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By Madu Obi Police Operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad/Anti-Kidnapping unit have busted a notorious camp of suspected gunmen at Osumoghu Isieke Village in Ihiala local government area of Anambra State. The state Police command said the attack of the camp, described as one of the most dreaded in the state, followed a credible information received by security operatives. The state Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, SP Tochukwu Ikenga said that during the operation, one Ewulu Chikwo, 35 years, was arrested, adding that at the time of the arrest, the suspect and his gang members were allegedly planning to enforce illegal sit-at-home in the area for the next Monday. Ikenga said that during interrogation, the suspect confessed to being a member of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and was among those that attacked the Ukpor Divisional Police Headquarters in Nnewi South local government area in 2022, where a policewoman, Inspector Stella Maris, was gruesomely murdered. He said that following the busting of the camp, the state Joint Security Force has intensified patrols in the area, with a view to securing that axis that had been a no -go area for some years. He said that the state Police command has equally assured of swift action on any security information, especially as it affects the arrest of other gang members in the area.

By Madu Obi Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo has said that his second term will centre on the execution of specific projects that will put a crown to his quest to make Anambra a green, liveable and prosperous homeland. The governor said that while doing this, he will also ensure sustenance of projects he has already executed in his first term. Speaking in Awka, the governor's press secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, listed some of the proposed projects to include three new smart cities, Anambra mixed-use industrial city, rail project to connect specific cities in the state, digital access to medical consultations, development of tourist sites, and bursary award for Anambra students. Aburime said: "Governor Soludo’s next chapter is built around scale and sustainability. Three new smart cities, namely Awka 2.0, Next Onitsha, and the Anambra Mixed-Use Industrial City (AMIC), are poised to redefine urban living in Nigeria. Governor Soludo’s next phase includes a Comprehensive Oncology Centre, which is Anambra’s answer to Nigeria’s growing cancer burden. This will complement the telemedicine backbone already in place to ensure that quality healthcare reaches not just cities, but the most remote wards. Every resident, no matter where they live, will have real-time digital access to medical consultations. Health emergencies will meet smart responses. Rural births will receive world-class care. Governor Soludo’s health vision is radical in its simplicity: every life must count. The next frontier Anambra transport master plan will deliver a state rail network, linking major commercial centres, dualization of more Trunk A highways across the state, a modern mass transit system, combining BRTs, water transport, and digital ticketing. This is all about productivity, ease, and environmental responsibility. Also, Governor Soludo is set to unlock Anambra’s untapped tourism gold mines, projects that will merge heritage with hospitality. This means that Ogbunike Cave, Owerre-Ezukala Waterfalls, and Agulu Lake will be developed into world-class eco-tourism destinations with supporting infrastructure, security, and luxury accommodations. The Marriott Hotel in Awka, with the groundwork on-going, will anchor a new era of business and leisure tourism in the state. Culture, once an afterthought, will become commerce. The way of life of the people will be projected respectfully and sustainably. To ensure that no student is left behind, a comprehensive Anambra Students’ Bursary Scheme will be launched." He observed that the governor's three-year track record has silenced doubters and inspired believers, stating that what will come next will even be more compelling.

By Iheanyi Chukwudi Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, has been described as an epitome of good governance, by the former Commonwealth of Nations Secretary General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku. Eulogizing Mbah on Tuesday at the 14th Chief Emeka Anyaoku Lecture Series on Good Governance, with the theme, “The Imperative of Good Governance: Nigeria in a Global Comparative perspective,” the diplomat noted that the governor was genuinely and quietly transforming Enugu state. The 14th lecture series held at the Enugu International Conference Centre, was organised by the board of Youth Affairs International Foundation. He stressed that visionary leadership and speedy development, such as being witnessed in Enugu State under Mbah, would become a mere routine with a genuine federal constitution. Anyaoku said, “Allow me the privilege of describing him (Mbah) as a truly performing governor. Yesterday, I was given glimpses of projects that have either been completed or in active progress towards completion. I saw, for example, this magnificent International Conference Centre. I saw an array of CNG buses at the Okpara Square. I saw the Smart Green Schools, which I gather that the governor’s plan is to replicate in every electoral constituency (wards), and I learnt that there are as many as 260 of them. I was also able to visit a state-of-the-art bus station, the Holy Ghost Terminal. So, I would say that Governor Peter Mbah is genuinely transforming Enugu State, which used to be described as a civil service state. He is transforming it into an industrial, educational hub and agricultural innovation. The surprising thing is that all these developments are going on with little publicity. I had expected, as my experience visiting many other states in this country has shown me that in places where you have two to three projects going, you will have massive publicity of them. But not so in Enugu. So, Governor Peter Mbah is not just a performing governor, but he is also a quiet and noiseless performing governor." In his speech, Governor Mbah emphasised that “good governance – or lack of it – is often the fine margins between an ascendant state and one on a downward trajectory.” He, therefore, charged leaders to move beyond the realm of ideas into the realm of practicality and renewed his call for people-centred governance and investment in the youth. He said, “Good intentions alone do not translate to good leadership. Good leadership proceeds from the understanding that the people should be the centerpiece of state policies and projects.”

