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By Madu Obi The presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, has donated the sum of ₦15 million to the Anglican Bishop of Enugu, The Rt. Rev. Samuel Obiajulu Ike, as further support for the completion and equipping of the Primary Health Centre he built in Amafor, Ihuobala, in Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State. Obi, who first visited the Bishop at his residence in Enugu before proceeding to the community, expressed satisfaction with the progress and quality of work at the facility. Reflecting on his earlier involvement in the project, the former governor of Anambra State said: “This is the reason I am always happy to support the Church. I was here earlier this year and donated ₦20 million, and I promised that I would remain part of this project until its completion. "To my surprise and delight, the building has already been completed. If it were otherwise, they would probably still be processing variations.” He commended the Bishop for his foresight and wisdom in extending development projects to rural communities. “It is remarkable how the Bishop has reached out to the villages, bringing healthcare and hope to communities that would otherwise be neglected. This is true leadership—seeing the needs of the people and taking practical steps to meet them. His example shows the power of visionary thinking and the impact that faith-based initiatives can have in transforming lives,” Obi added. He explained that the additional donation of ₦15 million was intended to support the next phase of the project, including furnishing and equipping the health centre with essential medical equipment and facilities. He reaffirmed his commitment to standing by the community and the Church, not only on the project, but also on similar developmental efforts across the country. After inspecting the completed project, Prof. Benjamin Uzochukwu, a renowned public health expert, thanked Mr. Obi for his continued support and generous contributions. Urging other well-meaning and wealthy Nigerians to follow Obi’s example, Uzochukwu noted that private initiatives like this significantly enhance healthcare delivery and improve the lives of ordinary citizens. He emphasized that collaborative efforts between philanthropists and faith-based organisations are crucial in bridging gaps in public health infrastructure and deepening community impact.

By Madu Obi A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) sitting in Gwarinpa has remanded the former Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, at the Kuje Correctional Centre following his arraignment by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged involvement in a ₦2.2 billion contract. The presiding Judge, Justice Maryam Hassan, directed that the former minister should remain in custody, pending the hearing of his bail application scheduled for Monday, December 15. EFCC had filed an eight-count charge against Ngige, over alleged contract fraud during his supervision of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF). According to the charge sheet dated October 31 and filed by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Sylvanus Tahir, alongside five other EFCC lawyers, the Commission alleged that Ngige used his office to unlawfully award multiple contracts to associates and companies connected to him. In Count One, the EFCC alleged that between September 2015 and May 2023, Ngige “used his position to confer an unfair advantage upon Cezimo Nigeria Limited,” a firm linked to his associate, Ezebinwa Amarachukwu Charles. The company reportedly received seven consultancy, training, and supply contracts valued at ₦366,470,920.68, in violation of Section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000. The charge sheet also listed several other companies allegedly favoured by the former minister. Zitacom Nigeria Limited, also linked to Charles, reportedly received eight NSITF contracts worth ₦583,682,686.00. Also, Jeff & Xris Limited, connected to Nwosu Jideofor Chukwunwike, was said to have secured eight contracts valued at ₦362,043,163.16. Another beneficiary, Olde English Consolidated Limited, whose Managing Director is Uzoma Igbonwa, allegedly received four contracts for consultancy, training, and construction totalling ₦668,138,141.00, while Shale Atlantic Intercontinental Services Limited, also linked to Igbonwa, reportedly obtained four additional contracts worth ₦161,604,625.00. Ngige pleaded not guilty to the eight-count charge, which bordered on abuse of office and unlawful acceptance of gratification from contractors of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) during his tenure as supervising minister between September 2015 and May 2023.

