Category: Latest

……..Recover one beretta pistol, four rounds of live ammunition, one pump action,nine rounds of cartridges, and one locally revolver pump action 

Emmanuel lkpeama

Operatives of the Delta Police Command have killed a suspected kidnapper and arrest three other suspected kidnappers, who engaged security operatives in a gun duel in Ewu community in Ughelli South local government area of Delta state.

The suspects Tony Binitie,aka “BOBO” 29 years of age of Big-Warri Community in Warri South LGA Delta, who is the syndicate’s Gang Leader,Ejiro Ewuba 30years old,a native of Uwelogbo community in Isoko LGA of Delta State resident at Owumi Road Sapele and Ayuba Hussaini 38yrs a resident of Hausa quarters Sapele were arrested by the operatives led by ASP Julius Robinson after an intelligence report.

Speaking to newsmen, the Police image maker,SP Edafe Bright on Wednesday,14th August,2024 stated that an investigation with a previously apprehended suspect, Joel Ofoye.saw the operatives trail the hoodlums to Ewu community in pursuit of a notorious gunrunner supplying arms to the kidnapping syndicate.

He said ” At about 0430hrs operatives of CP Special Squad with base in Ughelli while on investigation alongside a suspected kidnapper Joel Ochuko Ofoye ‘m’ who was earlier arrested on 18/7/2024, the suspect led the operatives to Ewu community in Ughelli South LGA of Delta State in the trail of a gun runner who supply arms to them before their kidnapping operation. While they were at it, the team came under attack by the suspect’s gang members in a bid to free the said Joel Ochuko. The hoodlums were overpowered by the Police as they fled with bullet injuries but the suspect Joel Ochuko Ofoye was hit during the gun duel, and he was taken to general hospital Ughelli where he died while receiving treatment. One Beretta Pistol with four (4) rounds of live ammunition, one pump action with nine (9) rounds of cartridges, and one locally fabricated revolver pump action was recovered, manhunt for the fleeing suspects is ongoing.”he said.

SP Edafe went further to state weapons and ammunition which include one Beretta pistol with four rounds of live ammunition, a pump-action shotgun with nine cartridges, and a locally fabricated revolver, was recovered the kidnappers, noting that the police intensified its efforts on a kidnapping syndicate following the abduction of a 29-year-old victim in Kokori Community, Ethiope East LGA, on February 17, 2024.

He noted that the victim which name is withheld, was kidnapped at his residence in Sapele and had N5 million transferred from his bank account by the kidnappers and upon regaining his freedom, the victim reported the incident to the police command.

“The victim after regaining his freedom, reported to the Command,and the Commissioner of Police CP Olufemi Abaniwonda directed the CP’s special squad to investigate and ensure that the perpetrators were arrested and brought to book. The operatives led by ASP Julius Robinson acting on available information provided by the kidnapped victim embarked on a technically driven investigation, stormed Sapele town on 11/08/2024 at about 0430hrs and raided the apartment of one Sapiro, real name unknown and upon search a Beretta Pistol was recovered in his room, his gang members Tony Binitie m” 29 yrs aka “BOBO” of Big-Warri Community in Warri South LGA Delta, who is the syndicate’s Gang Leader and one other co – gang member by name Ejiro Ewuba ‘m’ 30yrs a native of Uwelogbo community in Isoko LGA of Delta State resident at Owumi Road Sapele also arrested was one Ayuba Hussaini ‘m’ 38yrs a resident of Hausa quarters Sapele town the receiver of the victim’s jewelries / phones valued at millions of Naira whom investigation also revealed to have received One Million Naira ( # 1, 000, 000 ) transfered into his account from the victim’s account and also linked to have received victims valuables from various syndicates both the three(3) suspects confessed to the act meanwhile effort to arrest other gang members as investigation is ongoing.” He submitted.

In another development,the police command arrested five suspected cultists to be members pf the black axe confraternity and three locally made cut-to-size guns, one battle axe twelve live cartridges, seven expended cartridges eight phones, and two cross bags were recovered from them.

Investigator news reports that on Monday,5th August,2024,a complaint was received by Ofuoma division that some suspected cultists gathered at Ovine hotel Afiesere and later went to Ogbovwan community and shot sporadically as doors and windows were shattered with bullets.