Ekwulumili erosion site By Madu Obi Severe gully erosion has swept away 15 houses and some farmlands In Ekwulumili community in Nnewi South local government area of Anambra State, with the affected people calling on the state government to save them from further devastation. According to the people, the erosion has also cut off some major roads in the area, thereby threatening their existence and livelihood. One of the gully erosion sites is about 50 metres away from the Oba-Nnewi-Uga-Okigwe expressway, which is a strategic route for travelers. They lamented that in spite of their cry for over 30 years since the erosion became massive, the state government was yet to intervene. In the interim, the community said it had combated some of the sites with concrete work and tree planting, lamenting, however, that the menace has continued to expand, especially during the rains every year. A stakeholder in the community, Mr Chinedu Anyaso said that because of the erosion, many families have been forced to flee their ancestral lands. Anyaso, who is the chairman of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, IPMAN, Enugu Depot, listed the most affected villages as Umudim, Urueze and Isigwu, adding that the gully erosion was caused by floods that came from Igboukwu, Oraeri and other upland communities, as well as increased human activities. He said the road linking the community to Amichi through Ugwuochi had been cut off by the gully erosion there by reducing the access of the people to social and economic activities. “We are losing our community to gully erosion and about 15 houses have been lost to this gully. Families have been displaced, countless number of economic trees and large areas of farm lands have been washed off and the federal road that passed through here is about being cut off. We are calling on Gov. Chukwuma Soludo to declare a state of emergency on Ekwulumili gully erosion. We are also calling on the Federal Government and international community to intervene. As a people, we have carried out control and remedial measures like planting of trees, construction of drainage and creation of catchment pits to reduce the impact, but we are facing flood from about four communities from the upland flowing into our community." Also speaking, Chief Clement Ezeifedikwa, a former President General of the community said government officials had visited the various sites a number of times and gave assurances, adding that nothing had been done to mitigate the disaster or assist the people.

Roving Reporter Justice Nwosu-Iheme of a FCT High Court Wuse Zone 2 in Abuja on Monday sentenced the husband of late gospel singer, Osinachi, Peter Nwachukwu, to death by hanging. Nwachukwu was found guilty of culpable homicide resulting in the death of the deceased (his wife) on April 8, 2022. The judge held that the prosecution had proven the burden of proof placed on it by the law and subsequently found the defendant guilty. Osinachi passed away in April 2022 after allegedly being beaten by her husband, Peter Nwachukwu. While initial reports claimed she died from cancer, testimonies from family, church members, and neighbours revealed that she was a victim of domestic violence. Witnesses stated that Nwachukwu kicked her in the chest prior to her death. This led to Nwachukwu’s arrest, and he was arraigned on June 3, 2022, by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, representing the Federal Government. He faced a 23-count charge, including culpable homicide (punishable by death), criminal intimidation, cruelty to children, spousal battery, and other offences. The prosecution also tendered 25 documents as exhibits before the court. The defendant testified for the defence and further called four other witnesses and tendered four exhibits in his defence. Shortly before sentencing, the defendant, counsel, Reginald Nwali, in his allocutus pleaded with the court to be lenient in its judgment. Similarly, the prosecution counsel, Mrs Aderonke Imala, urged the court to give force to the law as stipulated. Justice Nwosu-Iheme subsequently sentenced Nwachukwu to death by hanging on Count 1, while he was sentenced to two years imprisonment each on Counts 2, 3, 8,9, 12, 13, and 18.

