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FCCPC SEALS THREE AWADA MILK FACTORIES OVER ALLEGED SAFETY VIOLATIONS

By Eberechukwu Ezekigbo

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has sealed three milk production factories in Awada, Idemili North Local Government Area(LGA) of Anambra State, over alleged violations of food safety and production standards.

The enforcement operation, carried out on July 14, by FCCPC officials with the support of security operatives, led to the destruction of freshly produced milk found in containers and awaiting packaging.

Speaking during the exercise, the South East Zonal Coordinator of the FCCPC, Mrs. Ndidiamaka Obialor, alleged that the affected factories were producing dairy products under conditions that fell short of acceptable hygiene and safety standards, posing potential health risks to consumers.

According to her, preliminary findings indicated that workers handled the products without appropriate personal protective equipment and that the production processes did not comply with established food safety requirements.

Obialor alleged that the factories neither used properly treated water nor carried out quality analysis on finished products before distributing them to the market.

She reiterated the commission’s commitment to protecting consumers from unsafe products and promoting compliance with established production and safety regulations.

“The FCCPC will not tolerate practices that endanger the health and safety of consumers. We will continue to enforce standards and ensure that manufacturers comply with regulatory requirements,” she said.

During the operation, police officers accompanying the enforcement team arrested one of the factory owners, while equipment and other production materials were confiscated as part of the ongoing investigation.

The commission assured members of the public that enforcement activities would continue to safeguard consumer rights and prevent substandard products from reaching the market.

Eberechukwu Ezekigbo is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

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ANAMBRA BEGINS DATA COLLECTION FOR MID-TERM REVIEW OF HEALTH SECTOR STRATEGY

By Stanley Nwako

The Anambra State Ministry of Health has commenced data collection for the Mid-Term Review of the Health Sector Strategic Blueprint, an exercise aimed at assessing achievements, identifying challenges, and improving health sector outcomes in the state.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting held on July 14, at the Ministry of Health Headquarters in Awka, the Anambra State Facilitator for the Mid-Term Review, Dr. Dozie Nwokedi, said the strategic document serves as the medium-term development framework guiding the health sector at the federal, state, and local government levels.

According to him, the blueprint provides a framework for health departments and agencies to design programs, projects, and activities targeted at improving healthcare delivery. He explained that the strategy is built around four pillars, three enablers, 18 objectives, 27 priority initiatives, and 265 interventions, and is designed to guide the health sector from 2023 to 2027.

Dr. Nwokedi noted that the Mid-Term Review is intended to assess progress made so far and identify challenges affecting the implementation of key health interventions. “This exercise is not to indict any state or probe anybody. It is simply to document what has been achieved in the identified priority areas and highlight the challenges,” he said.

Key departments and agencies participating in the review include the Department of Health Planning, Research and Statistics, Medical Services, Nutrition, Immunization, the State Health Insurance Agency, and the State Primary Health Care Development Agency. The review will examine outputs and achievements recorded at the midpoints of 2024, 2025, and 2026, with participating departments expected to provide data on relevant indicators and interventions.

Dr. Nwokedi added that findings from the exercise would support the federal government and other stakeholders in making informed decisions and identifying priority interventions that can be fast-tracked to improve health outcomes. He said the review is also expected to strengthen the implementation of the strategic document in the remaining period.

In his remarks, the Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, described the Mid-Term Review as a critical exercise that will enable the state to assess progress in implementing key health interventions and identify areas requiring more attention.

Dr. Obidike said the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo remains committed to strengthening the health system through evidence-based planning, improved service delivery, and effective use of health data. He urged all departments and agencies involved to provide accurate and comprehensive information, stressing that reliable data is critical to effective planning and decision-making.

“The review gives us an opportunity to look at what we have achieved, identify existing gaps, and strengthen areas that require improvement. We must ensure that the information provided reflects the work being done across the health sector in Anambra State,” Dr. Obidike stated.

The commissioner assured the review team of the ministry’s cooperation and reiterated the state government’s commitment to working with the federal government and relevant stakeholders to improve healthcare outcomes for Ndi Anambra.

In her closing remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Anambra State Ministry of Health, Dr. Obiageli Uchebo, thanked the facilitator and stakeholders for their participation. She assured the team of the ministry’s readiness to provide necessary support for the success of the exercise.

“Thank you so much for being here with us. We are ready to work with the team and provide the necessary support to ensure the success of this exercise,” Dr. Uchebo said.

Stanley Nwako is of the Ministry of Health, Anambra State

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ANAMBRA ASSEMBLY URGES SOLUDO, PRIVATE SECTOR TO EVACUATE STRANDED INDIGENES FROM SOUTH AFRICA

By Chizoba Okeke

Anambra State House of Assembly has called on Governor Chukwuma Soludo, to mobilise well-meaning individuals, philanthropic organisations and organised private sector in the state to urgently assist in the evacuation of stranded Anambra indigenes facing hardship in South Africa.

