How police rescued two stolen children

in Abia Pg. 7

@newsechonigeria @newsechonigeria @newsechonigeria ...Strong voice echoes the truth ISSN: 2736-0512 WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2020 VOL. 1 NO. 49 N150 Kidnapped Katsina students: Declare emergency Pg. 2 in North now – Air Cdr. Ochulor (rtd) Umahi budgets N123bn for 2021 fiscal year Pg. 13 The kidnap suspects Katsina abduction: Does Nigeria still have a president? Nigerians knock Buhari for preferring cows to human lives Pg. 3 Buhari Palliative: 8 die in Rivers

stampede Pg. 7 Obiano flags off campaign to end

Pg. 10 open defecation Wike Brace up for second wave of COVID-19, Enugu gov. charges NANTMP vows to fight fake herbalists in Imo Pg. 11 Pg. 11 Wednesday, December 16, 2020

the violence and killing, he Nigeria should have allies to said it is in the emergency support it to clear the Kidnapped Katsina students: Declare mass mobilization of able challenge and not enough to bodied men. It is not that the just procure military aircraft soldiers we have to call a spade or hard ware from America or emergency in North now - Ochulor by its name. Russia citing the manner By Afam Echi “The inability of Nigeria to spite of the huge budget are playing politics with In response to a question Americans came here through know their foreign allies expenditure on security. people's lives. I insist that there on the effectiveness of the new a neighboring state to rescue he former military outside Africa makes it more In his words, 'I don't should be mass mobilization strategy of mass mobilization its citizen quietly and without administrator of Delta difficult. I must acknowledge believe it, Nigerians are of Nigeria's able bodied men when the people are not issue. He took a swipe on experts in other people's S t a t e , A i r that the Nigerian military are and fight them up to the Niger. trained, he said that they t h o s e m a n a g i n g t h e T business, I don't believe in would be trained; they are not Commodore Luke Ochulor trying but it is worrisome He said that he suspects that president's media and advised speculations. The problem is the ones leading the fight. has proffered solution on how when the invaders are the people we call bandits are them to stop attacking that we have not realized the Said he, “If you have group the federal government can attacking with sophisticated Boko Haram. According to criticisms. import of the activities of of soldiers who cover every In his words, “those tackle the insecurity in the weapons and in all boldness him, BH is members of ISIS terrorists, the bandits. Look at and ISWAP.'' inch of that area it would be h a n d l i n g p r e s i d e n t ' s north of Nigeria, because they don't care. our rating as the third most He dismissed those in other impossible for BH to fight. information are not properly The Mbaise chief made the “I suggest and I have said terrorized country in the regions who do not show Look at the world war, no trained to do so, the way they so before that Nigeria should views known in a telephone world. Look at our population c o n c e r n ove r w h a t i s amount of bombing can win talk doesn't show that they declare emergency in the chat with News Echo Tuesday of over 200 million people. We happening in the north the war. Physical presence of know their job, every time they whole of North East and while expressing concern on cannot afford to joke with the because according to him the army is required to win the are answering off the shelf. North West. We should do the kidnaped students of a lives of Nigerians. So I state following modern military war. We do not have yet the When Nigerians are talking mass recruitment and fight secondary school in Katsina, again that the best is to declare operation, the distance from c a p a b i l i t y t o b o m b they should listen and analyse this war to end it once and for which number has been emergency in the North East, there to any other part is not everywhere minute by minute the situation and take all. Even if it means using a variedly put at 333. He reacted North West, bring in military far. till everything is turned into appropriate action. It is about beehive (swarm on them), officers to command those On what needs to be done ruins.'' the security of Nigeria and not thus: possibly evacuate the villages “The federal government areas for the time being, after in stemming further spread of He expressed the view that political party''. at the immediate border, take the war the politicians can has allowed Boko Haram to control of the place. This may continue their business.'' take control of the North. The Imo North by-election: We were sabotaged – AA take six months but that is the On the reported lack of people fighting there are not only way out. There is no need concern of President Buhari ction Alliance (AA), was no way the party would thoroughly cleansed. small groups. There is the pretending about anything.'' who visited his cows rather Imo State has blamed have posted such poor outing "The chairman of the Islamic State of West Africa Ochulor dismissed any than commiserate with the Ai t s a b y s m a l if there was no conspiracy. panel, Dr. Stephen Anyamele (ISWA), the Boko Haram- allegation of complicity on the situation, he indicated that performance in the Imo North "The result of the election who is the party's State initiators of the violence, the side of government on Nigerians don't face reality, by-election, on sabotage by did not reflect the popularity Publicity Secretary, is a dreaded ISIS which only the religious ground following the “even if the president goes principle officers of the party. of the party in the grassroots. thorough bred educationist United State could dislodge inability of government to there is he the one going to The party has therefore There are allegations of and a retired university from Iran at a time root out the invading forces in fight the bandits? Nigerians constituted a five-man panel compromise against some of lecturer. He is not a greenhorn to investigate the actual cause our principal officers, hence in the politics of this clime. I of its woeful outing. the constitution of the am very sure, with him at the Buhari, Sylva should explain how petroleum The panel followed a investigation panel. And any head, the panel will deliver. petition presented by the Isiala officer found wanting will "I am yet to come to terms ministry spent N116m on pens - SERAP Mbano branch of the party at never go scot free. with a development where our "We are working towards party's polling booth agents ocio-Economic Rights the party's State Executive had last Thursday before the C o n v e n t i o n a g a i n s t taking over governance in Imo were not seen at their duty and Accountability Council meeting, weekend, Senate Public Accounts Corruption and African alleging compromise and State come 2023, and must not p o s t s w h e n a d e q u a t e Project (SERAP) has S Committee revealed that U n i o n C o nve n t i o n o n sabotage during the election. harbour moles in our midst. arrangement was perfected to urged President Muhammadu officials of the Federal Preventing and Combating The panel which is headed No amount of rigging or that effect. The officer of the Buhari and Minister of State Ministr y of Petroleum Corr uption require the by the party's state Publicity paucity of funds would have party in charge of that for Petroleum Resources, Mr. Resources spent N116m to government to ensure that Secretar y, Dr. Stephen brought the party so low in the a s s i g n m e n t mu s t g i ve Nigeria's resources are used Timipre Sylva to urgently buy biros, letterhead and Anyamele and Hon. Shedrack election, because I was explanation on that ugly effectively and efficiently, and probe how N116 million was toners in one year, and alleged Anunihu as the secretary, has comfortable with the work development. spent by the ministry to buy in a manner consistent with two weeks to submit its report. done before the election "The principal officers of “contravention of the Public the public interest.” biros, letterhead and toners in In his remarks, the state proper. the party who wore the Procurement Act 2017 by the SERAP said: “An effective chairman of the party, "Personally, I suspect high deceitful cloak of angels to 2015. Permanent Secretary.” and efficient ministry ought to Comrade Ifeanyi Okponwa- level internal conspiracy shortchange the party, might The group also called for In the letter dated 12th keep careful track of how it Eze, urged the panel to do a against the party, and that will have hinged their actions on the disclosure of the amount December, 2020 and signed by spends public money, and put thorough job and unmask never thrive under my watch. pessimism, beclouded by the spent on the same items SERAP Deputy Director, in place a system to eliminate those behind the party's poor With the caliber of persons in self induced thought that our between 2016 and 2020. Kolawole Oluwadare, the corruption, mismanagement, performance. the panel, I have no doubt that candidate was far from The Office of the Auditor- organization said: “The unnecessary, inefficient, or According to him, there the Augean Stable would be clinching victor y", the General for the Federation Nigerian Constitution of 1999 unreasonable expenditures.” [as amended], the UN chairman stated. restoration, which are the 3Rs some of the philanthropic next year. Uzodimma at 62: Aides bail indigents in FMC mantras. gesture and few projects he D i s p e l l i n g a l l e g a t i o n He added that the team team of Special and activities on ground. extends to constituents were peddled around by detractors, FMC, and Save the Child deemed it necessary also Advisers to Imo State Opara maintained that they out of his personal effort. the legislator, advised his Motherless / Abandoned considering the state of Governor led by the have to support Governor H i g h l i g h t i n g s o m e constituents to avoid being A Babies Home Ower ri development in the nation, Special Adviser on Diaspora Uzodinma because he has achievements he made, misguided, explaining that his r e c e n t ly, t o m a r k t h e and the need to appreciate his Affairs, Hon.Celia Osakwe - achieved a lot in this few Crown pointed out that in the work as a lawmaker was to governor's 62 years birthday. efforts to put things right and Hubbert have bailed some sick months of his administration 2020 budget he recommended attract relevant authorities to During the visit, the team the feelings of the people indigents in the Federal in recovery, rehabilitation and rehabilitation of six roads to consider citing projects that picked the bill of a hole in the about the governor. Medical Center (FMC), the state government and will be beneficial to the people heart patient and made Owerri renovation of schools and in the area. donations of undisclosed Imo lawmaker empower The team included the h e a l t h c e n t r e s i n Others include raising amounts and foods to the Special Adviser on Revenue Ihitte/Uboma, which was motions on laws as well as inmates of the motherless constituents with motorcycles Mobilization and Capacity stalled due to the removal of policies that are in the interest babies' home. h e m e m b e r Development, Chief Canice enable them appraise his Emeka Ihedioha as governor of the constituents and not to Addressing the Press, Hon. Moore Nwachukwu, the S. A. r e p r e s e n t i n g performances for the short on 15th January, following the execute projects as that is the Osakwe - Hubbert said that it on Health, Dr. Mrs. Lina TI h i t t e / U b o m a period he has been in office. Supreme Court judgment. responsibility of the executive was unanimous agreement of Okereke, S,A. on Aviation, constituency in the Imo State This is to figure out areas of Not happy that his previous In their separate remarks, the special advisers to go to Hon. Ikem Unegbu, S. A. on House of Assembly, Hon. success and challenges. efforts to get government M r. E m e k a N w o k e k e, FMC and a mother care center Skills Acquisition, Hon. Chidi Onyemaechi Njoku Crown, He further appealed that rehabilitate the dilapidated advocated that the interactive to sort out one or two needs of Onyewuchi, S. A. on Market has assured his constituents such support should continue infrastructure in the area session should be made an the needy in support of the and Allied Matters, Hon. that he will ensure Federal, as the need to consolidate his failed, he encouraged the annual event, suggesting the governors good work in the Perry Opara. and State government brings mandate will create the constituents to be hopeful, as need to pitch the venue for State. Others are the D. G. Imo platform for other youth with the Federal Emergency Road subsequent interaction at a Osakwe explained that the projects that will benefit the Foundation, Hon. Ben. future political ambition to M a i n t e n a n c e A g e n c y neutral place where other State governor has shown the people. Chukwuma, S.A. on Special larch on the already exiting (FERMA), which he sent a oppositions could feel free to spirit of commitment and love He made the disclosure last Citizens, Dr. Samuelson foundation to achieve their memo to repair deadly come and air their opinions, to Imo indigenes by improving Sunday, during an interactive Emehibe, S. A. on Urban goals. potholes on most of the roads Dr. Harold on the other hand, the infrastructure in the State session with youths of Water supply, Hon. Tanana The lawmaker said since he i n I h i t t e / U b o m a h a s reminded the youth that it is and also the passion to take the Ihitte/Uboma in his residence Biaduo, S. A. on Sports and got elected to the house both commenced work. their responsibility to protect state to a greater height since at Umuderim, Imo State. Youth Development, Hon p r e v i o u s a n d p r e s e n t Crown also said the request the mandate they have given to the past 10 months of the 3Rs Crown who acknowledged Ikenna Nlemigbo and also the government have not released h e m a d e t o r e l e v a n t Honourable Njoku, stressing administration. that his mandate to represent Director General of Trades constituency development authorities for urgent rescue that the lawmaker is the first in Speaking also, Hon Parry the constituency in the State and Investment, Hon. Jude project fund to any member of Lowa community from the the history of Ihitte/Uboma Opara said that the governor House was courtesy of youth Nzeakor. for them to execute projects in menace of gully erosion has p o l i t i c s t o a s s e m b l e has proved that he had love for They paid courtesy visits to support, said it was necessary their constituencies. been captured by the federal constituents for a feedback the people with the programs to interface with his people to However, he affirmed that ecological fund budget for after being elected to office. Wednesday, December 16, 2020

ATMA warns against violating traffic rules From Ovat Mike, work day and night. Onitsha He lamented the attitude of o t o r i s t s i n some commercial bus drivers who take to the road vehicles Anambra State that should be off the road this Mhave been advised period to make quick money, to obey traffic rules or face full pointing out that such vehicles weight of the law. spoil on the road thereby T h e D i r e c t o r o f causing gridlock. Operations, Anambra Road The ATMA Director Traffic Management Agency, warned such drivers to desist from using such vehicles A T M A , M r . S a m u e l because they will face the Ezenduka gave the advice, on consequences of their action Monday, while speaking to o n c e t h e ve h i c l e s a r e journalists on the level of their impounded. preparedness to tackle traffic He further said that drivers congestion in Onitsha of impounded vehicles must commercial city and it be compelled to go for environs during the yuletide psychiatric test and also do a public service. and beyond. Ezenduka also used the From left: Anambra State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Sally Mbenefo; her Water Resources Ezenduka noted that the opportunity to warn those main challenge they face in who display their wares along counterpart, Engr. Emeka Ezewanne; Governor Willie Obiano and project manager, Miss Takkar, traffic management is man- the road to stop henceforth to during the flag off of the campaign to end open defecation, held in Awka on Monday. made but said they have avoid falling victim and deployed their men at pleaded with Anambra people discharge it duties effectively. down rules while urging the ATMA officials, sending crossing at MCC and Uga strategic points, who will run to give maximum support for He also advised his officers state citizenry to report any strong warning to beggars Junction to relocate or risk the agency to enable it on shift basis to ensure they to work according to laid misconduct on the part of the who occupy pedestrians being taken to court.

