NIGERIAN NOTCH

From Chinwe Onuigbo,  Awka  Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, lead counsel for the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and a distinguished human rights lawyer, in a heartfelt tribute has hailed Prince Engr. Arthur Eze (Ozoigbondu) as a model of philanthropy and an unwavering beacon of generosity. This recognition comes as a testament to Eze's longstanding commitment to selfless giving and his relentless efforts to uplift his community. In a statement released on Monday, Ejiofor emphasized the rarity of finding another Igbo individual whose spirit of philanthropy parallels that of Prince Eze. He described Eze as an exceptional oil magnate and industrialist whose generosity has transformed innumerable lives over the decades.  "Prince Engr. Arthur Eze (Ozoigbondu) is not only a successful businessman but also a dedicated philanthropist whose impact transcends personal ambitions, ethnic lines, and geographical boundaries," Ejiofor stated. "He is one of the most esteemed fi...

As arguments rage over the recent security initiative of the Anambra State Government codenamed “Operation Udo Ga Achi’, a lawyer and community leader in Anambra State, Barr Nonso Madu has leaned his weight behind Governor Chukwuma Soludo, describing the setting up of the Force to rid the state of all forms of criminality, as highly commendable. Insecurity had surged to an all-time high, necessitating the setting up of the initiative with the Agunechemba outfit. In the past one month, several camps have been raided and daredevil criminals either caught or neutralized, resulting in calm across parts of the state. However, some quarters have criticized the operation launched against insecurity by the state government, alleging all forms of malpractices, especially using the force to crack down on political opponents. But Barr Madu, who spoke in a chat with our correspondent in Owerre-Ezukalla his countryhome, said the recent successful raids on the criminals hideouts and camp...

The Rivers State Government has firmly dismissed claims that Governor Siminalayi Fubara's legal team withdrew its Supreme Court appeal as a concession or acceptance of any unfavorable court ruling. The state government clarified that the withdrawal was a procedural decision made in light of evolving circumstances, rather than a defeat, contrary to misleading narratives being circulated by political commentator Lere Olayinka. In an official statement, government sources explained that the appeal was withdrawn in line with Order 11, Rule 14 of the Supreme Court Rules, which allows for such action when a case has been overtaken by events. Given that the Rivers State budget and governance priorities have significantly progressed into 2025, the legal team deemed further litigation unnecessary. "This decision is purely pragmatic. The budget has moved beyond the matters in question, making it unnecessary to continue pursuing the appeal," a senior government official ...

The trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been adjourned indefinitely by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court, Abuja. This decision was made on Monday, February 10, 2025, after Kanu's insistence that Justice Nyako cannot preside over his case, citing her previous recusal.  Kanu's legal team maintained that Justice Nyako's previous decision to step aside rendered her ineligible to continue handling the proceedings. This development comes after Kanu filed a petition against Justice Nyako before the National Judicial Council in January, accusing her of judicial misconduct in handling his trial. The IPOB leader had also called for his case to be transferred to the South-East if no judge at the Federal High Court in Abuja is willing to preside over it apart from Justice Binta Nyako. With the adjournment, the fate of the trial remains uncertain, as legal observers anticipate further developments regarding the jurisdiction...

Chinedum Treasure  Anglican Bishop of Aguata Diocese, Right Reverend Samuel Ezeofor has attributed the challenges facing present-day Christianity to apostasy and false prophets working against the true word of God. Ezeofor who stated this while delivering his sermon at the Cathedral Church of Saint John, Ekwulobia, during a special service for the collation and installation of Venerable Ifeanyi Mgbemene and Henry Okonkwo as Archdeacons expressed regret that the faith of modern Christians is under serious attack.  He urged ministers of God to rise and defend the faith, describing faith as a call for the salvation of mankind. He further stressed that God knows how to deal with the wicked, calling on Christians to live lives of integrity.  While warning against compromising faith with idolatry, the Prelate encouraged the newly collated Archdeacons to view their elevation not as a mere appointment but as a call to increase efforts in winning souls for Christ and b...

