Dr. Stella Chinyelu Okoli, founder and group managing director of Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, is set to unveil a N35 billion Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) manufacturing facility in Sagamu, Ogun State.
Dr. Okoli’s journey is one deeply rooted in the enterprising spirit of Nnewi, Anambra state, often referred to as the “Japan of Africa” for its robust manufacturing culture.
As a daughter of Anambra, she has not only upheld but also elevated the town’s proud tradition of innovation and industrial excellence. With over four decades of business leadership, she has transformed Emzor from a small wholesale pharmacy into a leading pharmaceutical giant with a continental footprint.
The upcoming Sagamu API plant – reportedly valued at N35 billion – is a testament to her belief in homegrown solutions and her refusal to be limited by systemic challenge.
Reacting to the development, Governor Charles Soludo congratulated Dr. Okoli for carving a niche for herself in the pharmaceutical industry, while also urging her to remember her roots while investing.
“Once again, our own daughter, proud daughter of Anambra state, has achieved another feat. She has once again proved her worth – the very entreprenual spirit for which Anambra, and Nnewi people in particular are known. We say congratulations to her.
Law Mefor, further told the Emzor boss that she still has opportunities to invest in Anambra state.
“This administration has what we call the Anambra Mixed-Use Industrial City (AMIC). Our daughter, the Emzor boss, has a space there to build a branch of what she is building in Ogun state.
“AMIC is a flagship infrastructure project in Anambra state, designed to accelerate economic development by creating a hub for both small and large industries. It focuses on developing critical infrastructure like access roads, gas pipelines, and power in a single location to attract and support various businesses. “The AMIC aims to transform Anambra state into an industrial powerhouse by fostering a conducive environment for businesses to thrive. The city extends from Ogboji, Akpu, and Ufuma to Ekwulobia, providing space for various businesses and investment proposals.
“The project prioritizes developing industrial infrastructure, including access roads, gas pipelines, and power, in a concentrated area. It is expected to generate jobs and drive economic growth within Anambra state. In essence, the AMIC is a strategic initiative to attract investment, support industrial growth, and create a more robust and competitive economic landscape in Anambra.
“What we’re saying in essence is that our daughter, Dr. Stella Okoli, has enough space there to build more than 20 times what she has currently built in Shagamu, Ogun state. Every enabler is there on ground for any industry to thrive. So, she should extend olive branch to her state; we deserve it.”
Ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s scheduled visit Today. Security measures have been intensified across Awka, the Anambra State capital,
We Observed that some roads were closed off with heavy presence of security personnel at various strategic points in the city.
Operatives from the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and local vigilante groups have all been deployed to maintain law and order.
The State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed that security operatives were fully equipped and prepared to ensure peace and safety before, during, and after the president’s visit.
President Tinubu is expected to inaugurate several key projects including the Solution FunCity, Anambra Country Club, New Government House, New Government Lodge and New Presidential Lodge.
The President will also unveil the Emeka Anyaoku Centre at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka and the ‘Iconic Light of the Nation Tower’ at the new Government House; a structure symbolising the state’s identity, constructed by Dutum Construction Ltd.
Meanwhile, there is light traffic on the roads as commuters were diverted to other areas to ease traffic congestion for the president’s visit.
Residents of Awka expressed optimism and enthusiasm ahead of the visit.
Kennedy Ikenna, a local businessman, said he was pleased that President Tinubu would be commissioning projects in Anambra for the first time.
Similarly, Kate Esione, a civil servant, welcomed the visit and urged the President to focus more on improving the welfare of people in the South-East region.
Aba Mega Mall, located at Osisioma LGA, has become full property of the Abia State Government, as the State Government, ably led by Governor Alex Otti, OFR, has paid off all those with vested interests in the strategically located complex that its purpose of establishment could not be realised.
Governor Otti disclosed the acquisition and full takeover of the mega-mall on Sunday, 4th May, during the grand finale of a 3-day Mega Crusade of the Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministries, which was held in Aba Mega Mall Complex in Osisioma LGA of the State.
The Governor, whose presence electrified the religious gathering, said, “I want to say that the place where you are, before now, there was a dispute. But just about three weeks ago, we resolved the dispute, paid off everybody that was being owed, and the place has reverted to the State Government.”
Speaking further, the Governor disclosed that no force was applied in the takeover of the mall, which has been lying fallow for many years after huge investments were made by the former investors who engaged with the previous administrations.
“We didn’t want to use force. We called all of them…how much are you being owed, we paid all, even paid their bankers. So this place has become full property of Abia State Government, the Governor declared amidst applause from the worshipers.
Governor Otti further disclosed that the long-abandoned property with a vast expanse of landmass would be put to effective use in the coming months.
“Those of you who know how Abia State Government works today; if you come back here in a few months, you would know that this place belongs to Abia State Government,” he asserted.