By Madu Obi Some nongovernmental organizations and civil society groups in Anambra State have taken to the major roads of Awka, the state capital, on a campaign against alleged growing corruption in high places, which they say, is a cankerworm that undermines the country's democracy. The protest was organized by the Anambra State Anti-Corruption Strategy (ANSACS) in partnership with the Anambra State Civil Society Organisations (CSOs)/ Media Accountability and Anti-Corruption Initiative (CMAAI) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) with support from the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC). According to the groups, corruption in the country erodes trusts in institutions, slows down economic growth and destroys human development. Their road walk, which kicked off from the popular Alex Ekwueme Square, through the Jerome Udorji Secretariat, the Federal Secretariat Complex, Aroma Junction and the Solution Motor Park, ended at the Anambra Broadcasting Service Premises. In all the stops, they spoke against corruption in government offices, motor parks and even market places. The organizers say it was part of the activities to mark the 2025 International Anti-Corruption Day (IACD) celebration on the theme- "Uniting With Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow's Integrity". The annual International Anti-Corruption Day celebration, established by the United Nations, is celebrated every 9th December to create awareness about the dangers of corruption and sensitize them on the need to promote integrity, transparency and accountability in the public and private lives. Inscriptions on some of the placards carried by the campaigners read: "Say No to Corruption", "Stop Extortion", "Integrity is Not Just a Virtue, It is A Responsibility", "Spread Integrity, Stop Corruption", " Corruption Hurts, Let's Work Together To Stop It" and Empowering Citizens Fighting Corruption". The Anambra State Project Coordinator of Rule of Law and Anti Corruption, Dr Josephine Onah, said the aim is to enable the youths to play what she described as their generational responsibility in the fight against corruption. She urged everyone to consciously engage the youths in the crusade against corruption, stating that with the engagement, youths, who she described as actors and innovators, would play their part towards achieving a corrupt-free and egalitarian society. Also speaking, the Anambra State Coordinator of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs)/Media Accountability and Anti-Corruption Initiative (CMAAI), Mrs Ugochi Freeman, stressed the need for everyone to do the right thing at all times, whether being seen or not, so as to possibly join hands and wipe out corruption from Anambra State. She added that doing so would make the state a corrupt free and egalitarian society that would bring about boisterous economy and improved human development. After the road show, there was a town hall meeting which had many stakeholders in attendance.

By Madu Obi A Bill for a Law to establish Anambra State Taxes, Levies and Presumptive Tax Collection 2025 has passed through second reading in the state House of Assembly. Essentially, the Bill provides that any person or group that mounts roadblock for the purpose of revenue collection, is liable for a fine of over N5 million and imprisonment, among other provisions. The executive Bill, when passed, will aim to eliminate multiple taxation and illegal collection of levy by unauthorized persons within Anambra State. Presenting the Bill for consideration, the Majority Leader of the House, Hon Ikenna Ofodeme said it will also aim to block loopholes and illegal taxes, as well as define the revenues meant for each of the three tiers of government. Ofodeme explained that the Bill when passed, will also help the people to know what to pay and embrace the ease of making payments electronically. According to him, the Bill will also reduce the issue of touts collecting levy without state approvals, which will in turn, boost the economy and increase the state's Internally Generated Revenue, IGR. Supporting the passage of the Bill, the member representing Nnewi South Constituency 2, Hon JohnBosco Akaegbobi said the objectives of the law include transparency and electronic collection, as well as ensure that the IGR goes into government coffers without being siphoned. Also Hon Ejike Okechukwu representing Anaocha Constituency 2, lamented that Anambra State, despite having so many markets and economic players, still has very little to show in terms of IGR. Other supporters of the Bill, including Noble Igwe representing Ogbaru Constituency 1, Emma Nwafor of Orumba South Constituency, and Golden Iloh of Ihiala Constituency 2 observed that the bill has provisions for punishments against offenders to eliminate multiple taxation.

