NIGERIAN NOTCH

Renowned Human rights lawyer Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor has passionately condemned a viral video depicting National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) officials allegedly looting shops at the Onitsha Ogbo-ogwu market in Anambra State. This distressing footage has prompted calls for immediate government investigation and accountability for the victims. In a statement released on Saturday, Sir Ejiofor expressed his profound sadness after watching a female trader allege that NAFDAC staff had stolen her goods. “This alarming footage exposes a grave injustice that demands urgent action,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for a thorough inquiry into the actions of the agency's personnel. Sir Ejiofor had previously criticized the indiscriminate closure of shops purportedly aimed at combating counterfeit drugs, stressing that while this fight is essential, it must be conducted through lawful and ethical means that do not jeopardize the livelihoods of innocent...

The table water factory at the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra state, is back in full operation, marking a major victory for the institution under the leadership of Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie. Dr. Awuzie, upon assuming office as 6th substantive rector a month ago, decried neglect of the instruction's major sources of internally generated revenues, and noted that her administration would make every effort to ensure that the school boosts its IGR base, so that it would not base solely on handouts from the federal government.  Dormant for years due to logistics and equipment failures, the factory's revival became a top priority for Dr. Awuzie upon assuming office. Wasting no time, the new rector embarked on a fact-finding mission to the Department of Food Science and Technology, which oversees the facility.  Her intervention led to the resocitation of faulty machines and the much-anticipated resumption of portable water production. Speaking during the offic...

A prominent human rights activist and attorney, Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has strongly condemned the unlawful detention of approximately 30 native doctors in Anambra State. The native doctors were arrested weeks ago by state authorities and have neither been charged with any offense nor presented before a court of law, raising serious concerns about violations of their fundamental rights. Ejiofor emphasized that security is a collective responsibility and commended Governor Soludo for establishing the Agụnechemba security outfit to restore order. However, he clarified that his support for the government's efforts to combat insecurity does not extend to condoning human rights abuses. The human rights lawyer expressed concern about the handling of the detainees, who have not been placed in the custody of the Police, Department of State Services (DSS), or military agencies. He criticized those who support this breach of law and called for greater transparency and accountability...

By Chigozie Igbo The Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, Dr. Irene Chioma Awuzie, has admonished fresh students of the institution to be steadfast in their studies. The Rector gave the advice during the 41st matriculation ceremony of the polytechnic held at the institution's convocation arena on Friday, March 14. Dr. Awuzie reminded her young audience that the school award certificates, not based on academic performance alone, but also on character; adding that intelligence alone is not enough to make one the best graduate; rather, true excellence is attained when intelligence is combined with strength of character. She added, "The most intelligent student may not necessarily be the most successful in life. To stand out and excel beyond this institution, you must uphold integrity, discipline, and good moral conduct.  "Your education must shape, not only your intellect, but also your ethical values. Therefore, as you embark on this academic journey...

The Association of South East Vigilant Group (ASEG) has lauded  High Chief Kenneth Emekayi (Ike Okija) for his professionalism and expertise in steering the leadership of Anambra Vigilant Group otherwise  known as Agunechemba since his assumption of office some months ago.  Gov Chukwuma Soludo had appointed High Chief  Emekayi who hails  from Okija in Ihiala Local Government Area  of the State as his  Special Adviser on Community Security in the State.  ASEG in a crowded press Conference in Enugu addressed  by the Commander General of the group, Chief Emmanuel Ojukwu (CSP) rtd, thanked  the Governor, Prof.  Chukwuma Soludo, for this decision of appointing High Chief  Emekayi to take charge of   security  in the State.  "It could be recalled that before the assumption of Emekayi , the State was  taken over by criminals masquerading as unknown gunmen and all sorts of criminal elements. Out...

