Search Results

By Iheanyi Chukwudi Former Director General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mr Osita Okechukwu, has said that the proposed review of revenue allocation formula is a “Win-Win-Balanced Federalism." Okechukwu who is a foundation member of the All Progressive Congress (APC), said the review was long overdue, expressing his total support for the proposed review of the existing Revenue Allocation Formula especially now that the Constitution is being altered. Speaking to newsmen in Enugu shortly after the Chairman, Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Mohammed Shehu, announced plans to review the Revenue Allocation Formula, the former VON boss canvassed for the reduction in the huge extant revenue allocation to Federal Government. He said the FG allocation should be reduced from 52 per cent to 40 per cent, to guarantee ultimate balanced federalism. Reviewing the Revenue Allocation Formula and reducing the FG allocation, Okechukwu said, would enhance the progress and prosperity of the citizenry, albeit ultimately advancing the frontiers of our grassroots democracy. He said, “My observation over the last decades informed that the political banditry, ultra-nepotism and tension soaked presidential election in our dear fatherland is largely due to unbalanced federalism. And unbalanced federalism is an outlier of do or die struggle of who presides over the huge Oil Revenue (a.k.a. national cake) at the over centralised Federal Government. And I agree wholeheartedly with Shehu’s submission that the review of the vertical revenue-sharing formula, which determines how federally collected revenues are shared among the federal, state and local governments has been long overdue.” According to Ikechukwu, the 33 years old revenue formula – "which is 52.68 per cent Federal Government; 26.72 per cent States; 20.60 per cent LGAs; and 4.8 per cent Special Funds," should be changed. He further said, “One per cent FCT and Ecological Fund; 1.68 per cent Natural Resources and 0.5 per cent Stabilisation Fund, which are fractions that make up the rest – is antithetical to development and retrogressive.” Okechukwu said as a matter of security and evolving socioeconomic, political and fiscal realities, he proposes revenue formula of - 40 per cent FG; 40 per cent States; 10 per cent LGAs and 10 per cent to the rest. He suggested that the "LGAs’ allocation should be reduced since all genuine efforts made in the last 25 years to retrieve LGAs from the stranglehold of our emperor governors had repeatedly failed. Even the financial autonomy initiative by President Bola Tinubu, which culminated in the July 11, 2024 Supreme Court landmark judgment had failed woefully; it has become pragmatic imperative to stop chasing shadows." He stressed that revenue allocation review exercise in the past "had been controversial and marred by hate pandemic of ignorant political bandits masquerading as ethno-religious champions." The former VON DG, urged "divisive elements to sheath their arsenal and acknowledge the gospel truth; that abject poverty, grinding hunger, gross unemployment, crisis of inequality and palpable insecurity are still unfortunately plaguing all geopolitical zones." He therefore, called on "President Tinubu, the Governors, national and state legislators and patriots to breathe life into the Constitution with this Win-Win-Balanced Federalism move, especially now that we're altering it."

By Madu Obi The wife of the Anambra State governor and founder of Healthy Living with Nonye, Dr. Nonye Soludo has condemned the brutal assault of a member of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, serving in Oba, Idemili South local government area of the state, calling on the relevant authorities to ensure that justice is served. In a statement, Mrs Soludo said that Anambra is not known for such act, describing the incident as very disturbing. Her statement made available to reporters in Awka read: "I have seen a viral video of the sad incident reported to have happened in Oba, Idemili South local government area, involving men of Agunechemba security formation and a female corps member, who is serving in Anambra State. "There is no justification, whatsoever, for such an ugly and humiliating abuse. Such demeaning approach to law and order, does not in any manner reflect our celebrated identity as a hospitable and humane philosophy of our administration either. There are always rules of engagement in such situations and they must prioritize dignity, civility and respect. I find the Oba incident very disturbing and appeal to appropriate authorities that are already looking into it to take critical measures to, not only entrench justice, but to, most importantly, ensure that we do not see such worrisome scene ever again. Anambra's image is priceless. We must guard it jealously." Meanwhile, the state government has ordered the arrest of the operatives involved in the dastardly act, adding that they would face the full weight of the law.