The suspects upon sighting the police took their heels in different location, five suspects were arrested and e fforts to arrest the other fleeing suspects are ongoing.

It will be recalled that the commissioner of Police Delta State CP Olufemi Abaniwonda has warned sternly that criminally minded individuals will not be allowed to thrive in the State and adequate deployments have been made to ensure that they are identified, arrested and brought to book.

The CP went further to urged members of the public to always trust and report cases to the police, and also pointed out the fact that these suspected kidnappers were arrested six months after the kidnap because the victim trusted the Police and made available all useful information which eventually led to their arrest.

Emmanuel lkpeama

A philanthropist and Community leader Eze Dr Chika .C. Nwokedi, has charged Nigerians to always find justification to pray and motivate men and officers of the police force through visitations and supports for their effort put into securing lives, properties, to create sanity and curb crime in the society.

Eze Nwokedi who is the Chairman Council of Ndieze Lagos State made the call during his visitation to some police commands in Lagos during which he made donations and presentation of gifts to some distinguished officers of the law.

 

The Eze Ndigbo of Ijegun and ljedodo who paid a routine visit to Area ‘D’ Command, Area ‘P’ Command, Ajao Estate Police Station and Aswani Police commands as done quarterly every year to appreciate and establish new founded grounds with the Nigeria police as the principal law enforcement agency in Nigeria, stated that his constant asking on police officers and thier station,would no doubt boost their morale and such would in turn impact positively on their approach to issues and their relationship with the general public.

HRH Chika Nwokedi has in time out made friends and ally with the Nigerian police which has edged him into a cordial relation with officers not minding the rank or status but with a common goal to always appreciate the effort they have put into the country’s peaceful coexistence, curbing crime, applying justice without prejudice and how they have served the people.

Nwokedi recalled his long term relationship with police officers which dates back to his days as the President of Ladipo Autoparts Dealers Association, Lagos when he had made donations of patrol vehicles, office equipment and others worth over N300m

“My visit to police stations is a habit I have formed overtime. Though they are my friends, I have however seen such visits as a morale booster that ingrained in them consciousness of acceptability, support and love by the people.

“I have my old time officers friends. Even the younger ones are also my friends. They are indeed good police officers as ACP Bamidele of Area ‘D’ Command Mushin. I visited Ajao Estate Police Station and Area P Command Lagos etc.

” It’s our responsibility to show them love for the good job they are doing for us especially the patriotic ones.

“There is no doubt that there are bad eggs amongst the Nigerian police as there are in every other parastatal, but the good officers are simply more than those who exhibits ineptitude but thank God for the justice system who will always separate the sheeps from the wolves and that’s why I will always appreciate the good ones because it is not easy to be in the face of danger all the time and still be alive.”

” I took time off last Wednesday and Thursday to make some of these visits. I will be in Zone 2 Lagos and Force Criminal Investigation Department(FCIID) Alagbon, Lagos,next week”he submitted.

Eze Okpoko l of Obodoukwu recounted his support to the police as his little way of supporting them and the government as security is a collective responsibility, while applauding those officers who in the face of corruption still keeps their integrity intact, says he will continue to appreciate and support the police anyway he can to enhance man power, aid a continuous effort to rid the society of lawbreakers.

On his motivation, the philanthropist said a well-meaning Nigerian who appreciates the importance of security, must assist to avert insecurity in our land.

“In the past, I had embarked on the repair of abandoned Hilux vehicles belonging to Isherin and ldimu police stations.

“I have donated Hilux patrol vans to various commands. I painted and refurbished the office of the DPO of Ladipo Police Post

He stressed the need for stronger collaboration between members of the public and the security agencies especially the police, stating that with enabling environment, the society could challenge or question the police when they go into misconduct.

Investigator News gathered that the first point of visit was the Area ‘D’ Command Mushin, where he met with ACP Bamidele who warmly received him and appreciated the magnanimity by HRH Nwokedi of unflinching support as well as a good established relationship, having associated with top high ranking officers who are still serving while some are retired

Subsequently, the Eze Ndigbo moved to Ajao police command,Area P command and Aswani Police Station where he met with the Divisional police officer,CSP Celestine Kalu who received the guest with open arms for the thoughtfulness to pay a courtesy visit.