The call followed a motion sponsored by the Majority Leader, Hon. Ikenna Ofodeme and other members of the House on July 14, expressing concern over the plight of Anambra citizens affected by xenophobic attacks, unfavourable immigration policies, economic hardship and other hostile conditions in South Africa.

Hon. Ofodeme noted that many of the affected persons travelled abroad in search of better economic opportunities but are now confronted with severe deprivation, insecurity and legal challenges, which have placed emotional and financial burdens on their families back home.

He stressed that the situation requires urgent intervention in line with the Igbo philosophy of “Onye aghana nwanne ya” (one should not abandon one’s brother), while appealing to wealthy Anambra industrialists, captains of industry, diaspora organisations and other stakeholders to support the evacuation effort.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, thanked the mover of the motion.

Also, the member representing, Aguata Constituency 1, Hon. Anayo Okpalaeke, Hon. Jude Ngobili representing Ihiala Constituency 1 and Hon. Fred Ezenwa representing Onitsha South 1, commended the mover of the motion and said it is a call for humanitarian action, noting that the plight of Anambra stranded indigenes in South Africa requires collective actions.

Chizoba Okeke is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

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ARCHBISHOP VALERIAN OKEKE ORDAINS 11 PRIESTS IN ONITSHA

By Doris Onyekachi

The Metropolitan Archbishop of Onitsha, Most Rev. Dr. Valerian Okeke, on July 11, ordained 11 priests during a solemn Mass at the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity, Onitsha.

The ordination coincided with the Archbishop’s 45th anniversary as a priest and was concelebrated with the Bishop of the Diocese of Brookline, USA, Most Rev. Dr. Robert, alongside other priests.

In his homily, Archbishop Okeke described the priesthood as a sacred calling, noting that a priest serves as a bridge and mediator between God and humanity, stressing that unwavering faith in God and a life of prayer are essential for overcoming the challenges of priestly ministry.

He urged the newly ordained priests to nurture the gift of holiness received at baptism, live by the gospel they preach, and remain faithful representatives of Christ in both word and action.

The archbishop reminded them of the importance of remaining committed to their canonical vows of obedience, poverty and chastity throughout their priestly ministry.

In separate remarks, the visiting Bishop from the United States, Most Rev. Dr. Robert, and the Vice Chancellor of the Onitsha Archdiocese, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Prudentius Aroh, encouraged the new priests to remain steadfast in their vocation, place their trust in God who called them, and resist the temptation of materialism.

The ordination marked a significant milestone for the Onitsha Archdiocese, as the church welcomed 11 new priests into active pastoral ministry while celebrating Archbishop Okeke’s 45 years of dedicated priestly service.

Doris Onyekachi is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

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ANAMBRA TO BEGIN STATEWIDE ASSESSMENT OF PRIMARY SCHOOLS TO DEEPEN SOLUDO’S EDUCATION REFORMS

By Obiageli Nwankwo

The Anambra State Ministry of Education will begin a statewide assessment of public primary schools to identify challenges and strengthen the implementation of Governor Charles Soludo’s education transformation agenda across the state.

Commissioner for Education, Dr. Ekene Ogugua, disclosed this on July 10 during a familiarisation meeting with head teachers of public primary schools, mission public primary schools and ASUBEB directors at the ASUBEB Unity Hall, Awka.

He said the planned visitation forms part of his familiarisation with education stakeholders and will enable the ministry to assess school conditions, identify pressing challenges and provide practical solutions that will improve teaching and learning.

Ogugua described head teachers as the foot soldiers of basic education, stressing that the successful implementation of Governor Soludo’s education policies depends largely on their dedication, leadership and commitment at the grassroots.

“As part of this familiarisation, my team and I will visit every primary school to assess your challenges and provide solutions. We cannot implement Mr. Governor’s vision for education without your support.” The Commissioner said.

The Commissioner reminded the head teachers that they were custodians of children’s future, urging them to nurture pupils with diligence because the quality of students produced today will ultimately shape society tomorrow.

“The kind of students we have are the kind you prepare for us. Please guide them well because your work has a way of either positively or negatively affecting society,” he said.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ifeoma Agbaizu, urged head teachers to openly present the challenges affecting their schools, assuring them that the ministry remained committed to addressing issues hindering effective service delivery.

Also speaking, ASUBEB Chairman, Dr. Justina Anyadiegwu, said that Governor Soludo’s vision was to make Anambra pupils globally competitive through smart schools, free education, school renovation and the recruitment of qualified teachers statewide.

