Soludo pledges to strengthen security in Ogbaru, wins community support

By Sunny A. David, Awka

Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has assured the people of Ogbaru Local Government Area that his administration is committed to tackling the resurgence of criminal activities in the region.

Speaking during a visit to Iyiowa Odekpe, Soludo said intelligence reports had revealed attempts by criminal elements to regroup in Ogbaru’s hinterlands. He vowed that the government would intensify security operations to protect lives and property.

The Governor recalled that Ogbaru was among the most troubled local governments when he assumed office. He also noted its importance in his political journey, reminding the people that it was one of three local governments that gave him strong support during his first attempt at the Governorship in 2010.

Soludo highlighted projects already undertaken in the area, such as the Nkisi–Atani–Ozubulu Road and the redevelopment of Okpoko, while admitting that communities like Iyiowa Odekpe had repeatedly called for greater government attention.

During the tour, he inspected several badly deteriorated roads, including New Road and School Road, which he described as needing urgent repair. He assured residents that road rehabilitation in the area would be prioritized.

The Governor also stopped at St. Gregory Catholic Church, where he reflected on his political journey and expressed gratitude to the community for their consistent support. His visit drew cheers from residents who expressed optimism about the promised interventions.

The Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, praised Soludo for his balanced development agenda across the State. Similarly, Ogbaru Mayor, Sir Kenneth Akwuobi, and the lawmaker representing Ogbaru Constituency One, Mr. Noble Igwe, commended the Governor’s efforts and reaffirmed confidence in the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) ahead of the November 8, 2025 Governorship election.

With the twin focus on security and infrastructure, Soludo’s message in Ogbaru was one of reassurance, progress, and renewed partnership with the people.

Insecurity: IPCR Calls for Stronger Collaboration between Policymakers, Religious Leaders, CSOs

The Director-General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, has called for stronger collaboration between policymakers, religious leaders, and civil society actors in tackling Nigeria’s complex peace and security challenges.

He made the call at a validation workshop on the Monitoring and Evaluation Instrument for the Network of Policymakers and Religious Leaders to Support Peace, Security, and Reconciliation held on Tuesday in Abuja.

In his welcome remarks, Ochogwu described the workshop as a “culminating moment” in years of sustained dialogue and partnership, stressing that the gathering was not just symbolic but strategic in building a Nigeria where peace and reconciliation become lived realities.

He said: “This Network is a bold testament to collaboration a platform where faith-based and government institutions deliberate, decide, and implement strategies that address the critical issues affecting our country.”

The Network, established in 2022, brings together senior government officials, religious leaders from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), representatives of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, as well as security agencies and civil society organizations.

Its aim is to develop inclusive, evidence-based policies that respond to Nigeria’s security and reconciliation needs.

Ochogwu highlighted six key areas where peace and security intersect with daily life: economic security, food security, health and personal safety, environmental challenges, community trust-building, and political governance.

He emphasized that tackling poverty, inequality, and exclusion must remain central to addressing insecurity.

The Director-General further explained that the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) tool under review was not merely technical but a framework for “accountability, learning, and continuous improvement.” The instrument, he said, would ensure that resolutions made by the Network translate into measurable action rather than end in rhetoric.

The workshop is being organized in partnership with the King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue (KAICIID) in Portugal and the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS).

The collaboration underscores the interfaith and interreligious dimension of the initiative, designed to strengthen Nigeria’s fragile peace landscape through structured dialogue.

Explaining the broader goal of the programme, DG noted that the Network seeks to bridge silos among stakeholders by creating an institutionalized mechanism for tracking progress.

“Your take-home here is that you are going to have a more strengthened, revived, and institutionalised network of people working within the peace, security, and reconciliation corridor in Nigeria,” he said.

With Nigeria continuing to grapple with insecurity, climate pressures, food shortages, and political tensions, participants expressed hope that the M&E framework will help track commitments, reinforce accountability, and foster a more coordinated response to national challenges.

Ochogwu however urged participants to approach the exercise with a deep sense of responsibility. “The path to peace is not easy, but with shared responsibility and collective action, it is always possible,” he said.

By Michael Udukhokhe

At a particular point in the chequered history of a people, nature throws up certain individuals who act as catalysts to bring about the desired change.

The advent of such great characters are almost always a needed solution that often takes a whole long circle to repeat itself again.

Dr Abbas Abubakar Ikheigbe is such a phenomenal occurrence in the political landscape of Etsako-West at such a time as this, the reason why his aspirations must be taken seriously to put our dear LGA on the road to greatness.

Here is a selfless, experienced and unassuming grassroots democratic who has offered himself to the service of his beloved people. It is our onerous opportunity to grab an untainted workaholic, administrator of many years and a thorough bred scholar to steer the ship of state to its desired shores.

For a man who’s always in touch with his people and who at various times helped to provide employment to every Etsako youth that comes across him, right from his National Youth Service Years with Setraco construction LTD, such a person must be taken more seriously.

Dr Abbas is not a novice or neophyte in Edo state politics. He has always been instrumental to the success of the APC both locally and nationally,

His ideas and slogan of “Walking The Work”  is a reflection of governance without rhetoric and deception. It’s an ideology of change and the renewed agenda for the dawn of community development in our LG.

His idea of providing scholarships for gifted but indigent students across the council is unique. His call for Agricultural Reawakening and extension services for our farmers are unique and top-notch. His revitalisation and renewal of community markets to ensure adequate and hygienic spaces to drive the economic activities of the informal sector is a novel thought.

