Category: Latest

Emmanuel lkpeama 

Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has extended his warmest greetings to the Archbishop Ecclesiastical Province, Most Rev. Valerian Maduka Okeke on the occasion of his 71st birthday celebration.

In his congratulatory message signed by his Chief Press Secretary,Mr Christian Aburime, Governor Soludo commended Archbishop Okeke’s fatherly disposition and his unwavering efforts in promoting unity, peace and justice in the State

Governor Soludo went further to described the Archbishop’s compassion and selfless dedication to serving the people and upholding the values of faith as examplarily and a source of inspiration to all

The Governor said,”On behalf of the good people of Anambra State l pray that the Almighty God will continue to bless the Archbishop with good health, abundant grace, and long life in the service of the Lord and mankind

 

By Christian ABURIME

In the context of a nation’s federal dynamics such as persist in Nigeria, leaders at the sub-national level must chart their states’ paths to progresss against whatever constraints. Systems, structures and institutions do not just exist for formality. They are all about making things work for the people.

Today, this is what Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, is concerned with in Anambra State. With his deep commitment to institutional reform, he believes in building enduring systems based on transparency, due process, and the rule of law. His track record as a former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) established his reputation for reforms that stand the test of time, and his approach to governance in Anambra State reflects this same philosophy.

Since taking office 30 months ago, Governor Soludo has worked diligently to reform and strengthen local governance in Anambra. His administration’s efforts are already yielding remarkable results, as Anambra State is now ranked first in fiscal transparency among Nigeria’s 36 states by BudgIT and among the top five states in financial sustainability. This achievement speaks to the administration’s commitment to responsible financial management, transparency, and accountability.

One of the major challenges the administration inherited was a local government system burdened with four years of unpaid gratuities to retired primary school teachers and other local government staff. The administration’s focus on restructuring finances has brought the system back to sustainability. Today, retirees from both the local government and state civil service are receiving their gratuities and pensions on time, and the backlog of arrears is being systematically cleared.

Governor Soludo’s administration has also addressed issues in primary education, clearing three years of arrears on counterpart funding for the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC). This financial commitment has enabled billions of Naira to be invested in the state’s public schools, including the recruitment of 8,115 new teachers of which 3,615 were specifically deplored for primary education. The administration’s investment in education ensures that these teachers are being paid and that Anambra’s primary schools are being revitalised.

In the health sector, the governor’s vision of comprehensive healthcare delivery is also being realised through the construction or modernisation of 326 primary health centres across all 326 wards in the state. Hundreds of medical personnel have also been employed to ensure these health centres provide quality care.

In the same vein, Governor Soludo’s efforts to remodel and equip local government secretariats have reinvigorated the local governance system. His administration’s impact ensures that the local government system is alive and functional, with reforms and investments positioning Anambra for sustained progress. Under his leadership, the state has demonstrated a commitment to not only fixing past issues but also building lasting institutions that will serve the people long into the future.

Governor Soludo’s message is clear: Anambra State is on a path to sustainability and progress, and there is no turning back. By fostering a culture of transparency, strengthening institutions, and addressing key challenges in local governance, education, and healthcare, Anambra State is setting an example for effective governance in Nigeria’s evolving federal system and not the nauseating propaganda being spewed around by some ill informed opposition elements.

…..As PCRC Bode Thomas Division Holds Security Awareness Conference.

Emmanuel lkpeama

In what has been a pivotal and remarkable tradition of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) Bode thomas Division in its quest for ensuring a safe and livable community not just for the adult citizens in Surulere but also for the pupils and wards in  schools (public/private).

The Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) Bode thomas Division in the Area “C” command headquarters of the Nigerian Police force, Surulere, Lagos held its conference for the public and private schools security awareness in relations to crime prevention and career development, with the theme “school crime prevention: implementing effective community safety to career development.

Investigator news reports that the essence of this year conference is it quest for ensuring a safe and livable community for the children in molding and mounding them into a successful and responsible personality of the future.

The Mayor of Surulere, Hon Sulaiman Bamidele Yusuf while flagging off the conference on Thursday,10 October,2024 at the Eko club in Surulere,reiterates his commitment to safety and protection of lives and property as this is the very first duty of the government to its citizenry.

Hon Yusuf went further to state that he regularly holds meetings with all security agencies and apparatus within his locality.

He assured them of his continued support in giving them assistance and funding in any area where needed for morale boosting and effective security engagements.

Highlight of the event was various lectures on how to prevent crime within and outside the school environment and ensure that security is everyone’s responsibility.

 

…….As lmo health insurance agency,NBA lmo state chapter, Human right group steps in. 

