By Madu Obi The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 presidential election, Peter Obi, has congratulated Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on his re-election, describing the victory as an important democratic achievement and a demonstration of the power of the people. In a statement titled, “Osun: When the People Stand, Democracy Wins,” Obi said the people of Osun State spoke with courage and clarity,” reaffirming that the power to choose their leaders belongs to the people. He said that Adeleke’s renewed mandate reflected his commitment to the people, compassion for their needs, and the strength of his work and achievements in office. The NDC presidential candidate specifically commended the youths of Osun State for what he described as their courageous and peaceful defence of their democratic mandate, adding that their vigilance and determination demonstrated that when citizens stand firmly to protect their votes, “the forces of good can overcome the forces of darkness.” Obi said the lesson from Osun was that democracy is strongest when citizens are alert, conscious of their civic responsibilities and determined to ensure that their votes count. He stressed that every genuine vote must be respected and every lawful mandate protected. Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Obi called on Nigerians to remain informed, participate actively, vote and, most importantly, protect their votes. He noted that Nigerians are the ones experiencing hunger, deprivation, insecurity and hardship and therefore possess the power, through their votes, to bring about the change needed to address these challenges. He also urged political actors to place the interest lol of the people above partisan considerations and embrace peace, unity and the rule of law. Elections, he said, should not be battles of violence but contests of ideas, competence, character and service. Obi expressed hope that the Osun experience would strengthen Nigerians’ confidence in the democratic process and inspire citizens across the country to remain vigilant and committed to building a just, secure, prosperous and truly people-centred nation.

By Madu Obi Awka - The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, has announced the introduction of a strategic monitoring mechanism through the command’s operational control rooms to closely supervise police checkpoints, patrol teams and other operational activities across the state. The initiative, which follows feedbacks received during the recent Anambra security stakeholders’ interactive sessions held across the three Senatorial Districts of the state, is aimed at strengthening effective policing, accountability and professionalism, while eliminating extortion, harassment and other forms of abuse against members of the public by police personnel. The state Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, SP Tochukwu Ikenga said the CP has directed that that under the new strategy, the control rooms will maintain closer oversight of patrol formations and checkpoints, with Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Team Commanders expected to account for the activities of personnel deployed to strategic locations. According to the PPRO, reports and complaints relating to misconduct, extortion or other forms of unprofessional conduct will be promptly received, monitored and escalated for necessary action. He stressed that while the command remains committed to providing effective security and protecting the lives and property of Anambra people and residents, no police officer will be permitted to abuse the responsibility entrusted to him or her by the Nigeria Police Force to exploit members of the public. Ikenga added that the Commissioner has further directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Team Commanders to ensure strict compliance with the directive, warning that any personnel found engaging in extortion or other forms of misconduct will face appropriate disciplinary measures in accordance with the law and established regulations. He called on members of the public to support the initiative by reporting "incidents of extortion, harassment or other unprofessional conduct through the Command’s established communication channels, including the Operational Control Room on 07039194332 or the Police Public Relations Officer on 08039334002, as well as the dedicated WhatsApp number of the Commissioner of the Police 09169531886 He reiterated its commitment of the command to professional, people-oriented and accountable policing, assuring members of the public that credible complaints will receive prompt attention and appropriate action.