Information Commissioner, Law Mefor addressing the people at the cattle market By Madu Obi The Anambra State government has taken its anti- drug abuse campaign to the Amansea Cattle Market in Awka North local government area of the state. The exercise which is in partnership with cattle dealers in the area was part of a sensitisation campaign against drug abuse and addiction among the inhabitants and traders. The event, themed, 'Operation Stop Drug Abuse and Addiction', drew attention to the dangers of substance abuse and encouraged youths to pursue productive endeavours. Speaking during the campaign, the state Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor, described the cattle market community as a strategic partner to the Soludo government in the development of the state, urging them to avoid drugs to succeed in life. According to Mefor, drug abuse leads to financial loss, poor decision-making, and potentially mental degeneration up to the point of schizophrenia. He assured the youths of the state government's interest in their welfare and offered to support the rehabilitation of those suffering from drug dependency and addiction. "The state government decided to do this programme with the Amansea Cattle Market because it is interested in the youths here and everywhere in Anambra State. The way we came here is how we will go to other places – markets, churches, mosques and all. We need to talk to our young people so that nobody will say, 'I didn't know.' Now you know. The decision is yours. If you are wise and willing to change your life, Soludo’s government will help you," Mefor said. He highlighted various initiatives of the Soludo government, including the One -Youth ,Two -Skills programme, as well as free education designed to empower youths, and encouraged interested individuals to take advantage of these opportunities. The Commissioner also assured that his Ministry would liaise with the Secretary to the State Government to get Governor Soludo to look into the issue of facilitating the movement of the cattle market to the permanent site, even as he urged them to remain good citizens. Earlier, the Chairman of the Anambra Cattle Market, Amansea, Alhaji Bello Magari, observed that drug abuse and addiction are serious problems in the country today, which, he added, was why they deemed it important to hold the campaign in order to sanitize those who patronize the cattle market. While stating their commitment to continue partnering with the governor in making Anambra better, Alhaji Bello drew attention to the issue of their permanent site. "We need a place where our customers can drive in and drive out to purchase their goods. Where the government gave us is not on the roadside. Though they promised to construct the road for us and build it as a well-deserved cattle market, nothing has been done yet, not even the approval for the land," he said.

By Madu Obi Prominent businessman and Chairman of Jezco Group, Chief Joseph Ezeokafor, has described Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, as the best governor the state had produced since its creation in 1991, saying his achievements would earn him second tenure. Ezeokafor, who spoke after touring ongoing and completed projects in various parts of the state, said the governor has been able to effectively apply the resources of the state. Among the projects toured by prominent Anambra Chiefs led by Ezeokafor include the new Government House and Solution Fun City, both in Awka, the newly constructed Amawbia/Nise/Agulu/Ekwulobia/Uga dualized road with a flyover at Ekwulobia and the Umuchiani erosion site, where a bridge is being constructed. Ezeokafor urged the people of Anambra State to reward Soludo's good work with their votes, stating that the era of mediocre leadership was over. He emphasized that he has no interest in vying for elective positions, but wants to ensure that the right things are done in the state. He observed that Soludo's achievements is helping to boost private investments in the state, thereby increasing the state's economy.

Mrs. Soludo By Madu Obi The wife of the Anambra State governor, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, has advocated a collective action to be able to fight the malaria scourge in the country. Speaking at an event to mark this year's malaria day, she emphasized on the urgency of addressing the disease, which, she noted, has continued to pose a significant public health challenge in Nigeria and the African continent. Citing the World Health Organization’s report, Mrs. Soludo highlighted the grim reality that malaria claims an estimated one life every minute, with the majority of the deaths occurring in Africa. “Nigeria is among malaria-endemic countries in Africa, yet the growing threats that come with this dangerous disease are things we can really control through collective actions and sustained efforts,” the wife of the governor said. As Anambra’s mosquito net Ambassador, Mrs. Soludo emphasized the critical role of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) in preventing malaria. “Sleeping under insecticide-treated nets is still ideal for preventing malaria. Since 2023, our campaign has successfully distributed over 3.8 million free ITNs to households and public health facilities across Anambra State. It’s a modest effort with massive results and with such progress, there is need for continued action. While the government will continue to improve access to treatment and prevention of the disease, we also have a responsibility to drive community actions and promote common household habits to keep malaria away from our environments,” she added.

By Madu Obi The chairman of the Anambra State Civil Service Commission, Tony Ezenwaka, has urged the state's workforce to support the efforts of Governor Chukwuma Soludo to improve the welfare of workers. Ezenwaka, who made the call when the state chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Sir Humphrey Emeka Nwafor paid a solidarity visit to him, observed that Governor Soludo has also shown great dedication to the comprehensive development of Anambra State, as he is focusing on all sectors without discrimination. He praised the Governor for staying focused on the state’s development, despite some challenges, expressing happiness that the governor is not distracted in any way. According to him, the primary concern of the governor is holistic development of the state, adding that workers are determined to ensure his reelection. "The governor has shown serious and consistent commitment to responsive and responsible leadership and the people are happy," he stated. He also solicited the support of NLC to help the commission deliver the best outcomes for the state’s workers.