Dr Abbas Abubakar Ikheigbe is a man of ideas who is in a hurry to bring change and development to his people. He’s humble quiet, resolute, dependable, educated and thus can be trusted. This is a time to punder!

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Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has called for urgent reform of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), including a new legal framework to empower it and open the sector to private participation.

Speaking at the Ministry of Interior Mid-Tenure/2025 Sectoral Performance Retreat held at Zuma Rock Resorts in Suleja, Niger State, the Minister described the current Fire Service Act of 1963 as “obsolete and inadequate,” stressing that it neither reflects today’s realities nor gives the FFS prosecutorial or regulatory powers.

He said: “By law today, the fire service cannot prosecute, cannot enumerate, and cannot even regulate. When a government agency lacks prosecution, regulation and enforcement powers, it becomes a toothless dog.”

The Minister argued that Nigeria’s growing population and booming economy require modern fire and rescue services, which cannot be funded by government alone. “Government cannot keep buying fire trucks abroad. Just as we license private guard companies, we must begin to license private firefighting and rescue companies,” he declared.

He added that private sector involvement in firefighting is standard practice in advanced economies such as Japan, China and the United States, noting that Nigeria must adopt similar models to protect lives, businesses and investments.

Tunji-Ojo noted that effective emergency response is critical for investor confidence, adding that: “No serious investor will put money in a country where there is no emergency response system. Most fire incidents could have been avoided with immediate response.”

He revealed that his ministry was already in discussions with the National Assembly on amending the Fire Service Act to bring the law in line with global best practices and empower the FFS with regulatory authority.

The Minister said beyond fire service reform, it was bad to frequently redeploy officers across unrelated units in paramilitary agencies, describing it as wasteful and counterproductive.

He said: “If you spend one year in border management and are suddenly moved to finance or HR, capacity building suffers. Officers should be allowed to build careers along their areas of expertise. National security requires specialization, not generalization.”

Tunji-Ojo called for structured career progression paths within the Interior Ministry’s agencies, particularly for officers in border management, migration and HR, to ensure institutional knowledge and continuity.

He insisted that emergency services are central to national security and economic stability, noting that in the US and UK, emergency medical services are under the fire service, adding that this is what we must aim for. “If we fail in emergency response, we fail the economy.

The Minister urged lawmakers, stakeholders and the private sector to join forces with government in transforming the nation’s fire and rescue framework, describing it as a prerequisite for safety, investment and sustainable growth.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Thursday urged the Brazilian business community to seize the vast investment opportunities available in the state and maintained that Delta is strategically positioned to become a hub for trade, agriculture, energy, and industrial development in Nigeria and West Africa.

The Governor made the call while delivering his remarks at the “Delta State-Focused Business and Investment Roundtable” in São Paulo, where he highlighted the state’s natural endowments, strategic location, and ongoing reforms aimed at creating a friendly environment for investors.

Oborevwori noted the strong ties between Nigeria and Brazil, citing similarities in population size, agricultural potential, cultural diversity, tropical climate, and a shared passion for football.

He described the roundtable as an avenue to forge strategic partnerships that would accelerate sustainable growth for both countries.

He explained that since its creation in 1991, Delta State has grown into one of the top five largest economies in Nigeria with a landmass of over 18,000 square kilometres and a population of more than six million people.

According to him, “Delta is blessed with vast natural resources and youthful human capital, making it an attractive destination for investors.

“Delta is Nigeria’s leading producer of crude oil and holds the largest natural gas reserves in the country, with two major export terminals in Escravos and Forcados”.

He also drew attention to the state’s long coastline, four seaports, and the on-going concession of the Burutu Seaport, which he said has the potential to become a major trans-shipment hub for West and South-West Africa.

He added that Delta is richly endowed with fertile soil for agriculture, with strong prospects in cassava, palm produce, rice, maize, aquaculture, and livestock.

“The state also has deposits of kaolin, silica, coal, lignite, and iron ore available for commercial exploitation,” he added.

On infrastructure, Oborevwori emphasized Delta’s advantage as a connecting point to major Nigerian markets such as Lagos, Onitsha, and Aba, while also boasting of three functional airports to enhance accessibility.

He stressed that his administration has invested massively in road networks to improve connectivity and ease of movement of goods and services.

Since assuming office in May 2023, the Governor said his administration has worked deliberately to improve the ease of doing business through tax harmonisation, the establishment of economic free trade zones in Koko and Kwale, and the enactment of business-friendly laws.

He also noted Delta’s recognition in 2024 by the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources as the safest state in Nigeria for oil and gas investments.

Oborevwori further disclosed that the state is advancing its agro-industrialisation drive with the development of a 180-hectare Agro-Industrial Park designed to host between 20 and 30 processing plants, along with new public-private partnership models for housing, energy, and manufacturing.

He explained that Delta has adopted a decentralized mini-grid model to boost sustainable energy and drive industrialisation.

The Governor expressed particular interest in learning from Brazil’s world-renowned ranching system, noting that Delta is eager to replicate aspects of the model to boost livestock production.

“I eagerly look forward to partnering with the business community of Brazil for our mutual benefit,” Oborevwori concluded.

By Michael Udukhokhe

Renowned public commentator and Etsako -West Chairmanship hopeful, Dr Abbas Abubakar Ikheigbe, has called for improved participation in the ongoing voters registration exercise across the country.

Speaking to Newsmen in Abuja on Friday, the grassroots politician and political Economist, decried the low turn out of prospective voters in the registration exercise in Edo State and called for voters education and sensitization in the state especially in Etsako-West LG.