By Madu Obi The Senator representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, Chief Victor Umeh, has appealed to the Federal Government to urgently intervene in the erosion menace threatening Obosi, the home town of the former Secretary General of Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku and Ogidi, the hometown of the acclaimed novelist, Professor Chinua Achebe. Both communities in Idemili North local government area of Anambra State are currently facing erosion and flood devastation that had affected many houses, including the palace of the traditional ruler of Ogidi, Igwe Alex Onyido, which was flooded at the weekend following a heavy downpour. Speaking during his visit to the two communities, which are in his senatorial zone, Senator Umeh said there is need for urgent federal government intervention because the menace is beyond what the state government and the affected communities can handle. At Obosi, many households have been forced to relocate to safer areas, while the Ogidi axis of the old Enugu - Onitsha road has become impassable for motorists and other road users due to flooding. Lamenting that most communities in Anambra State are suffering the devastation, he promised to table the issue on the floor of the Senate when they resume next month to seek the support of his colleagues in tackling the problem. He also called for a declaration of a state of emergency on the general ecological challenges confronting Anambra State, noting that the state’s limited landmass was gradually being swallowed by gully erosion. According to him, the scale of the ecological disaster in the state had become too enormous for the state government alone to tackle, stressing the need for coordinated intervention by the federal government and other relevant national and international agencies. He said: "This is beyond what Anambra State can handle. As your senator, I will take this problem to the federal government so that they can intervene because this is not a child's play. Since one of your sons, Chief Eric Anyamene has started doing some palliative work to stop further devastation, there is need to support him by the relevant bodies and government. "Erosion menace in Idemili North and South is frightening. In the past, efforts were made to combat the menace but it is b coming more difficult. I thank the NDC candidate for the palliative." He recalled that the Senate had earlier set up an adhoc committee on erosion menace, regretting that nothing much was achieved. "We don't have much land mass in Anambra State and the little we have is being washed away by erosion. This menace is beyond political consideration because the life of the people is affected. "I will do a letter to the Minister of Environmental and to Mr President himself and they prepare a formal motion I will present to the Senate," he said. Also speaking at the erosion site, Anyamene recalled that he and some other people in the community had earlier contributed about N48 million to work on the site, adding because of the over 12 - hour non stop rain that took place last Thursday, the what could be described as a tremor occurred and created the over 30- feet deep gully that is more that one kilometer. According to him, the cost of the palliative is about N141 million, adding that it is just like a drop of water in the ocean as it is only meant to control further damage. He commended Senator Umeh for reacting promptly by visiting the site and sympathizing with the community.

By Madu Obi Anambra State billionaire and Managing Director of JEZCO Oil, Chief Joseph Ezeokafor and a Reverend Sister whose identity was not given, have been released after spending 10 days with their kidnappers in Anambra State. They were abducted at Ifite area of Awka, with the Anambra State Police command saying they were picked up at a location near Anambra - Enugu states boundary by a family member. The state Police command said security agencies were taking steps to establish the circumstances surrounding their release and gather information that could assist ongoing investigations. A statement by the police command said: "The Anambra State Police command confirms that, today, 15th August 2026, Chief J. J. Ezeokafor and a Rev. Sister, who were earlier abducted by armed criminals at Ifite-Awka, have been released and have safely returned. "The command is currently taking necessary steps to establish the circumstances surrounding their release and obtain relevant information that will assist ongoing investigations and identification of the perpetrators. "The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, while commending the safe return of the victims, further directs intensified intelligence-led operations and manhunt for those responsible for the abduction." According to the command, the ongoing operation involves the Police, Department of State Services (DSS), the Military, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Agunechemba Security Operatives and other relevant security agencies. The statement said the command appreciated members of the public for their support and cooperation, urging them to remain vigilant and provide credible and timely information that could assist security agencies in apprehending the perpetrators. It was clear if ransom was paid before their release, particularly when their abductors had earlier demanded a ransom of N1.5 billion from the family of the businessman to secure his release.

By Madu Obi Peace has finally returned to Achina Community in Aguata local government area of Anambra State where a section broke away in 2002 to form Isi Achina Community. Following a Supreme Court ruling nullifying the disputed autonomous status, the community has set up a reconciliation committee as the people are now eager to rebuild their relationship and move the community forward as one. The development has ended years of controversies, recriminations and counter-recriminations over the creation of the autonomous community, with members of the affected sides now seeking to reunite. The Supreme Court judgment of June 5, 2026, which affirmed the decisions of the lower courts nullifying the autonomous status granted to various communities in Anambra State, has therefore brought the communal feud to an end. President-General of Achina, Mr Anthony Ezenwaka, said a reconciliation meeting held in the community on August 8 brought together people who had hitherto been on opposing sides of the dispute, adding that the meeting was held in a convivial atmosphere during which the participants discussed ways of putting the past behind them and working collectively for the development of Achina. Ezenwaka described the reconciliation as a significant step towards restoring unity and strengthening the community's pursuit of development and announced that the community's triennial Idegwu Day, which was last celebrated on December 31, 2024, would hold on December 30, 2027. "The 2027 celebration will provide an opportunity for sons and daughters of Achina, including those in the diaspora, to return home and celebrate the community's cultural heritage through traditional and other activities", he said. He further said that Achina Community would also conduct its general election on December 31, 2027, to elect a new town union executive, adding that his administration would formally hand over to the newly elected executive on January 2, 2028.