The Governor thanked Pastor Lazarus Muoka for choosing Aba for the 3-Day Mega Crusade, assuring him of the support of the State Government in future crusades for better organization.
In his words of admonition to the worshippers, Governor Otti said, “There is something about God, He works in mysterious ways and with time; He is not a God you can put under pressure,” he stated, urging them to patiently wait on God when what they are praying for is yet to happen, adding that God’s time is perfect.
He said that when it was time for the liberation prayers of Abians to God to happen, He brought Prof. Nnenna Oti, who vowed to do the right thing, even though she had never done election work before, and the rest is now history.
While acknowledging that 23 months down the line, the story of Abia has changed for the better, which the worshipers joyfully affirmed, he assured them that what had already happened is nothing compared to the things that would happen moving forward.
The Founder and General Overseer of the Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministry, Pastor Lazarus Muoka, thanked Governor Otti for identifying with them and led the congregation into a fervent prayer for the Governor, his family, those working with him, and the Government. He prayed to God to grant Governor Otti everything he needed to complete the good works he had started across the State.
The Governor was joined in the worship service by Hon. Fyne Ahuama, the Legislator representing Osisioma South State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly and his colleague, Hon. Iheanacho Nwogu, representing Osisioma North State Constituency, the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, the Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Hon. Chibueze Nwokocha, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Ferdinand Ekeoma, the Mayor of Osisioma LGA, Hon. Chidi Agu, and some other top Government functionaries.
Ctz. UKOHA NJOKU UKOHA
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Abia State.
04-05-2025.
Mr Peter Obi , the Labour Party Presidential Candidate has reiterated the urgent need to take education sector serious . From the twitter page of Peter Obi ,Queen Madu- Ezeh of BVI Channel 1 online reported that the official results from JAMB have shown that a total of 1,955,069 candidates sat for the exam.
Shockingly, out of this number, only about 420,000 candidates scored above 200, while over 1.5 million scored below 200.
Below is the full report ”This means that over 78% of the total candidates failed to meet the 200-mark threshold — a reflection of the deep-rooted challenges in our educational system.
The latest JAMB results once again highlight the consequences of decades of underinvestment in education, a sector that should be central to our national development strategy.
Currently, Nigeria’s total university enrollment stands at approximately 2 million students. By comparison, the National University of Bangladesh — a single university — has over 3.4 million students enrolled, despite the country having only about 75% of Nigeria’s population. One university in Bangladesh surpasses the entire university enrollment in Nigeria.
Bangladesh, which once lagged behind Nigeria in virtually every measurable development index, now surpasses us in all key areas of development and in the Human Development Index (HDI).
Similarly, Turkey, with a population of about 87.7 million people, has over 7 million university students — more than three times Nigeria’s total university enrollment.
I have consistently said it: education is not just a social service; it is a strategic investment. It is the most critical driver of national development and the most powerful tool for lifting people out of poverty.
We must now invest aggressively in education — at all levels — if we are serious about building a prosperous, secure, and equitable Nigeria.
President, International Coalition against Christian Genocide in Nigeria (ICAC-GEN)
Odogwu of Ibusa, Delta State, May 04, 2025
I write in response to the press statement by the President of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) His Eminence Archbishop Daniel Okoh, titled: “CAN Backs Peace Talks to Tackle Insecurity in Middle-Belt Region” and dated May 03, 2025.
The said press statement was in fact a Federal Government-instructed response through Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu to my petition against the United States Ambassador to Nigeria Mr. Richard Mills for his unethical meeting with the leaders of the terrorist Miyyeti Allah.
On May 2, 2025, I forwarded the petition to the President of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) His Eminence Archbishop Daniel Okoh with a follow-up call to ascertain the position of CAN on the on-going killing of Christians and displacement from their homes. The CAN President no doubt graciously picked the call and assured me that he would look at the petition.
I equally forwarded the petition to Prophet Isa El-Buba who truncated my follow-up call with a text message instructing me to write my message. I called Bishop Wale Oke who instructed his wife to inform me that he was indisposed to talk to me while his voice was clear at the bckground. Both Bishop David Oyedepo and the General Secretary of CAN did not deem it necessary to pick my call to discuss a matter that borders on the on-going heinous slaughter of defenseless Christians in Nigeria.
On May 3, 2025, that was less than twenty-four hours after speaking with the CAN President, a close confidant of the CAN leadership informed me that sending such petition to either the CAN President or any of the popular Church leaders in Nigeria is a waste of time, because apart from CAN having received one hundred million naira (N1000, 000, 000) recently from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through his wife Remi Tinubu, nearly all the major Pastors and Bishops in Nigeria are being bankrolled by President Tinubu.