Mazi Ejimofor Opara Last night was simply a show of organic love for Governor Soludo!  I think this love is predicated on observable results… It is founded on demonstrable leadership!  It is more for the person of Soludo than the office of the Governor…  In a few days Soludo would clock 3years in office and in just 36 months he has broken jinxes, reshaped the social map, influenced group think, altered urbanscapes, redefined destinies, increased hope, accelerated infrastructure, growth and development!  I have always insisted that Nigerians, and indeed Ndi Anambra really do not ask for too much. Just show them that things can work and how things work, and they will follow you!  For many; Ekwulobia was impossible!  Okpoko was irredeemable! Onitsha was dead and out!  Awka was a glorified village!  Marauding Gun men were unknown!  Anambra was just a departure lounge! Has Soludo changed all this?  Your response would determine my...

The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has stepped up efforts to ensure the safety and security of schools in Anambra State through the Police Safe School Initiative. This proactive approach focuses on preventing crimes, building partnerships, and providing support to schools.  During his visit to schools in the state, CP Orutugu commended the residents of Anambra, for improving social and economic activities on Mondays. He noted the negative impacts of the illegal Sit At Home order, which has disrupted academic activities, and assured that the police and other security agencies have taken control of the streets to sustain safety in the state. The police safe school initiative he said aims to prevent crime, Identify and prevent potential security threats in schools, build partnerships, collaborate with school administrators, parents, local communities to promote safety and security. He also emphasised that the partnership will provide support and ...

The founder of Stanley Agbai Foundation, Mr. Stanley Obinna Agbai, has commended the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, for his numerous developmental projects in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State. During a recent visit to his country home in Ozuitem, Agbai inspected some of the ongoing projects attracted by Kalu, including the construction of a 5.5-kilometer road project, a solar-powered borehole with a water treatment plant, and the renovation of several classroom blocks in local schools. Agbai praised Kalu's commitment to the welfare and development of his constituents, noting that his achievements have yielded tangible results. He also acknowledged Kalu's significant contributions to the legislative process, having sponsored over 100 bills and motions in the National Assembly. The Stanley Agbai Foundation founder further dismissed recent Twitter criticisms of Kalu's achievements, attributing them to "j...

By Adichie Izuchukwu In the heart of Anambra State lies Okpoko, the largest slum in West Africa, once synonymous with despair. For decades, it was a place where raw sewage flowed through open drains, children played on piles of garbage, and hope seemed like a distant memory. But today, Okpoko has risen from the ashes, reborn under Soludo’s compassionate governance. This story is not just about the 15 km of newly constructed internal roads, reticulated Solution pipe-borne water, newly installed solar-powered streetlights, and a brand-new general hospital; it is a story of restored dignity, transformed lives, and a community resurrected from death to life. From “Hell on Earth” to a New Heaven: When Soludo took office in 2022, Okpoko’s plight was a moral stain on Anambra’s conscience. About 99.9% of its residents live in a waste dump area, and face numerous health and environmental risks, including exposure to hazardous materials and poor living conditions such as unsafe water...

A remarkable achievement was added to the kitty of Dr. Mrs. Chinenye Chimezie-Amadi, a renowned mental health psychologist, has been conferred with a doctoral research fellow award in global leadership, human resources management, and development. This prestigious honor was bestowed upon her by the Institute of Leadership Manpower and Management Development (ILMMD) on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at an investiture ceremony held at Bolingo Hotel, Abuja. The award recognizes Dr. Chimezie-Amadi's exceptional commitment, capacity, and positive impact on society as a mental health psychologist and advocate for youth and women's capacity building. Her humanitarianism, mentorship, and selfless service to humanity have earned her this distinguished recognition. As a dedicated professional, Dr. Chimezie-Amadi has consistently demonstrated leadership prowess and a passion for grassroots engagement, advocating for the inclusion of marginalized groups, particularly women and youths...

Valentine Ozigbo, a prominent Nigerian business leader and top contender for the Anambra governorship, has been officially cleared by the All Progressives Congress (APC) Screening Committee. This milestone marks Ozigbo as the first aspirant to receive approval to contest in the party's primaries, scheduled for April 5.  Ozigbo expressed gratitude to the APC leadership for overseeing a transparent screening process, describing his clearance as "providential." He also thanked the APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and other members of the National Working Committee (NWC) and Screening Committee for their role in facilitating the process. Ozigbo's rapid rise in Anambra politics has garnered national attention, particularly after his defection to the APC and the launch of the Valiant Movement. This tech and youth-driven grassroots political action front aims to mobilize Ndi Anambra for the 2025 election. With his clearance secured, Ozigbo will ...

