The Councillor representing American Quarters Ward 1 in Onitsha North LGA, Mr. Francis Oguno last Saturday led the people of his area for a clean-up exercise. The initiative aimed to rid the streets of debris, trash, and environmental hazards, promoting a cleaner and healthier environment.
Mr. Oguno was accompanied by Mr. Chike Nwanolue, SA to the Governor on Special Duties, Mr. Chuka Ofokhansi, and Mr. Olisa Azubuike. The exercise aligns with Governor Charles Soludo’s vision for Anambra State, focusing on creating a clean, livable, and healthy environment for residents.
He expressed appreciation for the significant turnout of residents who actively participated in the clean-up effort, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining a clean environment.
The Councilor and his team visited key streets, including New American Road, Oranye Street, Okolo Street, Mbanefo Street, Anazonwu Street, Obi Lane, Benjamin Street/Lane, Old Hospital Road, and O’Conor Street. Their hands-on involvement demonstrated a commitment to improving the quality of life for residents and ensuring a sustainable future for the community.
He reaffirmed his dedication to fostering a healthier and greener American Quarters.
Nwankwo, Udah and Obi are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
Joining the global movement to end gender-based violence, the Mayor of Onitsha North LGA, Mr. Tony Nworah has emphasised the importance of empowering women and ensuring their welfare and safety. In his message, Nwaora highlighted the vital role women play in every aspect of society, from spiritual and moral leadership to driving socioeconomic development. He noted that violence against women undermines these contributions and hinders societal progress.
“Women are the backbone of our communities, and their welfare is central to achieving peace and development. We must prioritize creating a society where women feel safe, respected, and empowered,” he said. The Mayor extolled Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration for implementing robust measures to protect women and the girl child across Anambra State especially the domestication of laws aimed at preventing abuse, combating gender-based violence, and promoting equality.
He called on stakeholders, including traditional and religious leaders, community groups, and youth organizations, to join forces in addressing the root causes of violence against women. He stressed the need for public awareness campaigns, education on women’s rights, and community-driven support systems to protect vulnerable individuals.
Nwankwo, Udah and Obi are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
A delegation of Anambra State Government, on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, visited the people of Abatete, in Idemili North Local Government Area, to commiserate with them over the November 18 attack on some vigilantes of the community by gunmen suspected to be enforcing the Monday sit-at-home.
The delegation was made up of the Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, AVM Ben Chiobi (Rtd).
Addressing the leadership of the town, the Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor, who is not only an indigene of the town but a member of the Igwe-in-Council, consoled the people over the ugly incident and prayed for the quick recovery of the PG of the town, Chief Ezebinobi Chimame Ezigbo, who sustained a bullet injury during the attack.
Dr Mefor also expressed his commitment as a government agent and a major stakeholder in Abatete to work with the people till they get to the end of the matter and security is fully restored.
In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, AVM Chiobi, described the incident as one of the hazards of the job, adding that the government is working to ensure it never happens again.
“We will do something. Although it will cause some disruptions and make some people uncomfortable, no one will be killed.”
He urged the leadership of Abatete to work towards sanitising the community, especially the Eke Agu axis, to make it safe, or the government will decide and take action for everyone’s interest, even as he suggested ways to improve security in the area such as CCTV cameras.
In their separate remarks, Chief Clement Analikwu, Obi Nsukwu Abatete and Obi of Ogbu Abatete, Chief Edwin Enyokwa, who represented the traditional ruler of the town, Igwe Emeka Efobi, thanked the government for showing concern to the Abatete people and assured that they would cooperate with the government in any way possible to curb insecurity in the town. They called for government assistance in burying the dead and defraying the expense incurred in the treatment of the town’s president general who was still hospitalized.
Also speaking, the 3rd Vice President of the Abatete Union, Sir Anthony Okwuchukwu Adibe, disclosed that the Igwe-in-Council is speeding up actions to hold the Abatete Security Summit, which they started planning before the incident, and called on the government to upgrade security patrol to Abatete, as the town cannot do much given the many roads that pass through the town, both federal and state.
In a vote of thanks, Chief Peter Ézè assured that the town would abide by all the government’s directives to curb insecurity in Abatete.