CSP Kalu who was overwhelmed with the visit,appreciated the ever relentless effort of Eze Nwokedi to always check in on officers welfare periodically especially for his magnanimity, his support for the Nigerian Police, promises to ensure that with the Unflinching support, the Nigeria Police Force would have no excuse rather than to curb criminal activities around the nooks and crannies of the area and state in general.

Emmanuel Clement 

The Kano State Government has filed a fresh fraud charge against the immediate past governor, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, his Commissioner for Local Government, Murtala Garo, and two others.

The charges, meticulously documented and submitted by the Kano State Ministry of Justice, accuse the defendants of conspiring to divert over ₦57.43 billion meant for the 44 local government areas of Kano State.

This colossal sum, intended for developmental projects and public services, was allegedly funnelled into personal accounts and used to acquire luxurious properties both locally and internationally.

The charge sheet names Garo, Lamin Sani, and Muhammad Takai, accusing them of “criminal conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, making false statements or return, and criminal misappropriation.”

The state claims they mismanaged the statutory allocations remitted to the State Joint Local Governments account from the Federation account. The allegations further state that they criminally diverted ₦57.4 billion through several personal accounts of Local Government cashiers and other personal and corporate accounts.

“The state government also accused them of transferring the funds into dollars for their personal benefits,” the charge sheet reveals. “They acquired a service apartment on the Murtala Muhammad Way, a commercial apartment at Akoya Oxygen – x20868 Dubai in Tigerwood, and plot 2201 Floor 22 Damac Height, Marsa Dubai Marina, a multi-billion naira hotel in Jabi, Abuja.”

Among other acquisitions mentioned are filling stations on Gwarzo Road Kano and Eastern Bypass Kano.

The prosecution alleged that between 2020 and 2023, the defendants orchestrated a scheme to syphon funds through various accounts, subsequently converting them into cash and foreign currencies.

The case, filed under the purview of Section 211 of the Nigerian Constitution and various sections of the Kano State Administration of Criminal Justice Law (2019), includes multiple counts of criminal conspiracy, breach of trust, and misappropriation. The prosecution’s case is bolstered by a detailed list of 143 witnesses, including local government cashiers, foreign currency exchange operators, and former bank employees. These witnesses are expected to provide crucial testimony about the defendants’ illegal activities and the intricate methods used to launder the embezzled funds.

One key witness, Inspector Muhammad Nuhu, is set to testify about the discovery of properties linked to the second defendant, Murtala Sule Garo, in Dubai. Another witness, Labaran Kura, will discuss his business dealings with the defendants, highlighting how they converted large sums of money into U.S. dollars.

The charges have been preferred under the authority granted to the Attorney General of Kano State, with the legal team comprising Ya’u A. Adamu Esq, Usman Fari Esq, Auwal Abdulqadir Sani Esq, and Hope Chukwunyere C. Esq. The case promises to be a landmark in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against corruption, potentially setting a precedent for the prosecution of high-ranking officials involved in financial crimes.

No date has been fixed for the matter, but the people of Kano State and Nigeria at large await the proceedings with bated breath, hoping for justice and accountability in the wake of this massive corruption scandal.

By Christian ABURIME

Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has launched the second batch of the “One Youth, Two Skills” Solution. 

Governor Soludo launched the initiative at the International Convention Centre, Awka.

Speaking at the event which witnessed about 8,620 participants that qualified for the second batch of the programme, Governor Soludo described the children and the youth as the bridge to the future saying that is why his administration prioritizes human capital development.

“Today, we are beginning the phase two of that big journey to ensure that our youths are empowered on a sustainable basis, to teach them how to fish and eliminate hunger.

“Phase one of the programme had 5000 youths, trained on a peculiar way of igba boi, mentorship, etc.

“Most of them have been empowered, and several of them now employers of labour.

“In this second batch, 183,000 applications were received, and over 8000 people were selected because of available limited spaces.

“As we launch this particular phase, ndị Anambra youths, I thank you for being responsible citizens. Thank you for deciding not to protest, not because you don’t feel the pain of the moment but because of our age long value system.

“Ndị Anambra celebrate nothing but hard work. I thank our youths for deciding to take their destinies in their hands.

“It is good to protest, but even better to do something. For decades, we’ve been singing songs of lamentations, but now, we are doing something to ensure that our youths are useful to the society, “he stated.

The governor stressed that the goal of his government is to transform Anambra to become the largest skill hub to give the youths employable and exportable skills.