By Madu Obi The Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU) has honoured the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr Oluwatosin Ajayi with the award of 'Golden Era Pillar of Critical and Strategic Intelligence for National Development". National President of RATTAWU, Prince Emeka Kalu said the award is part of activities marking the 50th anniversary of the union. Kalu praised the appointment of Ajayi in 2024 by President Bola Tinubu, describing it as putting a round peg in a round hole. According to him, the award is an initiative designed to recognize individuals and institutions that have made outstanding contributions to national development, security, democracy, culture and the growth of Nigeria. Kalu said: "Your appointment by Mr President demonstrates the importance of placing capable Nigerians with integrity and professional competence in strategic positions of national responsibility. "The role of the DSS in protecting Nigeria’s national interests, gathering critical intelligence and supporting national security cannot be overemphasised, Appointments like yours are the best ever done by Mr President, particularly now that this country is confronted with complex security and emerging technological challenges, "That is why this union decided to honour you with the Golden Era Pillar of Critical and Strategic Intelligence for National Development award." Responding, the DSS Director-General expressed appreciation to the leadership of RATTAWU for the honour. He described the recognition as a significant gesture that would further encourage him and the organization to remain committed to their responsibilities to the nation.

By Madu Obi Kidnappers of Anambra billionaire and oil magnet, Chief Sir Joseph Ezeokafor, Managing Director of JEZCO Oil, have reportedly increased their random demand to N1.5 billion after initially asking the family to pay N700 million. A source close to the family said the kidnappers finally established contact with the family after nearly one week of incommunicado following Ezeokafor’s abduction. It was gathered that the kidnappers initially demanded N700 million, a figure which the victim’s family reportedly accepted to pay to secure their father’s release, only for the kidnappers to subsequently raise their demand to N1.5 billion. The source said the family had remained willing to negotiate with the abductors, lamenting that the kidnappers had since stopped further engagement with the family. It was gathered that the development had left the family in a difficult position as efforts to reopen communication with the abductors had reportedly not yielded results. A source close to the family said: "I have just been informed by a close associate of the kidnapped Jezco chief, Chief Sir Joseph Ezeokafor, that the kidnappers have established contact with the family and demanded a ransom. "According to the information I received, the kidnappers initially demanded N700 million, a demand which his son accepted. However, the kidnappers subsequently changed their demand to N1.5 billion. "That is where the matter currently stands. The family has been willing to negotiate, but the kidnappers have since refused to engage further. "I am sharing this additional information because it provides important context to the circumstances surrounding Chief Ezeokafor’s abduction and the apparent silence that had previously surrounded the case." The latest revelation also provides fresh details on the circumstances surrounding the abduction of the Jezco chief, which had attracted considerable concern among his associates and members of the community. The Anambra State Police Command is yet to make official statement on Chief Ezeokafor's abduction and the reported ransom demand. Circumstances surrounding the kidnap of Chief Ezeokafor have remained unclear. According to one unverified account, the Chief, an ardent Catholic, was kidnapped at a religious ground where he had gone to pray without his security aides accompanying him.