“Looking at the figures country wise, Osun and Lagos States seems to be taking the lead with 393,269 and 222,205 newly registered voters respectively. This leaves Edo state trailing behind from a distant 30th position out of the 36 states with a paltry 2,875 newly registered voters” he said.

Dr Abbas Abubakar Ikheigbe, therefore, called for adequate Mobilisation of his constituents “as the power to choose our leaders lies in the hands of the people” he concluded.

Dr Abbas Abubakar Ikheigbe, an astute administrator, public commentor, grassroots politician and an APC Chieftain, hails from Jattu-Uzuairue, in Etsako-West LG of Edo State.

Chief Godfrey Odogwu, Chairman of the Technical Committee and Director-General of the Anioma State Creation Movement, has expressed optimism that the decades-long dream of Anioma State will soon become a reality.

Speaking in an exclusive response to Vanguard Newspaper on the progress of the proposed Anioma State, Chief Odogwu outlined the journey so far, the challenges, the misconceptions, and the resolve of Anioma people under the leadership of Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, the Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District at the National Assembly.

Chief Odogwu recalled that on August 31, 2024, Anioma leaders, sons and daughters, numbering over three thousand, converged in Asaba for the historic Anioma Summit. The gathering, which included over twenty-five traditional rulers, professionals, youths, student bodies, market women, and artisans, unanimously declared their support for the renewed quest for Anioma State.

According to him, this was the turning point under the leadership of Senator Nwoko, who currently sits on the Senate Committee on Constitutional Amendment.

“Since then, we have seen the Bill for the creation of Anioma State pass through the first and second readings at the Senate,” he said.

“Only last month, we had a very successful outing at the Senate and House of Representatives Public Hearings at both Ikot Ekpene and Enugu, where we again powerfully presented and defended our memoranda.

“I believe our presentations were well received by the Constitutional Amendment Committees of both chambers. Even if it is only one state they will recommend for creation, it will be Anioma State.”

Chief Odogwu acknowledged challenges but praised Senator Nwoko for his resilience, passion, and unflinching commitment to the cause.

“He has invested his time, enormous financial resources, connections, and lobbying skills to get us to where we are now, crossing every hurdle along the way and mitigating all the challenges.

“Fainthearted men would have given up long ago. Can you imagine that over ninety Senators are in full support of Ndi Anioma for a state of our own, even before the third reading of the bill?” he queried.

The Technical Committee, he said, is now looking forward to the Senate’s resumption from recess for the critical third reading of the bill, after which attention will turn to the referendum.

“We are also beginning to sensitize and mobilize our people for the referendum that will follow shortly after the harmonization of the Senate and House of Representatives positions on constitutional amendments,” he noted.

On the sensitive issue of geopolitical zoning, Chief Odogwu stressed that the Nigerian Constitution recognizes no such zones.

“At best, these zones are political arrangements put together by political parties to help them equitably distribute party offices,” he explained.

“Hence the bill sponsored by Distinguished Senator Ned Nwoko calls for the creation of Anioma State as the 37th State of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“So technically, there should be no basis for the complaint of the few people worried that Anioma might be taken from South-South to South-East.”

While admitting that some Anioma people do not see themselves as Ndi Igbo despite cultural and linguistic affinities, he described this as a “mindset we are working hard to correct.”

Tracing the agitation back to 1954 when Chief Dennis Osadebay made the first request to the colonial office in London, Chief Odogwu said the objective has always been to bring development closer to the people, not to sever ties with other ethnic groups.

“When Anioma was part of the Western Region, that did not make us Yorubas. When we became Mid-Western Region, then Bendel, and now Delta, it was the same logic.

“The creation of Anioma will also allow both Anioma and the remainder of Delta to prosper independently. It will be a win-win situation,” he said, noting that Senators representing Delta South and Delta Central are also in full support.

Chief Odogwu dismissed fears that Anioma might lose out if zoned to the South-East, arguing instead that the region would benefit more.

“It shouldn’t really matter where we are zoned. Rather, we are going to benefit more when we are in control of all our resources. We can also claim that Anioma has made sacrifices in the past and deserves to be named as the equity state of the South-East,” he said, recalling Anioma sacrifices during the Nigerian Civil War and massacres in Asaba and other parts of Anioma.

He pointed out Anioma’s historical links with Ohanaeze Ndigbo, citing the late Dr. Ralph Uwechue’s presidency of the group, the roles played by Dr. Ngozi Olejeme and the late Chief Dan Okenyi, and Anioma’s recognition as an Igbo state in the Ohanaeze constitution.

“The fear of Anioma being zoned to the South East is largely unfounded. It is just sentiments. We must focus on getting our state first and not worry about zoning,” he maintained.

Responding to misconceptions that Anioma leaders were not consulted, Chief Odogwu said Senator Nwoko had made wide consultations before and after the Anioma Summit.

“On the day of the Technical Committee inauguration, he was on his feet for over one hour explaining the bill, where we are, and where we are headed. That is why we had a massive turnout at the public hearings in Enugu and Ikot Ekpene,” he said.

On the role of traditional rulers, Chief Odogwu confirmed that the Asagba of Asaba, HRM Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, and the Dein of Agbor are co-chairmen of the Technical Committee on Anioma State.

He dismissed an old video of the Asagba expressing preference for South-South zoning as outdated, noting it was recorded before the committee’s inauguration.

“We are very thankful that two of our most prominent traditional rulers are lending their voices and experience to the committee,” he added.

On the involvement of other Anioma leaders such as former Senators representing Delta North, including Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Chief Odogwu expressed confidence that they remain supportive of the project.

He recalled that both Okowa and Senator Peter Nwaoboshi were invited to the Anioma Summit, though Okowa was unable to attend due to a PDP event. Our job as a committee is to continue to call for unity among Anioma sons and daughters,” he said.