“This is a unique training programme. Many of the artisans’ works and skills are now in short supply.

“As I look in your faces today, I can see the future millionaires and the youths that can take Anambra and Nigeria to the world,” the governor stressed.

He pointed out that there are five systematic pillars for the programme such as Apprenticeship scheme, Entrepreneurial skills training, Formation of cooperatives, Business financing scheme and Mentorship scheme, noting that two billion naira grant was disbursed to those who qualified in the last batch, adding that another 2.5 billion naira start-up capital was also set aside for beneficiaries that are willing to access it through the Anambra Small Business Agency.

“This is becoming an organic movement. We are expecting that in every kindred, there should be one person benefitting from the scheme, so that it permeates the whole Anambra.

“We are recommending this Anambra model to the world. We are upgrading digitizing the system to ensure that former applicants do not apply and participate.

“The number that applied shows that Anambra youths are hungry to take their destinies in their hands. We will continue to provide the enabling environment. I implore you to take it very seriously.

“This is not a programme for government to dish out free money, but for those who are ready to make decent living. It will benefit only qualified trainees. Make the most of it. ”

The governor continued that Community Development has helped Anambra to scale up very quickly, saying that ndị Anambra believes in collaborative development as well as “leave no one behind” mantra.

Said the Governor, “I encourage friends of Anambra to join us. Public-Private-Community-Partnership, PPCP is the fastest way to scale up the development of Anambra.

“We are determined to give good value, but we need partners. To developmental partners who have funds, this is an opportunity. ”

The Governor also called on the youths to take advantage of the initiative so that they could become a solution to themselves and the society.

The Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Patrick Aghamba eulogized Governor Soludo for being supportive of the initiative, which is a model worthy of emulation.

“This is a historic event. 8620 youths qualified in various skills cut across the local government areas of the state. Mr. Governor, you have developed a model worthy of emulation that will live beyond you- emphasis on “quality.”

“You are determined to give the youths the best and nothing but the best. You believe in the youths, and you are changing the narrative, with a target of raising 1000 youth millionaires annually.

“We appreciate your interest in quality assurance. The ministry is determined to ensure that your model becomes the benchmark. ”

The Commissioner assured that the learning curves encountered during the first phase will be further utilized to improve and modify the second phase, expressing optimism that it will be upscaled to 95 per cent in terms of achievement

He commended the beneficiaries for going through the rigorous processes.

The wife of the Governor, Mrs Nonye Soludo, and the Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim accompanied the governor to the event, which was also attended by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, Head of Service, Barr. Theodora Igwegbe, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, Principal Secretary to the Governor, Barr. Joachin Anaeto, State Chairman of APGA, Barr. Ifeatu Obiokoye, Traditional Rulers, Transition Committee Chairmen, and members of Anambra State Excutive Council, among others.

Emmanuel Clement 

A devastating fire incident broke out at a ExxonMobil fuel station along Awolowo Road, Ikeja, near the Lagos Airport Hotel, this afternoon.

Investigator news gathered that a gas cylinder was reported to have exploded at about 11am, affecting 6 cars (both commercial and private vehicles) and the second floor of a two-storey building close to the gas station,thereby causing widespread disruption in the area.

Emergency responders disclosed that there are no casualties, but two adult males were severely burnt and has been rescued and rushed to the nearest hospital.

The fire, which began around midday, quickly spread due to the presence of flammable materials at the filling station as eyewitnesses reported hearing loud explosions which engulfed the fuel tanks and surrounding vehicles with flames.

Agency’s Response Team alongside Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, NEMA, LASBCA, and the Nigerian police, are currently at the scene working tirelessly to control the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby buildings and structures.

The area around the fuel station has been cordoned off to allow emergency responders to operate safely and to keep the public at a safe distance

Presently,the fire is under control, as it was quickly contained by the Agency’s LRT and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service to prevent it from escalating to the surroundings.

Investigator news reports that the operation is still ongoing.

 

 

 

 

 

Felicia Asuquo, Abuja

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has declared the State Coordinator of Akwa lbom,Mr. Okun Christopher, and his driver, Mr. Daniel Asibong, missing.

According to the Director of Press and Public Relation(DPPR),NYSC,Mr Edward Megwa who broke the news to Journalists on Wednesday,7th August,2024, stated that the coordinator and his driver were said to have been missing after they left Asaba, Delta State for Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital and never got to their destination.