By Madu Obi The Anambra State Police Command has condemned the alleged assault on a female member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Oba, Idemili South local government area of the state, saying that it has also identified the suspects. Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, SP Tochukwu Ikenga said a detailed investigation would be carried out by the state Police command. A viral video which has been circulating on social media shows the assault on the corps member, which was reportedly carried out by the state government-cobtrolled vigilante operatives. The video has generated heated debates on social media, with many people condemning the attack. Condemning the action, the state police command said: "Following the incident, the suspects involved have been identified. The command, however, notes that the alleged victim's unavailability has temporarily stalled the ongoing investigative process. "The command has reiterated that assault in any form remains a criminal offence under the Nigerian law and reserves the right to take necessary legal action to aid the court proceedings while waiting for the victim." The command cautioned vigilante operatives and other quasi-security outfits against acts of brutality or abuse of authority, warning that any such misconduct will not be condoned. It reassured corps members serving across the state of their unwavering commitment to their protection, advising them to always report incidents of harassment, intimidation, or abuse for prompt intervention. The special adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on homeland security, Prince Kenneth Emeakayi said in a television interview that the incident would be investigated, adding that those involved would be sanctioned.

By Iheanyi Chukwudi Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, has expressed the state government's willingness to embrace a hi-tech judicial system that eliminates outdated processes and strengthens justice delivery. Disclosing this at the annual conference of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), Enugu Branch, held at the Justice A.I. Umezuruike Auditorium, High Court, Enugu, the Governor said the system will also prioritize the welfare of workers across all sectors. Mbah who spoke on the theme, “Embracing Disruptive Innovation: Leveraging Technology to Enhance Justice Administration and Delivery in Enugu State,” and who was represented by his Special Adviser on Legal Matters, Barr. Osinachi Nnajieze, said his administration was committed to transparency, integrity, efficiency, and speed in justice delivery through technology. Highlighting the innovations already introduced, including e-affidavits, e-filing, virtual hearings, and electronic transcript services through verbatim reporting, Mbah said, “A few weeks ago, I inaugurated the first trainees on verbatim reporting. This initiative is not just about legal tech, it is also creating new jobs and equipping our youths with future-proof skills." The Governor stressed his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, citing recent wage improvements, noting, “We have paid Enugu workers above the national minimum wage and doubled the pay of customary court chairmen and members. This demonstrates our appreciation of the workforce’s role in driving growth." Linking justice reforms to his broader economic vision, he said, “Our goal of growing the state’s GDP from $4.4 billion to $30 billion depends on ease of doing business. The rule of law is essential to that, and a vibrant judiciary is at the heart of the rule of law." JUSUN Enugu Chairman, Comr. Sampson Ifedimma, in his address, praised what he described as Governor Mbah’s tireless commitment to workers’ welfare and reforms. He said the digitization of the judiciary was equipping staff with modern skills, urging members to embrace ICT. He said, “In this digital dispensation, literacy is no longer optional, it is a lifeline. Those who neglect it risk redundancy and stagnation,” he warned. Ifedimma also appealed for the allocation of land for a Judicial Staff Farm Settlement, to key into the state’s agricultural revival program.