To these Pastors and other Christian leaders in Nigeria therefore, the killing of defenseless Christians by Muslim Fulani herdsmen, Bandits, Boko Haram and ISWAP does not concern them. What concerned them was the money paid by President Tinubu to keep their mouths shot. predictably, few hours later, this confidant forwarded to me the text of a Press Statement condemning my petition against the United States Ambassador to Nigeria Richard Mills which was drafted in Aso Village in the name of CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh; with the instruction that he should sign it and send out to the press immediately. Without being economical with space, below is the text of the spineless and shameless press statement by somebody who not only sees himself as a revered man of God but the supposed overall leader of Nigerian Christians:
“CAN PRESS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release
May 3, 2025
CAN Backs Peace Talks to Tackle Insecurity in Middle-Belt Region
1. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) stands firm in condemning the brutal attacks and persistent violence inflicted upon communities in states such as Plateau, Benue and Gombe, where our brothers and sisters have endured immense suffering and loss. We unequivocally reaffirm our steadfast commitment to advocating for their safety, security, and dignity. We will not relent in our pursuit of justice and lasting peace for all affected communities.
2. We urge Nigerians from all walks of life, backgrounds, and faiths to support ongoing peace initiatives and refrain from actions that could undermine efforts to address the country’s security challenges, particularly in the Middle Belt region. Engagements with stakeholders across professional, ethnic, and religious lines are recognised diplomatic practices that foster dialogue and mutual understanding. Any actions or statements that heighten tensions risk destabilising our nation, and we therefore call for the utmost caution.
3. CAN has consistently condemned the senseless killings occurring across various parts of Nigeria through official press statements, and we remain resolute in speaking out against violence targeting any community. Furthermore, we have undertaken visits to affected areas, including parts of Plateau State, to express solidarity, offer condolences, and distribute palliatives. In the days ahead, we will continue with further visits to provide support, comfort, and much-needed relief to those impacted, highlighting our commitment to standing by our communities in times of distress.
4. We appeal to all citizens to refrain from spreading unverified information that may deepen divisions. The strength of our nation lies in our unity, and it is only through collective effort that we can build a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria. Let us embrace the teachings of the Holy Bible to love our neighbours and the pursue peace with all.
5. CAN encourages open and honest dialogue among all stakeholders, both local and international, including the United States, through the presence of Ambassador Richard Mills. In addition, we believe that trusted platforms like the Nigerian Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) provide the ideal space to raise concerns and work together towards practical, sustainable solutions.
6. The Christian Association of Nigeria reaffirms its unwavering dedication to promoting peace, unity, and understanding across the nation. We will continue to collaborate with all parties to ensure the safety, security and well-being of all Nigerians, regardless of faith or ethnicity.
May God bless Nigeria.
Signed,
Archbishop Daniel Okoh
President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN)”
Is it not a shameless show of spiritual depravity that the above six-paragraphed limbless illogical self-destructive charade would be coming from somebody who calls himself His Eminence, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, against the background of the now unending slaughter of defenseless Christians in Nigeria?
Article 5 (d) of CAN Constitution states as one of its objectives: “To act as watch-man of the spiritual and moral welfare of the nation.”
How far has the present CAN under Archbishop Daniel Okoh acted in accordance with this aspect of CAN objectives as it relates to the current precipitous state of insecurity against Christians in Nigeria? Of course it is obvious that the cowardly Christian Association of Nigeria under Archbishop Okoh with its Philistine spirit and, driven by the mammon spirit of Judas Iscariot cannot utter a word of admonition or condemnation against the present catastrophic Federal Government led by Bola Ahmed Tinubu; not after collecting one hundred million naira blood-money in bribe.
I want to remind Archbishop Okoh what Micah 3:11 says about his current status as the President of Christian Association of Nigeria and those any Christian leader in Nigeria who is not moved to the point of taking decisive actions against the current orgy of Christian slaughter in Nigeria:
“The heads thereof judge for reward, and the priests thereof teach for hire, and the prophets thereof divine for money: yet will they lean upon the LORD, and say, Is not the LORD among us? none evil can come upon us.”
This is how Isaiah 1:23 describes His Eminence Archbishop Daniel Okoh and his co-Church leaders in the gab of Judas Iscariot: “Thy princes are rebellious, and companions of thieves: every one loveth gifts, and followeth after rewards: they judge not the fatherless, neither doth the cause of the widow come unto them.”
Let us even look at his Aso Villa scripted press statement in the context of the roles and responsibilities of Christian Association of Nigeria as the guardian of Nigerian Christians.
In paragraph one, the CAN President talked about condemnation of the killing of Christians in the following words: “The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) stands firm in condemning the brutal attacks and persistent violence inflicted upon communities in states such as Plateau, Benue and Gombe, where our brothers and sisters have endured immense suffering and loss.”