He said, “This is to inform the general public that two officers of National Youth Service Corps got missing between Onitsha and Owerri road on Monday, July 29, 2024.

“The officers, Mr. Okun Christopher, NYSC Akwa Ibom State Coordinator and his driver, Mr Daniel Effiong Asibong, were on transit to Uyo in Akwa Ibom in a white official Hilux vehicle with registration number 27D31FG when they were last communicated with.

“Meanwhile, all efforts to locate their whereabouts have yielded no result till date.The scheme is asking the public to bring useful information that will help in locating the missing persons.

“Anyone with useful information regarding their whereabouts should contact any of the 37 NYSC state secretariats, area offices and the National Directorate headquarters in Abuja or the nearest police station or other security agencies for prompt action.”he submitted

 

…….As Journalist fumes as Nigerian athlete wins Olympic medal four years after switching to represent USA.

Emmanuel lkpeama 

Journalist, Rufai Oseni has expressed his disappointment after former Nigerian representative, Annette Echikunwoke won an Olympic medal representing the USA.

Investigator news reports that the Nigerian-American hammer thrower had represented Nigeria in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, but was disqualified.

She was among a group of Nigerian athletes who missed dopping screenings due to an administrative error.

She later switched to represent the USA, and has now won Silver at the Hammer throw event at the Paris Olympics.

Reacting to the win, Rufai wrote on X handle saying that when a country kills your dreams.

Name: Annette Echikunwoke. Picture 1: Representing Nigeria. Disqualified from Tokyo Olympics in 2020 due to senseless clerical error of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria.

Picture 2: Representing America in 2024. Talent nurtured to the fullest. Silver medalist. Now the first Athlete representing America to win a medal at the Hammer throw.

When a country k!lls your dreams – Rufai Oseni writes as Nigerian athlete wins Olympic medal four years after switching to represent USA

Emmanuel Clement

Fellow Nigerians!

We have come as part of history.

We are here as part of our own response to the ongoing conversation in the country today.

While some are protesting in some parts of Nigeria, Anambra state is not protesting.

I want to use this opportunity to thank ndi Anambra and to thank all Anambra youths who have maintained the peace and are going about their businesses. All the markets are open, and everybody is going about their businesses.

Read also:Farm To Feed Campaign: Soludo’s Solution To Hunger At A Time Of Anger 

Ndị Anambra, the youths have resolved that they want to take their destiny in their own hands to take positive steps to move their state and country forward.

They believe that we can do something about the crisis or the challenges that we have; that everybody has some role to play.

They are not protesting, not because they don’t feel the pain but because they want to be part of the solution.

Our youths are saying it is good to complain, good to protest but better to do something. That’s what our youths are saying, and I want to commend you that the state has not experienced anything – nobody has gathered anywhere, let alone protesting.

Ndị Anambra, we have come to launch something important, but a bit of context is necessary.

I encourage everyone that Google and either read the lyrics or listen to the song by the legendary Sunny Okosun in 1984 (40 years ago) about Nigeria, entitled; “Which way Nigeria”.

When you listen to it, you’ll think it was sang yesterday. It tells us that Nigerians have been singing songs of lamentations for decades. It didn’t start today, but what we’ve come here to say today is that it is now time for action.

After singing songs of lamentations for decades, forty years ago. He sang about the fact that we neglected agriculture, and we neglected the green revolution. And he said that it was our doom; that we need to get back to it. He challenged us to come together to save Nigeria, so Nigeria won’t die.

Sunny Okosun challenged all Nigerians and told us that with every little thing that goes wrong, we blame the government without knowing that we are all part of the government. And he said we should all come together and save Nigeria.

Today, what we’ve come to launch is the issue of citizens’ action – collective citizens’ action, in partnership with government, to eradicate hunger, once and for all, in Nigeria.

We still remember that 1984 when he sang the song was the era we had the massive austerity measures from 1982-1985. There was the issue of queuing up to buy essential commodities. You had to queue up for hours and for days to have access to buy, even when you had the money; essential commodities such as sugar, salt, even detergents, rice, vegetable oil and so on and so forth. We had to queue up. And since then, we have been lamenting about hunger. Every year, we lament about hunger, and it is now time to do something. Listen to Sunny Okosun’s song forty years ago.., and he puts it all in context.