Odogwu emphasized the overwhelming support from Anioma people despite distractions. “The feedback we are getting is that the majority of Anioma people want Anioma State regardless of where it is zoned.

“A few are trying to use zoning for cheap political points, but the sheer joy and euphoria that will engulf Anioma land when Anioma State becomes reality will sweep away all doubts. I can’t wait to see that day,” he declared.

By NORBERT CHIAZOR

Delta! The amalgamation of five strong and virile ethnic groups on August 27,1991, had birthed a state with intense diversity.

A state steeped in continuous search for self identity as each group  jostles for organic attention. A human experience Indian historian, Sandalal Nanda termed “competitive communalism”.

Two distinct discourses have instructively shaped an evolving Delta in recent times. Politics  ahead of 2027 governorship and the agitation for Anioma, both generating animated interest.

On 2027, the debate has  been particularly quintessential. The anticipation of tomorrow, extremely eager among Deltans.

The events of April 23, 2025 energized the political mood in Delta.That day, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, immediate past governor, Senator Dr. ifeanyi Okowa, followed by other high-end politicians and their supporters decamped from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives  Congress (APC).

That movement, deep and dramatic, reconfigured Delta political landscape. 26 years of PDP dominance of Delta had just ended.

Senator Ned Nwoko representing Delta North Senatorial District, the only PDP senator in the state had earlier on February 5,2025 decamped to APC ,completing a troika of Delta APC senators with Senator Ede Dafinone ( Delta Central) and senator Joel Onowakpo ( Delta South).

Given a party primed for self -immolation with intractable national leadership crisis, Delta’s swing, seemed a jump away from a ticking time bomb.

To the Delta political establishment, nothing could have been as  mollifying as  the augury of a new dawn under a stable centre of Renewed Hope Agenda.

The foothold stands in favour of collective self preservation than a move to protect prebendal tendencies of power at the state level.

Delta can only survive on devolution of governorship seat, given its controversial origin and complex ethnicity.

Whether by human permutation or providence, a power rotation structure had sustained the state since 1999. The shape of the  sharing strikingly plausible. Devolving from Delta Central, Delta South and Delta North. The three senatorial districts that formed the state.

Chief James Ibori blazed the trail, ruling from 1999 to 2007. Dr. Emmanuel  Uduaghan took the governorship baton from 2007 to 2015 . Senator Dr.Ifeanyi Okowa, 2015 to 2023.

All, governing for two terms of eight years each. Every man, his own. Every senatorial district, it’s turn.

Here lies the fortune of the man of the moment, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. He is in his first term of four years. Four more years for Delta Central, Oborevwori’s district. The division  currently with  Delta governorship power by precedence.

History is a reliable witness. Propriety points Oborevwori for a second tenure  to complete Delta Central slot of eight years. Correlatively before a pass to Delta South.

Delta gubernatorial rotation has been rolling peacefully. A soothing balm for a convoluted state. Sheriff has been forthright in office. His efforts visible in critical infrastructure and social welfare schemes in the state.

Power corrupts but so far, he has remained humble  in service. Majestic in outcome. This explains the goodwill across Delta.

2027 is in the womb of time.Tucked in the secrecy of the unknown. Enveloped in divine hand. Mortals can only mull and wait.But our conscience for a calm Delta of the future, nudges Sheriff, not just for the political correctness of governorship rotation but human rectitude.

On the agitation for Anioma State, this flies on the wings of equity and memory.

Kudos to Senator Ned Nwoko, representing  Delta North senatorial district in the National Assembly, for igniting the most effervescent  glow ever, in  an epic movement that started over 70 years ago.The oldest state creation quest in the history of Nigeria, since Sir Dennis Osadebay ,first premier of Midwest region followed by other Anioma potentates pioneered the agitation.

Senator Nwoko has staked much: time, intellect, energy and personal resources,  propelling  the renewed quest for Anioma State.

That he had openly voiced disinterest in vying for governorship in the event of Anioma State  emergence, deepened the tenor of his sacrifice. He has been making  consultations. He needs to continue unending  to open more doors and build bridges.

Though there is a raging debate on which zone – South South  or South East- the proposed state  should be located, the idea of Anioma is enchantingly just and genuine. Referendum and the government of the day will determine that. Enlightenment, not emotions,  will settle it all.

Anioma will be a win -win  situation. Delta as presently constituted will gain.Two governors will emerge if Delta goes.Multiple political offices. Monumental development prospects. Opportunities and possibilities.

Come what may,  Governor Oborevwori has  nothing to lose. Perchance Delta becomes defunct before 2027, he stands a good status  of leading as governor in the carved-out territory. If Delta remained in 2027, he got the brightest chances to continue ahead in gubernatorial capacity, towards 2031.

Under multi-party democracy, contest  is everyone’s rights. But power comes from above.The One who all power belongs to  dispenses human fate from his fecundity. It’s all grace.

Away with recriminations over  2027 and Anioma State creation agitation.

As Chinua Achebe counseled, “Let the Eagle perch , let the kite perch…”

Peace!

•  Chiazor is a veteran Journalist & Media leader

A 55-year-old drug kingpin Mohammed Abubakar, alias Bello Karama and five members of a syndicate operating at Kano international airport have been taken into custody by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) following the discovery that they are behind the shipment of illicit substances for which three innocent Nigerians who went on lesser hajj pilgrimage to the holy land were being detained in Jeddah for alleged drug trafficking.