Obiano flags off sensitization on community policing in Anambra create security consciousness police have graduated to go in the various Communities, into communities to assist in From Maduako Eleweke, property. are not sure of his means of crimes and criminalities are e s p e c i a l ly d u r i n g t h i s fighting crimes. "We want our youths to be Awka livihood in your community reduced. Christmas period . He said that he was not actively involved in this report the person. That is the "The purpose of the A c c o r d i n g t o h i m , happy with the state of the n a m b r a S t a t e community policing, the fight essence of community community policing is to Anambra state has already main auditorium and called Gover nor, Chief against crimes in the state. policing, everybody is in incorporate the locals into Willie Obiano has had community policing on the authority concerned to A We want all the traditional charge of checkmating crime protecting the lives and officially flagged off the outfit under the Anambra effect all the necessary repairs rulers in the state to mobilise and criminality" he said.. property of the communities" state vigilante group. immediately. community policing with a t h e i r p e o p l e f o r t h i s charge to all the officers and Speaking at occasion, the he said. He said the goal of the The governor specifically community policing because Assistant Inspector General He called on the residents to campaign was to take Security expressed dissatisfaction at men to be dedicated to their they are closer in the various jobs. of Police AIG in charge of give full support to the consciousness campaign to all the poor lighting in the Communities. The president Ngige, who spoke at the flag zone 13, Alhaji Danmallam initiative as the police alone nooks and crannies of the auditorium, saying that is not of various Communities off of a sensitization Mohammed called on the cannot fight crime without the state. good for the state. programme for officers and should also join hands in this various communities to locals . " D P O s a r e h e r e b y “If visitors are invited here men of the community police community policing in order support the community Also speaking at the mandated to carry out the and they will stay in the hall gave a directive to all to achieve maximum results policing, saying that the occasion, Anambra state campaign in their various without light. It is not good for landlords in the state to and secure our communities. concept was the cooperation Commissioner for police CP area" he said . us and the people in charge document full details of their Security is the duty of all of o f m e m b e r s o f t h e Jo h n A b a n g s a i d t h e He also disclosed that over should do the needful tenants. us and we must take it serious" Communities to make sure campaign was meant to 320 constabulary community immediately" he said. The governor, who was he said. represented by his deputy Dr. He also said the recent Nkem Okeke, said the security challenges arising Kidnapped Katsina students ground just like the North- community must take charge from EndSARS really show East. o f t h e i r i m m e d i a t e the need of community “We as Northerners should environment as the police and policing in our areas. Does Nigeria still have a president? now be ashamed how our government cannot be at all Obiano called on the leaders ganged up to remove nooks and crannies of the The video comes barely a cows instead of lives of its church leaders to preach on By Jude Owuamanam former President Goodluck state at the same time. day after Buhari, who is also citizens. the need of being security Jonathan and having a The governor said the conscious at all time. video, which went in Katsina State, failed to visit The Chairman of Arewa community policing has been v i r a l , s h o w i n g complacent, indocile leader "Report any stranger in the school and rather sent a Christians and Indigenous part of Igbo culture, where the P r e s i d e n t who has no regard for human your community to the Police A delegation from Abuja to visit Pastors Association (ACIPA), youths take charge of the or the community heads. Do Muhammadu Buhari visiting life. Basically, we have become security in the communities, the school and sympathise Rev. Shehu Luka, described not protect any criminal in his cows in his farmland in a laughing stock of developed thereby protecting lives and with the families of the the visit as shameful and your area . Any person you Daura, Katsina State, hours countries. after 330 boys of Government victims. disgraceful, stressing that “If the senators cannot Ubah tasks Anambra residents Secondary School, Kankara, S a h a r a R e p o r t e r s Nigeria has become a impeach Buhari who shunned in Katsina State, were Publisher, Omoyele Sowore, laughing stock in the comity their invitation, then they have who posted the video, said it the group for their tireless abducted by members of the of nations. no reason to be there. I hope on love was obvious that Buhari was e f f o r t s t o w a r d s vo t e r dreaded Islami Sect, Boko S p e a k i n g w i t h o u r that this will give the APC not competent and it was time From Uchenna Ezeadigwe, education and promoting the H a r a m , h a s e l i c i t e d correspondent in an interview, government a strong reason to for him to abdicate the seat. Awka resentment from several Luka said, it was unfortunate sack the service chiefs. welfare of the people and “ 6 0 0 S t u d e n t s g o t quarters. Another northern leader, h e S e n a t o r urged them to keep up with kidnapped in Katsina and he that the president who was a Hundreds of students of who spoke anonymously, said r e p r e s e n t i n g the good works. ignored them; instead the general and a former military the school were abducted by head of state could be so Nigeria does not have a A n a m b r a S o u t h In his remarks, the state lifeless president went to visit T gunmen around 11pm on insensitive to the lives of president anymore. his cows! The moment we get Senatorial District, Dr. Coordinator of the Active Friday, but Governor Aminu it that the Buhari regime can't Nigerian citizens, preferring He said, “The man is Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah, has Voters Solidarity Group, Hon. Masari said that the school is be redeemed, we will come to cows. simply something else. We urged Anambra citizens to Ngozi Ubah, thanked the yet to account for 330 the inevitable conclusion that He said, “The president has don't have a president anymore. I just don't know remain committed to love and Senator for his numerous students. But a national daily, #Buharimustgo,” Sowore no reason to visit his cows at a charity. (not News Echo) that visited tweeted. time Nigerians were grieving how his mind works. How can contributions towards the a human being be visiting Ubah made the call while the school was told that more Another Tweeter user, over the abduction of betterment of the people than 600 students were @TFatombi, tweeted, “Cows hundreds of students. It cattle at a time hundreds of inaugurating the Anambra She commended him for the abducted. with benefits. 600 lives meant stands to reason how a human youth were abducted from his State 'Caring Minds' at capital projects he has so far However in a video posted nothing to him.” being would value the life of a backyard? To him, human Rojenny Tourist and Games attracted in the state and on social media on Monday Also @AdemolaAgunbia3 cow to that of human beings lives have no value” Village Oba. assured him that the group by Sahara Reporters with the tweeted, “Where a man's The northern leader, who will never relent in promoting “We read the other day Caring Minds Organisation timeline December 12, 2020, treasure is, that's where his made allusion to the attack on h i s g o o d d e e d s a n d when his spokesman said that is one of the wings of the Buhari was seen with his aides heart is.” Arewa, said, 'We are not safe championing for a better state. the farmers that were killed in touring his ranch instead of Northern leaders have also in the North. Every perceived Active Voters Solidarity T h e e v e n t f e a t u r e d Zamfara State did not seek the taking a visit to the school or e x p r e s s e d a n g s t a n d enemy of Buhari is a subject Movement led by Mrs. Ngozi presentation of gifts and permission of the military to going to commiserate with disappointment over the of attack. Look at how a Ubah cutting of the inauguration visit their farms. The North- grieving parents. president's preference to his common meeting was aborted Senator Ubah commended cake. West has become a dangerous at Arewa House'. Wednesday, December 16, 2020

FRSC and implications of arms bearing in Nigeria Managing Director James Kalu igeria as at present appears the operatives will further antagonize like a country under siege. them against unruly undisciplined Director of Operations NT h e r e i s s u s p e c t e d road users who may choose to get more Patricia Nwoye proliferation of light weapons. There is vicious. violent killing everywhere. Life is not Again, it is not very clear that the Acting Editor-in-Chief much valued any more in our land government at present has factored this Jude Owuamanam drawing from the manner precious into the budget. Besides, huge capital lives are wasted. Consequently, many outlay will be expended in procuring Executive Editor are calling for freedom to bear arms in the arms. Coming at a time the Jennifer John self defence. government is groaning under the Last month, the House of heavy weight of other expense items Managing Editor Representative Committee on Federal makes it appear a herculean task. The Ori Martins Road Safety Commission (FRSC) government may not likely see this as a alerted Nigerians that the road priority project. Editor watchers will now be authorized to The capital expenditure will further Afam Echi bear arms in the course of their duties. be exacerbated by the need to train the This has been received in some operatives on the use of the fire arms as News Editor quarters with mixed feelings. The well as providing related services in Emmanuel Iheaka Committee chairman made the warehousing the hard ware and other disclosure at the floor of the house in a administrative needs. The FRSC Production Editor b u d g e t d e f e n c e a n d b u d g e t activities are dispensed in all the 774 Anthony Ogbekile performance review. local governments in the country and According to the Committee, the that is quite massive. Correspondents need to empower them to bear arms There are already so much arms in Dan Maduagwu Okey (Abia State) was orchestrated by the need to curtail the society used by other security Uchenna Ezeadigwe (Anambra State) the excesses of road users in the operatives. There are also many that country. They further hinted that the a r e i l l i c i t ly p r o c u r e d . M o r e Senior Reporter 1992 Act that established the agency authorization of arms will further Uzoma Ogoke mandated it to use arms. Interestingly, militarize the society in a civilian since then the FRSC has carried on its regime. People have had to make Reporter functions without arms. wrong use of arms assigned to them. Ikenna Orioha Further justifying the proposal, the Heeding the call will increase the FRSC Marshal stated that "70 opportunity of abuse. Contributors/Columnists operatives of FRSC had either been Again, there is need to question Dr. Sir Amos Agwamba shot dead by armed robbers or knocked what guarantee is there that arming Dr. Chuks Osuji down by overzealous drivers, hit- and- road safety operatives will ensure that Austin Okoro run drivers. The deaths would have further attacks against them will be been prevented if the officials were eliminated. Experience abounds in our Production armed" society where security operatives who Philip Kalu In fairness to the road marshals, the already bear arms are not spared the Ifeanyi Raymond effort to bring people to book in a experiences the FRSC are battling country like ours where indiscipline is against. Circulation Team the order of the day will likely attract There are experiences where some Mr. Aloyius Ogboka indignation from the perpetrators who officials get over zealous in the Ignatius Ogechi Ajoku are prepared to do anything to extract performance of their duties. Arming Tasie Chidiebere their own pound of flesh. Other law them with guns will only increase their enforcement agencies are also so chances of inflicting more harm if they Legal Adviser exposed. choose to become vengeful. H. O. Ogbusu It is not out of place however, some We would rather suggest that efforts has to be made to give the consideration be given to supporting operatives some kind of protection to the road safety people with some other avoid loss of lives. News Echo wishes security personnel with a view to to differ in some respects with the strengthening their operations. opinion calling for the use of arms in Nigerians appreciate the good efforts the light of the following factors. the agency has been doing especially in We do not think that this represents saving lives. No effort should be spared the right response given that since the in getting them deliver their best. It is Act was enacted the agency had quite doubtful if bearing arms is one of operated without arms and has been such efforts. The government may recording tremendous successes need to revisit this issue once more and keeping accident rate so low. Arming not act hastily. Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Page 5 Opinion ASUU strike: Who will stand for education? By Ali Tijjani Hassan elites are just in the but to me, the university system to gain the teachers deserve a better “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can life. certificate that may I believe in Bill Gates' use to change the world” – Nelson Mandela allow them to run their w o r d s t h a t , “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest” – Benjamin Franklin bequeathed business? “Technology is just a As the lawmaker said, ducation is the raised a motion in which does not know the rate society! tool. In terms of getting t h e y h a v e m o r e p r o c e s s o f he suggested that the of poverty and how poor As a matter of fact, we t h e k i d s w o r k i n g people's kids manage to can simply view the problems with ASUU. f a c i l i t a t i n g public universities in the together and motivating E term, “privatisation of But in my view the have even their basic l e a r n i n g , o r t h e countr y should be them, the teacher is the education, which is their universities”, as a strong problem is truly there, a c q u i s i t i o n o f privatized, so that the m o s t i m p o r t a n t ” . their fundamental right, bolt for locking the but unfortunately the k n ow l e d g e, s k i l l s, concern of the Federal Nigeria is economically, since he comes from the educational door to the gover nment is not values, beliefs, and Government would be p o l i t i c a l l y , family of a three-time children of the common willing to solve them, for habits. And can be only on polytechnics technologically, and Head of State. man. Whereas the they can't fulfill, honour, shared through these a n d c o l l e g e s o f capitalist edu-preneurs academically among the It could be that he or even respect the methods: teaching, education. In his word, could be given the room u n d e r d e v e l o p e d didn't go far and beyond elaborate agreement training, storytelling, the government has in the mode of both to be in possession of the c o u n t r i e s . made by the negotiation discussion and directed many problems with the realistic and strategic system, just like how Unfortunately, it is not committee with ASUU. research. Lawmakers, in Academic Staff Union thinking which may help t h e y h i j a c k e d t h e w o r k i n g t o w a r d s every state, are elected to I vigorously believe of Universities. him to encode and elementary system. meeting the developed represent the interest of I f e l t e x t r e m e ly that if the government c a p t u r e t h e When a poor man's nations' expectations. bewildered and strained had honoured these a particular society, and c o n s e q u e n c e s o r kid is not able to be This can easily be a g r e e m e n t s , o u r b r i n g d iv i d e n d o f not with his statement repercussions of his enrolled in the university comprehended if we democracy to them. but the support and illusion. Before we saw where they can study university system could l o o k a t h o w t h e Just recently, a certain applause of his hopeless this outburst, we were diligently to have good have become animated educational sector is colleagues. I may not be lawmaker who happens seeing him as an icon education and apply and got the international treated. As the famous wrong if I say those so- with a communal mind to be the Chairman their learnt knowledge recognition required. f r e e d o m f i g h t e r , called lawmakers know and hope of the young Someone can say that House Committee on to invent something that M a l c o l m X , s a i d , nothing about the Nigerians that are into the battle that ASUU is Tertiary Education, in improves the nation, “Education is our his effort to feed his suffering of the masses politics. But his outburst fighting is for the passport to the future, they are representing. cast doubt on our mind how are they supposed community with such a betterment of their own for tomorrow belongs to Actually, the lawmaker on electing another to live this miserable life dividend of democracy, selfish end and greed, the people who prepare that proposed the bill youth to represent our while the children of the for it today”. Mr President, the hawks are all over you Ayo Iwawumi e d u c a t i o n n o t nation like ours, the sole An instance is your their accounts; deny them transformation of former confrontation. This voice aim of advisers is to r e s p o n s e t o t h e passage at airport; arrest doves into hawks. Who hen weighing belongs to the doves. please the president, not #EndSARS protests. and detain! Shut down was not scandalised when c r i t i c a l At every meeting and to educate or advise him. Listening to the doves, their websites. Regulate G o v e r n o r R o t i m i Wchoices, every consultation, a president It is in pleasing the you approved the end of social media! Akeredolu saw nothing president hears two as well indeed as every president that they can SARS. Shortly after that, The Inspector-General w r o n g i n f r e e z i n g distinct voices. One voice leader, hears these two k e e p t h e i r j o b s a s you clearly implied that of Police, feeling your full protesters' bank accounts describes the president as conflicting voices. And advisers. And if a you regretted that action. backing for the scorched- or in regulating social a strong man surrounded, that is not bad. However, president is always won In your October 22, 2020 earth approach, solemnly media? Who was not confronted and in fact there are three reasons to over by hawks, most broadcast, you hinted at reminded his officers: the shocked when Governor being insulted by weak worry. First, the hawks doves, for sur vival this when you said, constitution allows you to Babagana Zulum warned people who truly have to win far more often than reason, become hawks. “Sadly, the promptness kill. Do kill. And what t h a t # E n d S A R S be dealt with through the doves. As Kahneman Within a short while, the with which we have acted did the boys do? Within a protesters were on their strong-arm tactics. and Renshon very clearly president ends up with a seemed to have been j i f f y o f t h e I G ' s way to becoming another This voice sees politics say, most rulers come to roomful of only hawks. misconstrued as a sign of d e c l a r a t i o n , a r m e d Boko Haram? The rank in everything: every consultations already Mr President, the weakness and twisted by security operatives beat a of the doves is being action, word or silence predisposed to follow the hawks are all over you. some for their selfish motorist to pulp on the rapidly decimated. that does not praise the hawkish path. Doves From the attention- unpatriotic interests”. Abuja-Kaduna highway Mr President, as president is described as appeal to compassion seeking little minister The hawks won! They and then recited their someone striving to leave originating from the and patience, the very who instructed professors had the President's ears. national anthem: I will behind a great legacy, you opposition – which it also ingredients that most to start farming for They told him, “Sir, you shoot you and nothing must remember that describes as the enemy. leaders have in short survival, to Chris Ngige should never have ended will happen! hawks leave behind only The voice praises the supply. tossing the Academic SARS. See now, you did T h e h a w k s a r e carcasses. Unless you rein president's strength and Second, once the Staff Union of Union and they are taking you winning. The growing in the hawks and listen expresses boundless president yields to the and the fate of our for a coward.” silence of the First Lady, more to the doves, the optimism in his ability to hawk path, it is difficult, universities up and down, Since hawks must read a woman who once hawks' brags and shrieks triumph in all situations if not impossible, to to whoever advised the politics into everything powerfully confronted will taint every shred of if, and only if, he deploys backtrack. In other government on freezing and convince you that the hawks around the your accomplishment scorched-earth tactics. In words, it is easier to move t h e a c c o u n t s o f your enemies are not just President, and the total and soft tactics. The classical terms, this voice from the dove path to the supporters of protests, many but also powerful, silence of the Vice words, Tradermoni, the hawks are teeming. they promptly linked the President, a man now F a r m e r m o n i , belongs to the hawks. hawk path – this is like Their number and voice protesters to Atiku only to be seen but not to Marketmoni, N-Power, The second voice the asserting your strength and authority – than to have drowned those of Abubakar. They also be heard is one piece of 774k jobs, would become president hears is one that backtrack form hawk to the doves. publicly interpreted the the evidence. Another is very faint and inaudible. appeals to his identity as a dove – this is like The hawks have also protests as attempts at a the increasing decibels of What most people would thinker and a wise person acknowledging that you been doing their jobs regime change – they the voices of self-avowed hear and remember capable of solving crisis, are weak. well. In moments that manufactured an enemy hawks, such as Ngige would be “I will shoot winning foes over and Third, once the doves you had listened to the for you and clothed him who described himself as you and nothing will building bridges without get convinced that their doves, the hawks have in treasonable apparels. more or less a Lagos boy, happen!” Hawks only using (or, because he does voices are unwanted they even convinced you that From that point on, the and thought nothing of l e ave b e h i n d t h e m not use) strong-arm either remain silent, quit you were wrong, and strong-arm tactics in publicly insulting a carcasses, and then move tactics. It sees opposition or in most cases join the successfully persuaded d e a l i n g w i t h t h e member of House of on to the next president. a s t h o s e n e e d i n g hawks. Especially in a you to take the hawkish protesters and journalists Representatives. The Iwawumi wrote in i n f o r m a t i o n a n d path. became justified. Freeze t h i r d p i e c e i s t h e from Ibadan. Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Page 6 Business News

