judicial journey of our legendary Justice Uwaifo," stated Prof. Ozekhome.  Through the natural vicissitudes of life and the aging process, Justice Uwaifo, once known for his clean-shaven appearance, now proudly sports a distinguished grey beard. While he may carry his tall, elegant frame with a slight, graceful bend, the quintessence of the man and his immense mental acumen remain intact, uncorrupted by age. He continues to radiate vitality, akin to the vibrant tendrils of yam in the rainy season (thank you, Chinua Ach...

I really did not imagine this level of detailing in project supervision or monitoring by the Chief Executive of a State until Governor Soludo hit the ground running in a manner never before seen. For every action, Nwa Mgbafor has a supporting nugget that explains his disposition. For example, when you ask him why he fiercely chases after Contractors visiting sites and throwing himself in whole into every project from the design stage through to execution, he tells you, “an unsupervised task is a task not given”.  This is why he would rest for just three days during the Yuletide (24th,25th,26th), and set out again on the 27th to attend to projects, files and a few social events. Working with such a man is arduous, albeit with so much promise that he would leave you better than he picked you. He Bequeaths an excellent work ethic hinged on solid professional experience, this is one reason no one wants to leave the Solution Team even where incentives are low for self aggran...

It is often important to stand in the crowd to feel the rarest and purest piece of their excitement. Spot me if you can.  This is the new Ekwulobia flyover bridge where a crowd of excited residents besieged Governor Soludo who was on a routine inspection visit. One thing is clear, Soludo has positively altered the totality of Ekwulobia urbanscape without any fuss. This is a promised future of livability and prosperity happening before their very eyes; a pathway to greater incentive where Soludo now waters the pastures such that the grass will never again be greener on the other side.  Standing amongst the crowd helped me live in their moment, appreciating the reality that the once chaotic Ekwulobia roundabout has transformed into a long sprawling flyover connecting dual carriage highways linking once detached rural communities to one big conurbation. I will talk about the “Tower of Light” in a later piece. It actually feels good to stand with and for the people. Th...

The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has announced the re-commencement of its membership registration and revalidation exercise, which was flagged off on June 1, 2024.  In a press release made available this medium by the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Mazi  Ejimofor Opara PhD, ANIPR, KSM, said the process is aimed at strengthening the party's grassroots structure and updating its membership records. The statement stressed that Old and new members are encouraged to participate in this exercise by visiting their respective wards to collect membership forms from their ward Chairman.  "Alternatively, they can register online at https://apga.ng. Note, however, that those who had registered earlier via the online platform do NOT need to register again." The membership registration and revalidation exercise he said will last for a period of 30 days, commencing from the date of this announcement.

By Oguocha Chukwuebuka The Chairman of the National Union of Market Traders Employers of Nigeria (NUMTEN), Anambra State Council, Prince Comrade Nwafor-Orizu Nnamsom, on Thursday, 6th February 2025, played host to the state leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress ( NLC) and the Anambra state Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists,NUJ. Prince Nwafor-Orizu used the opportunity to eulogise and congratulate Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu on his re-election as the state chairman of NUJ. Recall that Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu emerged victorious as the NUJ Chairman, Anambra State Council, for second term after the council’s election held on 24th January 2025.at Godwin Ezeemo International Press Centre, NUJ Secretariat complex,Awka. Comrade Nwafor-Orizu, while addressing the labour leaders  explained that his reason for the get-together was to celebrate Dr. Odogwu’s victory, describing him as a dogged fighter and goal getter, adding that his quality contributions during NLC plenar...

An Exordium  Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo's crackdown on native doctors and those preparing oke ite (ritual charms for wealth without labor) is not just a political action, it is a divine assignment. For too long, the proliferation of ritualists and deceptive native doctors has plunged many Igbo youths into spiritual, psychological, and even physical exile. Like the Israelites who were exiled due to their persistent idolatry, many of our young men have unknowingly exiled themselves through these dangerous practices. Governor Soludo is simply acting as a divine instrument to restore sanity in Anambra and cleanse the land from the demonic grip of these manipulative dibias and their deceptive promises.   1. Idolatry: A Biblical and Historical Bane The Holy Scriptures repeatedly warn against idolatry, a sin that led to the destruction of many great nations, including Israel:   Exodus 20:3-5: “You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make...