This was disclosed at a press conference addressed by the NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi along with the Director of Assets and Financial Investigation, Dr. Abdul Ibrahim and Director of Prosecution and Legal Services, Theresa Asuquo, in Abuja on Monday.

The NDLEA while explaining how the syndicate implicated three unsuspecting pilgrims in drug trafficking allegations in Saudi, said following receipt of complaints by its Chairman/Chief Executive, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd) from three Nigerian families over the detention of their family members in Saudi Arabia after the completion of their lesser hajj pilgrimage on an allegation of trafficking in illicit substances into Saudi Arabia, an investigation was launched to unravel what happened.

The agency said the three Nigerians detained in Saudi Arabia: Mrs. Maryam Abdullahi; Mrs. Abdullahi Aminu; and Mr. Abdulhamid Saddiq boarded an Ethiopian Airline flight ET940 which departed Kano on 6th August 2025 to Jeddah enroute Addis-Ababa were unfortunate to be tagged with six additional bags not belonging to them, three of which were found to contain illicit drugs.

The agency said: “Mrs. Maryam Hussain Abdullahi while embarking on this flight, only checked in one luggage weighing 9 kilograms on the 6th day of August, 2025 which incidentally did not arrive with her to her destination. Her husband was only informed of the arrival of their luggage on 16th August, a day before the date of their departure from Jeddah which was to be on the 17th day of August, 2025. Following this allegation, she was detained in Jeddah and is still in detention till date. The case of the other two persons followed the same pattern and were reported to the Agency shortly after Maryam Hussain’s complaint.”

The agency revealed its swift investigation revealed that “the bags containing illicit drug substances intercepted in Saudi Arabia were checked in against the complainants’ names by members of a criminal syndicate operating in Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport without the knowledge of the three complainants.

“All the bags were traced to one Ali Abubakar Mohammed (aka Bello Karama), the leader of the syndicate who checked them into the Ethiopian Airline on the 6th day of August 2025, the same day the three complainants travelled on board the same airline from Kano enroute Addis-Ababa to Jeddah. It is interesting to note that the said Ali Abubakar Mohammed who also travelled to Jeddah on the same date boarded Egypt Air rather than Ethiopian Airline where he checked in his contaminated bags.

“The bags were tagged and checked in by members of staff of Skyway Aviation Handling Company who are also members of the criminal syndicate, to the names of the three complainants secretly and without their knowledge or consent. The bags illegally tagged against the complainants’ names are the ones intercepted in Saudi Arabia and found to contain the illicit drug substances.

“For the above reasons, the three complainants were arrested and detained for crimes they had no knowledge of. In the light of the forgoing, and the evidence gathered by the agency in the course of our investigation, it is clear that Mrs. Maryam Abdullahi and two others who are being detained in Saudi are victims of circumstance, implicated by the activities of a criminal syndicate operating at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport.”

The agency revealed that six members of the syndicate are already in its custody with four already charged to court awaiting arraignment including Ali Mohammed (aka Bello Karama); Abdulbasit Adamu, Murtala Olalekan and Celestina Yayock, adding that: “They have all made confessional statements. While Ali had admitted bringing in seven luggage, Celestina confessed checking in two of them for a fee of N100,000 and another suspect Jazuli Kabir who checked in two other bags admitted collecting N100,000 for the dirty job, while Ali travelled with the other three bags on Egypt Air. We have the receipts for the transfer of N200,000 from Ali to Celestina who in turn transferred N100,000 to Jazuli.”

The agency said based on the outcome of its investigations it is spearheading a dialogue with the authority of the General Directorate of Narcotics Control (GDNC) in Saudi Arabia to see that the three innocent Nigerians are exonerated.

“As a result, the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Agency is presently on his way to attend an International Drug Conference which will be attended by a delegation from the General Directorate of Narcotics Control (GDNC), who he intends to meet one on one, to present our findings and seek the cooperation of our Saudi counterparts in ensuring that Mrs. Maryam Hussain Abdullahi, and the two others who remain stranded in the Kingdom, get the justice they deserve. If required, the CCEO is also prepared to travel to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia personally to pursue this matter to its conclusion”, Babafemi stated, while assuring that Nigeria will never abandon its citizens, especially when the facts clearly show that they are victims of criminal conspiracies.

The agency however assured the public of its commitment to fight the scourge of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in the country adding that “while there are no sacred cows in our enforcement duties which can be attested to by the number of high-profile arrests, seizures, convictions and forfeitures recorded, it will not support the innocent being punished for crimes they did not commit.”

“While investigations continue, the CCEO will like to appreciate the Hon. Min of Aviation and Aerospace Development, the Managing Director of FAAN, the AVSEC and the DSS for their collaboration on this case and for the interim measures that have been approved in MAKIA to prevent a reoccurrence of this type of situation”, Babafemi said.

A 50-year-old widow and fashion designer, Mrs. Ifeoma Ezewuike has been arrested by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) over attempt to traffic 1.3 kilogrammes of cocaine, using fake pregnancy as a façade to escape scrutiny and detection.

A press statement on Sunday by the spokesman of the anti-narcotics agency, Femi Babafemi said the widow who is a mother of one and proprietress of Golden Star Creation, a fashion outfit in Ago palace way, Okota, Lagos, was arrested at a bus terminal in Jibowu, Yaba area of the state last Friday while attempting to move the cocaine consignment to customers in Abuja.

Babafemi said a follow up operation at her house in Ago palace area led to the recovery of 200 grammes of cutting agent used in the production of a strain of cocaine. He noted that in her statement, Ezewuike claimed she inherited the criminal trade from her husband who died two years ago, while she has been in the fashion business for 20 years.