economic transformation power for households and a n d d i v e r s i f i c a t i o n , firms. World Bank approves $1.5bn for enhancing resilience and The CPF would also focus s t r e n g t h e n i n g t h e o n b o o s t i n g d i g i t a l foundations of the public i n f r a s t r u c t u r e , a n d Nigeria to reduce poverty sector. d e v e l o p i n g e c o n o m i c By investing in human corridors and smart cities, to capital, it said it would be he World Bank economy was projected to years in supporting the “Our engagement will provide Nigerians with increasing access to basic Group discussed a contract by over four per cent government of Nigeria's focus on supporting Nigeria's improved livelihoods. education, quality water and n e w f i v e - y e a r in 2020, plunging the country strategic priorities by taking a efforts to reduce poverty and I t w o u l d e n h a n c e T s a n i t a t i o n s e r v i c e s ; resilience by strengthening C o u n t r y P a r t n e r s h i p into its deepest recession p h a s e d a n d a d a p t i v e promote sustained private i m p r o v i n g p r i m a r y Framework from 2021 to since the 1980s. approach. sector-led growth.” s e r v i c e d e l i v e r y a n d healthcare; and increasing 2024 with Nigeria and Government revenues “To realise its long-term The World Bank said the livelihood opportunities in the coverage and effectiveness approved a $1.5bn package to could fall by more than $15bn potential, the country has to CPF will focus on four areas the Northeast and other of social assistance programs. help build a resilient recovery in 2020, and the crisis would make tangible progress on of engagement which are regions g rappling with I t s a i d a d d i t i o n a l post-COVID-19. push an additional five key challenges and pursue investing in human capital, i n s e c u r i t y, a s w e l l a s investments in promoting The bank disclosed this in a million Nigerians into some bold reforms. p r o m o t i n g j o b s a n d modernizing agriculture and women's empowerment and statement entitled “World poverty in 2020, according to building climate resilience. youth employment and skills, B a n k G r o u p t o b o o s t the World Bank. I t w o u l d e n s u r e Econet begins construction especially for young women, Nigeria's efforts to reduce The World Bank Country s t r e n g t h e n i n g t h e would also help reduce poverty,” on Tuesday. D i r e c t o r f o r N i g e r i a , foundations of the public of $100m data centre in Lagos maternal and child mortality. It stated that Nigeria was at Shubham Chaudhuri, said, sector by improving public P r o m o t i n g j o b s a n d a critical juncture and with “This Country Partnership financial management and economic transformation the sharp fall in oil prices as a Framework will guide our strengthening the social and diversification would result of COVID-19, the engagement for the next five contract between citizens and help with measures to unlock g o v e r n m e n t t h r o u g h Aba shoe factory begins private investment and job improved fiscal and debt creation, and increase access management. mass production, Ikpeazu to reliable and sustainable calls for orders Interswitch, Credit Bank b i a S t a t e o u r s e c u r i t y a g e n c i e s Governor, Okezie i n c l u d i n g t h e launch multi-currency AI k p e a z u o n @ H Q N i g e r i a n A r m y , Tuesday announced that Aba @ N i g e r i a n N a v y , he Founder, Econet Data Centre world, this will be prepaid card s h o e f a c t o r h a s b e g u n @NigAirForce @PoliceNG, Global and owner of the largest facility outside nterswitch Group has digital payments in East Africa production. @CIVILDEFENDERS etc. TL i q u i d Te l e c o m , South Africa. partnered Kenya's Credit and across Africa as a whole. Ikpeazu in a tweet said the “ I l o o k f o r w a r d t o Strive Masiyiwa, says work “This cable which is in IBank Plc to launch a Now, customers will have kind of shoes produced can be receiving orders for the mass has commenced on a new data partnership with Google will multi-currency prepaid card. access to the prepaid cards used to kit security agencies in production of the shoes & centre facility in Lagos valued also extend all the way to Cape The card is aimed at providing without necessarily having a the country. other kits for our security at $100m. Town, South Africa. We are consumers with an excellent bank account. The card can be He also promised that the agencies as there's no need Masiyiwa said the data also going to start laying new alternative banking card that funded through mobile money shoes are of good quality and importing what we can centre, which would be the fibres in major cities from next allows for safe, secure and and it is widely accepted by will be delivered timely. produce locally. largest facility outside South year,” he said. s e a m l e s s e l e c t r o n i c merchants for payments and at After years of committed “I commit to personally Africa, had been named He added, “This is our transactions. the ATMs for withdrawals,” pursuit, our Aba shoe factory ensure that quality and timely Africa Data Centre, Atlantic largest investment in Nigeria Country General Manager, Rajput said. has finally started production. delivery aren't compromised. and would be built on five since the mobile industry Interswitch Kenya, Romana Credit Bank Director, Jack This pair of shoes is a sample Let's join hands to save the acres of land. started. R a j p u t , s t a t e d t h a t t h e Ngare, noted that the product of what we can do to help kit Naira!.” W h i l e d i s p l a y i n g t h e Once again, I am kicking off partnership is a boost to is aimed at increasing financial architectural design of the a new revolution in the next Interswitch's issuing business; freedom for the banked, NCDMB, PETAN seal $30m data centre made by Trevor phase of technology. What is adding that it is further proof unbanked and under-banked. Juul in a Facebook post, he said important is not the data of the company's leadership “It is our aim to provide our working capital scheme deal the facility would be powered centre but the technologies position in the financial customers with the control and T h e N i g e r i a n C o n t e n t domiciled with the Bank by solar energy and natural that will be unleashed in services industry on the confidence they need to Development and Monitoring of Industry will bridge the gas. Nigeria because of this continent. manage their money smartly. B o a r d ( N C D M B ) a n d t h e oil companies' cash flow As part of the investment in infrastructure. That's the big “This is definitely a boost to Membership of the Visa P e t r o l e u m T e c h n o l o g y gaps, support operations Nigeria, he said Liquid's deal here” Interswitch's issuer-support network will allow the card Association of Nigeria (PETAN) and prevent staff layoffs in Undersea cables company Liquid Telecom had raised and third-party processing holders to use it worldwide for on Monday signed an agreement the industry. would land a new high $307m through a rights issue business. We have been payments and withdrawals, on US$30m Working Capital He said the Scheme will capacity cable into Nigeria to fund a rapid expansion of around for a while and we and to transact safely online Scheme that will support the be triggered whenever the next year in partnership with its data centre business across intend to keep entrenching and at ATMs,” Ngare said. operations of oil companies oil price of $40/barrel Google. Africa. against the adverse effects of benchmark is reached and This, according to him, will The rights issue included an Nigeria's inflation rate hits COVID-19 Pandemic and loss of whenever there are such make data costs much cheaper additional $40m from UK contracts due to low oil price. negative impact on the and faster. d e v e l o p m e n t f i n a n c e 14.89% in November – NBS He said, “This week marked institution, CDC Group Plc. The Executive Secretary of industry. The $40/barrel he consumer price per cent in November 2020, up Masiyiwa first invested in NCDMB, Engr. Simbi Kesiye trigger point strategy is the start of the construction of i n d e x w h i c h by 0.05, from 1.60 per cent Wabote, and the Chairman of important considering the our first major data centre Nigerian mobile telecom measures inflation recorded in October 2020, facility in Lagos, Nigeria. industry in 2001, after MTN, T PETAN, Mr. Nicolas Odinuwe, rapidly changing nature of increased by 14.89 per cent while the rural index also rose signed the Memorandum of the oil and gas industry, he Named the ADC Atlantic, this before selling its shares to (year-on-year) in November by 1.56 per cent in November Understanding (MoU) on the said. is a US$100m investment in Celtel and then Bharti Airtel. 2020. 2020, up by 0.08 from 1.48 per credit scheme in Abuja. the Nigerian economy. In the The National Bureau of cent recorded in October 2020. The Working Capital Scheme is Statistics disclosed in its The urban inflation rate one of the newly introduced C o n s u m e r P r i c e I n d e x increased by 15.47 per cent products in the Nigerian Content November 2020 report on (year-on-year) in November Intervention Fund (NCI Fund) Tuesday. 2020 from 14.81 per cent a p p r ove d b y t h e N C D M B It said this is 0.66 percentage recorded in October 2020, Governing Council under the points higher than the rate while the rural inflation rate leadership of the Minister of State recorded in October 2020 increased by 14.33 per cent in for Petroleum Resources, Chief (14.23 per cent). November 2020 from 13.68 Timipre Sylva. The percentage change in the per cent in October 2020. Key features of the credit average composite CPI for the On month-on-month basis, scheme are a single obligor limit 12 months period ending the Headline index increased of One Million US Dollars November 2020 over the by 1.60 per cent in November ($1000,000.00), the tenor of 365 average of the CPI for the 2020. days after 90 days moratorium previous 12 months period This is 0.06 percentage points and eight percent interest per w a s 1 2 . 9 2 p e r c e n t , higher than the rate recorded annum for Naira and five percent representing a 0.26 percentage in October 2020 (1.54 per for United States Dollars. point increase over 12.66 per cent). In his remarks at the event, the cent recorded in October 2020. Increases were recorded in all Executive Secretary explained On a month-on-month basis, COICOP divisions that that the fund which is currently the urban index rose by 1.65 yielded the Headline index. Gov. Ikpeazu inspecting the Aba shoe factory Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Page 7 Cr me Watch