A revolutionary invention by a retired engineer has the potential to transform the way we generate clean energy and tackle plastic waste. The CarisMatic generator, designed by Dan Caris, converts plastic waste into electricity, providing a sustainable solution for powering homes, industries, and even vehicles. The shoebox-sized device uses a combination of electrochemical, thermal, and mechanical systems to heat plastic waste to high temperatures, producing steam that drives a turbine to generate electricity. The process also incorporates carbon capture technology, minimizing emissions. Caris, who spent over 10 years developing the technology, aims to create different models of the generator for various applications, from household use to industrial-scale energy production. His company plans to start manufacturing units, although the design is still evolving. This innovative solution addresses two pressing global challenges: plastic waste management and renewable energy gen...

By Praise Chinecherem  Anambra state government has expressed confidence that the ongoing market stall digitization project would not only address recurring shop ownership conflicts, but tackle tax evasion among traders. Special Adviser to the Governor on Markets, Chief Evaristus Uba stated this when he received members of TJ&GP, led by Mrs Ugochi Ehiahuruike, Executive Director, Social and Integral Development Centre, SIDEC, the organization implementing the Tax for Service project in collaboration with Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), with funding support from Oxfam Nigeria. He said the digitization initiative was in the best interest of traders, as it would ensure seamless financial interactions with government. He said, "We want to revalidate ownership and digitize shops in the state. We would have each shop captured in the state database with the details of the owner, which will enhance smooth payment of levies attached to the shops. "T...

A devastating road traffic crash occurred yesterday February 14, 2025, being Valentine's day near the Area Command Junction in Nnewi, Anambra State, resulting in the loss of six lives while leaving four others injured. According to eyewitnesses, the crash involved a black commercial Sino trailer with registration number UKP-540YP,, a white commercial Mercedes lorry with registration number ATN-279ZK and three motorcycles without registration numbers.  The trailer, which was fully loaded with cement, experienced brake failure while descending a hill at high speed, lost control, and collided with the Mercedes lorry. It was gathered thatTl the trailer then crashed into a roadside shop, pushing the container shop into a nearby building. The crash involved six male adults, one female adult, and three female children. Two male adults, one female adult, and three female children lost their lives in the tragic incident, while as the time of filling this report one m...

President of the Senate,  Godswill Akpabio has described as the end of an era, the demise of  Afenifere Leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo Akpabio in a statement he personally signed and made available to newsmen said he received with profound sadness the news of the passing of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a renowned leader and elder statesman.  According to Akpabio,  "Pa Adebanjo's glorious exit at the age of 96 marks the end of an era, and as a people, we mourn the loss of a selfless patriot, who dedicated his life to fighting for truth, equity and justice. "His unwavering commitment to the principles of justice and equity has left an indelible mark on our nation's history. His leadership and vision inspired generations, and his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate us to work towards a more just and equitable society. "On behalf of my family, the people of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District and the Nigerian Senate, I extend my deepest condolences to Papa...

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has cleared 15 aspirants to contest for the presidential position in its upcoming national convention. The convention, scheduled to hold from February 23rd to 27th, 2025, at Old Parade Ground, Abuja, will see the aspirants vie for the top position. The cleared aspirants include: Anzaku Shedrack, University of Abuja Atiku Abubakar Isa, Abubakar Audu University, Ayingba Righteous Aondowas, NSUK Keffi Maiyaki Isaq Mohammed, Federal University of Technology Minna Benjamin Daoupam, Plateau State Polytechnic Agada Noah, Federal University of Lokoja Yusuf Umar, Nasarawa State University, Keffi Gambo Abubakar Mohammed, IBB University Lapai Godia T Adam, NSUK Keffi Eve Dominic, BSU Makurdi Olushola Oladoja, University of Jos Salahudeen Sulieman, University of Abuja Musa Mosses Atah, NSUK Keffi Jeremiah Friday, BSU Makurdi Mamud Abubakar, KWASU Malete Five aspirants, including Abbah Owocho from BSU Makurdi, were disqualified for fa...

In a surprise move, Cajetan Duke, the spokesperson of the Imo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has announced his immediate resignation from the position. Duke cited the need to focus on the broader interests of the people, rather than partisan sentiments. In a resignation letter dated February 14, 2025, and addressed to the APC State Chairman, Duke thanked the party for the opportunity to serve. He expressed his gratitude for the relationships built and the opportunities he had while serving the party. Duke's resignation was made public on his Facebook page, where he wrote, "Let's speak for the people, done speaking for the APC! A new dawn beckons!! Happy valentine my people! I'm Cajetan Duke." The former APC spokesman's decision has been met with mixed reactions. Barrister Kissinger Ikeokwu, a former Legal Adviser to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Imo State chapter, described Duke as a gentleman who was relegated in his pa...

