Feb 3, 2021.Cdr

High expectations in MOUAU as Iwe now new VC Pg 12, 13

@newsechonigeria @newsechonigeria @newsechonigeria ...Strong voice echoes the truth ISSN: 2736-0512 WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 3, 2021 VOL. 2 NO. 14 N150 Police seal Only payment off Ebonyi PDP can stop our strike

Pg 10 Pg 3 Secretariat - Abia teachers Iwe Insecurity: At last IPOB, S'East governors agree Pg 8 on open grazing ban

Umahi Kanu

Orji Kalu’s arraignment Pg 7 Ugwuanyi laments poor Pg 2 adjourned, EFCC seeks transfer turn out to COVID-19 test Court throws out suit seeking Seplat, NGC raise Ugwu’s sack as Imo PDP $260m to complete Imo chairman Pg 7 gas project Pg 6 News Echo Wednesday, February 3, 2021 P a g e 2 NEWS

From Uchenna Ezeadigwe, Awka Anambra Govt set to build ultra-modern nambra State Govern- Ament has concluded plans with a Private firm to international market build an Ultra-Modern In- site, adding that with the 10,000 shops on an expanse internet connectivity, access and faster under conducive state government to assist ternational Market at Isiagu presence of a financier, the of land of about 20.8 hec- roads, hospitals, schools, atmosphere. by providing an access road in Awka South Local Gov- Market will be completed tares will be under the Pri- commercial banks, Flyover Amuzie disclosed that to the site to ease movement ernment Area. on schedule. vate Public Partnership ar- Bridge and basement. the Market structure will of machines and equipment. Speaking to Newsmen The Secretary to the State rangement. The Chairman of the be completed in phases, Spokesperson of the part- in Awka, Governor Willie Government, Professor Obiano said on comple- firm, Chief Jude Amuzie, explaining that seventeen nering commercial bank, Mr. Obiano assured that the Solo Chukwulobelu who tion the Market will be first explained that the Market buildings with one hundred Anayo Nwosu, described the State government will play represented the Governor of its kind in the Sub-Saha- was designed to provide and twenty lock-up shops ultra-modern market as a her role by constructing an disclosed that the market, ran Africa with a design to unique features in making each will be ready for use by gateway to other projects that access road to the project which is expected to house have modern facilities like Market transactions easier April, 2021. will promote the economic He commended Gover- prospects of Anambra State nor Willie Obiano for the and assured that the Bank is confidence reposed in the committed to the project. Medical practitioner charges firm and appealed to the Imolites on regular check-ups NIN: FG extends subscriber By Ikenna Orioha qualified doctors, experts rics and gynecology, pae- Oleru noted that the hos- identity integration by eight in various fields of medi- diatrics, kidney treatment pital was one of the best US-based Medical cine with nurses being reg- centre, dialysis centre, eye in the state and beyond C o m m u n i c a t i o n s a n d Doctor, Chima Oleru, istered in tune with profes- clinic, neurosurgery/neu- weeks A with about sixty five expe- Digital Economy, Isa has charged citizens of Imo sional standards in order to rology” among others. h e F e d e r a l rienced staff employed to Pantami. State to ensure that they go render adequate medical The ceremony witnessed Gover nment has work there. He quoted Pantami as for regular medical check- service to the people. the presence of Anglican Textended the ongoing conveying the message Oleru, who is the found- ups to stay healthy in the He maintained that he Bishop of Egbu Diocese, National Identification er and medical director of during the meeting of the face of COVID-19. has rendered humanitar- Most Rev Dr Geoffrey Number and Subscriber the hospital said that the Ministerial Taskforce on Speaking after the official ian service to his people Enyinnaya Okoroafor, Identity Module integration hospital could be meas- NIN-SIM registration which commissioning of Medical through free medical care/ who commissioned the exercise by eight weeks. ured with international held on the 1st of February, City Hospital at Hill Top treatment, award of schol- hospital, former governor The new deadline, according standard with the United 2021. beside Road Safety Junc- arship to students and of Imo State, Rt. Hon. to the Director, Public States facilities, having Federal Government had, on tion, Egbu, Owerri North, youths among others for Emeka Ihedioha, HRH, A f f a i r s , N i g e r i a n December 15, 2020, declared ten years. Eze Michelle Uchenna Eg- C o m m u n i c a t i o n s that after December 30, NHRC records 130 cases Oleru stated that the hos- bukole (the Ochoromma Commission, Ikechukwu 