U m u o d e V i l l a g e , i n How police rescued 2 stolen children in Abia Osisioma LGA of Abia State. children between two to State, respectively. Ikechukwu, aged three years Duru, Rose Okoro, Ngozi From Nonye Udimiri, The source said that three years old, using biscuits It was gathered that Mrs. was also abducted. Ukpai and Chidi Okoro. Okoro, a Senior Secondary Aba and sweet to lure them. Happiness Monday, mother O n S a t u r d a y, 1 2 t h The source said that Ekene School Certificate holder has he Rapid Respond R R S l e d b y i t s to Marvelous Monday of December, 2020, Master Okoro and Ukpai confessed been impersonating as a Squad (RRS) in commander, SP Johnbull Umuochialla village in Marvelous Monday was said to have bought the abducted medical doctor, but never Abia State has T O b i o g u r u r e s c u e d t h e Osisioma LGA of Abia State to have been rescued from kids from Sylvanus and had any medical training, rescued two children from children from those they had on 28th August, 2020, Lagos and handed over to his Duru at the rate of N200,000 b u t u s e s t h e a b o v e child trafficking syndicate were sold to in Lagos State reported to RRS that her parents by the RRS. for each and sold them at the mentioned clinic for human who specialised in abducting and Port Harcourt, Rivers child was abducted by The police later arrested rate of N450,000. trafficking purposes. unknown persons. five suspects who were said Their information also led According to the source, Court orders release of Eze's It was also learnt that t o h av e c o n f e s s e d t o to the arrest of one Chidi efforts are in top gear to a n o t h e r wo m a n , M r s. specializing in abducting, Okoro who runs a clinic by r e s c u e M a s t e r D av i d nephews from EFCC custody Rejoice Ikechukwu from s e l l i n g a n d b u y i n g o f name 'Prostel Hospital' Ikechukwu to reunite him n A b u j a H i g h Capital Territory, Apo, s a m e c o m mu n i t y a l s o children. formerly known as 'God's with his parents. Cour t presided Abuja. reported to RRS same day T h e s u s p e c t s a r e : F av o u r H o s p i t a l a n d It was also gathered that Aover by Justice S.B Based on the Motion, that her own child, David Chinonso Slyvanus, Ekene M a t e r n i t y ' l o c a t e d a t RRS was still waiting for the Belgore, has ordered the Justice Belgore ordered that p a r e n t s o f t h e o t h e r release of Prince Olisa Eze the 1st applicant be admitted recovered child and who and Onyeka Eze, who have for bail in the sum of Ten could not identify himself, to b e e n d e t a i n e d s i n c e Million Naira (N10,000,000) visit Abia State Police November 11 at EFCC and a Surety in the same Headquarters or the nearest custody. a m o u n t . T h e S u r e t y, police station to identify and Giving the Enrolment according to the Order, must reclaim the child. Order “In the matter of be civil servant residing application for redress by the within the Federal Capital applicants for infringement Territory. members of the public along of their fundamental human In the Order signed Justice Ilo Awela Road. The Police rights”, between Prince Olisa S.B Belgore, EFCC is asked team were said to have Eze and Onyeka Eze (the to unfreeze immediately, all engaged and subdued them, applicants) and EFCC and t h e a c c o u n t s o f t h e Price Arthur Eze, referred to Applicants hitherto frozen by and five amongst them were as Respondents in the the Commission while case subsequently arrested. On application, the Judge also adjourned to 16-12-20 for The suspected cultists upon their arrests and paraded interrogation, they informed o r d e r e d i m m e d i a t e hearing of the Original the Police that they went to a u n f r e e z i n g o f a l l t h e Motion M/12894/20. social function in Mushin, applicants' bank accounts. Both Prince Olisa and Police intercept suspected cultists on suspects were said to be T h e O r d e r f o r t h e i r Onyeka Eze have been revenge mission Lagos, and on their way back, immediate release from detained since 11th of holding dangerous weapons a fight ensued amongst them B a b a t u n d e S h i t t u , 2 5 , E F C C c u s t o d y a n d November by the EFCC and n its bid to curtail like cutlasses, cudgels and and in the process, one of Ayobami Morenikeji 15, unfreezing of their accounts, their bank accounts also cultism in Ogun State sticks. Upon the distress call, them was overrun by a fast was based on the Motion frozen by the commission. Fidelis John 23, Abdullah Iand her environment, the Area Commander Sango- moving vehicle and he died which was filled by Anthony This is as result an ongoing men of Ogun State Police Adegbenro 17, and Oyeyemi O t a A C P M o n d a y O. O k p a l a h E s q . w i t h crisis in the family of Prince on the spot. They stated Command have intercepted Bakare 20, were arrested M o t i o n N u m b e r Ar thur Eze, famous A g b o n n i k a , q u i c k l y further that they were taking following a distress call to M12891/2020 and dated 9th Nigerian billionaire and the five suspected members of a mobilised a patrol team to the the corpse to the families of Sango Area Command December 2020, in the High CEO of Oranto Petroleum dreaded cult group who were area where the hoodlums their attackers namely; Omo Court of Abuja Federal Resources. Headquarters that a group of on a revenge mission to the were met on a rampage Ekun, Lampad, and Anko boys were seen with a male 3 escaped Calabar police state from Mushin, Lagos destroying people's property purposely for a revenge corpse in a tricycle heading State. Also, the Police a n d r o b b i n g i n n o c e n t mission. detainees die – Commissioner recovered the body of a towards Ota. Also, the h r e e d e t a i n e d said that one of the escapees young man from the suspects. persons who escaped has been re-arrested while Ogun fleeing 'baby factory operator' arrested Although circumstances Tfrom a cell at Cross four still at large. ne Mrs Florence nursing mothers and kids bail and absconded when the River police headquarters are He implored the media to be leading to the death of the Ogbonna, who the rescued by the police from new baby factories were dead. more careful in their reportage young man could not be Opolice said was the Ogun command. discovered. State commissioner of and always verify information ascertained. Spokesperson of o w n e r o f t h e r e c e n t l y Some of the women said they However, after about two police Abdulkadir JImoh, told before publication in order not discovered baby factory in were lured to the homes by weeks of manhunt, the police t h e C o m m a n d , D S P newsmen in Calabar has to create unnecessary tension Mowe/Ofada axis of Obafemi Ogbonna from the Eastern part succeeded in apprehending the confirmed that contrary to in the state. Abimbola Oyeyemi said Local Government area of of Nigeria, on the assurances suspect. reports that 19 detainees The commissioner assured investigations were ongoing Ogun State has been arrested. that they would be given a job Speaking with newsmen at escaped from detention only residents of the state that they as at press time. The suspects; It will be recalled that to make ends meet. Z o n e 2 C o m m a n d i n seven did. are ready to combat all Ogbonna, whose case is still Police said a woman had Abeokuta, the suspect denied Jimoh, in a statement signed criminal elements before, to its registered members b e f o r e a n O g u n S t a t e accused Ogbonna of selling all allegations against her, on his behalf by Police Public during and after the Christmas from Ikwerre, Emohua and Magistrate court, was said to her baby and giving her saying she was “only helping Relations Officer, Irene Ugbo, and New Year celebrations. O b i o / A k p o r L o c a l have returned to the area to N100,000. young ladies who needed Government Areas, when continue her baby factory The Ogun State police help.” 8 die in Rivers market s u d d e n l y t h e r e w a s a business after she was granted s p o k e s m a n , A b i m b o l a The woman said she was stampede leading to the death bail. Oyeyemi earlier disclosed that running a motherless babies' stampede to collect palliatives of eight people. Recently, two homes were the suspect, who was presently home, which she claimed was He also confirmed that discovered in the area with standing trial for human registered with the Corporate t least eight people customers had gathered at the teenage pregnant women, trafficking, allegedly jumped Affairs Commission (CAC). met their death in a collection centre to collect some persons sustained As t a m p e d e o n palliatives from the company. various degrees of injuries Tuesday at Inksmarket centre The eye witness said that the and are currently receiving along Rumuodara axis of number of persons that had treatment at a hospital, Port Harcourt. gathered to collect the adding that the situation was Our correspondent gathered palliatives over stretched the under control. that the incident occurred center's facilities a situation The police spokesman said when hundreds of person that lead to the stampede. that the command has f r o m t h r e e L o c a l The State Police Command instituted immediate probe G o ve r n m e n t A r e a s o f Public Relation Officer, Ikwerre, Obio/Akpor and Nnmadi Omoni confirmed into the unfortunate incident Emohua had gathered to the incident. with a view to ascertaining collect palliatives from Omoni said that the incident t h e c i r c u m s t a n c e s a n d Inksmarket, a Port Harcourt- occurred when palliatives bringing those found culpable based online marketer. were being distributed by to justice. Eye witnesses said hundreds INKSMARKET, a Non- of the online registered Governmental Organisation The rescued women and children from the baby factory Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Page 8 Midweek Politics