Babafemi also said not less than 90 parcels of Loud, a strain of cannabis weighing 48.6 kilogrammes, imported from the United States of America and concealed in three cartons of kitchen sink were intercepted at a courier company in Lagos on Tuesday 19th August by NDLEA officers of the Directorate of Operation and General Investigation (DOGI).

According to him, in Adamawa, NDLEA operatives acting on credible intelligence last Friday raided the home of alleged drug dealer Idris Garba who scaled the fence to escape arrest while one of his associates Boniface Nnaji, 55, who attempted same was caught in the act at Rumde Baru area of Yola South.

He said recovered from the premises include a black Toyota Thundra jeep marked FST- 885-CZ driven to Yola by Nnaji to supply Garba 354,480 pills of tramadol 225mg, 250mg and others as well as a Toyota Yaris car with registration number DSA 776 AA.

Babafemi also said a total of 5,000 capsules of tramadol, 400 ampoules of pentazocine injection and 200 ampoules of diazepam injection were seized from a suspect Neche Okonkwo at the Idah waterside after crossing the River Niger from Onitsha, Anambra state to Lokoja, Kogi state with the opioids last Wednesday.

In Kano, the duo of Buhari Ibrahim, 25, and Mansur Musa, 24, were nabbed at Zangon Dakata Ungogo, with 5,850 capsules of pregabaline lastTuesday, while a total of 452,070 pills of opioids were recovered from the home of a suspect Rabilu Mukhtar who is at large, at Rangaza, Ungogo local government area just as Buhari Idris, 35, was arrested at Tashan Rami area of the state with 140 litres of codeine syrup, both on same Tuesday. No fewer than 7,000 capsules of tramadol were seized from Adamu Yusuf, 29, along Zaria-Kano road, Kwanar Dangora area of the state on Saturday.

A total of 2,289.49 kilogrammes of skunk, a strain of cannabis were intercepted in three interdiction operations by NDLEA operatives in Kwara state. While 1,232.86 kilogrammes was recovered from a Mitsubishi Canter truck marked ZUR 66 XT last Wednesday at Ajase-Ipo area of the state with a suspect, Kabiru Abdullahi arrested, another consignment of same psychoactive substance weighing 328.42 kilogrammes was seized from Paul Olaniran, 47, in a Mercedes Benz truck marked LSD 659 YE same day, same location.

The following day Thursday, NDLEA operatives intercepted another consignment of skunk weighing 728.21 kilogrammes in a Mitsubishi Canter truck with registration number GAD 287 XA, at Ajase-Ipo junction, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara state where two suspects: Abubakar Zaki, 44; and Yau Babangida, 45, were arrested.

Similarly, two suspects: Awe Sunday, 50; and Ayodele Adedayo, 54, were nabbed at Alafia Quarters, Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti state in connection with the seizure of 96 kilogrammes of skunk.

In Taraba, NDLEA operatives in conjunction with Civil Defence Corps personnel last Wednesday destroyed 7,500 kilogrammes skunk on three hectares of farmland at Dadin Kowa village, Bali local government area, while 901 kilogrammes of same substance was recovered from a warehouse at Uzebba in Owan West local government area, Edo State where a 54-year-old female suspect Fodo Sunday was arrested last Tuesday.

In other operations in Edo state, a total of 14,233.37 kilogrammes of skunk were destroyed on four plantations that measured 5.69375 hectares at Ebule forest, Owan West Local Government Area last Wednesday.

In Delta state, NDLEA operatives supported by the military destroyed a total of 25,500 kilogrammes skunk on four plantations measuring 10.2 hectares in Emu-Obiogu community, Ndokwa West local government area last Thursday, while in Ondo state, 25,025 kilogrammes of same psychoactive substance was destroyed on three farms with a combined measurement of 10.01 hectares at Asolo camp, Uso area of the state.

Two dispatch riders were on Thursday 21st August arrested by NDLEA officers in a stop and search operation in Jabi area of Abuja for distributing illicit substances in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). While Garba Sule, 29, was caught with 300 milligrammes of pentazocine injection, Isaac Augustine, 35, was nabbed with 8.64 grammes of skunk packaged for delivery.

Babafemi said in the same vein, commands and formations of the agency across the country continued their War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitization activities to schools, worship centres, work places and communities among others in the past week.

Meanwhile, the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), while commending the officers and men of DOGI, Lagos, Kano, Kogi, Kwara, Taraba, Delta, Adamawa, FCT, Ondo, Ekiti and Edo commands for the arrests, seizures and their dexterity, enjoined them and their colleagues across the country to continue with the ongoing balanced approach to the drug control efforts of the agency.

The Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor of Delta State, Sir Festus Ahon, has extended heart-felt birthday congratulations to two of his distinguished friends, Professor Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, and Olorogun Jaro Movudu Egbo, Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council, as they celebrate their birth anniversaries today.

Sir Ahon described Professor Ufuophu-Biri as a shining light in academia whose life and career continue to inspire many within and outside Delta State.

Ufuophu-Biri is celebrated as a reform advocate and prolific scholar who had successfully lectured in world-class institutions, including Harvard, the University of Memphis, the University of South Florida, and Abertay in Scotland.

He has received several accolades, including recognition as Most Productive Head of Department and Academic Personality -of- the- Year, and has been honoured by the Oghara Kingdom with the traditional title of Omoko of Oghara for his exemplary service to education and humanity.

The Governor’s spokesman also poured encomiums on Olorogun Jaro Egbo, describing him as a lawyer, politician, and grassroots mobilizer whose track record in public service speaks volumes.