Young Nigerian Voices Call on Hon. Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba to Contest for 2027 Presidency Young Nigerian Voices, a group of enthusiastic and concerned young Nigerians, have called on Honorable Emeka Nwajiuba to consider running for the presidency in 2027. This endorsement comes as a result of Hon. Nwajiuba's impressive track record of public service and his potential to correct the anomalies created by the present government. The Deputy National Coordinator of the group, Hon. Bulus Okekeola, while addressing Journalists in Enugu said that, Hon. Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba remains the only credible Nigerian that can bring out the best from Nigerians especially the youths.  As a former Minister of State for Education, Hon. Nwajiuba demonstrated his commitment to the development of Nigeria's youth and education sector. His experience and expertise make him an ideal candidate to tackle the country's pressing challenges, including the anomalies created by the present governmen...

By Praise Chinecherem Elders and stakeholders of Umudioka village in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra state have condemned the gruesome murder of one of their kinsmen, Ichie Michael Nwobu in his residence. The elders said the deceased, aged 84, was stabbed to death by yet-to-be identified hoodlums who gained access to his house during the early hours of Sunday, March 2, 2025 while his family members were away. Delivering a communique shortly after their meeting on Monday, Secretary of Ndichie Umudioka Awka, Joseph Nweke regretted that such evil had never happened in the community. He called on the security agencies and other appropriate authorities to investigate the matter and ensure justice was served. He said, "Umudioka community in its entirety condemn this gruesome murder. This sacrilege has not happened in our community before.  "We're saddened by his death and appeal to security agencies in the state and Nigeria to carry out thorough investig...

By Kamen Chuks Ogbonna The biggest problem facing our generation is the lack of critical thinking and attention to detail. Many people rely on media influencers and practitioners for information, rather than doing their own research or thinking. This is often driven by a desire for convenience and a lack of motivation to engage in critical thinking. Media influencers, in particular, have a significant impact on public opinion. However, many of them are driven by personal biases and agenda, rather than a commitment to objective truth. Some often take advantage of people's laziness and willingness to accept information at face value, without questioning or verifying it. The other day , I had the opportunity to interact with Governor Soludo during a project inspection tour in the state, and I was struck by his bold statements about the state's finances. As the Governor reeled out his visions for the state including projects that are either nearing completion or are alr...

From Rose Oranye  The immediate past Commissioner for Information, Sir Paul Nwosu, recently paid a courtesy visit to his successor, Dr Law Mefor, at his office in the Jerome Udoji Secretariat Complex, Awka. The two commissioners expressed commitment towards Governor Chukwuma Soludo's dreams of making Anambra better through his numerous policies and programs. In his remarks, Dr Nwosu praised Mefor for the physical changes he brought to the office, including his passion for the job, among other improvements in information dissemination so far.  He said the visit was simply to touch base to know how things are going, even as he expressed willingness and availability to help the ministry and the state in any way.     Mefor, while expressing happiness over the visit, hailed Nwosu's immense contributions to the state's development in various capacities, particularly as former Commissioner for Information.  According to him, the visit portrayed him as a pro...

......Tasks Ndi Anambra to always work in synergy with the police The Anambra State Police Command has achieved significant security and safety stability in the state, just one month into the leadership of the 35th Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu. This milestone was announced by the Command today  March 10, 2025, through the Spokesperson of the Command, SP Ikenga Tochukwu.  CP Orutugu in the statement commended police operatives in the state for their bravery and professionalism, while also thanking other security agencies for improved coordination and Ndi Anambra/relevant stakeholders for their support. The Command also warned troublemakers to change their ways, as it is poised to deal decisively with all acts of criminality. Notably, the Command has intercepted plans by some disgruntled elements to disturb the peace in the state. CP Orutugu urged the good people of Anambra and residents to continue exposing these troublemakers. T...