2020, all SIMs that were not pital has “an accident and VI of Egbu Ancient King- Adinde, will now be April 6, registered with valid NINs of sexual and gender-based emergency room, general dom) community, Special 2021. o n t h e n e t w o r k o f medicine and surgery, ma- Adviser to the Governor Adinde, who disclosed to t e l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s violence in Enugu ternity unit, laboratory ser- on Health, Dr. Mrs. Ok- newsmen in Abuja, said the c o m p a n i e s w o u l d b e vice that produces results ereke Macillina. extension was conveyed by blocked. From Chuma Austin, Enugu ments”. within 1hour having obstet- t h e M i n i s t e r o f Ojukwu said that the inci- Special investiga- dent raised an outcry on the tion panel on Sex- SGBV menace in homes, Aual and Gender work places, church places, Governor Ugwuanyi decries poor Based Violence, (SGBV) and other places of worship. inaugurated by the Nation- “The case of little Ochanya issue now, that's why masks al Human Rights Commis- in Benue state can also not turnout to COVID-19 test are very important. We don't sion (NHRC) has said that be overemphasize”, Ojuk- know who will succumb to From Chuma Austin, c o r o n av i r u s p a n d e m i c, ''While appealing to the COVID-19 or who will die; so, it received a total of 130 wu noted. we have to preach to our cases on human rights vio- “Details of the terms of ref- Enugu making rapid testing difficult. residents to submit themselves Obi and his counterpart said for testing and observe all non- people to wear face masks; lation in the country. erence of the panel, include ove r n o r I f e a n y i t a k e r e s p o n s i b i l i t y b y The Executive Secretary of but not limited to review Ugwuanyi of Enugu "Enugu now has a total of pharmaceutical measures, he 1738 cases of COVID-19. Out stressed that “our people must protecting the next person the National Human Rights extant laws and regulations GState has decried the around you. of that number, there are 296 know that COVID-19 is not a Commission, Tony Ojuk- applicable to joint task forc- poor turnout of residents of “The new strain is already active cases, 1421 discharged death sentence; it should not wu, disclosed this while es in all the states and FCT the state for COVID-19 test. appearing in Nigeria and and 21 deaths” carry a stigma. speaking at the commence- in particular, especially Ugwuanyi, who spoke information is that it is On efforts to ramp up testing, “Ramping up testing is very ment of its hearing in Enu- the Abuja Environmental through his Commissioner of transmitted faster and it can the commissioner said though important; it will help in gu last Monday. Protection Board (AEPB) Health, Dr Emmanuel Obi, kill faster sample collection centres were planning and for vaccines and Ojukwu noted that the and the State Information He lauded the health workers and whether such laws and opened in each of the 17 Local other forms of response. Not South East accounted for regulations are compliant Commissioner, Chidi Aroh, in the State, noting that “they said several residents were yet Government Areas, “response carrying out tests will give us a have been doing very well in the highest number of cases with Chapter 4 of the 1999 is not encouraging. Our people wrong sense of relaxation and response to the pandemic. with thirty-five, represent- Constitution and other in- to come to terms with the reality of the second wave of are not coming out for testing''. peace''. ing 30% of the total com- ternational human rights “Community spread is an plaints received. conventions and protocols The NHRC scribe ex- applicable to Nigeria. plained that the panel was “Others are to identify indi- constituted as a result of the viduals directly responsible Focus on Biafra, Bishop tells Ohanaeze complaint received on April for any violations and abus- he apex Igbo socio-cultur- need any distractions from appointments, so far made would continue to teleguide 26, 2019, where armed sees and make recommen- Tal organization, Ohanaeze any person or group.” by the present administra- him or worst still, cut his ten- curity personnel led by the dations for further actions Ndigbo, has been told to for- “We see such comment as tion, coupled with incessant ure short by ousting him out get the 2023 Presidency and one of such distractions and shootings and killings of Igbo of power prematurely. Igbo Abuja Environmental Pro- including but not limited to concentrate on how to realize we don’t like replying to them. youths by soldiers in various Presidency would not only tection Board, (AEPB) un- prosecutions, disciplinary the Biafra agenda. They should be cautious in parts of