In the first place, is the on-going brutal kidnapping and killing of Christians only restricted to Plateau, Benue and Gombe? Has the killing and kidnapping not spread to nearly all the States of Southern Nigeria? If we are now talking about only areas of high intensity of the killings, why was Enugu State not included? The CAN President in his Philistine sense of moral judgment proudly tells us that CAN Condemns the killing of Christians. The question is how far has this shameless unending condemnation of the unending slaughter of Christians in Nigeria brought Christians nearer to the realm of solution or justice in Nigeria as free citizens?
We need not go back to previous dark experiences but taking it from the gruesome lynching of Deborah Samuel, through Owo Catholic Church massacre, to the continuous pogroms against Christians of Benue, Plateau and Enugu States, how has this shameless shamble of Philistine condemnation brought either justice or an end to the carnage against Christians? Has it not remained the same shameless condemnation since Adam in Nigeria?
Just last March, sixteen confirmed armed Muslim terrorists masquerading as hunters in a land without wild animals were apprehended and sent to Prophet Muhammad in self-defence by vigilant Uromi patriots in Edo State. What did we see? The whole nation was turned into political conflagration with every notable Muslim Fulani leader including the Sultan of Sokoto, Atiku Abubakar and Kano State Governor calling for revenge.
Pitiably and cowardly enough and in direct contradiction with the celebrated spirits of ancient Benin warriors, the Edo State Governor not only arrested the alleged Uromi heroes but went on a detestable peace mission to Kano State with the still shameless promise to pay whopping sums of money as compensation to the families of the terrorists. The killers of Owo Catholic Church worshippers were apprehended and their identities known.
Was any compensation paid by the dastard Fulani State Governments of the North? Was any of the culprits of Owo massacre ever brought before the court of law? What of the on-going massacre of Christians in Enugu and Ebonyi States by the same Fulani hunter-terrorists? What action did the two spineless humpty-dumpty Igbo Governors do in reaction to the mass slaughter of their people, except the slavish utterance of condemnation? Who did this to us Christians of Nigeria?
In paragraph two, Archbishop Okoh spoke of peace initiative. Which peace initiative was he moronically talking about? Is it the detestable peace between the American Ambassador Richard Mills and the terrorist Miyyeti Allah, or the non-existent peace between CAN and the marauding herdsmen and bandits? Is the CAN President talking about peace between him and Boko Haram? I can’t still understand why God has chosen to always give Christians in Nigeria Saul as their king?
In paragraph three, the CAN President goofed again not only in his damnable condemnation therapy but by telling us that distribution of iniquitous palliatives and leprous sympathy visits to the survivors by CAN leadership are the magical solutions Nigerian Christians need presently to put a stop to the on-going ominous jihad projects of Sokoto Caliphate against. I knew the CAN leadership would come to this despicable point after the respectable Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor handed over the CAN leadership to the Baptist quisling Rev. Dr. Ayokunle.
I remember personally confronting Pastor Oritsejafor over his support for such unprincipled, morally corrupt, spiritually bankrupt and spineless Church leader as Rev. Dr. Ayokunle; and I remember his humble confession that it was a deadly mistake on his part. That same deadly mistake has subsequently germinated another unprincipled, morally corrupt, spiritually bankrupt and spineless Church leader named Archbishop Daniel Okoh as CAN President. The cumulative result is that Christians in Nigeria have reached the precipitous stage of their existence as Christians in Nigeria.
In paragraph four, the CAN President was clearly insulting the dignity of both his office as CAN President and General Superintendent of Christ Holy Church by talking about unverified information and loving one’s neighbors, under the present critical situation for Nigerian Christians. Which unverified information was he talking about? My statement of facts against the United States Ambassador to Nigeria Mr. Richard Mills or statement of facts against Miyyeti Allah as the patron of terrorism in Nigeria? We expect Archbishop Daniel Okoh to respect both his dignity as CAN President and Archbishop of his Church.
And by the way, which “love your neighbor” thesis was Archbishop Okoh speaking about in the stream of innocent Christian blood? I want to remind Archbishop Okoh and all the Christian leaders allied with him in his shameless unconcerned dispositions towards the on-going massacre of Christians in Nigeria of what Jeremiah 23:1-2 says concerning them:
“Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD. Therefore thus saith the LORD God of Israel against the pastors that feed my people; Ye have scattered my flock, and driven them away, and have not visited them: behold, I will visit upon you the evil of your doings, saith the LORD.”
This is true of the word of God and none of those Christian leaders who despicably decide to sell the birthright of Christians of Nigeria in their toga of fake spirituality to the vicious Muslims of Nigeria will ever go unpunished according the word of God as stated above. The air we breathe today which is the sign of life is from God who can withdraw it any moment from any one both Pastors and non-Pastors. So let the CAN President and his co-Nigerian Christian leaders not assume that their lives are superior to the lives of ordinary men and women on the streets and in the villages who are daily facing extermination by Muslim Fulani terrorists.