Authorities in Imo State have arrested a secondary school teacher, Mrs. Blessing Emmanuel, following the brutal assault of her 12-year-old stepdaughter, Amarachi Emmanuel.

This arrest came after Chidiebube Okeoma, an Owerri-based journalist and activist, raised an alarm about the severe abuse, bringing the case to the attention of the police at the Owerri Area Command.

The abuse came to light when two concerned women, Eunice and Amarachi, noticed the young girl selling sachet water on the streets of Owerri. Upon closer inspection, they were horrified to see her body covered in bruises and scars, the result of years of abuse at the hands of her stepmother. Okeoma, informed by these women, recorded a video that soon went viral, showing the extent of the girl’s injuries, including machete cuts and burns.

Amarachi, who lost her mother in 2018, had been forced to live under the harsh rule of her stepmother since her father remarried in 2019. The stepmother allegedly denied her education and forced her and her siblings to hawk sachet water to support the family. The abuse escalated when the young girl cooked rice and ate without her stepmother’s permission, leading to another violent attack.

Immediately after witnessing the child’s condition, Okeoma rushed her to Umuguma General Hospital in Owerri for urgent medical attention. Recognizing the girl’s critical need for long-term care, Okeoma sought further intervention.

As part of the government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable citizens, the Imo State Health Insurance Agency swiftly stepped in, led by its Executive Secretary and CEO, Dr. Uchenna Ewelike. The agency enrolled Amarachi into the state’s health insurance program under a special scheme for vulnerable children. This move ensures that all the costs of her medical treatments, including any necessary surgeries and rehabilitation, will be covered.

Dr. Ewelike emphasized that this intervention falls under Governor Hope Uzodimma’s policy to provide health coverage for the poor and vulnerable, reaffirming the state’s commitment to supporting victims of abuse. The young girl was immediately transferred to Imo Specialist Hospital, where she will receive the best care available under the health insurance program, allowing her access to critical and comprehensive medical services without financial burden.

Beyond this immediate intervention, Chidiebube Okeoma has been advocating for Amarachi’s long-term welfare. He reached out to organizations such as the National Human Rights Commission, the Owerri Municipal Council Welfare Department, and the Imo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to ensure Amarachi and her siblings are placed in a safe environment. He also intends to secure their education, which had been neglected for years due to the abuse.

Okeoma, along with several human rights groups and the Nigeria Bar Association’s Owerri branch, has called for swift justice, urging the authorities to prosecute Mrs. Emmanuel for the physical and emotional torment inflicted on the children. The police, led by Commissioner Aboki Danjuma, have launched a thorough investigation into the case, with assurances that due process will be followed.

In the meantime, the public’s attention has been drawn to Amarachi’s plight, with calls for compassion and support for her recovery. “Her body bears the scars of unimaginable cruelty—her lips, eyes, genitals, legs, and stomach have been mutilated by burns and machete cuts. She needs all the help she can get,” Okeoma shared, appealing for ongoing public assistance and kindness.

Amarachi’s case has brought to the forefront the urgent need for stronger measures to protect vulnerable children in society. The quick response from the Imo State Health Insurance Agency provides hope that Amarachi will receive the care she needs, while broader efforts continue to seek justice and a brighter future for her and her siblings.

Through the combined efforts of activists like Okeoma, law enforcement, and the support of state institutions such as the Imo State Health Insurance Agency, Amarachi’s tragic story is becoming one of rescue, recovery, and hope.

Emmanuel lkpeama 

President Bola Tinubu has has congratulated all Nigerian Muslims on this year’s commemoration of the Maulud Nabiy, the birthday of Prophet Muhammad.

The President in a congratulatory message signed by his Special Adviser to the President on lnformation and Strategy,Bayo Onanuga urged Muslims to use the period for deep reflection and remembrance of the Holy Prophet’s exemplary conduct and noble teachings.

He said,”As we mark the Maulud, we should all reflect on the life lived by Prophet Muhammad, exemplified by purity, selflessness, perseverance, kindness and compassion. We must endeavour to imbibe those virtues,” he said.

President Tinubu went further to urge the Muslim faithful to dedicate the Maulud holiday to pray for the country and show empathy and compassion toward one another.

The kingsmakers in Isolo kingdom have strongly denied selecting Prince Jimmy Adetokunbo Goloba as the new Osolo of lsolo of the Ancient kingdom, instead named Prince Abiodun Shekoni as the most suitable candidate after due consideration and traditional practice 

The kingsmakers in a press statement released to lnvestigator news on Saturday reiterated that there was no iota of truth in the unfounded report making round that Goloba had been selected to succeed the late monarch, Kabiru Alani Adelaja Agbabiaka Adeola Olushi III who joined his ancestors four months ago

In the press statement, the kingmakers expressed dismay at the desperation of some mischief makers adding that no candidate has been proposed to the local or state governments.