By Madu Obi Anambra State governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has written a letter to the state House of Assembly requesting for virement of the 2025 budget. According to the letter, the virement has become necessary as new priorities have emerged amidst the limited resources and unfavourable current economic realities. The letter, which was read by the Speaker of the House , Hon Somtochukwu Udeze, requested the House of Assembly to authorize virement of capital and recurrent expenditures , as well as capital receipt in the approved 2025 budget. The governor's letter stated that the state government is taking some decisive actions to address apparent needs of the residents of Anambra State in order to give value and make the most impact to the populace. The governor said it would be greatly appreciated if the draft virement for 2025 appropriation bill is placed before the House at the earliest time for consideration and passage into law. The Speaker, Udeze who presided over the plenary, subsequently referred the letter to the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation to report back to the House by next week.

By Madu Obi As the world marks the Human Rights Day, the wife of the Anambra State governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has called on human rights groups to maintain an unflinching position that guarantees equality, freedom, and dignity for all. In a message to mark the occasion, Mrs. Soludo urged leaders at all levels to emphasize the promotion of fundamental freedoms at all times. According to the Anambra First Lady, human rights are as sacred as the values they represent, adding that they remain a priority for any responsive government or society. Acknowledging that everyone deserves the right to live, to safety, to succeed in life, and to thrive without fear or inhibition, she emphasized the need for people to know their rights and the importance of duty-bearers to protect the rights of citizens. “It is true that understanding human rights and preserving them are what make a society stronger and better. Our everyday lives rely heavily on how we treat others. We must look beyond differences in race, background, gender and beliefs. This uniqueness should unite us more than it divides us. No one deserves to live in a society ruled by fear, alienation, and extremism. Everyone, no matter their creed, cultural, political, and religious differences, deserves the full rights of human dignity and fairness. It's not negotiable,” Mrs Soludo stated. She also highlighted the need to strengthen remediation and redress channels when the rights of citizens are violated to ensure that violators of such rights do not escape justice. This, she noted, will discourage people from engaging in acts that violate human rights. “When rights violators are allowed to go unpunished, it simply emboldens others to toe the same path. So, such violations must not be swept under the carpet. It is also important to ensure that citizens are aware of the options available to them when they observe any violation or infractions on their rights,” the governor's wife concluded.

By Madu Obi The fifteen communities in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State have adopted an official zoning arrangement and rotation for all elective and appointive positions in the area. The affected positions include the Local Government Chairman and Deputy, the member representing the local government in the Anambra State House of Assembly and Supervisory Councilors in the Counci. Rising from a meeting, the stakeholders in the local government said the decision is aimed at promoting unity, political stability, equitable representation, and sustainable development of the area. The arrangement further stipulated that none of the three zones in the area shall retain any political position for more than two consecutive tenures. Speaking during the meeting, the Mayor of Orumba South, Honourable Shedrack Azubuike, commended the communities and stakeholders for embracing the zoning charter, noting that it reflects the collective desire for fairness and balanced political participation. Some of the stakeholders, including the former Deputy Governor of Anambra State, Dr. Emeka Sibeudu, former House of Representatives member for Orumba North and South, Honourable Ben Nwankwo, a prominent figure in the area, Chief Arinze Onwuzuluike among others. The President General Nawfija, Mr. Oforbuike Okoli lauded the adoption of the rotational charter, describing it as a visionary step that would minimize political tension, discourage unhealthy rivalry, and guarantee peaceful transitions across the three zones. They also commended the council’s investments in security, noting that peace and stability are critical for the successful implementation of the new political arrangement. Before the meeting, the Chairman of the Council, Honourable Azubuike presented three Sienna buses, three motorcycles, and other security equipment to Agunechemba Security outfit to enhance local security operations in the area. He also led the stakeholders on an inspection of the ultra-modern Solution Digital Academy and the Orumba South Security Control Room built by the local government. He assured them that the strengthened security system in the area will provide a safe environment for governance and community development.