Igbo land, Ndigbo, in- amount to a fruitless venture, der the auspices of the FCT proceedings and damages The warning came Tuesday some of their utterances,” the cluding Ohanaeze do not need but also an exercise in futili- Joint Task Force raided amongst others. in Nnewi from Bishop Abra- Igbo leader warned. a soothsayer to tell them that ty”. night clubs and the streets “The National Human ham Udeh, who equally said Udeh, who is the Bishop of they do not have any stake in “I insist that what would of Abuja. Rights Commission com- the Igbo presidency of 2023 Mount Zion Faith Global Lib- Nigeria, both now and in the favour Ndigbo is to expedite “They claimed that the mended the complainants would be an effort in futility. eration Ministries (a.k.a By future.” efforts to actualize Biafran na- raids were intended to ar- and the public for the cour- But in a quick reaction Fire By Fire), advised Ndigbo The man of God was react- tion and not an Igbo president rest prostitutes which about age to lodge and follow up Tuesday, the National Vice not to dissipate energy on the ing to the recent appointment because any Igbo man elected 71 women were arrested their complaints and submit President, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, much talked Igbo presidency of service chiefs while briefing as Nigerian President would Ichie Damian Okeke-Ogene, in 2023 but rather go for Bia- reporters in his office in Nne- not last in office and would and held in different police memoranda to this Panel said the group knew where it fra actualization. wi, Anambra State. be subjected to the wishes and stations in Abuja”, he add- despite some reported cases was going. His reasons, according to He revealed that he saw dictates of the power brokers ed. of intimidation. He said the men of God the man of God, stemmed in a vision where the Igbo in Nigeria”. According to him, “In “I want to reiterate the as- should face their callings in- from the way Igbo were being presidency project flopped “The Northern oligarchy these raids, nine or very few surance of this Panel and stead of trying to distract the neglected and treated in the by either the north which ac- had continued in pretense to men were arrested. Victims the Commission’s commit- apex Igbo group. present administration in the cording to him, were in major- support Nigerian President of of the raid made serious ment to the principles of Okeke-Ogene said, “we country. ity and did not allow an Igbo Igbo extraction in 2023 as if allegations of rape, sexual fair hearing in discharging know where we are going. He said, “looking at the man to emerge as president or they meant it. Ndigbo should harassment, and cruel, in- its functions” Ojukwu said. Ohanaeze Ndigbo is focused lopsided appointments of ser- that if an Igbo man emerged, be cautious about the game human and degrading treat- and organized and doesn’t vice chiefs and other political the power brokers in the north plan and not to fall for it. News Echo Wednesday, February 3, 2021 P a g e 2 NEWS

South East governors should adopt Eastern Security Network EDITORIAL nsecurity is one of the challenges their locals. This was after they Publisher plaguing the Nigerian nation at terrorized and destroyed the farm of the Larry Kingsley moment and by extension the I former secretary to the government of Acting Editor-in-Chief world. The society is so insecure right the federation, Olu Falae. They also Jude Owuamanam now that no one is sure of the next murdered the daughter of a Yoruba moment. Lives and properties are chieftain, Fasoranti. Executive Editor Jennifer John threatened to the extent that each day While the South East governors lived is now seen as a bonus. This is the were still indulging themselves in Managing Editor exact situation in many parts of Nigeria grammar and pussy footing, the Ori Martins as at the moment. Independent People of Biafra (IPOB) Editor Gradually but sadly, the government went ahead to form the Eastern has lost grip and today our society is Afam Echi Security Network (ESN) as a vigilante overwhelmed by kidnapping, rape, group to man the forests in Igbo land News Editor banditry, religious extremism leading where the Fulani herders had made Chigozie Uzosike to bombing, herders attack, etc. their abode as well as help in protecting Disgusted and frustrated by the Production Editor situation which are clearly avoidable our unarmed farmers who have been on Anthony Ogbekile many have chosen to take their destiny the receiving end of the Fulani attack. Correspondents in their own hands while others may So much has been said about the reported prowess of the ESN which is Dan Maduagwu Okey (Abia State) have resigned themselves to