By Madu Obi The United Nations Children's Fund, UNICEF, has recommended adequate funding for the provision of enough vaccines in Nigeria, saying that it is one of the greatest investments any forward- looking government can make. At a media dialogue to commemorate this year's World Immunization Week, officials of the UNICEF Field Office Enugu, noted the life-saving power of immunization to protect people of all ages against vaccine-preventable diseases. They noted that insecurity in most parts of the country is threatening the gains made earlier as many people no longer complete their immunization exercise. In a paper he presented at the dialogue, the health specialist at the UNICEF Enugu Field Office, Dr Olusoji Akinleye, who said that immunization for all humanly possible, described vaccines as one of humanity’s greatest achievements and, therefore, should be sustained. According to him, it is heartwarming that many stakeholders have been investing in vaccine funding, which is why Immunization is free. He said: "Since 1974, 154 million lives have been saved and that is more than three million lives a year or six people every minute for five decades. In the same period, vaccination has reduced infant deaths by 40%, and more children now live to see their first birthday and beyond, than at any other time in human history. Measles vaccine alone accounts for 60% of those lives saved. Also, vaccines protect more than 30 life-threatening diseases. More lives are now being saved among people of all ages, with more recent vaccines against malaria, HPV, cholera, dengue, meningitis, RSV, Ebola and mpox, reflecting an era of massive scientific advancements in vaccine development and delivery. We are at a watershed moment in the history of global health. Decades of collaborative efforts between governments, aid agencies, scientists, healthcare workers, and parents got us to where we are today – a world where we’ve eradicated smallpox and almost eradicated polio." He, however, lamented that hard-won gains in stamping out diseases that are preventable through vaccination are now in jeopardy due to neglect, noting that 22 million children globally missed their first measles vaccine in 2023. "Every new child born deserves the benefit of these vaccines, yet millions still miss out each year. To ensure that the immunization successes of the past 50 years are built on in the coming decades, this year’s theme, Immunization for All is Humanly Possible, aims to continue the “ humanly possible” campaign with a future forward look on the importance of ensuring that more people, especially children, are vaccinated," Akinleye stated. He explained that this year's campaign aims to: *Demonstrate that it is humanly possible to have less disease and more life, if people and their communities protect themselves and their loved ones from vaccine-preventable diseases through immunization, and *Encourage governments to turn vaccines into vaccinations through strong immunization programmes at local and national levels to deliver on the promise of immunization for all. "More people of all ages are being protected against vaccine-preventable diseases every day – malaria, cervical cancer, COVID, etc. Immunization reaches more people than any other health service; connects families with health care systems and helping everyone have access to much-needed care. "Vaccines for one person also keep other people safe because in today’s interconnected world, an outbreak anywhere is a threat everywhere and supporting vaccinations not only saves lives, but keeps deadly outbreaks from diseases", he added

Dr. Agbodike left with stakeholders during the empowerment By Madu Obi The member representing Ihiala Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Dr Paschal Agbodike has empowered over 2,000 people in his constituency with materials worth millions of naira to make them self -reliant. The items include laptops with printers, sewing and grinding machines, educational materials, thousands of bags of rice and Siena buses to Ihiala security outfit to ensure adequate security in the area. Addressing the beneficiaries, Agbodike explained that the gesture, which was his seventh empowerment programme in the constituency, was geared towards offering business support and relief to the people to compliment the efforts of Governor Chukwuma Soludo in developing Anambra State. Agbodike, who was the former Deputy Speaker in the Anambra State House of Assembly, promised that the empowerment programme would continue to be a regular feature in the area. In his remarks, the Vice Chairman of All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, in Anambra South Senatorial District, Chief Surplus Ewuzie described Agbodike's programme as mind blowing and commended him for following the footsteps of Governor Soludo.

YPP Governorship candidate Sir Paul Chukwuma & running mate Mr. Uzuegbunam Okagbue By Madu Obi The former Deputy Chief of Staff and Chief of Protocol to former Governor Willie Obiano, Chief Uzuegbunam Okagbue, has been nominated the running mate to the governorship candidate of the Young Progressives Party, YPP, Sir Paul Chukwuma for the November 8 election. Chukwuma unveiled Okagbue to the officials of YPP from the 21 local government areas of Anambra State in Awka on Friday. The YPP running mate hails from Umunachi in Dunukofia local government area in Anambra Central senatorial zone. He was Obiano's Chief of Protocol for eight years and was a senatorial aspirant for Anambra Central in 2023. Addressing the YPP officials at the party's secretariat, Chukwuma said: "We consulted widely before the nomination and interestingly every segment of the stakeholders in Anambra State wanted Uzuegbunam Okagbue to be my running mate for the governorship election. "I do not have any objection to the decision. I am quite excited, having worked with him closely in the course of this effort to salvage Anambra State. So, Uzu Okagbue is a consensus choice." In his acceptance speech, Okagbue promised to be loyal to the candidate of the party and to put in his best to ensure the success of YPP in the forthcoming governorship election.