Today, like we said, we want to launch an initiative to turn our challenges into opportunities.

Our challenges are many as a people. Yes! There is hunger in the land. If there are pains, we feel it. Everybody feels it, but while it is good to complain about it, everybody can do something about it. This is citizens’ action against hunger, in partnership with government.

Yes! Our charge is to be the solution you want to see. It’s good to complain or protest, but it’s better to be the solution. Again, everyone can do something positive.

Yes! The government can do a whole lot, and it is in the interest of the government to do something about food security, agriculture, for everyone. Whether we are dealing with the issue of food security, it’s the duty of the government to ensure food security, but also, food inflation is the major component of headline inflation.

So, if we want to bring inflation down, we start by bringing food prices down, but today, we want to address how we can collectively bring food prices down.

And so, to have a healthy nation because food security addresses poverty. Food supply is critical, and the government can do a whole lot to enable this process.

The government can address issues of policies and incentives including access to cheap capital for cheap financing for those involved in commercial agriculture, improved seedlings and some subsidized inputs, rural infrastructure to minimize post harvest losses and improve supply chain to the urban centers.

Yes! The government can and should do something about security that stops farmers from going to the farm, irrigation schemes and so and so forth; there is quite a lot that the government can and should do. I’m part of it as a governing elite. That’s why I’m out here saying that we must do something. We do quite a lot here in Anambra to make these processes happen.

Of course, as you are aware, about three weeks ago, we again shared about a million and forty palm, coconut and other rare economic tree seedlings- cash crops which were given to ndị Anambra and that brought it to about 2.2 million seedlings we have distributed so far as part of our ten million target which we hope to complete in the next few years, that will completely bring poverty out of Anambra- a new industrial eco-system and wealth creation in the state.

We are embarking on these and then assisting small holder farmers in various ways, but today, we’ve come to launch a major initiative, which we call the “FARM TO FEED CAMPAIGN.””

This is a simple strategy and partnership deal between government at all levels and citizens, to end hunger, and to ensure massive supply within the next 12 months. It will ensure an end to hunger on a sustainable basis.

The government can provide all the incentives, but if there are no citizens or youths that can farm. If there are no grand mothers that can do the farmer, even on their balcony or the back yard, and plant something, then it’ll all come to nought.

I want to say, even for out public servants – the only job allowed by the constitution for public servants to do, as part time is farming, so everybody is allowed to farm.

Let’s turn farming, agriculture as a new national pride- OPERATION SHOW YOUR FARM, OPERATION SHOW WHAT YOU CULTIVATE. So, the next time someone says there is hunger in the land, my response is, yes! I agree, but what have you done about it. Do something about it.

For urban agriculture, with farming in sacks. Get something done. If everyone can produce in a year, just enough of one thing for the family to eat in one day; whether it is vegetables, onions, pepper, potatoes, tomatoes, I can tell you the pressure on food prices in the market will massively drop. If you can’t feed the nation, at least, feed yourself or even your family for just one day, with what you can produce.

Let us turn every vacant piece of land, even if it is five square meters. Rent a space if you can, but plant something.

I’ll say to you,here in Anambra, we are pressured to do more because we haven’t succeeded, until the hunger in the land is brought down to the barest minimum and every resident of Anambra can find something reasonable to eat at affordable prices. We can do that if everybody gets involved. My government will continue. Next year, we’ll be distributing another million seedlings, and in the next four years, when they start fruiting, the average household with ten of those seedlings will permanently be out of poverty. New industries to process them and export to send to the rest of the world are already emerging. That’s the revolution that is on, but we must now get down to basic foods.

So, let’s do something. In Anambra, we are promoting organic farming- regenerative agriculture, which we launched two years ago. We are actually de-emphasizing the use of fertilizer in Anambra. For those who can still do without it, we are going back to nature, going back to organic food because we live longer and healthier. My wife promotes healthy living, and therefore, organic food is the way to go, ultimately.

Leave no vacant spaces. We are going to be collaborating with communities, local governments, churches, schools, and so on, on this “leave no vacant space” campaign. We will work out schemes for public servants to spare some time to farm and reward public servants with the biggest outputs – food or animal husbandry. Prizes will be given to them. Same thing for the political appointees. Next year, it will be “operation show your farm”. I am going to go back to the farm. We will celebrate the farm champions.