By Madu Obi Former Governor of Anambra State and immediate past Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, has reportedly been arrested by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja. Ngige's media aide, Fred Chukwuelobe, in a brief statement said: “Ngige is with the EFCC. Former Governor of Anambra State and immediate past Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige, is with the EFCC. More details later.” It was not clear why the anti graft body picked up the former Minister, but a source said it might be politically motivated. The EFCC is yet to issue an official statement on the matter. Recall that as a sitting governor in 2003, Ngige was abducted for allegedly not dancing to the tune of his political godfathers. And only recently, his convoy was attacked by gunmen in Anambra State, although the former governor was not in the convoy at the time.

By Madu Obi The Anambra Stste government is to spend the sum of 200 million for the Procurement and distribution of endangered Igbo traditional fruit trees in 2026. The State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr Foster Ihejiofor, who appeared before the Finance and Appropriation Committee of the State House of Assembly to defend his ministry's 2026 budget estimate, explained that 60,000 Ukwa fruit tree seedlings will be procured at the cost of N90 million. According to him, 40,000 Udala seedlings and 20,000 bitter kola seedlings will also be procured at the cost of N84 million naira. In addition, 10, 000 Rafia seedlings and 16,000 seedlings of Ogbono at the cost N26 million will be procured in 2026. Ihejiofor said the seedlings will be distributed to the 21 local government areas of the state for economic benefits, noting that the Governor Soludo led administration understands the importance of agriculture and has been assisting the youths to be fully engaged in the sector. Stating that emphasis in agriculture is already yielding the desired result, Ihejiofor said that the government is embarking on palm revolution as a significant tool for transforming the state. He added that100,000 households will be receiving oil palm and other economic seedlings during the implementation of the 2026 fiscal year. "Under the Soludo government, a lot is happening in the agricultural sector, with many programmes domiciled in other Ministries Departments and Agencies, like the numerous road infrastructure. These programmes are already opening up the rural communities for more farming activities", he stated.

Ìgwè, Prof. Laz Ekwueme By Kossy Ebunilo/Public Affairs Analyst All roads in the South East in particular and Nigeria in general led to the International Conference Centre, Awka on Saturday, 6th December 2025 for the twilight book launch of the Doyen of Arts in Nigeria, the revered, renowned, versatile, celebrated, legendary, household-name and foremost Nigerian longest living Nonagenarian Musicologist, Igwe Prof. Laz Nnanyelu Ekwueme, Eze Ijikala II, Ozioko Igwe Oko. An estimated sum of N20 million was realized during the launching. The highest sum of N3.25 million was donated by Barr. Ifekandu Okafor. Governor Alex Oti of Abia State and the Primate, Christ Holy Church International and President, Christian Association of Nigeria, (CAN), His Eminence, Daniel Chukwudumebi Okoh each donated the sum of N2.5 million Naira Chief Vin. Obianodo, Chief Obi Okafor and Chief Felix Ezeamama donated the sum of N1 million respectively, while others made donations ranging between N500,000 and N50,000. The Chairman of the occasion and former Governor of Enugu State Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, CON, extolled the intellectual depth of Igwe Prof. Laz Ekwueme whose pioneering musical activity raised a generation of Musicologists both in Nigeria and Africa having attended highly rated Royal College of Music, London and ivy Yale University in US. He eulogized his younger brother, Prof. Obumneme Ekwueme who taught him Surgery at the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus and his elder brother Dr. Alex Ekwueme, Nigeria’s former Vice-President who he claimed mentored the entire Nwodo family in politics. The former Governor of Anambra State and Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 Presidential election Mr. Peter Obi expressed regrets that great intellectuals in the mold of Igwe Prof. Laz Ekwueme were always neglected, undermined and undervalued in Africa unlike in the Western World and called on the Nigerian youths to emulate the sterling qualities and achievements of Igwe Prof. Laz Ekwueme. The book launch attracted a cross-section of the roll call of the crème de la crème of prominent political leaders, traditional rulers, the academia, Captains of Industries, friends and well-wishers in the country. The Governor of Anambra State Prof. Charles Chukwuema Soludo, CFR Oluatuegwu was the Chief Host. The book launch also attracted several prominent traditional rulers in the South East and beyond. They include the Obi of Onitsha and Chairman Emeritus of Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, His Majesty, Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe CFR, mni, Agbogidi; His Majesty Chidubem Iweka III, Ogadagidi, Igwe Obosi; His Majesty, Israel Osita Okeke-Ezue, Egbeanagba Anyanwu, Igwe Awa Chairman, Orumba North Traditional Rulers Council, etc. The book reviewer of the Christmas Carols book launch, Prof. Onyee Nwankpa of the Department of Music, University of Port-Harcourt stated that the book “Christmas Carols from Nigeria is a collection of twenty-six (26) carols reflecting diverse linguistic and cultural landscapes of Nigeria. ”He also stated that the carols cover the Edo/Bini, Efik/Ibibio, English, Hausa, Igbo, Kalabari, Urhobo plus Yoruba languages.”