Ikpeazu PDP, APC tests might, as Abians vote in LGA polls Umuahia, the elections the ruling party in Abia T h e d e f e c t i o n s , party since 1999. party would sweep the By Dan Maduagwu will take place in 293 based on the antecedent of a l i g n m e n t a n d This means that the polls as according to him, electoral wards while 12 several State Independent realignment recorded in ability of the party to retain his achievements in nooks w o m a j o r parties submitted their Electoral Commissions some political parties such members till date and crannies of Abia political parties readiness to participate in which usually conducted before the elections are would help it with the would ensure victory for in the country, T the polls. elections in various states some of the factors that experience of such leaders PDP candidates. the Peoples Democratic It is an election that that were adjudged unfair would equally produce a or members expected to be He went on to urge Party (PDP) and the All would be used to know the in outcome by losers. unique colour in the polls, at work during the polls. Abians to give their votes Progressive Congress preparedness, popularity It would also have been as the electorate pick their Also, the fact that the State to all PDP candidates, even (APC) and ten others will and acce ptability of seen as a smooth sail for choice leaders. is controlled by the PDP with Ikpeazu's Deputy, Sir file out on Friday in Abia different political parties the PDP based on the fact P D P ' s g r a s s r o o t s w o u l d a l s o a d d a n U d e O k o C h u k w u State, to seek votes from participating in the polls, that the ruling party has foothold may work in its advantage to the PDP as all declaring that " Abia is Abians and to prove their but in this case, the battle enjoyed a 21-unbroken favour political appointees are PDP and PDP is Abia. As popularity in the State is going to be between the years in power in the Having been in the expected to 'deliver' their the party in power, we are d u r i n g t h e L o c a l candidates of the major God's own State. But the leadership of the State various political wards to not looking for what to tell G o v e r n m e n t a n d political parties, PDP and participation of APC in since 1999, the Peoples the PDP, failing which they the people" declared Oko Councillorship elections APC. the contest has given the Democratic Party (PDP) may lose their relevance in Chukwu. to be conducted by the O r d i n a r i l y , t h e poll a sparkling outlook, a enjoys a spread and government. We will shock PDP Abia State Independent December 18 elections game to watch and this is stronghold in Abia State Speaking at an event if... – APC Electoral Commission would have been better equally made interesting as the party's structure is centre, Okpara Square Meanwhile, the All (ABSIEC). dismissed with a wave of b y t h e c a l i b e r o f functional both in the Umuahia during the flag P r o g r e s s i v e From the data obtained the hand as a "walk over" personalities queuing rural and urban areas, of PDP campaigns last Congress,(APC) which is by News Echo from f o r t h e P e o p l e s behind the PDP and APC with several members of week, Governor Okezie ABSIEC headquarters, Democratic Party (PDP), candidates. the party remaining in the Ikpeazu was sure that his L i b r a r y A v e n u e , Contd. on pg. 9 Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Page 9 Midweek Politics PDP, APC test might, as Abians... the main opposition Congress Grand Alliance H o u s e o f Elections speaking on the (APGA) having lost their challenging the PDP in Contd. from pg. 8 Representatives, Hon m o d a l i t i e s f o r t h e the local government and former number 9 striker, Nkeiru Onyejiocha and exercise, assured the councilorship polls has Dr Alex Otti to APC, may the Minister of State for general public, especially maintained that it would not put up a strong Mines and Steels, Dr the participating political sweep the elections but challenge except in Aba, Uche Oga during may be p a r t i e s a n d t h e i r only if it is free and while the presence of the a major boost for APC candidates of a level- credible . other 9 parties are not yet candidates from Bende, p l a y i n g g r o u n d a s The party, speaking on felt around the State. U m u n n e o c h i a n d according to ABSIEC's d i f f e r e n t o c c a s i o n s Therefore, the ability Isukwuato councils. Chairman, Prof Mkpa through the immediate- o f a n y p o l i t i c a l With the three men Agu Mkpa, this year's past State Chairman, strongman to deliver his drumming support for elections would become C h i e f D o n a t u s area to his party means their party's candidates, it the best ever witnessed in Nwankpa, the Senator, the person has gained may no longer look like a the State. Orji Uzor Kalu and the g r o u n d a n d b e t t e r one-sided game for the Also, the Abia State p a r t y ' s p u b l i c i t y positioned in the scale of PDP in these parts of Police Command, in a s e c r e t a r y, B e n e d i c t relevance among other Abia North Senatorial release signed by Mr Godson has continued to party chieftains who fail zone. Geoffrey Ogbonna, the drum it loud that it was to shine. (4) Senator Theodore Police Public Relations not afraid of facing the This brings up the issue Kalu Orji, Hon Chinedum Officer (PPRO) warned PDP. of big names whose Orji PDP Abia Central that the Command would In fact, the broom influence will shape the Senator Theodore clamp down on any p a r t y e x u d e s t h e polls. Ahamefula Orji , the two- group or individual who confidence that it would (1) Governor Okezie term Governor of Abia would try to foment leave the field on Friday I k p e a z u , P D P State understood to be a trouble during the polls, evening singing the songs (Obingwa) master strategists when it urging parents to caution of victory, but only if the He is the Governor of c o m e s t o w i n n i n g their children against play ground is not laced t h e S t a t e , f r o m elections. He is soft being used by anyone. w i t h w e a p o n s o f U m u o b i a k w a spoken but always a sage Ikpeazu's democratic unfairness. community, Obingwa in planning and execution style and the challenge A c c o r d i n g t o L G A . H i s L G A , of electoral victories. o f p e r f o r m a n c e a s Nwankpa, "We are going Obingwa ,is known in as Ochendo, as he is another factor Abia's political power into this election well- p o p u l a r ly k n ow n i s The ability of the h o u s e s i n c e 1 9 9 9 . prepared. We will sweep among the top brass his G o v e r n o r , O k e z i e the polls. All we demand Obingwa has produced party, PDP, is counting Ikpeazu to conduct LG f r o m A B S I E C i s a the a Governor, (Ikpeazu) on, to sweep the polls. electronics in 2016, with credible election. They three deputy governors Also, Hon Chinedum another one taking place should conduct s credible n a m e l y E n y i n n a y a Orji, the Speaker of the this week stands him out polls. We will feed tested, Abaribe , Eric Acho Orji Abia State House of as a man in love with popular and credible Nwakanma (Dr) and Assembly and the son to quality governance in candidates. We are not Chris Akomas. Senator Orji is another rural areas. Recall that afraid of them, rather While Akomas is now asset PDP is counting on, some state governors they are afraid of our in the All Progressive for victory on Friday as rules their States with participation" Nwankpa Congress (APC) and his popularity among the appointed Chairmen of told the APC faithful at serving as Abia State youths and the ordinary LGAs, preferring not to Onitsha Hall, Kaduna r e p r e s e n t a t i v e i n people can swing the conduct elections in such Street, Umuahia recently. N a t i o n a l R e v e n u e pendulum of choice in councils but the same is Not even the recent Mobilisation and Fiscal the favour of the PDP. n o t t h e s a m e w i t h sacking of the Nwankpa- Agency, the others, (5) Chief Alex Otti Ikpeazu who has so far led exco of APC by the including Gover nor A P C , I s i a l a N g wa d e m o n s t r a t e d h i s national headquarters of Okezie Ikpeazu are all in South, Arochukwu c o m m i t m e n t t o the APC, according to PDP and this means that Otti is from Isiala entrenching development party source, would affect the PDP will do well in Ngwa South but is very in the hinterlands. the chances of the APC. several areas of Abia popular in Arochukwu, H o w e v e r , t h e 2 0 2 3 a s a g a m e South zone, taking off the ancestral home of his o p p o s i t i o n p a r t i e s, changer in the contest from Obingwa. grandfather, no wonder especially the APC may S e v e r a l p o l i t i c a l However, Aba may his former political party, build their campaigns heavyweights in Abia turn out be a tough battle and APGA has been around some poor state State have relocated to the ground in the Abia South m a k i n g w a v e s i n o f r o a d s o r f a i l e d State to be present during Senatorial zone. This Arochukwu since 2015 infrastructure in the rural the LGA polls holding on postulation is derived when Otti contested the Friday and this brings the from the performance of first Governorship polls. areas like dilapidated issue of 2023 general the All Progressive Grand APGA clinched 11 school structures, to win elections into play. Since Alliance (APGA) in the seats in the State House the hearts of the people. the time of Orji Uzor Enyimba city since 2015 of Assembly in 2015 and Many people who live in Kalu as the Governor of elections, House of won 2 seats in 2019, the village don't know the t h e S t a t e, n o l o c a l Representatives seat in i n c l u d i n g t h a t o f difference between s government election has 2015 and 2019 and some Otti A r o c h u k w u ( 2 0 1 5 Federal Gover nment during every election r o a d a n d S t a t e g e n e r a t e d s o m u c h seats in Abia State House season and are expected &2019) with Otti's name interest as this one. of Assembly contents. Nkporo, a populated clan in doing the magic. Otti Government road so long Ohafia LGA of the State t o r e - e n a c t t h e i r such road exists in that But the involvement Therefore, Aba is strategy, for their party's equally came 2nd behind a n d i n t e r e s t o f t o p expected to be a tough while Chief Ukpai Agwu Okezie Ikpeazu in 2015 State. Ukpai, the Deputy Chief of success. D o t h e P D P o r political class in the State, ground for both APC and (3) Senator Orji and, 3rd behind Dr Uche especially those from the the PDP to penetrate as S t a f f , o f f i c e o f t h e Ogah in 2019. But now, Ikpeazu have an answer Governor is from Asaga, U z o r K a l u , H o n to the challenge? PDP and APC makes the the metropolitan nature Nkeiru Onyejiocha, he is in APC, so will he contest an interesting of the city has been also a densely populated shine for his new party as The governor himself area of core Ohafia clan. Dr Uche Ogah, APC maintained during his one. helping the Cock party to Bende, Umunneochi, he did for APGA? Friday T h e y h ave b e e n i n party's campaign flag off, The game is also seen remain relevant. Isukwuato will tell. governance for many years last week that his party as a two-party affair, as (2) Deputy Governor The presence of the Expect a credible and have also been political would cost home to t h e f o r m e r m a i n U d e O k o Senate Chief Whip, Dr election – ABSIEC maestros for the PDP, victory, based on his opposition party in the Chukwu/Ukpai Agwu O r j i U z o r K a l u , The electoral umpire judging by the harvest of performances. State, All Progressive PDP, (Ohafia) Deputy Deputy Chief Whip of in the December 18 G o v e r n o r i s f r o m large results from their area Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Page 10 News Ekwunife embarks on road construction in Awka From Uchenna Ezeadigwe, the grassroots. Awka On his part, a don and e n a t o r U c h e indigiene of Amikwo E k w u n i f e h a s Awka, Associate Prof. Scommenced another Emmanuel Chinwuko, road construction project thanked the Senator for her in Anambra Central good works and urged her Senatorial District. to remain committed to her O n M o n d a y , quest to attract dividends December 14, 2020, the of democracy to her Anambra Central Zonal constituents.Chief Steven P r o j e c t M o n i t o r i n g Nworah of Igweogige committee led by the Village, Amikwo and the former Commissioner for PDP Chairman, Awka Women Affairs, Anambra Ward 6, Dr. Ikechukwu State, Lady Henrietta Nwanna in their separate A g b a t a , v i s i t e d t h e remarks, hailed Senator c o n s t r u c t i o n s i t e a t Ekwunife for being a Amikwo Road in Awka representative that is truly South Local Government for the people. Area of Anambra State. They noted that her good Governor Willie Obiano, Chief J. Ezeokafor and dignitaries during commissioning Re a c t i n g t o t h e works echo round the of JEZCO Gas station in Awka, Anambra State, Monday. development, Comrade senatorial district and Nduchris Nwannah, the beyond and prayed for Chairman of Igweogige God's blessings and assuring that the project is in the country has been sustenance upon her as she Obiano flags off campaign disturbing, but noted that Village Assembly, Amikwo ready to support all strives to attract more A n a m b r a S t a t e Awka, described the road interventions to make dividends of democracy to to end open defecation Government has been project as a thing of Joy. Anambra East the first the people. From Ovat Mike, Aguata and Anambra East open defecation free local committed to ensuring He noted that the road In her remark, the leader Onitsha Local Government Areas. government area in the access to safe water has been dilapidated for so of the project team, Lady "I have also approved a state by February or March t h r o u g h c o n t i n u o u s long, adding that its overnor Willie Henrietta Agbata conveyed public private partnership 2021. r e h a b i l i t a t i o n a n d construction will not only O b i a n o o f management structure for construction of boreholes the Senator's message of Earlier in his address, bring succour to residents GAnambra State, the Greater Onitsha Water the state Commissioner for and water schemes in the gratitude to the people of of the area but will help to has inaugurated an inter- Scheme with PCI of South Public Utilities, Engr. state and provision of toilet t h e c o m mu n i t y a n d decongest the popular Ziks m i n i s t e r i a l s t e e r i n g Africa to ensure that the Emeka Ezenwanne said facilities in schools and thanked them for their committee on Water challenge of providing that access to potable water markets. Avenue. unflinching support for her supply, Sanitation and potable water to the H e a p p r e c i a t e d in the last election. Hygiene (WASH), as well residents of Onitsha is Senator Ekwunife for She assured them of as flagged off the campaign tackled head-on. The Imo North: remembering the people of S e n a t o r E k w u n i f e ' s to end open defecation in company has already the area and urged other commitment to attract started mapping out routes the state by 2025. public office holders to m o r e d eve l o p m e n t a l for laying of pipelines In his speech at the Araraume, Ibezim emulate her style of p r o j e c t s t o A w k a inauguration, Monday, the across the state for effective leadership which she said is community, and urged governor noted that his reticulation of water to areas within its coverage", focused on addressing the them to always put her in a d m i n i s t r a t i o n h a d missing as Lawan he stated. their prayers. prioritised the provision of yearnings of the people at The governor therefore, potable water to residents called on stakeholders to inaugurates of the state over the years. partner the state on Clean Court of Appeal in Imo Senator in the 7th Senator. He said the priority gave Anambra Campaign which state over the authentic H o w e v e r t h o s e rise to his administration according to him is aimed new senators candidate of the party for inaugurated were past working very hard to at ending open defecation the election. Governor of Bayelsa State, senator for Imo North. ensure the commissioning by 2025. By Jude Owuamanam S e n a t o r I f e a n y i Henry Seriake Dickson, T h e I n d e p e n d e n t who won the Peoples of Obizi and Otuocha In his remarks, the ails to swear in Araraume and frank N a t i o n a l E l e c t o r a l Democratic Party, PDP, water schemes despite the W A S H M a n a g e r , Governor Ayade's Ibezim are both laying Commission (INEC) had ticket for Bayelsa West, threat of COVID 19, UNICEF, Enugu Field former legislative c l a i m t o b e i n g t h e F announced the ruling All Moses Cleopas, PDP, Office, Miss Mamita Bora aide as a Senator By Henry candidate of the party, but adding that the two water B a y e l s a C e n t r a l ; Takkar, said under the Umoru THE Progressives Congress a federal high court had schemes have a capacity to Obiano administration, the Adetokunboh Abiru, All Senate on Tuesday (APC) as winner of the disqualified Ibezim and s u p p ly wa t e r t o 2 1 WASH programme has Progressives Congress, swore in the immediate election, but without recognized Araraume as a communities in both made significant progress, candidate, while the APC, Lagos East and senators elected during the returning any candidate. T h i s f o l l o w e d appellate court returned Professor Nora Dabu't, December 5 by-election in APC, Plateau South. ...Commissions mega conflicting judgments from Ibezim and rejected 15 districts of 11 states The oath of office and a federal High Court and Araraume as the candidate. gas station in Awka without inaugurating any Also in the same boat a l l e g i a n c e w e r e From Ovat Mike, with Araraume and Ibezim administered Thursday on He commended the Senator Olujimi by the Onitsha have concluded plans to formerly used Adamawa is the Senator-elect for Chairman of the company, Clerk of the Senate, relocate to the state because State as its headquarters C r o s s R i v e r N o r t h n a m b r a S t a t e Chief J. Ezeokafor for Ibrahim El- Ladan during of security and other but is relocating to S e n a t o r i a l D i s t r i c t , Governor, Willie heeding his 'Aku Luo Uno' plenary. policies that enhance ease Anambra because of what Stephen Odey. O b i a n o , h a s call and investing in the W i t h t h e i r A of doing business and he described as good Odey, who had arrived inaugurated JEZCO mega state. inauguration, APC now therefore called on others b u s i n e s s p o l i c i e s the National Assembly oil service station located The governor attributed have 63 senators Senators who are yet to decide, to do entrenched by the Obiano complex as early as 8 am o n A m a w b i a b y high influx of investors into while PDP now has 45 so and invest in the state. administration. with supporters from Cross expressway, Awka, in the state to the wonderful Senators. In his remarks, the Ezeokafor reminded the River State in anticipation A w k a S o u t h L o c a l security architecture and S e n a t o r S e r i a k e Chairman of JEZCO governor that he had Government Area of the relative peace that exist in for the swearing-in, was replaced Senator Lawrence Group of Companies, opened an oil blending state. the state and laudable however disappointed Ewhrudjakpo; Senator Chief Ezeokafor thanked plant at Agu Awka which Speaking at the event, infrastructure built and when his name was not Cleopas is replacing Obiano for providing the employed hundreds of Obiano noted that JEZCO ongoing in the state like the mentioned as one of those Senator Diri Douye; enabling environment for people and therefore Group employed about 600 Anambra airport project. to take the oath of office. Senator Abiru replacing businesses to thrive in the thanked him for coming to persons in the state and He submitted that most Odey was the Senior late Adebayo Osinowo and state. inaugurate the new service 2,000 nationwide. businessmen in Lagos and Legislative Aide, SLA to Dadu't is replacing late He recalled that his firm station. other places in the country Governor Ben Ayade as a Ignatius Longjan. Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Page 11 News “bandits”, whose hideout Service over the unending delay, while the members in Boko Haram claims responsibility the army said they have insecurity situation in the their various contributions located. country. to the motion, specifically, But the claim by Boko The resolution followed a passed a vote of no for Katsina school abduction Haram might have deflated motion moved by Senator confidence in the various … Senate summons defence minister, others the 'bandits' claim Bello Mandiya from Katsina heads of security agencies in T h e k i d n a p p i n g s State on the abduction of the country over their he dreaded Islamic and His Holy Prophet," #BringBackOurBoys has occurred in the home state of about 330 students of a inability to prevent the sect, Boko Haram, Shekau said. been trending on social President Muhammadu secondary school in the state abduction of the innocent has claimed it was In the attack, which media since the weekend in Buhari, who was visiting his recently by unknown children. T country home at the time of responsible for the abduction occurred on Friday, more reference to a similar bandits. They also expressed deep of hundreds of students in than 100 gunmen on hashtag used after Boko the attack. The senate also urged the anger and disappointment G o v e r n m e n t S c i e n c e motorcycles stormed the Haram abducted 276 girls in Meanwhile the Senate President Muhammadu that the president had Secondary School, Kankara, rural school north of 2014 in Chibok, in North- has summoned the Minister Buhari to implement the consistently ignored all in Nigeris' North-Western Kankara town, forcing Eastern Nigeria. of Defence, the service re por t of the Senate resolutions passed by the state of Katsina. students to flee and hide in The weekend attack was chiefs, and heads of the Committee on Security upper legislative chamber on Governor Aminu Masari the surrounding bush and initially blamed on armed Nigerian Police Force and challenges without further the issue of insecurity in the of Katsina state had going away with hundreds.. groups locally known as the Department of State country. confirmed that at least 333 students are still missing Natural/Herbal Medicine since the attack late Friday NANTMP vows to fight fake herbalists in Imo Practitioners Association of on the all-boys school. By Ikenna Orioha government to control the While commending always support the policies Nigeria, Dr. Nnaoma Oha, T h e c l a i m o f h e N a t i o n a l practice of herbal medicine G o v e r n o r H o p e of government to move the said there was need to have a responsibility marks a major Uzodimma's administration state forward. board which will authorise A s s o c i a t i o n o f to sanitize the trade and t u r n i n g p o i n t i n t h e improve standard, as well as f o r i t s s u p p o r t f o r Director, Destiny t h e f u l l p r a c t i c e o f N i g e r i a n dangerous advance of T g e n e r a t e r e v e n u e t o NANTMP, he promised that Natural Care and State traditional medicine in the Tr a d i t i o n a l M e d i c i n e jihadist groups in northwest government. the association would Chairman, Commonwealth region. Nigeria. Practitioners (NANTMP), Hitherto, Boko Haram, Imo State chapter, has and a splinter group, the promised to flush out fake Islamic State in West Africa h e r b a l m e d i c i n e Province (ISWAP), which is practitioners in the state with waging an insurgency in the North-East , is thought to a view to enhancing have only a minor presence standard and saving lives. in the North-West State Chairman of In a voice message he NANTMP, Chief John release, the leader of the sect Amarachukwu, made the said that they are behind the p r o m i s e d u r i n g t h e abduction. swearing-in of the new We are behind what executive members of the happened in Katsina," Boko Haram leader Abubakar association in Owerri, on Shekau said in an audio Monday. message posted by the A m a r a c h u k w u Nigerian news por tal frowned at some traditional HumAngle. medicine practitioners who "What happened in sell fake medicine to the Katsina was done to people, warning that from p r o m o t e I s l a m a n d 2021, herbal medicine discourage non-Islamic practices, as Wester n practitioners would have real education is not the kind of identity to authenticate their education allowed by Allah license of practice. H e c a l l e d o n FRSC Ember Month campaign flag-off at Onitsh Brace up for second wave of Nwodo, lauded the governor LG polls: Abia NUJ warns Leadership Newspapers, COVID-19, Enugu gov charges for enthroning peaceful Mr. Sam Nda-Isaiah, coexistence among the describing his death as a From Chuma Austin, backdrop that the state people of the state, adding youths against violence great loss to media industry government approved the that the holistic approach w h i l e c o n s o l i n g h i s Enugu From Dan Maduagwu, candidates of their choice, institutions of community had reduced frictions among immediate family. town unions and traditional Umuahia noting that election of n u g u S t a t e various interest groups in the The congress was also Governor, Ifeanyi rulers. It also created rural credible candidates would state. igeria Union of used to present a newly U g w u a n y i , h a s cities to discourage rural- deepen development in rural E Nwodo enjoined the Journalists (NUJ), inaugurated chapel, Unity c h a r g e d l e a d e r s o f urban migration through its participants to make good communities. A b i a S t a t e Federated Chapel, led by communities in the state to agencies which include; use of the opportunity N A communique issued Comrade Chidi Asonye. brace up against the second Community and Social provided by the seminar to Council, has cautioned the Monday, after its monthly wave of Covid-19. D e ve l o p m e n t P r o j e c t develop their respective youths in the state against congress at Press Centre, In his message, the Ugwuanyi represented ( C S D P ) , R u r a l communities. being ready-tools of violence Umuahia, urged the state Chairmen of NUJ, Abia Electrification Board (REB) by the state Commissioner The seminar which is for politicians during the Ministry of Homeland State, Comrade John for Rural Development, a n d C o m m u n i t y an annual event, was local government elections, Security to redouble efforts Emejor, charged members to Prince Emeka Mamah, gave D e ve l o p m e n t P r o j e c t organised by the state in making the state crime- maintain love for one (CDP)", he added. on Friday December 18. the charge while declaring M i n i s t r y o f R u r a l free. another in the discharge of open a three-day seminar, In his speech, the This is even as the council Development to train The council mourned the their professional functions, organised for the 472 Special Adviser to the urged Abians to go out en presidents general on their passing away of publisher of even as he commended the presidents-general of town g o v e r n o r o n R u r a l leadership roles and crisis masse to vote for the members for large turnout. unions in the state. Development, Hon. Ikenna management. He noted that the charge became imperative because more people are NGO lays foundation for Abia migrant school expected to return home From Dan Maduagwu, during the yuletide. i n r e s p o n s e t o t h e community. foundation that would because it is located in a very Umuahia According to him, d i l a p i d a t e d l e a r n i n g “Where there is rancor impact on humanity, both in rural area. conditions of pupils in the and acrimony, there will be education and other areas. Recall that since the community leaders have a m e A n n e major role to play for safety Migrant Farms, adding that no development. Unity is the Also speaking, the head foundation was established U z o a g w u the eight-room block would only pivot for development”, of the people, especially in Foundation has teacher of the school, four years ago after the death this second phase of D c o s t N 1 4 m i l l i o n o n Okpokpo said. laid a foundation stone for Ugochukwu Nwamaka, of Anne, it had donated 50 coronavirus pandemic. completion. He disclosed that the an ultra-modern eight- expressed joy for the desks, tables and chairs to He noted the ministry A priest, Rev. Fr. Donatus foundation was moved to classroom block for Isiugwu promoters of the project. Amizi Central Primary was established in 2007 with Okpokpo, while performing e r e c t t h e b l o c k t o She prayed God to bless School; 30 desks to St, the responsibilities to bridge Migrant Farmers School, the foundation laying, accommodate the pupils and the foundation and give Peter's Catholic School and the gap of social economic Amizi Oloko in Ikwuano thanked the foundation for teachers and for conducive development between urban L.G.A., Abia State. its philanthropic activities in environment for learning. them the enablement to school uniforms to 80 pupils and rural areas, pointing out S p e a k i n g a t t h e the area. He further said that it was complete the project. of Amapu Primary School that the seminar was apt and ceremony, a representative He urged individuals and the dream of their late She also hinted that all in Ikwuano Local timely. of the organization, Mr. corporate bodies to emulate m o t h e r, D a m e A n n e teachers posted to the school Government Area of the "It is against the Austine Uzoagwa, said the the gesture to develop the Uzoagwa to create a often rejected the posting state. school project was initiated Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Page 12 Politics