fate. Uchenna Ezeadigwe (Anambra State) Given the ethno-political leanings quite commendable assuming which affects how we live in the country everything said is right. It would seem Senior Reporter and the lack of confidence in the federal that the IPOB boys are closing the gap Uzoma Ogoke where the governors have failed to act. gover nment managed security Reporter architecture, groups along ethnic or They have received several knocks for Ikenna Orioha geographical configurations have opted failing to take concrete steps like the for measures to secure lives and South West governors to protect their Contributors/Columnists properties in their own environment. own. Dr. Sir Amos Agwamba Dr. Chuks Osuji One of the major security challenges News Echo wishes to express Justina Nkechi engulfing the nation is the attack of happiness that for the first time the Ogechi Erondu Fulani herdsmen all over the country. IPOB is commending the South East No part of the country is spared in the governors for placing a ban on open Production destruction of farm crops, rape, kidnap grazing, an action which would put Philip Kalu and killing of farmers by the Fulani Ifeanyi Raymond paid to the roaming of the herders and Alex Nnamdi Chukwu herders. The body language of the their cows all over the farms in the federal government appears to South East. It is our expectation that ADMINISTRATION encourage this because no arrests, the commendation should go beyond General Manager James Kalu prosecution and jailing of the appreciation to include a new perpetrators have taken place to act as a rapprochement between the two Operations Manager deterrents. groups. Patricia Nwoye The menace of herders is quite This is in the light of the fact that provocative. Naturally, no human Web Administrator both groups have been at daggers drawn being will like to be humiliated and Bismark Ibegbulam with each other. We are urging the dispossessed of his valuables in his own South East governors to explore ways Circulation Team land by stranger elements. At no time in of adopting or partnering with the ESN Mr. Aloyius Ogboka the history of this country has the Ignatius Ogechi Ajoku Fulani been more assertive, aggressive and seek ways to solidify the security Tasie Chidiebere and violent in their attack of host arrangement that will guarantee the communities perhaps riding on the fact security of lives and properties. Legal Adviser H. O. Ogbusu that one of their own is in charge. We are aware that the IPOB and the The recent attack and counter governors are concerned with fighting attacks experienced in the South West and improving the welfare of the Igbo is a pointer that the menace is gradually man. Their differences may result from taking root and may escalate to a higher the manner of approaching or level if not promptly checked at the achieving the same objective. Security moment. There have been series of is central to the achievement of herders' famers clash in the South East anything without which nothing works. as well leading to loss of lives and News Echo appeals to IPOB and the properties. governors including other South East The South West of the Yoruba leaders to abandon their differences ethnic nationality took a very bold step and forge a common front to protect instituting a local vigilante called ourselves. They should recall an Igbo Amotekun to check the invasion of saying that 'Ndu bu isi'(life is first) Wednesday, February 3, 2021 Page 5 Opinion

Irabor

Attahiru Gambo Agenda for new security chiefs By Eze Onyekpere rightly so, that our security arrests and release the and small aircraft, boats and down of perpetrators of so-called forests are just big agencies are incapable of captives. This is not beyond ships and horses where crime. These insurgents and grassland, shrubs and very he recent removal of stopping their nefarious the capacity of our security n e c e s s a r y s h o u l d b e kidnappers are not ghosts. few trees. the service chiefs activities. agencies because many available for deployment at They are human, blood They are not the big forests Nigerians have come out Tand the appointment It is either the security the shortest notice. flows in their veins and we have in the rainforest publicly to the media to Security agencies on gunshots will put them o f n ew o n e s b y t h e agencies are no longer very south. Yet, our army was confess that these insurgents standby, ready to be down. Let no one tell cock President, provides an interested in performing especially, in the North-West deployed must also be and bull stories about their able to fight and win the civil opportunity to start afresh, a their duties or they are going of Nigeria do not