In a groundbreaking development, Agatha Ngozi Agu has become the first female chairman to lead the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Enugu Council. This historic appointment, which coincided with International Women's Day 2025, marks a significant milestone in the council's history and paves the way for future generations of women in leadership positions. Agu, a member of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) Chapel, will serve as the Caretaker Chairman alongside Jude Chinedu of the Correspondents' Chapel, who will serve as the Secretary. Their appointment comes at a critical juncture, following the inability to conduct peaceful elections that would produce new leaders. In her welcome speech, Agu emphasized the importance of cooperation and support from members to succeed in their responsibilities. She urged members to work together to ensure the council continues to thrive, promoting peace and tranquility in Enugu. Agu's appointment promotes gen...

From RAYMOND OZOJI  Wife of the President-General of Umueri community Anambra-East Local Government Area of Anambra State, Chief Mrs. Linda John Metchie has described women as very strong pillars of the families and the society at large.  Mrs. Metchie who made the description during a special programme she organized to celebrate women in this year's International Women's Day Celebration, stressed the need for women to always see themselves as change agents, character molders, role models and pillars of support to their husbands and families.  The one-day special retreat held to celebrate women which was powered by Women Initiative Global (WIG), GCUPS LIMITED and Inspiring Women Initiative (IWI) held at Umueri Recreation Centre Umueri was a veritable platform to educate as well as enlighten the women to take their personal health needs as utmost priority and desist from playing second fiddle in the society.  Resource persons took turns to emphasize on heal...

The Anambra State Police Command, in collaboration with other security agencies, has launched an intensified night patrol initiative aimed at bolstering safety across the state. This strategic move is designed to deter criminal activities, reassure the public, and demonstrate the Police Command's unwavering commitment to creating a secure environment for residents. According to SP Tochukwu Ikenga, Police Public Relations Officer, Anambra State Police Command, the night patrol effort is a critical component of the Command's broader strategy to sustain safety and security in Anambra. This initiative is expected to have a significant impact on reducing crime rates and enhancing public confidence in the state's security apparatus. The Anambra State Police Command has been proactive in its efforts to combat crime and maintain law and order. Recently, the Command arrested over 300 suspected criminals in 2024, with a focus on consolidating gains in crime prevention and...

....Tasks Party Faithful to be committed to rescuing Anambra In a significant move, Valentine Ozigbo, a leading Anambra gubernatorial hopeful, has boosted the morale of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Anambra State, with his call for party faithful in the state to remain resolute and commited to the cause of rescuing the state.  While gracing the historic homecoming event held in Nnobi, Idemili South LGA, on Saturday, March 8, 2025. He tasked party faithful on the need to remain unitied in the cause of the battle ahead. The event marked a strategic step in consolidating APC's growing grassroots support in the region. As  a multiple-award-winning global CEO and one of Nigeria's most recognized philanthropists, Ozigbo's presence was a significant boost to the party. The event welcomed stakeholders, returning party members, and new entrants, with several youth and women groups featuring prominently. Hundreds of enthusiastic party faithful expressed excitemen...

.....Takes Step Towards Resolving Political Crisis Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has extended an olive branch to the state's lawmakers by inviting them to a crucial meeting on March 10, 2025, at the Government House in Port Harcourt. This move aims to address pressing issues that have plagued the state, including the 2025 budget, unpaid entitlements, and securing a proper venue for the Assembly's sittings. The invitation, conveyed through an official letter signed by Secretary to the State Government Chief Dr. Tammy Wenike Danagogo, follows a recent Supreme Court ruling affirming Martins Amaewhule as the legitimate Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly. This verdict has escalated political tensions in the state. Key issues to be discussed at the meeting include, provision of a befitting space for the Assembly's sittings, payment of outstanding remuneration and allowances of the lawmakers, presentation of the 2025 budget and sundry matters And a...