As Chairman of Ughelli North, he has distinguished himself with innovative initiatives such as a monthly environmental sanitation programme that has transformed the cleanliness and public health of the local government area.

He has also spearheaded free medical outreaches and other people-oriented programmes that reflect his passion for community welfare.

A respected Knight of St. Christopher of the Anglican Communion, Egbo holds the revered traditional title of Amerode of Ughelli Kingdom and Ogidigan of Agbon Kingdom.

Sir Festus Ahon described Professor Ufuophu-Biri as a pillar of scholarship who has molded countless students into leaders and professionals, and Olorogun Egbo as a servant-leader whose compassion and dedication to his people remained exemplary.

Ahon noted that as they mark their birthdays on August 23, the celebrations are not only for personal milestones, but also for the remarkable impact both men had had in their chosen fields and on the development of Delta State.

The Economic Communities of West Africa States (ECOWAS) on Friday said it has set aside €4.5 million to support the implementation of home grown school feeding in primary schools across the West African region.

The Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, ECOWAS Commission, represented by the Director Agriculture and Rural Development, Alain Traore, stated this at the launch of the national policy forum on the institutionalisation and implementation of the home grown school feeding programme for sustainable economic growth and financial inclusion in Nigeria.

The event was organised by the presidential committee on home grown school feeding and supported by ActionAid Nigeria (AAN).

He said: “ECOWAS, with financial support from Spanish cooperation, is implementing the project to promote integrated school feeding models in West Africa (PMAI-AO), worth €4.5 million, the aim of which is to generate promising practices and strategies that can be scaled up and support the sustainability of school feeding programmes in the region.

“Food and nutritional security in general, and school feeding in particular, remains a strategic priority for our organisation, ECOWAS. It is at the heart of our regional agricultural policy, particularly through Axis 3, which aims to improve access to food, nutrition and the resilience of vulnerable populations.

“Children’s education is an essential pillar in the development of human capital in West Africa. School feeding based on local production (ASPL) is proving to be a promising approach for achieving this objective. It is not simply an isolated initiative; it is a holistic strategy that aims to improve child nutrition and contribute to school performance, support local agriculture, stimulate rural economies and reduce poverty.

“According to data from the Global Child Nutrition Foundation (GCNF), the school feeding situation in the region shows that 25 million children benefited from school canteens in West Africa in 2024, i.e. 32% of children of primary school age.

“This shows that the overall coverage rate is low in the region, despite the efforts made by governments and their partners. Greater political will, large-scale implementation of school feeding programmes, and their sustainability are therefore more than necessary.”

Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, who was represented by the Special Adviser to the President on Economic Affairs, Tope Fasua, said with the relaunch of the programme Nigeria is at the forefront of feeding school children.

He said: @This year, the federal government relaunched the New Hope National Homegrown School Feeding Programme, signalling a decisive return to scale and systemisation. The programme is designed to boost enrollment and attendance, improve academic performance, and raise smallholder incomes through stable local procurement.

“Across ECOWAS, governments and partners are codifying school feeding into law, financing at scale, and improving delivery standards. Nigeria’s relaunch places us at the forefront of this regional movement, where political commitment, sustainable financing, and multisectoral coordination are the levers that lift outcomes.”

The Speaker House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, who was represented by the chairman house committee on food safety and nutrition, Chike Okafor, promised to monitor the implementation of the policy at all levels.

Representative of the Minister of state Humanitarian Affairs Yusuf Sununu, Mr. Valentine Ezulu, in his keynote address said, “the Home-Grown School Feeding Programme is not just about feeding children. It is about nation-building.

“It is about Education: because a child who is nourished is more attentive, more likely to attend school, and more capable of learning. It is about nutrition and healtth because regular balanced meals combat malnutrition, stunting, and anemia.”

ActionAid Nigeria Country Director, Dr. Andrew Mamedu in his welcome address noted that there’s need to institutionalise the policy

He said: “Across Nigeria, too many children still go to school hungry. According to the World Bank’s Human Capital Index, Nigeria scores just 0.36—meaning a child born here today will achieve only 36% of their productive potential if nothing changes.

“The Home-Grown School Feeding Programme is more than a nutrition intervention. It is an education strategy that keeps children in school and helps them learn better.”

He noted that: “When properly institutionalised, the programme will improve nutrition and learning, create jobs, enhance financial inclusion, and build resilience for future generations.”

Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Wednesday, commiserated with the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, over the death of his mother, Mama Lydia Yilwatda.

Oborevwori, who led a delegation to Yilwatda’s residence in Abuja, described her development as a “mixed feeling,” noting that while Nigerians recently celebrated the APC Chairman’s election, the joy was soon overshadowed by the loss of his beloved mother.

The Governor, who was accompanied by members of the National Assembly from Delta State including Hon. Nicholas Mutu, Hon. Francis Waive, Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, and Hon. Ngozi Okolie as well as his Senior Political Adviser, Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, noted that the late matriarch lived a fulfilled life, raising a family that has produced a professor, a minister, and now the National Chairman of the ruling party.

He stressed that her legacy of discipline, faith, and service would remain a source of pride to the family and the wider community.

“We cannot question God. The Bible says there is a time to be born and a time to die. Mama has lived a very good life, and she has raised her family very well. Our prayers and thoughts are with our National Chairman and his family,” Oborevwori said.

*ASABA/Nigeria* : The former member of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ossai Nicholas Ossai, and a three-term federal lawmaker who represented the Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency, has been named Chairman of the 12th Anniversary celebration of Ndokwa Reporters and the maiden edition of the Bel Media Dialogue. The landmark event which holds on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at Top View Hotel, Asaba, Delta State, begins at 11:00 a.m.