operate ava i l a b l e. W h e r e t h e invincibility. war against an organised n ew c a nva s s t o e t c h about them in a half-hearted secretly. They are known infantry or security agencies Building confidence will army in the rainforest belt. innovation for security and manner or the wrong way. and they come out from time operating on land are facing a l s o i n v o l v e d o i n g There is nothing big or ensure that we improve the So, the starting point for the to time to interact with the difficulties, air firepower and something drastic on the incredible about these rag security situation from the new kids on the block is the communities and even issue support should not hesitate prevalent reportage about tag insurgents that the red danger colour to the reorganisation of the threats and demands before to join to rout the criminals. security officials who refuse Nigerian security agencies green normal. security architecture to they strike. Thus, it will be If it cannot be done to take action, to investigate cannot deal with if they This change had been long restore round pegs to round easy to identify these men, immediately for the safety of and prosecute criminals. remain true and honest to advocated by all segments of holes and square pegs in track them and counter their the troops, airpower should Many who have left the activities. their professional calling. society, from legislators in square holes. There is a need be able to follow up the chase kidnappers' den have There is also the need to when the infantry have reported that the kidnappers The security agencies and the National Assembly who to put certified performers in introduce technology in withdrawn or even identifies boasted that nothing will belong to the same party control of operations and the Nigerian immigration dealing with the security the hideout of the insurgents happen to them and the authorities must fish out with the President, the anyone who fails in the situation. It is not just about and take them out at a security agencies cannot some of the criminals who media, organised private discharge of their duties hotlines which no one convenient time. arrest and prosecute them. evidently are not Nigerians sector and civil society. But should not be rewarded or responds to in times of When reconnaissance is This is an affirmation of Buhari, in his usual know-it- allowed to continue in the distress, Nigeria needs real done, the air force should not impunity which destroys the but have come into our all approach to governance, position. and actual hotlines that will hesitate to bomb the hell out citizens' confidence in the country without valid papers refused to listen to the voice This restoration will rely to attract responses in a matter of these insurgents in the security agencies. Thus, the and authorisation. Even if of the people. Now that he a great extent on intelligence of minutes or at most, not forests. These forests are not criminal elements of Fulani they want to hide under the gathering rather than the more than 30 minutes of has decided to listen to so big that they cannot be herdsmen who kill, main, Protocol of the Economic physical brawn. It is no reporting the crime. Drones dominated by the superior rape and destroy without reason, this discourse Community of West African longer about a power show will come in handy for f i r e p o w e r o f t h e p r o v o c a t i o n o n t h e articulates some key issues States, that protocol does not of using 50 pickup vans r e c o n n a i s s a n c e a n d government. understanding that their for the new security team to laden with policemen and intelligence gathering. This leads to the next kinsmen occupy the highest offer justification for take cognisance of in their soldiers to parade the major Thank God, they do not cost which is about building positions in the land must be criminality. They should be task of securing the nation. streets of a town. That can a fortune and the sums so far c o n f i d e n c e w i t h told in very clear language deported from Nigeria. The security situation in only intimidate the civilian appropriated for the security communities, a practical that they are not above the Finally, on no condition the country has so much populace and not the agencies if they had been assurance that information law. must government succumb deteriorated over the years criminals. It is about properly used would have given to security agencies Government through the to blackmail, to negotiate infiltration of criminal procured so many of them. that criminals whether will not find its way back to security agencies should a n d p a y r a n s o m t o g a n g s, l e a r n i n g a n d Security camps in