As the 2027 presidential election draws near, the debate on rotational presidency has gained momentum, with the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and Afenifere reiterating their stance on the issue. The ACF, the northern apex socio-cultural organization, has disputed the notion that the North is the ultimate kingmaker in presidential elections. According to Prof. T.A Muhammad Baba, ACF spokesman, the North cannot single-handedly produce a president, and the outcome of the election will depend on the voters' decisions based on the government's policies. On Rotational Presidency,  Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and socio-political organization, has reaffirmed that there is a gentleman's understanding between politicians in the North and South for the presidency to rotate between the two zones. In the same vein the ACF has also confirmed that the North Not is not solely a Kingmaker it said that the ACF has disputed the notion that the North is the ultimate k...

By Izuchukwu Adichie I know he has a penchant for losing in every election he contests. He is aware that we know he enjoys losing elective positions. He will participate in the APC gubernatorial primary, come in last place, and then switch to campaign with the Zion Labor Party (ZLP), always embracing his reputation for finishing at the bottom. Obiora Okonkwo reminds me of a young girl who has just fallen in love—no one can give him advice to quit when it’s sour. So for Obiora, he will waste his money in the primary, and the rest will become history. Instead of focusing his energy on convincing the delegates of his party which has no presence in Anambra to support his candidacy for the main election—which he is certain to lose—, Obiora is currently preoccupied with seeking Soludo's attention and even challenging him to a debate. The same Okonkwo who couldn’t win Valentine Ozigbo in a primary election. Obiora has not learned from Anambra's political history; instead o...

By Izuchukwu Adichie For the first time in Anambra state's history, a sitting governor is boldly tackling criminality at its roots by addressing the social, economic, cultural, and family conditions that foster crime. Under this administration, communities are decisively reclaiming their territories and standing firm against criminals in their midst. Soludo understands that confronting the root causes of crime is vital for effective combating. His administration has made quality education free in all government schools for every child born in the state. He has also ensured that pregnant mothers receive free antenatal care and delivery services, including cesarean sections. Moreover, he has significantly impacted the lives of 80,000 individuals through digital skills training and has launched the ambitious "One Million Digital Tribe" initiative aimed at empowering young people. To date, 5,000 young individuals have been trained and empowered, with 8,300 current...

By Chinwe Onuigbo,  Awka  Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor, in the intricate world of law, where integrity and steadfast commitment to justice are paramount,  emerges as a formidable advocate. As noted by human rights advocate Daniel Okonkwo, Ejiofor’s career is a testament to his dedication to fairness, human rights, and an unwavering pursuit of justice, particularly for the oppressed and marginalized. A distinguished figure in the legal field, he has established a legacy marked by accountability, transparency, and brilliance, boldly defending those whose voices are often silenced. Ejiofor embodies the quintessential qualities of an exceptional lawyer: astute analytical abilities, meticulous attention to detail, persuasive advocacy, and the rare talent for forging meaningful relationships with clients. His articulate nature and capacity to draw logical conclusions from complex legal issues make him a formidable presence in Nigeria’s legal landscape. Recognizing that...

By Izuchukwu Adichie As November 8 approaches, the political space in Anambra remains unsurprisingly quiet. It is because the politicians who will be contesting against Soludo are headed toward an inevitable defeat -and they are aware. Their efforts are in futile, as none is capable of securing victory against Soludo and his party, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), at their ward level, where grassroots support is crucial. What is particularly striking in this off-cycle election is the extent to which these politicians are going to fund their campaigns. Many are already borrowing large sums from banks, using their personal properties as collateral. However, the need for funds is not solely for campaigning; it is primarily to maintain their every election cycle status as “gubernatorial candidate”. Instead of seeking collaborative opportunities with Soludo’s government through public-private-community partnerships (PPCP) that could promote sustainable development acr...

The South East Development Commission (SEDC) has officially taken off, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria's regional development landscape. The inauguration ceremony, which took place recently, sets the stage for integrated and transformative growth across the South East region. In his inaugural speech, Mark Okoye II, the Managing Director/CEO of SEDC, expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the trust and confidence reposed in him and his colleague to lead the historic institution. He also thanked the National Assembly, the Hon. Minister of Regional Development, and other stakeholders for their support.  Continuing, Mark Okoye II said, that the commission will not pay lip service to development in the South East as SEDC will prioritize action over rhetoric and results over promises.   "Our tenure will be built on transparency, accountability, and public participation. Every project will align with a clear roadmap and deliver measu...