In paragraph five, which was the direct evidence that Archbishop Okoh was directed by Aso Villa to counter my petition, he began by stating: “CAN encourages open and honest dialogue among all stakeholders, both local and international, including the United States, through the presence of Ambassador Richard Mills.”
Is Archbishop Okoh in his truly discerning spirit as a man of God telling us that the meeting between Ambassador Richard Mills and Miyyeti Allah was an “open and honest dialogue” for Nigerian Christians? Did Archbishop Okoh in his logical sense of spiritual reasoning consider himself important before the Ambassador Richard Mills, otherwise why was he not invited to the meeting? So, to Archbishop Okoh the local and international stakeholders to peace in Nigeria are the Miyyeti Allah and the biased American Ambassador to Nigeria? Wonders shall never end.
The sixth paragraph is however the direct expression of the collective idiosyncrasy of a Judas Iscariot among Nigerian Christian leadership today. It is pathetic that a band of Islamists in Aso Villa would write a press statement on behalf of the President of Christian Association of Nigeria to release in his name against the collective interests of the same Christians he is commissioned to lead. What can be more Judas Iscariot than such shameless act of quisling?
Nigerian Christians are yet to believe that the present CAN under the leadership of Archbishop Daniel Okoh is the same CAN officially inaugurated on 27th August, 1976 under the patriotic direction of General Olusegun Obasanjo. Most of us also still don’t believe that the present CAN under the leadership of Archbishop Okoh is the same CAN some of us knew and admired under Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor.
There is no doubt that with the way many notable Nigerian Christian leaders are shamelessly drowned in the sea of Tinubu’s corrupt mo]ney, it is impossible for both the present crop of CAN leadership under Archbishop Daniel Okoh and other leaders of the Christian Church in Nigeria to play any positive role in frontally confronting these hydra-headed monsters called Armed Fulani herdsmen, Fulani bandits, Boko Haram and, ISWAP.
Indeed, one would not be far from the truth if we assume that the number one agents of Islamization in Nigeria and stealth supporters of the on-going killings against Christians are Nigerian Church leaders themselves. When you refuse to act or talk where appropriate and necessary as a Christian leader in such heinous matter as the obvious Federal Government sanction of crimes against humanity being perpetrated against Christians, then invariably you are an accomplice in the crime.
We should not be quick to forget that Nigeria is in her present state of precipitous insecurity as a result of the evil handiwork of such Christian leaders like Archbishop Okoh, Reverend Father ejike Mbaka, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, Cardinal Anthony Okogie, Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, Pastor Tunde Bakare and, Bishop Matthew Kukah among many known and unknown Christian leaders.
Without the Judas Iscariot played by these Christian leaders against President Goodluck Jonathan Muhammadu Buhari shouldn’t have emerged as President. Even after God has taken out Muhammadu Buhari out of this visible earth, these same Christian leaders continued to cover up his death with impostors of different kinds.
Was it not the threat by the new Niger Republic junta to arrest and expose the current impostor Muhammad Buhari that led a throng of Northern Muslim leaders to Niamey to plead for restraint promising to compel Bola Ahmed Tinubu to back out from the ECOWAS threat of military invasion, which they did?
It is evident beyond all reasonable doubts that without these two respective philistine episodes of Christian support for the election of the sworn Islamic fanatic Muhammadu Buhari as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and, the subsequent cover-up of his death, thereby stopping his Christian Vice President Yemi Osinbajo from succeeding him, the present political ogre called Bola Ahmed Tinubu wouldn’t have found himself as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
We have come to the point where Nigerian Christians should begin to ask their Church leaders about their stewardship in the fight against the on-going jihad against Christians, the continued massacre of defenseless Nigerian Christians and their unrestricted displacements from their ancestral homes. If they fail to do so, then we should take it that they are among those Christian leaders who collected money from President Tinubu to cover-up the killing of Christians by Muslim Fulani herdsmen and bandits.
For those Christian leaders playing Judas Iscariot against their flocks because Tinubu’s money, here is the word of God against you according to Acts of the Apostles 1: 20: “For it is written in the book of Psalms, ‘Let his habitation be made desolate. Let no one dwell in it;’ and, let another take his office.’”
Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, on Monday announced that his government is set to buy over the Umuahia ringed fence of the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) in order to provide steady power for the rest of the eight Local Government Areas (LGAs) not covered by the Geometric Power.
Governor Alex Otti spoke at the Geometric Power Aba at a reception organized by the Management of Geometric Power after the commissioning and tour of Aba Power’s new 2 X 15 MVA, Ogbor Hill Sub – Station by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
According to a statement by Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, his Chief Press Secretary, Governor Otti directed the Abia Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities to hold discussions with the management of the Geometric power over wheeling of its excess power to the Umuahia ringed fence.