By Nwegbo Ifeanyi/Kelechi Achukwu-Jide/Ogochukwu Mokwugwo :
Charismatic Bishop’s Conference of Nigeria, Anambra State chapter.has presented an Award of Excellence to the Mayor of Onitsha North, Mr. Tony Nworah for his examplary leadership and dedication to effective grassroot governance.
Presenting the award, the duo of Arch Bishop Dr. Mike Chukwudum and Bishop Dr D.C Okeleke highlighted the unwavering commitment of the Mayor to the progress and development of Onitsha North.
The Chairman of Onitsha North Local Government Area, Mr .Tony Nwora expressed gratitude for the honour bestowed upon him. He vowed to continue working tirelessly for the people of Onitsha and its environs, noting that the award was a testament to the positive change under his administration and promised never to let the people of Onitsha North down.
Nwegbo, Achukwu-Jide and Mokwugwo are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
By Kelechi Achukwu-jide/Ifeanyi Nwegbu/Ogochukwu Mokwugwo :
The National Population Commission (NPC) has launched the 2024 Verbal and Social Autopsy (VASA) study in Anambra State, aimed at investigating the causes of maternal and child mortality. Interestingly, four local government areas, including Onitsha North, Ayamelum, Nnewi South, and Orumba South, were excluded from the study due to their impressive records of low child and maternal deaths in previous surveys.
The Federal Commissioner representing Anambra State, Chidi Ezeoke, noted that the exclusion of these LGAs highlighted the progress made in reducing maternal and child mortality in these areas.
Ezeoke, who was represented by the State Director of NPC, Dr. Kingsley Okereke, made this known during the launch of the 2024 VASA study in Awka. He explained that the VASA study was designed to investigate the causes of maternal and child mortality, focusing on social and health-related factors.
“The VASA study is a critical tool in our efforts to reduce maternal and child mortality in Nigeria. By understanding the causes of these deaths, we can develop targeted interventions to prevent them and improve health outcomes for women and children.”
The study, which commenced on November 4, will run until December 15, 2024, in 17 selected local government areas of the state. The NPC is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Health to implement the study nationwide.
Achukwu-jide, Nwegbu and Mokwugwo are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
Anambra youths have been advised to explore the benefits of traditional wrestling and other traditional sports as another source of income, fame and fulfillment.
The call was made at Isu Ebii village Oba, Idemili South LGA by the High Priest of Holy Sabbath of Christ the Lord Yahweh Synagogue/ HLCM Yahweh Synagogue, Priest Noble Chibueze Mmuonapuapu during the burial ceremony of his mother, Late Ezinne/Shepherd-Mother Anthonia Ogonna Onwusika who passed on earlier this year at age 64.
“We are going back to nature, our traditional and cultural sporting events which we Igbos were known for in the olden days. What people watch on TV as Pro Wrestling are mostly Film techniques and acted but Igbo wrestling is pure exhibition of skills, physical strength and dexterity.
“We use every opportunity to promote our culture like TWC ‘Mgba Azueluani’, gymnastics ‘Ikwu ugba, etc. These local sports can attract tourism , and generate revenue for the state as well as be an alternative source of income to our unemployed youths. One can become a celebrity through local sports if developed and promoted by both private individuals and government,” he said.
Many dignitaries were present to commiserate with Priest Chibueze of HLCM Yahweh Synagogue popularly called ‘Mmuonapuapu one of the Prelates in the Sabbath Group of Churches and a member of PMAN, the National Secretary SVF Comrade Solomon Onwusika and thier siblings who lost their mother praying that God would give the bereaved the fortitude to bear the loss of their Late Mum.
According to Priest Chibueze, I and my six siblings will miss my Late Mum Ezinne Anthosco de Capable. She was so caring, She pampers me a lot, and most of all was her hospitality. You can never come around her without eating her food. We have taken after her legacies.
“So, We decided to give her a befitting burial that is why my friends, musicians from different places are here today. Moreover, as a lover of culture and traditional wrestling and sports, the TWC wrestlers and entertainment are here to entertain my people and showcase strength. If you say you are strong you can come forth and contend with the champion and go home with a prize,” Priest Chimezie said.
The TWC Champion, Okwuchukwu Okeke Okamgba Ijele who also commiserated with the mourners advised youths to exploit the benefits of traditional wrestling and sports which if well packaged can be a source of tourism, personal income and even a source of revenue generation for the state government. “In the olden days ladies fall in love with traditional wrestlers because they believe their husband will be strong enough to protect them. Wrestling also keeps you physically and mentally fit.