By Madu Obi The leadership of Akwaihedi Community in Nnewi South local government area of Anambra State has distanced the community from a trending video claiming that a young man was killed in the bush by men wearing military uniforms. A voice in the video claimed that those who killed the young man also stripped him (the narrator) naked and threatened to also kill him if he messed up. According to the narrator, the soldiers also threatened other people namely, Sunday Ojiego, Obinwanne Okafor- and Sunday Albert who, according to him, were going to work. But the community described the video as misleading and malicious, expressing deep concern over the attempt by certain individuals to distort facts and create a negative impression about Akwaihedi, which it stated, is a peaceful and law-abiding community known for its cooperation with security agencies. President General (PG) of Akwaihedi Community, Hon. Oliver Mbagwu, said in a statement that "the individual seen in the viral video was not a resident, representative, or a member of the Akwahedi Community, but rather one of the criminal elements earlier apprehended by soldiers operating around Orsumuoghu area who, after being apprehended, deceitfully led the soldiers into Akwaihedi with false promise to lead them to the den of his cohorts". The PG explained that the suspect was earlier arrested during a security operation targeting criminal hideouts and was being processed when he attempted to escape from custody. His attempt to flee, the PG added, occurred before he was fully demobilized, which led to the situation captured in the circulating video. The PG stressed that any attempt to twist the situation and link the suspect’s actions to the community were malicious and unacceptable, emphasizing that Akwahedi Community has always supported legitimate security operations aimed at safeguarding lives and property and has consistently worked with law-enforcement agencies to ensure peace and order in the area. "The community therefore urges the general public, media practitioners, and social media users to disregard the false narrative being propagated. "Akwahedi remains committed to promoting truth, transparency, and peaceful coexistence, and will not tolerate attempts to tarnish its reputation through misinformation. Akwaihedi is not occupied by insurgents and there is relative peace in the community. "The leadership also calls on those spreading false narratives to desist from such acts and warns that, if necessary, the community will take appropriate legal and civic steps to protect its good name", the PGs statement read.

By Madu Obi Anambra State governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has earmarked N2 billion to empower small scale entrepreneurs in the state. The Micro Enterprise Support Sceme, MESS, is one of the innovations in the 2026 budget already before the State House of Assembly. The Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mrs Chiamaka Nnake made this known while defending budget estimate for her ministry before the Committee on Finance and Appropriation of the Assembly. Nnake explained that the Ministry of Economic Planning, with a total budget of N6.2 billion, has two major components, adding that N3 billion is for counterpart fundings, while N2 billion is for the Micro Enterprise Support Sceme. She explained that the micro credit scheme is expected to give most of the major enterprises components in the state support for their businesses. She said that with the 1 - youth 2 skills programme fully in place and functioning effectively, there are men and women in the market who are running their businesses with minimal capital and, therefore, needed government support in form of grant. According to the Commissioner, Anambra State has the most conservative and efficient budget performance in Nigeria and have tried to make the 2026 budget realistic.