Gov. Mbah with the NYSC DG. Brig. Gen Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu By Iheanyi Chukwudi Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, Brig. Gen. Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, has applauded Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah for increasing the monthly allowances of corps members in the state to a minimum of N20,000. Nafiu, who Monday evening led top members of NYSC’s management on a courtesy visit to the Governor, commended Mbah for his commitment to the welfare and safety of corps members. Before Mbah’s administration, NYSC corps members in the state earned a N1,000 monthly allowance, but the governor, upon learning about the situation, approved a minimum allowance of N80,000 for medical doctors, N50,000 for pharmacists, and N40,000 for other healthcare professionals, which they are already earning. He equally approved a N20,000 minimum allowance for others, in addition to the allowance paid by the Federal Government. The DG who was on tour of the NYSC Orientation Camp at Awgu, as part of his tour of orientation camps across the country during the ongoing orientation programme for newly mobilised corps members, also commended the governor for the peace and security enjoyed by corps members in the state. He assured parents of the safety of their young ones, noting that despite a few security issues involving corps members in some parts of the country, the safety of corps members had been commendable and guaranteed. He said, “The NYSC does not deploy corps members to areas that are not secure. Security of lives and property is very dear to us. Parents are always reassured that we do not deploy these young, vibrant Nigerian youths, who are the hope of this great nation, to places we are not sure of the security of their lives and property." The NYSC, he reiterated, remains a nonpartisan organisation, stressing also the need for good behaviour among corps members, as the corps would not lower its standards for anybody. He further said, “I charge Nigerians to understand us; see us as nonpartisan; see us as Nigerians that are passionate about the development and aspirations of these young Nigerians that are committed to us. It is something that is really sacred to us,” he concluded. Responding, Governor Mbah pledged the continued support of his administration for the NYSC and corps members serving in the state. Mbah recalled the place of Enugu State in the Corps’ history, including the Corps’ first orientation camp, which was established in Awgu in 1973, disclosing that his administration had taken steps towards the infrastructural revamp of the NYSC camp in the state. The Governor said, “Awgu is also quite symbolic for us too as a people because, if you recall, that was actually a centre where we talked about the concept of Reconciliation, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction – 3 Rs – immediately after the civil war. So, for us, in trying to rehabilitate that location now, we want to bring back that historic importance. We have also done quite a number of interventions for the NYSC, which you have pointed out. We are going to continue to support the service. We see it as a duty on our part to continue to support both the welfare and the safety of the corps members. We believe that the safety of the corps members at all times is paramount to us." He thanked the corps for its many contributions to Enugu State’s and the nation’s development, noting that NYSC had served as an enduring bridge that links young Nigerians across culture, across faith, across regions and, indeed, as a channel to deepen their love for fatherland. “We derive benefit from the NYSC – the intervention we get from the corps members, who go to our schools to teach, our hospitals to work, and even contribute to our water, sanitation and hygiene programmes in our rural communities. These contributions are not lost on us, and we do not take those services for granted,” he said.

Mrs. Justina Azuka By Madu Obi Barely 24 hours after Mrs Justina Azuka lost the bid to replace her late husband, Hon Justice Azuka, as the member for Onitsha North 1 State constituency in the state House of Assembly, Senator Tony Nwoye representing Anambra North Senatorial zone, has appointed her as his legislative aide Mrs Azuka was the candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Saturday's bye-election and lost to the candidate of All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Barrister Mimi Ifeoma Azikiwe. Senator Nwoye has already handed her an appointment letter and it was gathered that her appointment attracts a basic salary of N200,000 per month. Mr Peter Mmeagana, an indigene of the state commended the senator for the gesture. “What Senator Nwoye has done is showing empathy to a needy person, which many politicians in Nigeria lack. The idea of fielding her to replace her husband was the best, but you see how vehemently opposition came against the poor widow. But with what she has been given, she can keep her family", he said.