We are in the process of buying EEDC and restructuring Umuahia. By tomorrow (Tuesday, 6th), we will be making an offer to EEDC.
“We have done all the due diligence, we have done all the evaluations and by tomorrow, we will be making an offer to EEDC.
“Our estimation is that with all the 11 sub stations (of Geometric) ready and the 9 local governments connected, somehow, we have the problem of Ukwa West, which we are putting heads together to solve. So, that means that we will have over 80 megawatts excess power from here.
“Ordinarily, what would happen is for that excess power to be injected into the national grid, but then, with the deregulation, our discussion with Geometric Power is around wheeling that 80 or 88 megawatts or any excess power into Umuahia ring-fence. So, once we are in control, that excess power will go to Umuahia,” Gov. Otti stated.
The Governor, while appreciating former President Obasanjo for some courageous actions he took as President, including isolating Aba as a ringed-fence far before now that the federal government has granted states authority to regulate electric power, also, thanked Professor Nnaji for investing in Abia.
Also speaking, the former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo pleaded with Prof. Nnaji to include the remaining 8 LGAs in the State that were not yet covered by the electricity ringed-fence of the Geometric power.
Chief Obasanjo, who saluted the leadership style of Governor Alex Otti in Abia State described Aba as the centre of industrialization, which deserves steady power and congratulated Governor Otti, Prof. Nnaji and the entire Abia people on the success of the project so far.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman and CEO of Geometric Power Group, Professor Bart Nnaji, while giving an overview of the vision of Aba Integrated Power Project, lauded former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Governor Alex Otti for their roles which were instrumental to the realization of the project.
He also thanked Governor Otti for his long standing support for the project during his time as the Executive Director of First Bank and later, Diamond Bank, adding that Dr. Otti as a Governor has created enabling environment for the project to thrive. He disclosed that so far, the Aba Power has cost over 800 million Dollars.
The event was well attended by senior Government appointees and Mayors of Osisioma LGA, Aba North and Aba South LGA including the 2 members representing Osisioma North and South State Constituency in the State House of Assembly. The member representing Aba Central State Constituency was also present at the event.
Former Commissioner for Trade and Investment in Abia State, John Okiyi Kalu, has countered recent claims by Governor Alex Otti that the previous administration left behind an empty treasury and indebtedness.
John Kalu accused the governor of misrepresenting facts surrounding the state’s financial position as of May 29, 2023.
According to him, the document clearly stated that the administration of former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu left over N4 billion in cash in the state’s Union Bank account.
According to the former commissioner, “That process review document says that over N4 billion in cash was left for Governor Alex Otti. Now, there were near-cash instruments also left for him. For instance, the Ikpeazu administration earned 24 billion naira in stamp duties.”
He further listed additional financial instruments and funds inherited by the current administration, which he argued are being deliberately downplayed.
The former commissioner alleged that Governor Otti inherited several other substantial resources, including:
$60 million from the Rural Access and Mobility Project (RAMP) fund.
$225 million from the African Development Bank (AfDB) for development projects.
N24 billion in collectible stamp duties.
Kalu dismissed Governor Otti’s reliance on a KPMG report, which he described as a “process review document” rather than a forensic audit, as the governor had characterized it.
Kalu challenged Governor Otti’s competence, questioning his understanding of basic financial and governance data such as Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), Federal Allocation (FAAC) receipts, and public-school enrollment in the state.
“For the first time in my life, I saw a governor of a state who could not speak to how much the state makes in IGR monthly, who doesn’t even know the FAAC receipt on average, who doesn’t even know the public-school enrollment in our state.”
The former commissioner also took issue with Otti’s governance style, particularly his continued residence outside the official government house in Umuahia.
“This guy has had two years in office. In those two years, he could have completed whatever was not completed, yet he chose to stay in his private residence in Mfosi, spend government money to improve his own private property.
The same governor who told us that he was looking for N1 billion to go back to the new government house is spending multi-billions in the Asokoro Abia Lodge. The same governor spent over N800 million to fix the commissioner’s quarters.”
Meanwhile Gov Alex Otti
Governor Alex Otti had accused his predecessor, former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, of misrepresentation and alleged fraud for commissioning what he described as an uncompleted Government House project. He claimed the move was part of a broader pattern of “deceptive legacies” left behind by the previous administration—issues his government has been working to address since taking office.
Governor Otti stated that although the new Government House was publicly inaugurated by the Ikpeazu administration, the actual condition of the facility when he assumed office fell far short of expectations.
Otti further emphasized that since taking office, his administration has not borrowed a single kobo, despite inheriting a massive debt burden. This includes unpaid salaries, pensions, and outstanding obligations to various government parastatals.