Delivering vote of thanks, the Head Teacher of Igwebuike Primary School, Abagana, Mrs. Ndidi Nriagu, expressed optimism that Dr. Ogugua’s appointment would usher in lasting solutions to challenges confronting public primary school head teachers.

*Obiageli Nwankwo is of Ministry of Information and Value Reformation,Anambra State.

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‎ANAMBRA POLICE FOIL SUSPECTED KIDNAP PLOT, ARREST 66-YEAR-OLD OVER ALLEGED FRAUD SYNDICATE

By Chizoba Njaka
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‎The Anambra State Police Command has foiled a suspected kidnap plot, rescued a victim and arrested a 66-year-old suspect, Kenneth Nnaji, over his alleged involvement in a criminal syndicate specialising in obtaining money under false pretences in Awka.
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‎The development was disclosed in a statement issued on July 14 by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga in Awka. He stated that operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu, carried out the operation on the evening of July 11 following actionable intelligence.
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‎According to the statement, preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect is allegedly a member of a three-man criminal syndicate believed to have been involved in defrauding unsuspecting members of the public through carefully orchestrated fraudulent schemes across Anambra and Enugu States.
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‎The Police spokesperson disclosed that during interrogation, the suspect allegedly admitted his involvement in the criminal operation and provided investigators with useful information regarding the syndicate’s mode of operation. The group reportedly disguises its members in branded overalls and caps while posing as representatives of reputable companies.
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‎Under this guise, they allegedly persuade prospective victims to release goods as samples before directing them to another location with false claims of access to larger quantities of the goods at significantly discounted prices. Victims are then allegedly defrauded through the deceptive arrangement.
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‎Further investigation revealed that the suspect identified other alleged members of the syndicate as Christopher (surname yet to be established), Jacob Musa and Joseph (surname yet to be established), all of whom remain at large. The Police Command stated that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and dismantle the criminal network.
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‎The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, however, urged members of the public to remain vigilant and exercise caution by verifying the identities and credentials of individuals claiming to represent companies before entering into any business transactions.
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‎He also directed the investigating team to conduct a comprehensive investigation, ensure the arrest of all fleeing suspects, recover the proceeds of the alleged fraud and prosecute everyone found culpable in accordance with the law. The Police Command added that the suspect will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
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‎Chizoba Njaka is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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GOVERNMENT BEGINS RIGHT-OF-WAY CLEARANCE FOR 132KV POWER TRANSMISSION PROJECT

By Chukwuka Ugokwe

The Anambra State Government has commenced the clearance of the Right of Way (RoW) for the ongoing 132kV power transmission line project, marking another step towards improving electricity supply across parts of the state.

The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Barr. Chijioke Ojukwu, disclosed this during an inspection tour on July 10 to identify and mark illegal structures obstructing the transmission corridor for removal.

The exercise covered parts of Umuogbo-Obiofia, Nnewichi, in Nnewi North Local Government Area(LGA), as well as Nnobi in Idemili South LGA.

Speaking during the inspection, Barr. Ojukwu said the exercise was necessary to clear obstructions along the Right of Way to enable the completion of the 132kV electricity transmission line, a project that had remained stalled for more than a decade.

According to him, the transmission line is expected to significantly improve electricity supply to Nnewi and neighbouring communities, enhancing industrial and commercial activities and improving the quality of life for residents.

The commissioner appealed to affected property owners and residents to cooperate with the government, assuring them that the exercise is in the overall public interest and aimed at delivering critical infrastructure for sustainable development.

Barr. Ojukwu was accompanied on the inspection by the Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Engr. Casmir Chinenye Agbunma Agbamu (commonly known as Casmir Agummadu), alongside officials of the relevant ministries.

The Anambra State Government reaffirmed its commitment to removing obstacles to critical infrastructure projects as part of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision of improving public utilities and driving sustainable development across the state.

Chukwuka Ugokwe is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

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BACKYARD FARMING EASES ECONOMIC PRESSURE AS GARRI PRICE DROPS TO ₦1,200 IN ANAMBRA MARKET

By Rita Okonkwo

The price of garri has dropped significantly at Nkwo Agulu Market in Anaocha Local Government Area(LGA) of Anambra State, with a paint bucket now selling for about ₦1,200, compared to between ₦6,000 and ₦7,000 recorded three to four years ago.

Traders and residents attribute the decline to increased cassava cultivation and the growing adoption of backyard farming by households across the state.

Speaking with newsmen at the market, a trader, Mrs. Ekwutosi Emeh, said the abundance of cassava this year is largely due to more families cultivating the crop for their own consumption.

According to her, backyard farming has not only improved food security but also created additional sources of income for many households.

Mrs. Emeh said she established her petty business of selling fufu and akpu wraps with proceeds from cassava harvested in her home garden.