By Madu Obi The governorship candidate of African Democratic Congress, ADC, in last year's Anambra election, Mr John Nwosu has felicitated the youths on this year's International Youth Day, describing them as leaders of tomorrow and change makers of today. In a message to mark the day, Nwosu said the energy, creativity, courage and determination of the youths remain among Nigeria’s greatest assets. "As we celebrate you today, I encourage every young Nigerian to believe in the possibilities that lie ahead. Continue to acquire knowledge, develop your skills, embrace technology, pursue entrepreneurship and remain committed to excellence. Do not allow the challenges confronting our nation to extinguish your dreams. " I urge you to continue to uphold the values of hard work, enterprise, integrity and community service for which our people are renowned. Our state and our nation need your ideas, your talents and your active participation in building a better future", Nwosu said. He called on governments, political leaders, the private sector and all stakeholders to create an environment where young people can learn, work, innovate, access opportunities and prosper. "Empowering our youths is not charity; it is an investment in the future of our communities, our state and our country. "Let us build a Nigeria where talent is rewarded, innovation is encouraged, education is accessible and every young person has a genuine opportunity to succeed", Nwosu added.

By Madu Obi Beneficiaries of the 'one youth two skills' programme instituted by the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State have been testifying about the success of the programme as the world marks young people day. The "one youth, two skills" initiative is a flagship youth empowerment and skills acquisition programme that trains young people in dual vocational skills, pairs them with mentorship, and provides startup grants to them. Under the programme, the youths learn at least two distinct marketable skills or a combination of modern vocational training and traditional apprenticeship. The key sectors cover agriculture, ICT, fashion design, craft, catering, and technical trades, while the participants undergo apprenticeship, entrepreneurship training, cooperative formation, business financing, and one-year post-training mentoring. Under the first phase, over 5000 youths were empowered with ₦2 billion in seed capital, while in the second phase, over 8,300 beneficiaries were supported with ₦3.5 billion in startup cash grants disbursed across the 21 local government areas of the state. Some of the beneficiaries who spoke said that with the government's assistance, they have become millionaires in their own rights. To celebrate with them on the young people today, the wife of the governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo urged them to remember that their voices matter. In her message, Mrs Soludo said: "Your ideas matter, and your dreams really matter. You have a place in the future you are hoping for, and you also have a role in creating it. "To every young person out there trying to figure life out, chasing a dream, starting again after a setback, or simply doing their best to make it through each day, the world sees you, and I believe in you. "Your journey may not look like someone else’s. You may not have everything figured out yet, but you must keep learning, keep growing, keep showing up. The small steps you take today can become the foundation for something extraordinary tomorrow."

By Madu Obi A security expert and Chairman of GSS Security, Arc. Chukwudi Ezenwa, has congratulated the immediate past Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu on his promotion to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), just before retirement, describing the elevation as well deserved. In the congratulatory message, Ezenwa expressed joy that the historic promotion coincided with Orutugu's birthday and formal retirement from the Nigeria Police Force after decades of meritorious service. According to him, AIG Orutugu's elevation to the rank of Assistant Inspector-General is a fitting and well-earned recognition of years of disciplined, strategic and people-focused service to the nation. He described AIG Orutugu as a rare breed officer whose tenure in Anambra State redefined the meaning of community-oriented policing. According to him, AIG Orutugu's leadership was distinguished, not merely by operational successes against crime and criminality, but by a rare humility and openness that endeared him to residents, security professionals and business leaders alike across the state. "As Chairman of a leading private security outfit in Anambra State, I can confidently say that GSS Security enjoyed a productive and mutually respectful working relationship with the Command under AIG Orutugu's watch. "The relationship was one built on trust, information-sharing, and a shared commitment to safeguarding lives and property. His door was always open to stakeholders in the security value chain, and that collaborative spirit strengthened the entire security architecture of our dear state," Arc. Ezenwa stated. He described the promotion as a proud moment for Anambra State, which benefited immensely from his stewardship as Commissioner of Police. Arc. Ezenwa further extended heartfelt birthday wishes to AIG Orutugu, praying for continued good health, divine guidance and greater accomplishments as he transitions into the next phase of his illustrious career. He also commended Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo and the Anambra State Government for according the retiring police chief the honour and recognition he richly deserves. He assured that the private security sector in Anambra State remains committed to sustaining the security gains recorded under AIG Orutugu's leadership, and looks forward to replicating the same spirit of collaboration with his successor, in the collective interest of a safer and more prosperous Anambra State.