In the jointly signed statement, they, however, announced Prince Abiodun Shekoni as the most suitable candidate after due consultations and traditional practice

The statement titled: “Re-Vacant Stool Of Osolo Of Isolo Kingdom, signed by the kingmakers reads: Our attention has been drawn to the news in circulation regarding the purported emergence of one Prince Jimmy Adetokunbo Goloba, as the new osolo of Isolo.

“We will like to inform the general public that there is no iota of truth in the said publication and that same should be taken with a grain/pinch of salt in its entirety.

To set the record straight, the kingmakers have not proposed any candidate to the Lagos State Government to be installed as the new Osolo of Isolo, contrary to the publication circulating around.

As at today, based on the custom and traditional procedures to be followed in the appointment of the new Osolo of Isolo, Prince Abiodun Shekoni emerged as the most suitable candidate after due consultation and traditional practices.

While we understand the rationale behind the false publication at the instance of one of the candidates who has foreseen defeat and so as to attract public sympathy which will not revive his defeat, we urge the general public to be at peace and allow the kingmakers to conclude their task in a lawful manner, and for the best interest of the entire isolo kingdom.”the statement reads.

 

By Christian ABURIME

Another year, another anniversary. As Anambra State marks its 33rd anniversary today, it is a moment of reflection and celebration, a time to appreciate the monumental strides made and look forward to an even more promising future. Since its creation on August 27, 1991, Anambra State has evolved, overcoming numerous challenges to emerge as a model of progress and development in Nigeria.

And under the leadership of the current administration, ably led by Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, the state has remained true to the dream of its founding fathers: a prosperous and livable homeland for all its citizens.

One of the hallmarks of the current government has been its untiring commitment to security and stability. Recognising that peace is the substratum of development, the administration has implemented comprehensive measures to combat crime and ensure the safety of every citizen. From reclaiming areas previously dominated by criminal elements to enhancing the capacity of law enforcement, Anambra has become a safer place, allowing businesses to thrive and communities to flourish.

Yet, the youth of Anambra are at the heart of the state’s development agenda. Through innovative programmes like “1 Youth, 2 Skills,” the government is equipping young people with the tools they need to succeed in a dynamic economy. With over 13,000 youths already trained in various skills, the initiative is fostering entrepreneurship and reducing unemployment, setting a foundation for sustainable economic growth.

Even more, Anambra’s infrastructural landscape is transforming at an unprecedented pace. Despite the challenges of the rainy season, the government has successfully completed 288 kilometers of roads and is pressing forward with multiple flyover projects. This infrastructure boom is not only enhancing connectivity within the state but is also crucial for the economic activities that drive growth and development.

Environmental sustainability remains a top priority, with the administration dedicating substantial resources to combat soil erosion, a long-standing issue in the state. Projects like the Urban Regeneration Council and community-driven initiatives aim to mitigate erosion, promote urban renewal, and ensure a cleaner, greener Anambra for future generations.

True to the Igbo philosophy of “onye aghana nwanne ya” (no one should be left behind), the state government has implemented several social welfare programmes to support the most vulnerable. Free education up to junior secondary school and complimentary antenatal and delivery services are just a few examples of the administration’s commitment to social equity and community well-being.

With initiatives such as the Anambra Industrial City and the Solution Innovation District, the state is also positioning itself as a hub of economic flourishing in Nigeria. These projects are designed to attract investment, spur innovation, and create jobs, reflecting the administration’s strategic vision for economic diversification and growth.

The litany of achievements is quite numerous, and goes on and on. Today, as we with grateful hearts celebrate Anambra’s 33 years of statehood, Governor Soludo calls on all citizens to participate in building a brighter future. The upcoming local government elections are a crucial step in deepening democracy and ensuring that development reaches every corner of the state. By embracing civic responsibilities and working together, Anambra can achieve the dream of its founders, a state that is not only a light of the nation but a model of progress and prosperity for all.

In all, Anambra at 33 is not just a celebration of years gone by but also a tribute to resilience, innovation, and spirit of greater things to come. The achievements of the current administration, underpinned by a vision of inclusive growth and sustainable development, continue to set the stage for an even more remarkable future. This milestone is a rededication to the ongoing task of making Anambra a place where every citizen can thrive. Long shall continue to shine the Light of the Nation.

Emmanuel lkpeama 

Lagos State, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, continues to embrace innovative initiatives that celebrate the state’s cultural heritage and culinary creativity.