these the criminals who will come called terrorists, bandits or exert control, occupy, and insurgents and bandits. understanding firsthand hot zones should be in f o r r e p r i s a l s . T h i s dominate all the forests that kidnappers have gained Paying them money only their modus operandi and distances that allow the discourages citizens from provide a hiding place for the confidence and are no longer logistic arrangements so that e m b o l d e n s t h e m a n d agencies to respond at the passing on vital information insurgents and criminals. In afraid of engaging the when the security agencies shortest notice. Of course, that would have prevented most parts of the North- financially empowers them security agencies. The strike, they disorganise the the logistic arrangements of crimes or nipped them in the West where insurgency has to buy more ammunition to criminals are convinced, and insurgents, effect lawful vehicles, motorcycles, big bud or led to the tracking gained traction, most of the continue their criminality. Wednesday, February 3, 2021 Page 6 Business News

optimisation programme, the AGPC would be a significant AGPC construction cost is supplier of gas to Nigeria's Seplat, NGC raise $260m to now expected to be no more power sector, supporting than $650m, inclusive of local employment and the financing costs and taxes, cleaner generation of power significantly lower than the for Nigerian homes and complete Imo gas project original projected cost of businesses.” $700m.” He said conservatively, e p l a t P e t r o l e u m N i g e r i a n N a t i o n a l a n a d d i t i o n a l $ 6 0 m of more than $450m were The Managing Director the gas from AGPC would be D e v e l o p m e n t Petroleum Corporation. accordion at the time of received by the company, of ANOH Gas Processing e n o u g h t o g e n e r a t e SC o m p a n y P l c A c c o r d i n g t o t h e completion to fund an equity w h i c h i s a s i g n i f i c a n t Company, Okechukwu Mba, electricity for more than five announced on Monday that statement, Seplat and NGC rebalancing payment at that oversubscription and a strong said once operational, the million people. the ANOH Gas Processing have previously provided a t i m e , i f c o n s i d e r e d sign of confidence in the Company has successfully combined $420m in equity appropriate. project. F o o t b a l l , R O K 2 , families during these trying raised $260m in debt to fund funding and the project is “Funding commitments “ F o l l o w i n g a c o s t Telemundo, FOX, Davinci times. completion of its ANOH now fully funded. Learning and Africa News. “In addition to the Gas Processing Plant. It said the $260m funding Mabutho said the price discount we are running our The ANOH plant, located w a s p r o v i d e d b y a MultiChoice rules s l a s h w a s p a r t o f DStv Step Up offer which on OML 53 in Imo State with consortium of seven banks, MultiChoice's efforts to gives our customers on lower a capacity of 300 million namely Stanbic IBTC Bank lessening the economic packages an opportunity to standard cubic feet per day, is Plc (advisor), United Bank out pay-as-you-go i m p a c t o f C OV I D o n experience programming on b e i n g b u i l t b y AG P C, for Africa Plc, Zenith Bank customers and a reflection of higher packages, and a GOtv according to a statement Plc, FirstRand Bank Limited its commitment to making Max offer, which sees issued by the oil firm on (London Branch) / RMB subscription option quality entertainment more customers on Jolli and Jinja Monday. N i g e r i a L i m i t e d , T h e u l t i C h o i c e is working in the world to say accessible to Nigerians. enjoy a special discount of AGPC is an incorporated Mauritius Commercial Bank Nigeria has ruled it. “With this discount, we N2,999 instead of N3,600 joint venture owned equally Limited, Union Bank of Mout the possibility Speaking on the price are lowering the entry barrier p e r m o n t h ,” M a b u t h o by Seplat and the Nigerian Nigeria Plc and FCMB of implementing pay-as-you- slash, he said it would see the for new customers to get a added. Gas Company, a wholly- Capital Markets Limited. go in the pay television DStv HD decoder, dish kit DStv or GOtv decoder as The discounted DStv o w n e d s u b s i d i a r y o f Seplat said, “It allows for industry in the country. with Compact package staying connected to credible and GOtv bundle offer will It said such a subscription subscription drop from information and other be available from Monday, model would neither work N18,600 to N9,900 on quality programming can be February 1, 2021 for a FG to patronise for its DStv nor its GOtv Confam package, while c o m f o r t i n g f o r m a n y limited time