By Madu Obi The All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, has won the Anambra South senatorial and Onitsha North 1 state constituency bye-elections conducted on Saturday. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Chief Emmanuel Nwachukwu winner of the Anambra South Senatorial district and Barrister Ifeoma Azikiwe as the winner of Onitsha North 1 constituency. Nwachukwu polled 90,408 votes to defeat Chief Azuka Okwuosa of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who scored 19,812 votes, and Donald Amamgbo of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), who secured 2,889 votes. The bye-election, which was contested by 16 political parties, was conducted to fill the vacant seat left by the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah. A former President-General of Ukpor Town Union in Nnewi South local government area, Nwachukwu will be the first person from the area to occupy the senatorial seat since the current democratic dispensation. He is also the second APGA senator in Anambra State after Senator Victor Umeh, who is currently representing Anambra Central senatorial district on the platform of the Labour Party. At the national assembly, he will be the second APGA senator, the only one being Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe representing Abia South senatorial district. In the Onitsha 1 state constituency, Azikiwe polled 7,774 votes to defeat Mrs. Justina Azuka of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), who scored 1,909 votes. Azikiwe will be the second female lawmaker in the 30 - member state House of Assembly. The ADC candidate is the widow of the slain lawmaker, Hon Justice Azuka, whose body was discovered in the bush near the Second Niger Bridge on February 6, 2025 after he was abducted on 2024 Christmas Eve in Onitsha. Mr. Ezennia Ojekwe of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Ms. Njideka Ndiwe of the Young Progressives Party (YPP) received 1,371 and 655 votes respectively. The returning officer, Prof. Ibiam Ekpe of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, who announced the results, commended the candidates and voters for their peaceful conduct during the exercise. Meanwhile, the exercise was not without incidents as the state Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, and the Commissioner for Environment, Engr. Felix Odumegwu, escaped being lynched by thugs in Nnewi South local government area. It was gathered that the Deputy Governor was confronted by angry youths and held hostage for over one hour on the allegation of engaging in vote-buying. Commissioner Odumegwu, who accompanied him, was also attacked before security operatives intervened. Reacting on the incident, Governor Chukwuma Soludo accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, of masterminding the assault. “This is an act of thuggery. Government officials, including the Deputy Governor and the Commissioner for Environment, were attacked. It’s unacceptable", the governor said. The National Publicity Secretary of APGA, Mazi Ejimofor Opara, also accused Ukachukwu of sponsoring thugs to disrupt the election. “The Commissioner for Environment was attacked by APC thugs sent by their candidate. If not for security operatives at his country home in Ezinifite, Aguata, the outcome could have been tragic," Opara said. He further questioned Ukachukwu’s presence outside his constituency. “How can Ukachukwu leave his home in Osumenyi, Nnewi South, and go to Ezinifite in Aguata to attack the Commissioner?” he asked. However, Comrade Tony Uche, an aide to Ukachukwu, denied the allegations, insisting that the Deputy Governor and the Commissioner stormed Osumenyi, the hometown of the APC governorship candidate for the November 8 election, with a heavily armed security team to influence the polls. “If you saw the number of vigilante personnel that came with them—over twenty trucks—you would understand the youths’ reaction,” Uche said, adding that “Ukachukwu never ordered any attack as it was the people that resisted what they perceived as an attempt to hijack the election.”

By Madu Obi No fewer than 3,000 girls in Anambra State have applied to be trained as motor mechanics, cctv installers and other trades usually dominated by males, under the empowerment programme of the wife of the Anambra State governor, Dr.Nonye Soludo. Althouth Mrs Soludo said she had planned to start the programme with 50 girls, she was excited that many girls showed interest in an area where men had monopolised. The governor's wife, who spoke during this year's women's annual August summit at the Government House , Awka, added that because of the interest shown by the girls, the programme would be implemented in batches to accommodate all of them. According to her those who fall into the first batch would soon begin their training, which she will sponsor, after which they will will be empowered. "I feel happy that our girls are showing interest in these areas and I believe they will challenge the men when they open their workshops,"she said. Addressing the women who were drawn from the various organisations, including religious groups, town unions, traditional institutions, among others, Mrs Soludo reminded the women that the stability of the home depends on how they approach issues concerning their families. She said: "There is so much rancour in many homes which often results in gender -based violence. The way we conduct ourselves in our various families shows who we are. We must realise that the man is the head of the family and must be given that honour at all times." Mrs Soludo said she is also aware that gender-based violence is not only against women, adding that some women also instigate violence in the homes.