Anambra State Police Command successfully stopped a kidnap attempt at Neni community in Anaocha Local Government Area, saving three victims, including a husband and wife.
The incident, which occurred on Saturday evening, saw a group of hoodlums ambush the victims’ vehicles at Okacha Junction.
The perpetrators forced the victims into another vehicle and attempted to take them away. However, the police responded promptly after receiving a distress call from the scene.
According to an eyewitness account, suspected hoodlums trailed the victims and abruptly blocked their vehicles at Okacha Junction.
The eyewitness further stated that the assailants forced the victims into a different vehicle and were in the process of transporting them when law enforcement officers arrived at the scene. Following a pursuit, the alleged kidnappers released the victims and escaped in another vehicle.
Tochukwu Ikenga, the spokesperson for the Anambra Police Command, confirmed the event, stating, “Police operatives from the Neni Divisional Headquarters responded quickly to a distress call along Okacha Junction on May 3, 2025, at 8:45 pm, foiling the kidnapping attempt. They rescued three victims, including a couple, and recovered one of the victims’ vehicles from the scene.”
The police said that the Joint Security Force, comprising the military, Civil Defence, and vigilantes, joined efforts to apprehend the suspects and recover a Black Lexus 350 SUV (Reg. No: ABJ 557 LD), which had been snatched from one of the victims and used by the kidnappers to flee.
The Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to maintain peace and safety in the state.
Mr Governor, your administration has enjoyed significant goodwill, bolstered by the absence of formidable opposition and the substantial support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for your re-election bid. This political advantage, while enviable, carries inherent risks that demand your utmost caution and strategic foresight. The lack of a strong opposition can foster complacency, leading to governance missteps that could erode public trust and jeopardize your legacy. Similarly, the endorsement of a figure as influential as President Tinubu, though a powerful asset, may create perceptions of over-reliance on external political machinery, potentially alienating grassroots support among ndị Anambra who value independent leadership. You must not allow these favourable conditions to lull you into a false sense of invincibility. The people of Anambra are discerning, and their loyalty is not guaranteed by the absence of rivals or high-profile endorsements. One critical error, especially in a state known for its politically astute populace, could galvanize unforeseen opposition and trigger an electoral backlash through the ballot box. History is replete with examples of leaders who, buoyed by seemingly unassailable support, faltered when public sentiment shifted unexpectedly. You must remain vigilant, prioritize transparency, and deliver tangible results to sustain the trust of ndị Anambra.
The claim of not borrowing yet by your administration is noteworthy and has been a cornerstone of your narrative of fiscal prudence. The decision to reject the World Bank loan of approximately N44 billion in 2024, citing unfavourable terms, further reinforces your commitment to avoiding unsustainable debt. However, this narrative, while compelling, risks being undermined by a lack of clarity on how ongoing projects are funded. Ndị Anambra deserve a detailed account of the financial mechanisms driving your ambitious infrastructure agenda, including the construction of 750 km of roads (410 km completed), the Government House, and initiatives in education and healthcare. Without transparent disclosures, speculation and scepticism may arise, especially given the scale of these projects. Are they funded through internally generated revenue, federal allocations, or other innovative financing models? Your background as a former Central Bank Governor and economist positions you uniquely to demystify these processes. By proactively publishing detailed financial reports, you can pre-empt accusations of opacity and strengthen public confidence in your administration’s stewardship of state resources. Failure to do so could provide fodder for critics, particularly as the 2025 election cycle intensifies, when fact-checks and opposition narratives will scrutinize every claim.
A critical area requiring urgent clarification is the funding and execution of major road projects, particularly Trunk A roads, which are federal roads traditionally funded through the federal budget. Your administration has widely publicized road construction as a hallmark of your achievements, yet many of these projects, such as those along federal corridors, fall under the purview of the Federal Ministry of Works. Ndị Anambra need to know whether these roads are being funded by the state government with an expectation of reimbursement from the federal government or if they are entirely federally funded. The lack of clear communication on this matter risks creating a perception that your administration is taking credit for projects outside its direct financial responsibility. Such ambiguity could be exploited by detractors to undermine your credibility. For instance, if the state is fronting funds for federal roads, you should explicitly state this, detailing the terms of any refund agreements. If the projects are federally driven, acknowledging this while highlighting your role in lobbying for their execution would demonstrate honesty and collaborative leadership. Transparency here is not merely a matter of good governance; it is a strategic necessity to maintain the trust of a populace that values accountability.