In a statement announcing the event, Emmanuel Enebeli, President/CEO of Bel Media and Publisher of Ndokwa Reporters, said the anniversary would not only celebrate a decade and two years of impactful community-focused journalism but also introduce the Bel Dialogue, a flagship platform designed to drive informed public engagement.

According to Enebeli, the inaugural dialogue will examine the theme: “Development or Displacement: Understanding the Cost of Unregulated Land Acquisition in Our Communities – The Role of Government and Traditional Institutions in Safeguarding Community Lands.” He stressed that the forum will amplify voices and provide actionable solutions to pressing issues of land use, governance, and community rights.

The event will feature an array of distinguished discussants including Godfrey Chukwudifu Osakwe, FNIPR, a chartered PR practitioner and environmental advocate; Barr. Thomas Otunuya Anigara, lawyer, journalist and traditional leader; Chief Monday Ogheneruona Itoghor, environmentalist and NGO leader; Tpl. Oguafor Innocent Ifeanyi, chartered town planner and environmental management expert; Odih Christian Udoka, community development advocate; ESV. Mike Mbagwu, FNIVS, registered estate surveyor and valuer; Barr. Ngozi Chukura, principal counsel of Ngozi Chukura & Co; and Joy Anthonia Ochei, media personality and broadcasting professional, who will moderate the discussion.

The Bel Dialogue is expected to feature robust exchanges, audience participation, and contributions from government officials, lawmakers, traditional leaders, business executives, civil society actors, and the media, all aimed at strengthening policy discourse and safeguarding community interests.

“For 12 years, Ndokwa Reporters has been at the forefront of telling our stories and defending community interests. The launch of Bel Dialogue marks the next chapter, creating a platform for inclusive, solution-driven conversations that will shape development in our state and beyond,” Enebeli added.

Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North) on Monday joined fellow lawmakers at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to welcome Senate President Godswill Akpabio back to the country.

Akpabio’s arrival at about 4 a.m. dispelled rumors about his health and signaled the beginning of what is expected to be a vigorous legislative session aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.

The Senate President had just concluded his participation at the 6th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament in Geneva, Switzerland, before making a brief vacation stop in London.

In a statement, Senator Nwoko described Akpabio’s return as a source of renewed confidence for the Senate, stressing that the coming session would be dedicated to advancing the aspirations of Nigerians.

Speaking to journalists at the airport, Akpabio dismissed online speculations about ill health as “baseless falsehoods,” clarifying that his London stay was recreational.

“I am fit as a fiddle and ready to lead,” he affirmed, assuring Nigerians of “robust legislative engagements that will accelerate national development.”

At the Geneva conference, convened by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the United Nations, Akpabio led Nigeria’s delegation in discussions on “Parliamentary diplomacy and multilateralism: Delivering peace, justice and strong institutions for sustainable development.”

He outlined Nigeria’s efforts in education loans, vocational training, tax reforms, and direct cash transfers as key measures for poverty alleviation and governance reform.

His media office later emphasized that the London visit was strictly for rest and personal reflection, dismissing insinuations of medical concerns.

With the National Assembly set to reconvene, Akpabio’s return is seen as a rallying point for the Senate’s legislative agenda, particularly in addressing economic reforms, security, and governance.

On his official X handle, the Senate President wrote: “Our presence at the global parliamentary gathering in Geneva was a strong one. Now, we turn our focus to delivering on the aspirations of our people.”

Observers believe Akpabio’s renewed vigor, bolstered by his international engagements, positions the Senate to play a decisive role in Nigeria’s democratic and developmental progress.

By: Michael Udukhokhe

Renowned political Economist and Chieftain of the APC in Etsako-West LG of Edo State, Dr Abbas Abubakar Ikheigbe, has sent a congratulatory message to Rt Hon Gani Audu on the occasion of his birthday today August 19th, 2025.

In his message to the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr Abbas described the erstwhile Etsako-West LG helmsman as a unique, calm and effective politician whose leadership has been a source of inspiration for the younger generation.

“Hon Abdul Ganiyu Audu is an inspiration to all of us and his service right from his position as the LG Chairman to the State House of Assembly and up until now” he said.

Dr Abbas Abubakar Ikheigbe, a Chairmanship hopeful, wish Hon Gani Audu a happy birthday and God’s continued guidance as he serves his people conscienciously.

Hon Gani Audu who marks his 56 years today, was a former Local government Chairman of Etsako -West and a member of the Edo State House of Assembly.

The Delta State Sports Commission boss,  Hon Joshua Onos Oborevwori has set up an 8-man local organizing committee for the 9th National Youth Games that is taking place in Delta State.

The 8-man committee has  Hon Onoriode Oborevwori as Chairman, former AFN President, Chief Solomon Ogba is the Adviser, with ex international footballer  and commissioner in the State Sports Commission, Mr. Sam Sodje as a member.

Other members are Mr. Oghale Omale and  Henrientta  Ehiabor, commissioners in the board of the State Sports Commission.

The immediate past Director General of the State Sports Commission, Mr. Festus Ohwojero as well as Mr Paul Omamomo-Ojo were also appointed as members while the  Director General of the Sports Commission Emuobo Egalase will serve as Secretary.

The Local Organizing Committee has been charged with the responsibility of organizing and hosting a memorable  National Youth Games.

The 9th edition of the National Youth Games is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, August 26 and run till Saturday September 6, 2025.

Delta State has won all the previous eight editions of the National Youth Games since it debuted in 2013 in Abuja.

Courtesy: /SSU.