Umahi Dave Umahi's heart of lion By Femi Adesina mention of his name drew blew in, the APC had 24 again. You then see why he applause. Chief Dave Umahi has displayed courage governors, PDP had 11, was easily the star, the here were three Umahi, an engineer, and of conviction. He and All Progressives Grand cynosure of all eyes at this prominent red caps governor of Ebonyi State. Alliance (APGA) had one. week's APC NEC meeting. dotting the hall, as said the South East has been let down by the T Umahi had been a PDP But due to schisms and When the Caretaker the All Prog ressives PDP in the last 21 years, so it was time to switch man, possibly all of his wrangling, APC states Committee chairman of the Congress (APC) held its political career. He was camp. It takes the heart of a lion to change N a t i o n a l E x e c u t i v e began to dwindle, till it was party, Governor Mai Mala deputy governor to Martin course in such setting. Some people said it was Committee (NEC) meeting almost 18 to 17. Zamfara, Buni introduced him, there on Tuesday, December 8 at Elechi for eight years, because he wants to run for president in 2023. Bauchi, Sokoto, Benue, was rapturous applause. the Council Chambers of succeeded him as governor, And why not? The party has not come out with Oyo, Edo, were all lost. If And when President Buhari and is now in his second the Presidential Villa, in its zoning formula, but in a democracy, anyone Ondo had not been won by equally mentioned his Abuja. term. A r a k u n r i n R o t i m i name in his speech, the hall The type of cap worn is Umahi had always loved can aspire for any position, as long as he can Akeredolu a couple of exploded again. often symbolic of the part and respected President muster the needed support and momentum for months back, it would have Umahi has displayed of the country you hail Muhammadu Buhari, and victory been the nunc dimitis of courage of conviction. He from. Red is typical of the never hid it, though they APC. The party was fast said the South East has East, particularly if you are were of different political Do you remember the dilapidated, bridges rickety, vanishing, and the auguries been let down by the PDP in a title holder. And these parties. And the resident 1978 reggae song by a and in fact, the second for 2023 were not good. the last 21 years, so it was three were no mean men. reciprocated in like manner. musician called I-Roy? We bridge over the River Niger Victory in Ondo was time to switch camp. It The first red cap adorned In fact, the first State the were boys then, and we was built by mouth for the good. It took the tally to 19- takes the heart of a lion to the head of Chief Orji Uzor president ever visited in the loved that music, a sort of 16 years PDP held sway. 16. Then came the game change course in such Kalu, a former two-term country, and passed the DJ chant in Jamaican Now, President Buhari is changer. Ebonyi came into setting. Some people said it governor of Abia State, and night, was Ebonyi. Umahi patois. You were young in building the bridge, and is the bag, and it became 20- was because he wants to run an early comer to the APC was PDP in the exterior, but the 70s, and didn't know I- poised to complete it in 15. Anambra still remains for president in 2023. And from his region of the APC at heart. Roy? You sure missed an 2022. Holy Moses! APGA. And APC that why not? The party has not country. He caught the My first inkling of what almost couldn't breathe come out with its zoning vision of a renascent exciting part of early life. Why did the South-East was on the way was about The title of the album hold tenaciously to PDP, again had a huge relief. See f o r m u l a , b u t i n a Nigeria early enough. He two years ago. There was a the configuration now: democracy, anyone can used to belong to the was Heart of a Lion. It was despite being given the meeting of Progressive South-East: Imo and aspire for any position, as Peoples Democratic Party a star hit, and no party was shorter end of the stick? Governors (as those elected E b o n y i . S o u t h - We s t : long as he can muster the (PDP) and the Progressive complete without it. If you Nobody knows. Till people on the platform of APC are Lagos, Ogun, Osun, Ondo, n e e d e d s u p p o r t a n d People's Alliance (PPA). suffered from reggaemylitis like Orji Uzor Kalu, Hope called), and Governor The second red cap sat (as I did then), I-Roy was a Uzodimma, and now, Dave Ekiti. Nor th-Central: momentum for victory. Umahi had sent his deputy daintily on the head of chart buster. The album Umahi, began to ask Niger, Nasarawa, Kogi, I've always said it. The Hope Uzodimma, another to attend. A PDP man featured other hit tracks like questions, and followed it Kwara, Plateau. North- South-East must play better wise man from the East, among APC governors? “ S i s t e r N e l l y ” , a n d with pragmatic action. That West: Kano, Kaduna, politics to get the ultimate and governor of Imo State. Something was definitely “Casmas Town.” was how and why an APC Kebbi, Jigawa, Katsina. office in the country. He also used to belong to cooking. What Umahi exhibited NEC meeting was dotted North-East: Borno, Yobe, Sleeping and facing the P D P, t i l l h e h a d a Now, the deed has been last month in crossing from by three prominent red Gombe. Twenty in all. same direction may not be Damascus road experience done. Governor Umahi has PDP to APC can best be caps. Wonders are part of If there was a time the the best option. The Orji like the biblical Saul, who done what Napoleon described as the heart of a the world, and they will APC needed a shot in the Kalus, Hope Uzodimmas, became Paul. couldn't do. He has lion. We know how the never end. arm, it was the time Dave C h r i s N g i g e s, D ave The third red cap? That officially crossed from the region he hails from has See what the entrance of Umahi came. It changed Umahis, and many others, was on the man of the PDP to APC. Only a man long been overtaken by the Umahi into APC has done the country's political map are now shining the light, so moment, and star of the with the heart of a lion PDP, and with little to show for the party. When in year and configuration. And that their people can find NEC meeting. Ever y could do that. for it. Their roads are 2015, Hurricane Buhari APC is breathing easier the way. Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Page 13 News Abba community protests plan by Imo, commenced on Monday, FG to take over ancestral land November 30th, 2020, but Chief Jeff Uju, who are co- Abba, Eziaboh Dimnanume the observance and eagle By Jude Owuamanam c o n v e n e r s o f A b b a Okwe and Ekitiafor in eyes of our people scuttled Concerned Citizens, the the exercise. eople of Abba in Nwangele Local Government community said, “We, the “We are surprised at this N w a n g e l e l o c a l Area for the sum of N153, entire indigenes of Abba Clan development because the government of Imo 518, 734.00. P i n N w a n g e l e L o c a l government did not go State have expressed deep “Another contract award Government Area of Imo anger over plans by both the dated same date was also through our representatives State, under the auspices of Federal and Imo State awarded to Future Assured to perfect this deal. C O N C E R N E D A B B A governments to take over their Investment Service Limited “Ikpa Abba is our CITIZENS, wish to bring to ancestral land. ancestral land and our only the notice of the whole world, of Damaturu Crecent, Area The land in question, heritage and we will do attempts by both the Federal 11, Abuja, for bush clearing called Ikpa Ihu Osu, also everything to preserve our and Imo State Governments and land preparation of 200 known as Ikpa Abba, is a long legacy and that of our to forcefully appropriate our hectares of land at Umuozu, stretch of land that strides children. land for proposed agricultural Ubahu Amaigbo Umuoma four communities of Abba, purposes. a n d O we r e n k w o r j i i n “We are by this medium U mu oz u , A m a i g b o i n Nwangele at the sum of advising the government to, Nwangele Local Government “The story to this forceful appropriation of our heritage N153, 722, 581.00. please, leave our land and and Owerre Nkworji, in take their eyes off us. Nkwerre local government began when we woke up to an “Still a third contract was announcement that the awarded to Beyondreliable We are saying no to any Area of Imo State. f o r c e f u l e n t r y , It was gathered that Federal Government through Global Limited of No. 54 appropriation or clearing of government had awarded a the Federal Ministry of Sultan Road, off Ibrahim contract for the clearing of the Agriculture had awarded Taiwo Road for the sum of our land for agricultural or land without recourse to the contracts for the clearing of N76, 872, 309, 00. any other purposes. land owners, but in a strong the land. “The three contracts were The people called on worded letter, the people, “Our investigations at the signed by the Director, Governor Hope Uzodimma under the aegis of Abba ministry revealed that on P r o c u r e m e n t , Ya k u b u not to provoke our people Concerned Citizens, (ACC) November 19, 2020, a Kofarmata, on behalf of the by tampering with their, w a r n e d o f s e v e r e contract was awarded to an Honourable Minister. Our a d d i n g t h a t t h o u g h c o n s e q u e n c e s i f t h e i r Abuja-based company called further investigations revealed peaceful, they would do c o m m o n h e r i t a ge wa s Resultorient Exclusive some clandestine plans to anything to resist this tampered with. Project Limited for bush establish RUGA settlement in attempt at mortgaging and In a the letter signed by consigning us to second Chief Chris Onwuzurike and clearing and land preparation our Communities. of 200 hectares of land at Ikpa These projects would have slavery.