By Madu Obi It was a disappointment for many voters in Anambra South as they could not vote in the by-election because their names are not yet in the voters register. At a polling unit in ward 5, Okija in Ihiala local government area, many of them queued for voting only to be informed that they can only start voting in November during the governorship election. Turnout of voters was not high, even though the materials arrived early. It was observed that the accreditation was slow following the delay experienced during the capturing. In most of the polling units in the local government, only three political parties had agents.

By Iheanyi Chukwudi Nigerians have been called upon to emulate the late Nigerian football legend, Christian Chukwu, to live a life of sacrifice and impact. Making the call in his sermon at the funeral Service of the late football icon and former Captain of the Nigerian Green Eagles, on Saturday at St. Philips Anglican Church, Obe, in Nkanu West Local Government of Enugu State, the Bishop of Enugu Diocese, the RT. Rev. Prof. Samuel Ike, said such life of sacrifice is what you Nigeria needs now. Speaking of faith and enduring service, Bishop Ike, who, reminded Nigerians and the mourners of the Christian assurance of resurrection and the value of living a life of sacrifice and impact, qualities he noted embodied by the late Chukwu throughout his storied life. Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah who led others dignitaries, mourners and admirers to pay final respects to the late "Chairman Chukwu," Nigeria’s football icon and national hero, reaffirmed his government plan to immortalize Chukwu. The ceremony drew an impressive crowd, including political leaders, Chukwu’s former teammates, footballers, coaches, sports administrators, clergy, royal fathers, in-laws, and members of the community, who gathered to honour a man widely celebrated for his humility, discipline, and enduring legacy in Nigerian and African football. Paying his tribute, Governor Mbah described the late Chukwu, as an inimitable figure whose virtues left a lasting impression on all who encountered him. He said, “For me, it is difficult for you to have met Chairman Christian Chukwu without being inspired by his simplicity and humility. It is without a doubt that he was disciplined, he was dignified, he was polite, he was empathetic. Chukwu’s remarkable achievements would remain a reference point for many years to come. His leadership and impact at Rangers International and beyond solidified his legacy as a football legend whose influence will inspire future generations.” Mbah reiterated his earlier pledge that the Enugu State Government would ensure Chukwu’s name is etched permanently in the annals of the state’s history. He urged his family and children to take pride in his accomplishments and uphold his legacies and the good name he leaves behind, adding: "To his family once again, do not be despondent. You are not alone. The Enugu State Government will always stand by you – for your son and brother loved and served Enugu and Nigeria with all his heart." The governor also extended appreciation to Obe community "for giving us this great son, and the privilege of sharing him with you," and to the church "for shaping the values that helped him to excel and become a household name and an inspiration." Chukwu's funeral drew the attendance of many dignitaries, including former Senate President, Senator Ken Nnamani; former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi. Others are Senator representing Anambra Central, Chief Victor Umeh; Member representing Nkanu East/West in the House of Representatives, Pharm. Nnolim Nnaji; former Minister of Information, Mr. Frank Nweke Jr.; and members of the Enugu State Executive Council led by the Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu. Also in attendance were former Inspector General of Police, Chief Ogbonnaya Onovo; Secretary of the Police Service Commission, Chief Onyemuche Nnamani; Chairman of Nkanu West LGA, Chief John Ogbodo; and Chukwu’s former teammates and associates, such as Henry Nwosu and Emmanuel Amunike, among several others.