We expect the local government chairmen to take the campaign down to their respective places, likewise, the Presidents-General, church leaders.

Ndị Anambra, Nigerians, we are Nigerians! Nigeria is the biggest black nation on earth. There is nothing we set our mind to do that we can not achieve if everybody takes responsibility. We have a saying in Igbo that “aka aja na-ebute ọnụ mmanụ mmanụ” (Its only by going to the farm and soiling your hands that you become entitled to having an oily mouth). That’s why Anambra is not protesting. Our people believe in hard work. We believe that if things are hard, we can do something about it, and that is what we have come today to encourage our people – let us be the change that we want to see.

If, after decades of lamentations, we are now launching this programme…same old story. Decades! of lamentations. We saw the civil war here; in this part of Nigeria, but there was nothing to it. People died of kwashiorkor, but we survived. We went to an era of hardship where we queued to buy essential commodities, and our people survived.

This time again, they say hunger in the land. We will not just survive. We will help to feed the rest of the country. Let’s get to work. We’ve seen far worse situations before, and we are resilient people who work hard to take their destiny in their own hands.

By dint of hard work, dedication and commitment, we shall prevail and Nigeria will realize its God-given potentials to be, not just the largest black nation in earth but also among the too five largest economies of the world. WE CAN DO IT! LET US GET TO WORK.

Complain, protest, but very importantly, BE THE SOLUTION! Today, we launch CITIZENS’ COLLECTIVE ACTION and partnership with the government on the “FARM TO FEED” Campaign.

Thank you very much!

_*Extracted by Christian Aburime*_

… As the Ndigbo Buru’Otu Association of Nigeria celebrates all August born

Emmanuel lkpeama

Thanking God, celebrating with the downtrodden and Eze Chika Nwokedi, Chairman Council of Eze Ndigbo in Lagos are like Siamese twins that his community; low and the mighty in Lagos are upbeat would take away their sorrows when invitation of the two days event marking his 52nd birthday came.

 

Commemoration of the birthday of this philanthropist was a two day special ceremony held between Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th August at the palace of the council chairman, ljegun, Lagos

The affectionate Eze Nwokedi who is also the President and Founder of lgbo Buru Otu Association of Nigeria,in Lagos had the saturday celebration being organized for members of Igbo Buru Otu social cultural organization born in the month of August which was attended by other members of his community to celebrate all August born which took place at the association’s secretariat in Ijegun Lagos

The event center was abuzz as dignitaries and guest from far and wide gathered to celebrate this unusual 52nd birthday celebration which was an opportunity for the Igbo community, the less privileged to have a sense of humor.

On Sunday, the royal father played host to plethora of notable guest such as AIG Zone 2 Command Onikan; Seriki of Alimosho,Baale of Ijeododo High Chief Abu-Jelili Ayinde Ododo and his cabinet chiefs; CSP Vera of Ejigbo Police Division; ACP Okonkwo Obiora,Rev Dr Chidi Anthony (President Ministers Forum of Nigeria) close friends and associates, traditional rulers,business class and Cream de la creme of the society across the length and breathe of Nigeria who came to join him to thank God and rejoice with him at his 52nd birthday.

i

 

The highly elated revered monarch, the Okpoko l of obodoukwu and chairman Council of Ndieze Lagos State,Eze Dr Chika.C.Nwokedi while addressing Journalist said he has dedicated his life to the service of humanity and giving back to the society.

Eze Nwokedi reiterated that his act of giving was bore out of the generosity of his late father Eze A.O.U Nwokedi left when he was alive,who was so generous to the core even to his own community where he laid down some infrastructures and road network.

He opined that the month of August is being considered as his lucky month in the year,as he has recorded so many feats as far as month of August is concerned.

” for every significant achievement l have made so far in life happens in the month of August, ranging from my married life to my social life, my only son was born in the month of August,l wedded in the month of August,l received my first award in the month of August,l built my house in the month of August so I have decided to make this year’s anniversary special by creating a 2-day event to allow the opportunity for other August born under my rulership as President lgbo Buru Otu to be celebrated and also with my lgbo brothers and sisters.”

“I am so happy today, seeing my friends and close associate coming to celebrate me when l am still alive,it is a thing of joy and all glory goes to almighty God for this day” he stated.