Cosmas IK Enweluzo Police have refused to release (SAN), stated that efforts to get the police to honour the bail had failed. my wife, businessman cries out He appealed to the Dalepel Ogundu. Court in Port Harcourt, had Inspector General of Police From Chukwudi Chidiebere, Ogundu said his wife was since December 2, 2020, ( I G P ) , M o h a m m e d Port Harcourt arrested on November 25, granted his wife bail, but said Adamu and other well business man, Collins 2020, in his stead by the the police have refused to meaning Nigerians, to Ogundu has raised the Inspector General of Police release her. intervene in the matter and Aalarm over the refusal Monitoring Team led by CSP Addressing journalists, ensure the release of his of the police to release his wife, Alex Ureze, over a land matter. counsel for Ogundu, Chief wife, who he claimed is He said the Federal High hypertensive. Umahi presents N123b 2021 budget From David Eze, hope to mobilize the N122,138,799,059.13 which N9,206,693,563.56 or 7.49% contractor this December. Abakaliki of the total budget. is 92.53% performance. We Other major works of the Umahi noted that the o v e r n o r D av i d are therefore staying on side air por t that will be budget was intended to Umahi of Ebonyi of what is possible by our completed in 2021 include complete all on-going projects Abba youths and women protesting forceful takeover of Ikpa Abba GState has presented 2 0 2 1 b u d g e t o f the earth works, parks, before starting new ones. to the state Assembly, a N122,852,045,222.49 which terminal building, and 2018 because of the need to He said: “Under the the spiritual father of the b u d g e t e s t i m a t e o f is just 0.6% higher than our concrete works of the 4km by strengthen the festival. Ministry of Infrastructures day", the President-General N122,852,045,22.49 for 2021 projected 2020 budget 65m of the runway. We hope Traditional rulers have no fiscal year. for Concession, we were hands in the festival. revealed. performance”, the governor to open the airport for The appropriation bill developing the airport and We only invite them as our Meanwhile, the High stated. business latest by June 2022. which is expected to have its few other infrastructures. We guests and possibly help to Court sitting in Nwaorieubi In the budget breakdown, The budget here is therefore major revenue from the have opened bids for the bless kola-nut. The truth of Mbaitoli on Friday last week human capital development N14,012,217,549.64 or federal allocation while other airport equipment and we the matter is that some a d j o u r n e d t o 1 2 t h and empowerment will gulp 11.41% of the total budget”. revenue heads are expected to January,2021 a case with suit N3,259,779,838.94 or 2.65% groups of people who have c o m e f r o m s a l e o f No HMI/153/2020 brought of the total budget. The Okwodu flays alleged false made up their minds to be international market stores, extor ting money from to it by the factional leader of amount was intended to Mbieri Nwaotuoke, Engr. land proceeds, malls and deploy N3bn as ENDSARS media report against Emume unsuspected individuals are other receipts. tr ying to disr upt and Fidelis Akuchie challenging empowerment programme the authenticity of Deacon “Our major revenue is for youths and women. Mbieri cultural festival destabilize the leadership of expected to come from Mbieri Nwaotuoke. Court Chukwuma Okwodu led The governor said that the h e P r e s i d e n t - According to him, Mbieri federation account estimated never stopped my executive executive. programme has commenced General of Mbieri Nwaotuoke Town Union is a According to the Court at about N52bn or 42.33% of from organizing Emume with collation of names and Nwaotuoke Town formidable socio-cultural presided by Hon. Justice V. I. the budget. Other revenue their proposals of their T Mbieri 2020 cultural festival. Onyeka, the defendant in the heads like IGR, sales of Union in Mbaitoli Council organization and umbrella choices of businesses, adding However, our cultural case is advised to take step Area of Imo State, Deacon body abiding the people of international market stores, that he intends to reach out to festival kicks off at Orie and file the appropriate Chukwuma Okwodu has land proceeds, sales of malls, about 250 persons with best the seven autonomous Mbieri on 28th December, defence paper as the Court is other receipts etc will account p r o p o s a l s p e r L o c a l flayed a media report communities in Mbieri clan 2020 with the executive minded to get with the merits for the balance of N57.994bn Government Area with N1m published on the front page both at home and abroad governor of Imo State, His of the case. or 47.53% of total budget. We per person. of Horn Newspapers edition which has no control of the Excellency, Senator Hope Earlier, the counsel to are projecting to increase our The Ministry of Health of Tuesday 15th Dec. 2020 traditional rulers of the Uzodimma as the special d e f e n d a n t , H . C I G R f r o m p r o j e c t e d a n d h e a l t h r e l a t e d captioned, "Emume Mbieri component communities. g u e s t o f h o n o u r, t h e Onyekpere(ESq) argued that N10,569,074,353.56 in 2020 programmes got the sum of cultural festival; Court stops He recalled that Emume Chairman of Waltersmith the Defendant just served them with affidavit and asked b u d g e t t o N18,706,279,929.28 or Okwodu-led faction, others, Mbieri cultural festival was Petroman,Abdu Rasaq Isa as for time to respond to same. N12,858,297,657.83 or 15.23% of the total budget. first held in Aba, Abia State t h e C h a i r m a n o f t h e mandates Mbieri monarchs While the counsels to the 10.47% of our total expected The education sector got by Mbieri sons and thereafter to officiate event" ocassion, HRM Eze Samuel defendant and plaintiff revenue”. t h e t o t a l a m o u n t o f triggered actions of bringing H e d e s c r i b e d t h e Agunwa Ohiri,Royal Father diligently agreed that the suit “In 2020, our projected N23,913,778,152.08, while home the festival as a o f d a y a n d B i s h o p publication as the handwork biannual event. "The event should be adjourned to actual revenue receipts by the Ministry of Works and Chukwuma Opara of o f m i s c h i e f m a k e r s . was first held in Mbieri in Tuesday 12th January, 2021 December 31, 2020 is Transport got the budget of 2017 and was repeated in Owerri Anglican Diocese as for the motion to be decided. Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Page 14 Education Know your Physics With Justina Nkechi aka Prof Phone: 08038798053

Molecules in solids, liquids container. They hence exert pressure at Capillarity: m a n y and gas the walls of the container due to the This is the rise of fluid through a tiny pores a t is a known fact that matter i.e. collision. small hole in a tube e.g. the capillary c t a s c a p solids, liquids and gases have Diffusion: tube which can allow water and illary tube and can be Imolecules that are in a random The rate at which molecules move in mercury rise through. used to demonstrate this. motion. gas depends on their mass and velocity. (Concave) (Convex) 2. The rising oil and kerosene in Solids: There is a definite pattern of If one jar is filled with a particular gas wicks of lamps through the spaces in- arrangement of molecules in solids. and another is filled with another gas between the walls that make up the When heat is introduced to a solid, the and inverted on the other, after wick. molecules increase their rate of sometime it will be observed that the 3. The absorption of water by towel. vibration and as a result of this may two jars will have a mixture of the two Mercury (Hg) 4. The rising of liquid wax up the break from their fixed positions. It melts gases. Hence, diffusion is the tendency wick of a candle. and changes to liquid. Solids like of a gas to mix with another and fill an 5. The flow of blood through the five Water (H 0) camphor vaporize without first melting empty space as a result of the constant 2 capillary channels in the body. to liquid. random motion of the molecules. Examples of capillary processes; 6. The rising of water up the stem of a Liquids: Molecules in a liquid are Adhesion and Cohesion 1. The action of blotting paper whose plant. less tightly held together. They vibrate Adhesion: It is the force of attraction more and are in constant random between molecules of different COVID-19: Kaduna govt orders shutdown motion. When liquid is heated, the substances. molecules gain more kinetic energy and Cohesion: It is the force of attraction of schools are faster. Some molecules may escape between molecules of the same ollowing the rising substance. cases of people from the container and change into a f f e c t e d w i t h Water has more adhesive force; this is F vapour i.e. gaseous state. COVID-19 in Kaduna State, Gases: The molecules of a gas are why it leaves some particles in a the Ministry of Education has loosely held together and hence have container from where it is poured out. directed all schools in the freedom of movement. Their distance Mercury has more cohesive force and State to close on Wednesday, apart is much. They move at a very high that is why it leaves no particles on any 16th December, 2020. speed, thereby colliding with one container from where it is poured out. It In a statement on Tuesday another and with the walls of the also stays in balls. morning, Commissioner of Education, Alhaji Shehu Usman Muhammad said, ASUU didn't go on strike over IPPIS, “the ministry wishes to inform the general public, says UNN – ASUU Chairman parents, guardians and students of the date of school's closure due to rising El-Rufai, Kaduna state governor cases of COVID-19 infections close on Wednesday 16th TV and Radio e-learning in the state which shows a December, 2020 as opposed to programmes.” replicate of figures recorded the initial closings. He added that “While the in the first wave of the “ T h e r e f o r e , a l l state government continues pandemic in April, May and e x a m i n a t i o n s m u s t b e exerting efforts to prevent the June 2020. Indicating that a concluded on or before, spread of the pandemic, the new wave of the infection is Tuesday, 15th December, general public is urged to rapidly spreading across the 2020 in all institutions of continuously comply with all state.” learning across the State. COVID-19 protocols to avoid He said, “The state's “Physical classes in the the likelihood of the worst ministry of health has further u n i ve r s i t i e s a n d o t h e r case scenarios of the disease confirmed that, while the institutions of higher learning in the state. infections cut across age will not be held during the “All residents of the State g roups, this new wave, period of closure. Institutions are, therefore, encouraged to especially, affects those can make other arrangements adapt the spirit of the between 10 and 35 years for teaching and learning and FORWARD campaign which (which form a majority of the other activities in line with encourages ever yone to populace in the education t h e i r c o n f o r m i t y a n d adhere to the guidelines r C h r i s t i a n alleged that the union “In the 2009 agreement and sector). contingency plans. In order to provided by authorities in the “Thus, in it's efforts to O p a t a , a embarked on its action MoUs, government agreed, minimize the impact on healthcare sector which contain the spread of the chieftain of the because of IPPIS. According among other things, to learning and teaching, all includes: D pandemic and save the lives of schools will continue to plan “Wearing face masks Academic Staff Union of to him, ASUU went on strike release money to revitalise people in the state, the lessons or where possible, aways, observing physical Universities (ASUU) has said because Federal Government the decaying infrastructure in Kaduna State Government is provide online resources for d i s t a n c i n g, r e s p i r a t o r y directing all Public, and the union's rejection of the failed to honour the 2009 public universities and set up students or online lessons hygiene, washing hands with private schools to conclude all Integ rated Payroll and a g r e e m e n t a n d visitation panels to know the where schools are equipped to soap under running water or necessary arrangements and Personnel Infor mation M e m o r a n d u m o f condition of the universities,” do so. u s i n g h a n d s a n i t i z e r s, Management System (IPPIS) Understanding (MoU) it Opata said. He said that it “However, learners in the avoiding large gatherings, agreement and MoUs with b a s i c , p o s t b a s i c a n d remaining indoors when there has nothing to do with its entered with ASUU. “ASUU was mischievous for anybody ASUU. He said the union took secondary schools levels can is no need to be outdoors and current strike. Opata, who is didn't go on strike because of t o a c c u s e A S U U o f continue learning while at dieting, eating balanced meals strong exception to the feature the Chairman of ASUU, a misunderstanding with insensitivity over the plight of home from the Kaduna State to boost immunity.” story in the national daily. University of Nigeria, government on IPPIS as students and parents, when “The writer is not fair to Nsukka chapter, said this platform for payment of government was guilty of ASUU, which has been while briefing newsmen on salary. “IPPIS issue started in r e n e g i n g o n i t s 2 0 0 9 f i g h t i n g t o e n s u r e t h e the protracted nationwide 2018, before then, ASUU has agreement and MoUs. Opata revitalisation of public Read & advertise action. He said the briefing been calling on government said the ongoing strike could universities to ensure that w a s t o c o r r e c t t h e t o h o n o u r t h e 2 0 0 9 have been aver ted, “if students compete with their “misinfor mation” in a agreement and various MoUs government honoured and counterparts globally,” he in NEWS ECHO national daily, where it was it entered with government. i m p l e m e n t e d i t s 2 0 0 9 said. Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Page 15 SPORTS AC Milan can win the Scudetto – Ibrahimovic