By Iheanyi Chukwudi Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has declared the State Government's resolve to take responsibility for the welfare of 109 ex-Rangers players. This is as he revealed that the state is working with the Federal Government to further immortalise the late Nigerian football legend, Christian Chukwu’s name and achievements. Mbah announced the welfare arrangement for the ex-Rangers players at the Night of Tributes in honour of the former Green Eagles Captain at the International Conference Centre Enugu. Pouring encomium on late Chukwu, Gov. Mbah said, “When I learned of his death, it felt as though a part of our collective spirit had left us. He was more than a defender, more than a captain – he was a unifying beacon at a time our nation sought symbols of pride. He united us, inspired us, and carried our hopes with quiet dignity. He was a proud son of Enugu, an icon of Igboland, and a symbol of what it means to serve with humility and courage. His life teaches us that leadership is not about titles, but about sacrifice, discipline, and the ability to inspire others. To the family he leaves behind, your loss is deeply felt by all of us. May the legacy he built bring you comfort and pride, knowing that his name will live on not only in Enugu but in the hearts of football lovers around the world. Let us keep the flame of ‘Chairman’ burning brightly, not just in our memories, but in our everyday pursuit of excellence, unity, and resilience. That is the greatest honour we can give him." Chairman Chukwu, widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest footballers, captained both the Enugu Rangers and the Nigerian national team, then known as the Green Eagles, leading them to historic victories. Beyond his playing days, he was revered for his leadership, humility, and discipline, qualities Mbah said “will illuminate the paths of future generations.” Tributes also poured in from his daughter, Barr. Adaora Ndibe, who eulogised him as a loving and exemplary husband and father, and from his sister, Mrs. Stella Onwe, who described him as the pillar of the family. Renowned former Rangers and Green Eagles goalkeeper, Emmanuel Okala, praised his exceptional leadership abilities, humility, discipline and commitment to his family and friends. Also former Governor of old Anambra State and former Minister of Works, Senator Jim Nwobodo, represented by Deacon Okey Ogbodo, Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Matters and Rural Development; former Inspector General of Police, Chief Ogbonnaya Onovo; General Manager of Rangers International FC, Barr. Amobi Ezeaku, represented by the Secretary, Barr. Alexander Egbo; and former Chairman of Enugu Sports Club, Barr. Emeka Etiaba paid their Tributes. Other dignitaries at the event included former Governor of Anambra State, Dame Virginia Etiaba; past and current members of the Enugu State Executive Council; former member of the House of Representatives, Barr. Chijioke Edeoga; Dr. Ibenaku Onoh and Chief John Ogbodo, council chairmen of Enugu North and Nkanu West LGAs, respectively; members of the Rangers International FC management, and several current and ex-Rangers players. .

Chairman, Christian Chukwu By Iheanyi Chukwudi The remains of Nigerian football legend, Christian Chukwu, will tomorrow, Saturday, August 16, 2025, be laid to rest at his country home in Obe, Nkanu West Local Government of Enugu State. Chukwu, fondly called “Chairman” by fans and teammates, died on April 12, 2025, at the age of 74. At the Night of Tributes in honour of the former Green Eagles captain at the Enugu International Conference Centre, the Enugu State Government which undertook to sponsor his burial and constituted a burial committee chaired by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Barr. Lloyd Ike Ekweremadu Jr., said it will immortalise him. Governor of the State who spoke at the event described the late Chukwu as a national treasure whose life and career transcended sport and spoke directly to the soul of the nation. Mbah described Chukwu as a national treasure whose life and career transcended sport and spoke directly to the soul of the nation, assuring that Chukwu’s legacy would be preserved through concrete actions, including the retirement of the iconic Number 5 jersey he wore throughout his Rangers International FC career. He said, “As a fitting tribute to his exploits as a central defender, we will be retiring the Number 5 that Chairman Chukwu proudly wore." Chukwu's final funeral rites commenced on Sunday, August 10, 2025, with a Service of Songs at St. Andrew’s Basilica Anglican Church, Trans Ekulu, Enugu, and a colloquium on “The Life and Times of Christian Chukwu, the Chairman”, on Thursday, August 14, at the Enugu Sports Club. On Friday, August 15, there was a novelty match in his honour at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, at 4:00 p.m and tomorrow, Saturday, August 16, 2025, his remains will lie in state at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, at 7:30 a.m. The funeral mass will follow at St. Philip’s Anglican Church, Obe, at 11:00 a.m., after which he will be laid to rest at his country home in Obe.