Lending her voice,the wife pf the celebrant, Pastor Ugoeze Tessy Nwokedi described her husband as a fine gentleman with so much kindness exhibited in him, stating that when it comes to magnanimity,she and the husband share the same belief which is the act of giving.

She noted that her husband has the ministry of helping the needy and assisting the less privileged and the widows to grow, while wishing her husband long life and more money in his pocket so as to continually assist those in need.

In another development,an African Sales representative of SBl Limited,producers of Allmax products, Mr. Ifeanyi Anthony, stated its representatives are majorly in attendance to honor the chief celebrant, Eze Chika Nwokedi, who happens to be a brand ambassador for Allemax.

He revealed that the company is showcasing its brand at the event to help Nigerians discover the potency of Allemax health products, which serve as stimulators to revive dead and weak cells in the body.

According to Mr. Ifeanyi, the products are used for tackling prostate issues, insomnia, hypertension, typhoid, and malaria, as well as other ailments.

Testimonies and Accolades.

ACP Obiora Okonkwo.

Eze Nwokedi is a man of integrity,a lover of peace and one who is loved to be associated with,he is accommodating and ready to assist the down trodden. I wish him long life and prosperity and pray that he sees more years to come.

 

Alhaji Ahmed Haruna,Seriki of Alimosho:

 

Eze Chika is a father and a friend to all,he always carry everyone along ahe does not discriminate whether you are black or white;he should continue with his good works. May God bless his new age and l wish him best of luck.

 

DCP Martin Nworgu:

Eze Chika Nwokedi, Ezendigbo Ijegun Ijeododo, Chairman Council of ‘Ndieze’ Lagos, is a man l have known for over 15years. He is a good lgbo leader and has done everything to make sure that lgbos are united and also ensure that they align themselves in the obedience of the rule of law.His magnanimous self has endeared him to many; the Nigerian Police is proud of his achievements so far; he doesn’t discriminate,l am wishing him long life in good health and happiness.

 

Rev. Dr. Moses CC Okwuosa(Second Vice president of the Ndigbo Buru’Otu Association ).

I give God the glory in the life of Eze Chika; he has touched lives, helping the less privileged in the society being it yoruba,hausa or lgbo,he does not discriminate because he is a man of peace and God is blessing him for all he keeps doing; he has sown in the lives of many by giving. May God continue to bless him more.

 

Dr. Godswill Ogbuka(The 1st Vice President of Ndigbo Buru’Otu).

Eze Chika is a good man; he runs selfless service to the public. We are gathered here in our numbers to celebrate his 52nd birthday in grand style. He doesn’t discriminate; he’s a born leader. Wishing him good success and long life as he set a pace for all of us.

Sir Anthony Chukwuebuka (Okwuego)KSM.

He is a great mentor and he has affected my life in so many ways and today we are equally thanking God with him. Eze Nwokedi is one despite being a disciplinarian,he is loving and caring,very accommodating, wishing him a peaceful life and above all, life of grace.

Rev Dr Chidi Anthony (President Pentecostal Minister Forum).

Eze Nwokedi, Chairman Council of Ndieze is someone l have known for over 20years even before he became the Eze Ndigbo,he is a man of integrity. Eze is one person that if you call him anytime he would answer you,he will decide to starve just to see you eat. He has been a father to many less privileged in the society, paying their school fees and assisting them in every capacity. My prayers for him is that he continues with the good legacy he has put in place because l discovered that the best legacy to give to your children is not wealth but good legacy.

Baale of Ijeododo and Oba Elect,High Chief Abu-Jelili Ayinde Ododo:

I have known him for over 20years,he is a born leader and has unite the lgbos and yoruba community together as he always presch peace and ensure that his people don’t involve in crime. I wish him God’s favor and blessings.

Queen Kemi Oni, Ambassador for Prestige Group:

The chief celebrant, Eze Chika, is loving, caring, accommodating, and a disciplinarian; he will live long to celebrate more fruitful years.He is generous, kind, compassionate, and loving. He responds when called upon, wishing him long life, more wisdom to guide his people, and financial blessings to enhance his magnanimous act.

The highlight of both events includes a raffle draw where members selected various gift items according to their win. There was also music, traditional dances, the cutting of cake by August borns, and other recreational activities.