One of the latest endeavors is the “Eko Flavours” cooking feast, coordinated by the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems. This exciting event is designed to showcase the rich and diverse food culture of Lagos.

Investigator news reports that the registration for Eko Flavours opened on August 8, 2024, with prospective participants directed to register via www.ekoflavours.lagosfreshfoodhub.com. To ensure broad participation, contestants must be 18 years or older and possess a valid LASRRA card. This competition offers Lagosians a unique platform to showcase their culinary skills.

Participants are required to upload a one-minute video of their cooking prowess on their social media handles, tagging @theekoflavours and @lagosfreshfoodhub. Judging will be based on creativity, social media engagement (likes, comments, and shares), and the overall appeal of the dish. The top 50 contestants with the highest levels of engagement will move forward in the competition.

The registration period ends on August 23, after which voting will commence on August 26. The 50 contestants who advance will be given specific tasks to complete. From this stage, the top 20 will be selected to move on to the quarterfinals, set to take place at the Lagos Fresh Food Hub in Idi Oro, Mushin, on September 28.

The quarterfinalists will compete for a coveted spot in the semifinals, where the top 10 contestants will face off to determine the final five. The finalists will compete for the Eko Flavours Championship title in a grand finale on October 5.

Invehe grand prize for the winner is N5,000,000, with the first runner-up receiving N3,000,000 and the second runner-up N1,000,000. Additional consolation prizes will be awarded to other deserving contestants. This tiered prize structure promises to encourage participation and reward culinary creativity.

Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration continues to be at the forefront of driving innovative creativity in Lagos. Through initiatives like Eko Flavours, the state showcases its commitment to promoting local talent, celebrating Lagos’s food culture, and empowering residents to shine on a grand stage.

Emmanuel Clement 

Lagos was abuzz with excitement and celebration recently as Lion Ambassador Chief Mrs Ngozi Joy Okigbo who is fondly called ’ Ada lgbo Gburugburu 1 of Surulere, Lagos marked her birthday in grand style.

The celebration which took place at the residence of the celebrant on Sunday 18,2024 saw dignitaries from all walks of life, including members of Ohaneze Ndigbo Lagos,lgbo speaking community,the Overcomers Redemption Ministry,men and women of substance and Ohaneze Political group,clergy, captains of industry and the less privileged.

Ambassador Ada arrived in her signature elegance, donning a brown and black ensemble that turned heads and set the tone for an evening of opulence,as Lady Ada blew out the candles on her cake, the sentiment in the venue was clear;this is a trailblazer whose contributions have transcended mere profit making. Indeed, she has inspired Nigerians everywhere, male or female, to strive for greatness.
Prayers were not also in short supply as those who graced the occasion eulogised her virtues and prayed for many happy returns of the day in sound mind and wealth for her

In their goodwill messages, Ugoeze Vivian Sunshine Obi,host of Ndigbo Bi Na Lagos Radio Show on Eko Tourism online radio,described the celebrant as caring, loving and compassionate woman with so much love for the less privileged.

 

” My prayers for her today is that she will never know a better yesterday and she will continue to experience God’s grace”

Elder Elkanem,a member of Overcomer Redemption Ministry Lagos,said that Ambassador Okigbo is a woman who don’t joke with the things of God,as she has devoted her life to God and has continued to assist the less privileged and the church of God.

“She is one of all,we call her “no shaking “, Ambassador Ngozi is truly blessed, little wonder everyone is out here to celebrate this woman. She supports the things of God, especially Overcomer Redemption Ministry by covering our shame and whenever you are in need and call her,she will attend to you no matter your class. My prayers for her is that God will continue to lift her up,she will see no shame and see her great and grand children in Jesus name amen”he stated

Chief Mrs Olaedo Echefu stated that Ambassador Ngozi is one that is committed to God, caring and always give to the people.

“She is one person that does not like seeing others crying,she likes to give and does not discriminate and above she does not joke with the things of God.” She submitted.

Speaking to lnvestigator news,the celebrant, Chief Mrs Ngozi Joy Okigbo express gratitude to God almighty for his grace and mercy.

She noted that the birthday celebration is a covenant between her and God almighty as she has vowed to celebrate her birthday because of God’s mercy.

” I give God all the glory for his mercies,the birthday is something l have agreed with God almighty that every year l will celebrate my birthday because God has been faithful. My prayers for myself today is that God will continue to bless me so that l can always assist those around me and by his grace l hope to live 120years.”She submitted

Highlight of the event was cutting of the celebrant cake,dance,prayers for the celebrant and gift items to some less privileged at the event