“I started this business with income from cassava grown in my backyard and i also cultivate vegetables alongside the cassava, which helps feed my family and reduces our household expenses.” she said.

She explained that depending on market demand, she processes her cassava into either garri or fufu, providing her with a steady source of income despite prevailing economic challenges.

Mrs. Emeh expressed appreciation for the backyard farming campaign championed by the Wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, describing the initiative as a practical way of improving household food production and economic resilience.

She encouraged women to make productive use of available land around their homes, no matter how small, noting that home gardening can supplement family nutrition while generating extra income.

Agricultural observers say the increasing adoption of backyard and subsistence farming has helped cushion the impact of rising food prices, improved household food security and strengthened community resilience in the face of current economic realities.

Rita Okonkwo is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

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EJIKE OFOEGBU PUBLISHER AND OWNER OF IGBO TIME MAGAZINE ARRAIGNED BEFORE THE COURT, TO FACE CHARGES OVER, DEFAMATORY PUBLICATIONS AND FABRICATIONS

By Chinelo Okeke

Ejike Ofoegbu the online content creator and publisher of Igbo time magazine was arraigned today, July 13th before the Magistrate courts of Amawbia

The Defendant was accused of misrepresentation and Spreading false information aimed at tarnishing the good image of the Anambra state Governor Professor Charles Soludo and his Family, centering on his son Ozonna.

According to the Prosecutors, the Defendant had reported and fabricated stories making allegations stating that Soludo has disowned his son, while on the other hand that Ozonna in question has no regrets or regard for his father as he sees his father as a drunk and woman beater while growing up which is a malicious damage to the dignity of his father and to his political career.

Though the defendants had issued a public apology to the Governor and to Ndi Anambra, and retraction of his claims, the legal proceedings is still ongoing

The legal action is being followed under the stringent provisions of Nigerian law, including the cybercrimes (Prohibition Prevention, Etc) Act 2015_Specifically Section 24 (1b) Concerning cyberstalking and Section 38 regarding Identity theft as well as the 2024 Amendment to the Cybercrime Act.

Also the Defendant was Charged under Sections 373 and 375 of the Criminal Code Act pertaining to Criminal defamation

The Presiding Magistrate C.O. Onyekwere during proceedings maintained and ruled that the Magistrate Court lack the requisite Jurisdiction to preside over the matter and court mandated that the case file be transmitted to the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of the State for further action

The learned Magistrate C.O.Onyekwere, advised the defendant to approach the high court in Awka, in case he wishes to pursue application for bail.

The court was adjourned to July 27, 2026 for further proceedings.

Counsel for the plaintiff A.A. Nwanri, with the Chief Security Officer to the Governor, CSP OK.Nkuma, and Inspector Tobechukwu Echemagu of the State CID, moved for the Defendant to be remanded to the Awka Correctional Center.

Chinelo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State.

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COOU TO HOLD 33RD INAUGURAL LECTURE AS NIGERIA’S FIRST REVEREND SISTER PROFESSOR OF LAW TAKES CENTRE STAGE

By Eberechukwu Ezekigbo

Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, Anambra State, will hold its 33rd inaugural lecture on Thursday, July 23, 2026, featuring Nigeria’s first Reverend Sister Professor of Law, Professor Anne Amuche Obiora.

Professor Obiora will deliver the lecture titled, “Constitution and Customary Arbitration in Nigeria: Peace, A Point of Convergence,” focusing on constitutional law and customary arbitration within Nigeria’s evolving legal system.

The inaugural lecture, a longstanding university academic tradition, provides professors opportunities to present years of research, scholarly contributions, and intellectual achievements while enriching knowledge and advancing academic discourse.

As Nigeria’s first Reverend Sister to attain the rank of Professor of Law, Professor Obiora has distinguished herself through exceptional scholarship, research, and unwavering commitment to legal education over many years.

Her selection as the university’s 33rd inaugural lecturer reflects recognition of her remarkable contributions to legal scholarship and marks another significant milestone in Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University’s academic history.

The lecture is expected
to offer scholarly insights into the relationship between constitutional law and customary arbitration, highlighting their importance in promoting peaceful dispute resolution and strengthening justice within Nigerian communities.

The event also reflects the university’s commitment to its 3Vs mantra of Values, Viability, and Visibility while promoting academic excellence, impactful research, innovation, and meaningful intellectual engagement across disciplines.

Scholars, legal practitioners, policymakers, students, and members of the public are expected to attend the lecture, one of the university’s flagship academic engagements promoting knowledge exchange and professional interaction.

The 33rd inaugural lecture further underscores COOU’s commitment to sustaining academic excellence and creating platforms that encourage intellectual discussions, celebrate outstanding scholarship, and contribute meaningfully to national development.