By Izuchukwu Adichie Today, in southeastern Nigeria, the names Bar Ifeanyi Ejiofor and Akwa-Okuku n’Oba have emerged as symbols of infamy. Akwa-Okuku n’Oba, a notorious dibia, takes great pride in his role as a producer of the infamous "okeite," a powerful charm reputedly used by criminals to carry out their nefarious deeds with a veil of deception. This dark trade has positioned him as a key player in the underbelly of crime, earning him a reputation steeped in suspicion and intrigue. On the other hand, Bar Ifeanyi Ejiofor has cultivated his image as a supporter and alleged associate of wanted criminals, thrusting himself into the spotlight through fervent appeals. He has become increasingly vocal, advocating for the unconditional release of his so-called friend, a fraudulent dibia, who currently faces interrogation from the Agunechemba security outfit. Ejiofor’s public outcry raises questions about his affiliations and motivations. I contend that if security age...

From Awesome Ekene  Concerned stakeholders in Awka, Anambra state have condemned what they called unwarranted attacks at notable citizens of the area by those opposed to the peace, progress and development of the area. They frowned seriously at what they noted as mounted attacks and campaign of calumny against the person of Ozo Jeff Ezechukwu Nweke (Ozo Zuluezu) who in clear terms is motivated by jealousy, trepidation and savagery.  The people took their position in a statement jointly signed by the Coordinator and Secretary, Amobi Okeke and Elder Samuel Onwuka, respectively and made available to newsmen in Awka. The statement reads in part, "Trepidation in the sense that they thought that by now Awka lands ought to have been a national cake where land thieves will come and grab as they wish and because they didn't have that chance thus the hatred. "It is time for all Awka citizens to wake up and collectively put a stop to this act of injustice, character assa...

From Chinwe Onuigbo, Awka  Human Rights lawyer Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor has strongly criticized the recent arrest of Chief Chidozie Nwangwu, also known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, by the Anambra State Government. Ejiofor described the arrest as unlawful and a clear violation of Chief Nwangwu's fundamental right to practice any religion of his choice. In a statement released on Sunday in Awka, the capital of Anambra State, Ejiofor highlighted the seriousness of the situation, stating that the arrest not only infringes on Chief Nwangwu's rights but also raises concerns about the misuse of state power for personal or political reasons. Ejiofor emphasized that the Nigerian constitution provides extensive protections for freedom of thought, conscience, religion, and expression, as outlined in Sections 38, 39, and 40. He stressed that these rights are fundamental and cannot be arbitrarily ignored by any government or authority. The lawyer's statement comes amid public debate...

By Praise Chinecherem  United Nations ECOSOC Peace and Positive Living Awareness Centre (UN-PEPOLAC) has commended Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo for his commitment to the peace of the state. International Co-ordinator and Convener, Amb Dr Ozioma Ozoemena made the commendation at the inauguration and orientation of the newly appointed state executives (Peace officers), of UN-PEPOLAC, Anambra State Directorate, and appointment of some eminent Nigerians as Peace Ambassadors. He called on people everywhere to demonstrate commitment to global peace and that of their immediate environment as peace was increasingly eluding the world. Themed “Community Peace, Panacea for Societal Development”, Ozioma said, "Nobody knew that the state was that bad until the recent launching of Udo ga achi security outfit, through her agunechemba warriors with the collaborative efforts of other security agencies, including the police. "They have been able to uncover the ...

By Chigozie Igbo Jr The outcome of APC Anambra meeting today at their new state secretariat in Awka Anambra state,  indeed left a sour taste to many, especially those who truly know and understand, what the term "party" means. A political party is supposed to be a meeting and melting point, where ideas are harnessed and cross fertilized for positive results. But unfortunately, the main actors in the All Progressive Congress Anambra Chapter  took to long walk away from what they were supposed to pursue, and started chasing shadows, as if there was beef, already on going within.   A lesson that togetherness is what is needed to get the party to Agu Awka was learnt the hard way today. The looks on the faces of the National Chairman and members of the NWC of APC, reminded me that an Ifeanyi Ubah being around would have done better. May his gentle soul continue to rest in peace.  The charade that was displayed by these aspirants, who are suppo...