Aiyegbeni Yakubu Aiyegbeni, SBG intensify hunt for fresh talents ormer Super fondly called is not f o o t b a l l e r s, t h e Eagles ace only a partner of the group is interested in FY a k u b u o u t f i t b u t a l s o providing a platform A i y e g b e n i i s doubling as one of for players who channeling efforts to the coaches. might otherwise not l a t a n of my same age to i d e n t i f y i n g a n d A i ye g b e n i w h o get a chance to make Ibrahimovic believe in themselves g rooming young m a d e 5 7 it. Zis confident and never give up.” football talents it has appearances for the Y a k u b u w h o AC Milan can win the He also said: “At 39 I been revealed. S u p e r E a g l e s recently called for Scudetto this seasaon. felt that I had to do T h e f o r m e r between 2000–2012 the sacking of Super Milan currently sit something more to feel E v e r t o n a n d scoring 21 goals is Eagles coach Gernot top of the table. good. My arrival at Portsmouth forward said to be desirous of Rohr insisting that “The team must have Milan was a different i s r e p o r t e d l y seeing the young the German tactician the courage to dream challenge. Milan were p a r t n e r i n g w i t h players rise to make is not measuring up, o f w i n n i n g t h e not at the top. I was B e n t l e y S p o r t s waves in the ever scored 172 goals for Scudetto, we have a hoping to do well, Group (BSG) to attractive soccer over 15 clubs in the long way ahead,” Ibra everyone who returned make the dream of industry. course of his career said. to Milan for the second budding talents who Former Aston Villa m a k i n g 4 2 8 “The team is hungry time could not do as might be interested and Brighton scout appearances before and willing, we want well as they had done in making a career a n d n o w B S G a n n o u n c i n g h i s even more. the first time. out of the round Director Neil Sillet, retirement in 2017 “I think I transmit my “It was the biggest leather game come s a i d a s i d e f r o m after a short stint c h a r i s m a t o m y challenge for me, I told true. offering opportunity with Coventry City. teammates, I always myself: 'I'll do Zlatan The Yak as he is f o r y o u n g want to train because I I b r a h i m o v i c a n d Liverpool legend The two teams will feel better. I tell people change things'.” meet at Anfield today, Ibrahimovic a n d Fow l e r s ay s defends Mourinho Mourinho shouldn't Napoli: Osimhen cop criticism for his over Tottenham pragmatic style. instructed Spurs to sit “Jose Mourinho continues therapy dee p and hit the will be unrepentant tactics apoli have forward is still out. i v e r p o o l opposition on the when he comes to l e g e n d , counter-attack. Anfield for that huge confir med “Therapy, work on LR o b b i e T h e r e s u l t s e e s table-topping game Nthat Victor the pitch and in the Fowler, has defended Tottenham sitting on on Wednesday. I O s i m h e n i s s t i l l gym for Osimhen,” the Jo s e M o u r i n h o ' s top of the Premier agree totally with training separately and Azzurri wrote in a Atletico Madrid to send t a c t i c s w h e n L e a g u e t a b l e , that, too,” he wrote in seems set to miss out training report on their Tottenham play top alongside Liverpool, a column for the against Inter this week. official website. teams. with 11 games gone Sunday Mirror. The Nigerian has The 21-year-old has Lucas Torreira back to M o u r i n h o h a s in the season. “He has every right been out since he played six games for A c c o r d i n g t o window opens in to have his Spurs play dislocated his shoulder the Partenopei this TuttoMercatoWeb, January. in any way he believes Arsenal Italian cyclist Ricco during international term, scoring two goals A t l e t i c o c o a c h That may not be can get a result and an duty last month and in the League since his t l e t i c o Diego Simeone Tor reira's final banned for life edge in the Premier t h e P a r t e n o p e i move from LOSC Lille M a d r i d League. You can midfielder isn't convinced by destination though, talian cyclist said in a statement. revealed the centre- last summer. A moan all you like, but , Lucas Torreira, is the Uruguayan and as Torino have been Riccardo Ricco, “The first section of his methods have s e t t o r e t u r n t o he could be on his linked with the w h o w a s the national anti- I been effective this parent club Arsenal way back to the player as they look thrown off the Tour doping court, in the season – and he's not Premier League to strengthen their de France in 2008 for d i s c i p l i n a r y next month. changing now. when the transfer midfield. t a k i n g a b l o o d - proceedings against Torreira has made “ I r e m e m b e r f i v e L a L i g a boosting drug, has Mr. Riccardo Ricco… Brendan Rodgers S a n t a n d e r been banned for life, imposes a life ban,” being so angry with the national anti- the statement said. the way Mourinho's appearances this d o p i n g a g e n c y A once promising Chelsea played in that season, as well as announced. rider known as “The game back in 2014, f o u r i n t h e The 37-year-old had C o b r a ” , R i c c o ' s which effectively cost Champions League already been handed c a r e e r c o l l a p s e d Liverpool the title, since arriving on a 12-year ban that was when he was found to b r a n d i n g h i m s o loan from Arsenal due to expire in 2024. h a v e t a k e n t h e negative that they on the same day as He must also pay a banned blood-booster 'parked two buses'. 4,000 euro ($4,850) CERA during the T h o m a s P a r t e y I've got news. It ain't fine and costs of 378 2008 tour. m o v e d i n t h e changing.” Osimhen euros, Nado Italia opposite direction. Torreira Abba community protests plan by Imo, FG to take

over ancestral land Pg. 13 Ogun fleeing 'baby factory operator' arrested ISSN: 2736-0512 WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2020 VOL. 1 NO. 49 Pg. 7 Guest Columnist Senator Araraume: Not time to quit? By Comr. Alex Nzirim Okezuo served for one term each. U n f o r t u n a t e l y , must begin this Uwajumogu did not even presentation with a complete one term. Id e e p s e n s e o f Since the death of respect to Sen. Ifeanyi Uwajumogu, the worse Ararume, Distinguished type of political intrigue s e n a t o r w h o h a d has emerged on Okigwe represented Imo North politics. Now with the constituency in the senate death of Uwajumogu for glorious eight years. every manner of person Honestly, I recall that Sen. wants to go to the Senate to Araraume entered the represent Okigwe. A viral senate along with the late input was injected in the Sen. Evan Enwerem and process by Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Nzeribe three of Araraume showing his them representing Imo interest to go and represent State as the three Senators Okigwe in the Senate in 1999. again. O w i n g t o t h e This move has sparked complexities of national off a lot of misgivings g e o - p o l i t i c s , C h i e f among the people of Enwerem emerged as the Okigwe zone. This is Senate President. Indeed, because the query the his emergence sparked off rationale for a man who a lot of ripples in the had represented Okigwe Senate because Obasanjo zone for eight good years needed a Senate President who many thought would who could work with the have retired from politics Executives. However, by now. many Senators preferred From all intents and Senator Chuba Okadigbo, purposes, the role which a ver y unpredictable Sen. Ifeanyi Araraume has Araraume Senator from Anambra played and continues to Araraume has not given (INEC) playing politics of Independent National the Okigwe Senatorial State who radiated a lot of play leaves much to be Okigwe politics nay Imo a naivety. Who in the history Electoral Commission Zone is too naïve and too Senatorial Charisma but desired. For example, it breathing space or peace of of politics in Nigeria has (INEC) that conducts perplexing. controversial. was on record that it was mind. Since 2007 till date, seen or heard Independent elections, counts the votes I f I n d e p e n d e n t In spite of all the Araraume who prevented he is the most known N a t i o n a l E l e c t o r a l a n d a n n o u n c e s t h e N a t i o n a l E l e c t o r a l intrigues, Senator Evan Engr. Charles Ugwu from political heavy weight that C o m m i s s i o n ( I N E C ) c a n d i d a t e. W h y t h e C o m m i s s i o n ( I N E C ) difference this time? Enwerem became the becoming the Governor of has been in several parties declaring a political party wants the judiciary to do A high Court in Abuja Senate President on indeed Imo State. allegedly to destabilize. winner of an election its job, which goes to the I p e r s o n a l ly k n ow without mentioning the disqualified Frank Ibezim a hot seat. Owing to twists Those who know the Judiciary, is it Frank Senator Ifeanyi Araraume n a m e o f t h e p a r t y from the race but before the a n d t u r n s o f S e n a t e history knew that between I b e z i m w h o h a d t h e p o l i t i c s , L a t e E v a n very well. He is noble at candidate? p r o n o u n c e m e n t w a s D o u g l a s H o u s e a n d highest votes cast or Enwerem did not last on heart with an elastic liberal This was caused by a made, an Appeal Court of Charles Ugwu was Senator Araraume who does not that seat hence he was mind. He is always willing viral intervention in giving higher jurisdiction cleared Ifeanyi Araraume. The h av e l o c a l s t a n d i n g r e p l a c e d b y a m o r e development was that the to help and support people the hoodwinking of the h i m a s a n a u t h e n t i c according to the Appeal preferred person, Chuba PDP skewed its member's in need hence he enjoys Independent National candidate of the APC. Court. Okadigbo. Interestingly, votes to Ikedi Ohakim of reasonable popularity. Electoral Commission And since APC had the the other two Senators PPA and made it possible Now, he has contested (INEC) who has failed to highest number of votes The point that is being from Imo State Arthur for Ikedi to be Governor in election to the Senate show demonstration of its cast, why was Ibezim not made here is to my mind Nzeribe and Araraume 2007. Many believed under APC. Many people a u t h o r i t y. P r o f e s s o r returned as elected? that Distinguish Senator had a rosy tenure and including me that if Engr. point at him as one of Eleonu, the resident In the alternative, if I f e a n y i A r a r u m e a completed the two terms Charles Ugwu had ruled those (there are some electoral commissioner in Independent National contemporary of Sen. of Eight years. Imo State, we would not be others) who continue to Imo State is a highly Electoral Commission Arthur Nzeribe should Unfortunately, Okigwe suffering some problems in manipulate the Judiciary. refined public officer who ( I N E C ) w a s n a i ve l y have known that it is time zone has had a chequered governance. Currently, he is locked cannot be influenced by c o n f u s e d . W h y w a s for him to quit politics Senatorial representation. For one thing, Engr. up in election dispute with any mundane decision. Okewulonu who had the instead of rattling the No senator except Sen. Charles Ugwu is a very Hon. Frank Ibezim whom But many wonder why second highest votes not political scene each time Godwin Ifeanyi Araraume h o n e s t p e r s o n w i t h many believed should have he did not show his style in declared? The situation there is election. Therefore this Okigwe election rather made it for two terms. unimaginable level of been declared the winner w h i c h I n d e p e n d e n t if I were him, this is the of the election instead of shirking the responsibility Amb. Sen. Nwagwu, integrity. Unfortunately, N a t i o n a l E l e c t o r a l best time to call it a quit Sylvester Anyanwu all the Independent National to the Judiciary. We all since then, Senator Ifeanyi Commission (INEC) left with due respect. Electoral Commission k n o w t h a t i t i s t h e

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