Moreover, Chairman Sunny Star Hotel, Nze Sunday Agina, a relative to the deceased family said in his condolence message that the reason why people have children is for the offspring to take care of them later in life and bury them not the other way round, praying God to replenish the burial expenses. “I saw the performance of the traditional wrestlers and I hope that we Igbos will embrace, invest and promote our culture including traditional wrestling instead of only watching American WrestleMania.
Also, Mrs Ebelechukwu Chibueze, daughter in law described mama as her confidant, counselor and guide who loved and treated her as one of her biological daughters when she married into the family.”Shepherd-Mother was my sister from Nnewi too my hometown. Her caring in church gave me the courage to accept to get married to someone from Oba community”.
The first daughter, Adachukwu Sandra said: “Mama was a virtuous woman, God fearing, peaceful, never interested in quarrelling or dragging anything with anyone. She wished that we her children knew God more than she does and that we are willing to do”.
Moreover, the Head Teacher of Community Model Primary School Akabo Ojoto, Mrs Precious Edoziobi described the late Matriarch as an industrious, efficient and effective administrator when she was the Pioneer Head Teacher of their school, saying that was why the Parents Teachers Association of the school decided to come for condolence despite the fact that the deceased retired over four years ago.
The trio of DG/CEO ASWAMA and National Convener Soludo Volunteer Force SVF, Hon Mike Ozoemena, Founder SVF, Nze Yahweh Onyebuchi Okoye, Woman Leader SVF, Mrs Bekee Udeoogalanya in their seperate speeches empathized with the second son of the deceased and SVF National Secretary, Comrade Solomon Onwusika for his loss, urging him to take heart.
“We the members of SVF a strong support group that is creating awareness on Prof Chukwuma Soludo’s Achievements and mobilizing voters to ensure that he returns for a second term as Governor are here to encourage our Secretary, praying God to fill the vacuum created by their mother’s death,” they said.
Other dignitaries who commiserated with the Onwusika family include Prof. Arthur Anyabolu of Chidozie Memorial hospital, Senior All Stars club, Mrs Chibugwu Ofor of Sharon Kitchen Asaba.
The deceased family prayed God to bless all the friends, relatives and well wishers who came from far and near to commiserate with them in their period of mourning and grant them safe journey back to their various destinations.
Highlights of the occasion was when the famous Gospel Artist, Gozie Okeke took over the stage to charge the occasion with his sonorous voice to the fascination of the audience and the traditional wrestling bouts slated for a day before the burial.
*Uzochukwu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
By Enoch Uzuegbunam/Chioma Akaogu/Jacinta Muodebelu :
Hon. Echezona Anazodo, the Executive Chairman of Nnewi North Local Government Area, has demonstrated his commitment to infrastructural development in Nnewi by supervising the ongoing road project at the popular Nnewi Bank Road.
As a dedicated public servant, Anazodo has been making waves in Nnewi since his ascension as the elected Chairman. His hands-on approach to governance ensures that the roads meet the standard and are delivered within the slated time.
On Nov. 27, Anazodo inspected the ongoing road project, showcasing his focus on improving the lives of citizens through strategic infrastructure monitoring. By overseeing the project’s progress, Anazodo ensures that the road meets the required standards, benefiting the community and enhancing economic growth.
This move by the Anazodo Administration is a testament to his dedication to the people of Nnewi North.
Enoch/Chioma/Jacinta are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
After his payment of the accumulated electricity bills of over 18 years ago by Anaocha Local Government, the Mayor of the LGA, Hon. Rome Ibekwe has installed EEDC prepaid meter in the various departments of the Secretariat to ensure timely payment of utility as it is pay before service.
Speaking, Hon. Ibekwe said that on his assumption of office, he discovered and payed all the debts owed by the local government before his regime to ensure optimum power supply that will augment the insufficient and weakling solar supply.
He said that steady power supply in the Secretariat will enhance workers productivity and service delivery.
“I am committed to fulfilling my campaign promises to ensure the reality of greater Anaocha,” Hon. Ibekwe said.
Barr. Peter Emeneh, Deputy Mayor of Anaocha lgat, said that the Ibekwe led administration of the council area came in prepared to work for the people.
He said that the installation and reconnection of electricity supply is like a miracle that is going round all the departments in the Secretariat and is felt by all to ensure comfort and smooth running of the day to day activities of the LG council.