The recent demolition of structures along federal roads, such as the building serving as the showroom of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company (IVM), underscores the need for improved communication and planning. The incident sparked unnecessary drama, amplified by IVM’s propensity for media sensationalism, as seen in its past disputes with GTBank, where it leveraged social media to propagate misleading narratives. Is the road in question a federal road? If yes, the state government should adequately inform the public and if the state is involved in the project, it bears the responsibility of issuing public demolition notices well in advance. Such notices would mitigate confusion, reduce public outcry, and prevent proxy media wars that tarnish your administration’s image. The IVM saga could have been avoided with a clear, widely disseminated announcement outlining the scope of the road project, the necessity of demolitions, and the legal basis for such actions. Your government must adopt a proactive approach to public communication, publishing demolition notices in newspapers, on social media, and through community engagements to ensure affected parties are informed and prepared. This is particularly crucial in a state with a vibrant business community, where disruptions can escalate into public relations crises.
Moreover, my recent visit to Nnewi revealed a concerning gap between social media claims and on-ground realities. Contrary to assertions that your administration has tarred most roads in the town, I observed widespread demolitions and untarred, scraped roads blanketing businesses in dust. These conditions, if left unaddressed, will deteriorate further by the middle of the rainy season, turning dust into mud and clogging drainages, thereby endangering lives and livelihoods. The sight of half-demolished structures and incomplete road works is disheartening, particularly in a commercial hub like Nnewi, where economic activity is the lifeblood of the state. You must act swiftly to complete all road projects within your jurisdiction and exert pressure on the Federal Ministry of Works to expedite federal road projects. The rainy season, expected to intensify by mid-2025, poses a significant risk of flooding and road degradation if these projects remain unfinished.
Drawing inspiration from former Federal Capital Territory Minister Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, you should adopt a decisive approach to infrastructure development. El-Rufai’s tenure was marked by bold actions to remove illegal structures and simultaneously complete road works, ensuring that disruptions were minimized and benefits were swiftly realized. In Anambra, half-demolished structures are not only eyesores but also death traps, posing risks to pedestrians and motorists. You must order their complete removal and ensure that road tarring and drainage construction proceed concurrently to prevent flood-induced damage. Simultaneously, engage with federal authorities to ensure that Trunk A roads receive the same urgency, as their condition reflects on your administration’s effectiveness, regardless of jurisdictional boundaries.
The importance of sincerity in your government’s publications cannot be overstated. As the 2025 election approaches, every claim will be subjected to rigorous fact-checking by journalists, civil society, and political opponents. Contradictions between official statements and verifiable realities will inflict significant damage to your credibility and undermine your efforts to uplift Anambra. For instance, exaggerated claims about road completions in Nnewi, when juxtaposed against the reality of dust-covered businesses and untarred roads, could fuel public disillusionment. Your administration’s commitment to fiscal transparency, as evidenced by Anambra’s top ranking among Nigerian states, provides a strong foundation to build on. Extend this transparency to all aspects of governance, including project funding, federal-state collaborations, and infrastructure timelines. By aligning your publications with verifiable facts, you can neutralize potential controversies and maintain the moral high ground in the face of electoral scrutiny.
In the security sector, your efforts to keep Anambra safe are commendable, particularly in a region grappling with insecurity. However, recent reports of unnecessary killings by personnel of Agunechemba highlight a critical flaw in their training and oversight. Handing guns to inadequately trained operatives is a recipe for disaster, as it risks alienating the public and undermining the security gains you have achieved. You must organize a professional retreat for Agunechemba personnel, focusing on human rights, conflict de-escalation, and community engagement. Such training will ensure that security operations align with global best practices and preserve the trust of ndị Anambra. A secure state is not merely one free of crime but one where citizens feel protected rather than threatened by those tasked with their safety.
Odenigbo, while the absence of visible opposition to your re-election bid is a strategic advantage, it is not a license for complacency. Praise singers and sycophants may amplify your achievements, but they cannot shield you from the consequences of governance lapses. Ndị Anambra are known for their high expectations and willingness to hold leaders accountable through the ballot. A single vital mistake, whether in project execution, communication, or financial transparency, could ignite a groundswell of discontent, empowering even a weak opposition to challenge your mandate. You must sit up, remain proactive, and prioritize the completion of all ongoing projects before the middle of the rainy season. Engage ndị Anambra with honesty, clarify the intricacies of federal and state road projects, and ensure that demolitions and security operations are conducted with empathy and foresight. Your legacy as a transformative leader depends not on the absence of opposition but on your ability to deliver measurable progress and maintain the trust of the people.
Chukwuemerie Uduchukwu, an Indigene of Nnewi, writes from Abuja, Nigeria.
The federal government of Nigeria reopened Enugu Airport on April 28, 2025, following the early completion of emergency runway repairs.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) had shut the airport on April 22 due to a critical asphalt rupture, initially planning to reopen it by May 6. The closure disrupted operations of at least four airlines, Air Peace, Ibom Air, United Nigeria Airlines, and Ethiopian Airlines.
Flights were diverted, impacting both domestic and international services, including connections to Lagos, Abuja, and Addis Ababa International.