By Madu Obi The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Nnanna Ama, has urged Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers across the state to take full responsibility in their areas of jurisdiction to strengthen operational effectiveness and enhance public safety. Addressing the officers during his maiden security meeting with them in Awka, CP Nnanna emphasized the need for proactive, intelligence-led, and community-oriented policing in the state. He explained that the meeting was part of efforts to strengthen operational effectiveness and enhance public safety across the state and urged them to ensure the effective deployment of personnel and resources they control. According to him, the performance of strategic officers would be closely assessed, particularly with regard to their effectiveness in managing traffic, maintaining law and order, preventing crime and responding promptly to security challenges within their areas of jurisdiction. He stressed that commanders must demonstrate leadership, visibility and operational control, noting that the security situation and level of public safety in each area would remain important indicators in assessing their performances. The CP further charged the commanders to strengthen collaboration with other security agencies, community stakeholders and members of the public, stressing that effective policing requires collective responsibility and timely sharing of credible intelligence. Meanwhile, the CP has introduced awards and commendations to exceptional officers and warned against unprofessional conduct, extortion, abuse of office and other practices capable of undermining public confidence in the Police. He reiterated that all personnel must operate within the ambit of the law and uphold the highest standards of professionalism and accountability.

By Madu Obi The new Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Nnanna Ama Oji has assumed office with a promise to emphasize on community engagement that will create more trust in policing . Addressing reporters during his maiden press briefing at the state police headquarters in Awka, the CP said he does not believe in class concept, assuring that he would want the people to prioritize their needs, while the Police will follow them. "We want the people to be part owners of policing strategies and our main strategy is to get down to the grassroots. When I came in, I gave strict directive to our men operating along all the roads, including those on the highways to always be mindful of their duty. "We are going to operate on zero extortion and I am not joking about it. We have already started implementing it and I assure the people of Anambra State that we will sustain it . "We therefore need the confidence and trust of the people to function effectively so that at the end of the day, the people will have confidence in us," he said. He however warned the people not to form the habit of recording officers on duty merely to ridicule them, adding that if the officers take the laws into their hands by doing what they are not supposed to do and the recording is to create evidence, there is nothing wrong with it. He also said that the command would adopt digital process and intelligence gathering to enhance police work. He added: "We will create an atmosphere of legitimacy that will make the people to trust police because if there is no legitimacy in police operations, people won't cooperate. "As I assume command, we shall undertake a comprehensive review of our policing strategies and operational capabilities. We will strengthen intelligence gathering, enhance intelligence-led and technology-driven policing, improve operational efficiency, and deepen proactive crime prevention measures across the State. "We shall also reinforce community policing initiatives, strengthen collaboration with sister security agencies, organized vigilante groups and other critical stakeholders, and continue to build public confidence through effective partnership and engagement. "Our objective is clear—to make Anambra State safer, more secure and more peaceful for every resident and visitor." According to him, Anambra State is blessed with industrious, resilient and enterprising people whose immense potentials can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, law and order, assuring that the Police command under his leadership is fully committed to creating and sustaining that enabling environment. "I wish to assure all Ndi Anambra that we shall perform our constitutional responsibilities with integrity, fairness, professionalism and respect for the rule of law. We shall remain resolute in protecting lives and property, preventing crime and maintaining public order throughout the state", CP Ama Oji said. CP Oji Ama takes over the leadership of the Anambra Command following the retirement of Assistant Inspector-General of Police,AIG Ikioye Orutugu. A native of Ekata in Edda LGA of Ebonyi State, CP Nnanna Oji Ama holds a B.Sc. (Hons) in Psychology from the University of Jos. He commenced his police career as a Cadet Superintendent of Police and trained at the Police Academy, Wudil, Kano State, before embarking on a wide-ranging career spanning intelligence, criminal investigation, tactical operations, administration, public relations and strategic command.