Barr. Emeneh said that their administration will bring lasting solution to all existing problems so that Anaocha will soar.
Hon. Mrs. Ngozi Asonibe, Councillor representing Aguluzigbo said that the inverter on ground has been developing series of fault since their assumption of office and serves only few offices as such, the chairman took the bull by the horn through paying the accumulated bill and installation of the new prepared meter so that every area of the Secretariat feels and embraces the light of change.
“Electricity will help even the health department in preservation of vaccines and medications. It will help maximize output by the work force to better Anaocha and Anambra State at large,” She said.
The Adazi-Enu Councillor, Hon. Nnabuike Ezenwugo, described Hon. Ibekwe as a result oriented chairman, commending him for his step in the right direction of fulfilling his campaign promises.
*Chidimma and Ngozi are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
By Kelechi Achukwu-jide/Ogochukwu Mokwugwo/Ifeanyi Nwegbo :
The Mayor of Onitsha North Local Government Area, Hon. Nweze Tony Nwora, has officially assigned portfolios to the seven newly appointed supervisory councillors confirmed by the Onitsha legislative arm last week.
The supervisors and their respective portfolios include; Hon. Chinedu Romanus Eze, Education; Hon. Ngozi Ezediniru, Environment; Hon. Nancy Nkiruka Abadom, Finance; Hon. Ikechukwu Oguiyi, Security & Peace Committee; and Hon. Mrs Justina Nkiruka Omaliko, Agriculture.
While Hon. Andrew Chike Nwanosike and Hon. Nnamdi Michael Melifonwu are for Health and Works respectively.
During the portfolio assignment ceremony, Mayor Nwora congratulated the supervisors, urging them to serve with integrity, transparency and passion.
He expressed confidence in their abilities to contribute positively to the development of Onitsha North LGA.
“The role of supervisory councillors is crucial in achieving our vision of transforming Onitsha North into a livable, clean, and prosperous smart city. I charge you all to work tirelessly, bringing innovative ideas and dedicated service to your respective departments,” he emphasized.
The assignment of portfolios marks a significant milestone in the administration’s efforts to deliver effective governance and development to the people of Onitsha North LGA.
*Kelechi, Ogochukwu and Ifeanyi are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
The Mayor of Onitsha South Local Government Area, Anambra State, Chief Emeka Orji, has commended the National Chairman of All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) party, Chief Sly Ezeokenwa, over his victory against a self acclaimed factional leader of APGA, Chief Edozie Njoku, at Supreme Court Wednesday.
Making the commendation, Orji expressed satisfaction with the judgement, adding that it has laid to rest all issues over who is the national chairman of the party and advised Njoku that the will of the majority of the people will always prevail.
Orji described APGA as a mass Movement party that serves as vehicle that will lead the people to the promise land even as he described the victory as that of APGA and good people who believe in democracy.
According to him Gov. Chukwuma Soludo is not surprise with the victory because Gov. Soludo is so occupied with planning on how to move the state forward and can not condescend so low to look at a case that distract him from moving the state forward.
He, however, admitted that Gov. Soludo has been informed of the victory which according to him did not come as surprise as Njoku would not have won.
He commended the judges, APGA faithful and Stakeholders for their prayers for the victory and prayed that the party will continue to move forward.
Note that the Supreme Court has upheld an appeal by the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), recognising Sly Ezeokenwa as its National Chairman.
In a judgement on Wednesday, the court also awarded N20 million fine against Edozie Njoku for filing a frivolous suit at FCT High Court, Bwari.
A few days ago, the Federal High Court in Abuja restrained Njoku from parading himself as the national chairman of the party.
Justice James Omotosho, in a judgement, held that there was no valid court judgement or order, including a judgement from the Supreme Court, that recognised Mr Njoku as APGA National Chairman.
In the originating summons filed on 12 July, the plaintiffs sued the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Mr Njoku as 1st and 2nd defendants.
They filed the suit following the removal of the names of Mr Ezeokenwa, a legal practitioner, and his executive officers from the INEC website, and the replacement of same by the names of the Njoku-led leadership of APGA by the electoral umpire on 9 July.
Delivering the judgment, Justice Omotosho held that INEC was wrong to have recognised the Njoku-led leadership of the party.
*Juliana is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