only. ser vices. It explained, GOtv decoder, GOtennae however, that the pay-per- with GOtv Jolli package view option is very expensive. subscription will go down FG extends NIN-SIM local investors I t s C h i e f C u s t o m e r from N8,400 to N6,900. h e F e d e r a l would focus on the basic Officer, Martin Mabutho, DStv Confam is one of linkage by eight weeks G o v e r n m e n t h a s studies in animal husbandry who spoke while announcing two recently-improved DStv Ta s s u r e d i nve s t o r s and entrepreneurship, as well price slashes on its DStv and packages specially designed he ongoing National December 30, 2020, all a c r o s s t h e c o u n t r y o f as provide the platform for GOtv decoders starting for the Nigerian family. With I d e n t i f i c a t i o n S I M s t h a t w e r e n o t government's patronage to trainees to select, breed, care today, said the billing model over 120 channels, DStv TN u m b e r a n d registered with valid NINs ensure the growth of their for, process and market has no empirical practice Confam offers the best of Subscriber Identity Module o n t h e n e t w o r k o f various investments. livestock and small animals. anywhere, adding that it is f a m i l y t i m e w i t h integration exercise has t e l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s Minister of Industry, Raji put the cost of the n o t o n l y t e c h n i c a l l y international entertainment, been extended by eight c o m p a n i e s w o u l d b e Tr a d e a n d I nve s t m e n t , project at N2b, adding the impracticable, but also k i d s, n ew s a n d s p o r t s w e e k s , t h e F e d e r a l blocked. Adeniyi Adebayo, gave amount would be spent on the contractually cumbersome. boasting of a range of Government announced on It later extended the assurance while addressing a c o n s t r u c t i o n o f t h e Mabutho said it is not a c h a n n e l s i n c l u d i n g Tuesday morning. December 30, 2020 deadline delegation of Daniel Franco administrative block, lecture question of wanting to SuperSport La Liga, CBS It said the new deadline f o l l ow i n g w i d e s p r e a d Institute. halls, hostel, purchase of implement it, but also its Reality, FOX, BET and was now April 6, 2021. opposition against the The institute visited the teaching aids and other workability. He likened it to Cartoon Network. Director, Public Affairs, earlier announcement and minister to seek his support for infrastructural facilities. playing a football match and G O t v J o l l i , a l s o a Nigerian Communications gave three weeks' extension the setting up of the Rabelat O n t h e b e n e f i t s o f one team scoring and people recently-improved package Commission, Ikechukwu for subscribers with NIN Entrepreneurship Centre for RECHA, he said it would aid asking for refund because on the DTT offering, offers a Adinde, who disclosed this from December 30, 2020 to A n i m a l H u s b a n d r y i n a n d f a s t - t r a c k t h e some 45,000 supporters of broad selection of over 68 said the extension was January 19, 2021. Nigeria. development of agribusiness the losing club would exit the local and inter national conveyed by the Minister of It also gave six weeks' Adebayo told his guests in Nigeria, create 50,000 jobs stadium and dared anybody channels to choose from. C o m mu n i c a t i o n s a n d extension for subscribers that the Federal Government and solve the problem of with information about S o m e o f t h e c h a n n e l s would continue to do its best herder/farmers clashes. D i g i t a l E c o n o my, I s a w i t h o u t N I N f r o m where the subscription model available include SuperSport to make the country a safe Pantami. December 30, 2020 to destination for investors. Pantami conveyed the February 9, 2021, but many In a statement issued in message during the meeting organisations had called for Abuja by his media aide, Investment Tribunal orders of the Ministerial Taskforce further deadline extension Ifedayo Sayo, the minister said on NIN-SIM registration or outright suspension of the his ministry had the mandate which held on the 1st of NIN registration process. o f f a c i l i t a t i n g t h e NDIC to pay IPO subscribers February, 2021. On December 15, 2020, development of viable non-oil he Investment and sum. Diagnostic and Research the Federal Government commodities. Securities Tribunal The IST also awarded to Institute as a creditor, as it had d e c l a r e d t h a t a f t e r This, he said, was in line (IST) has ordered the Winners Medical Diagnostic no contractual relationship with quality management T Nigeria Deposit Insurance and Research Institute, cost with the All States Trust Bank systems, geared towards Corporation (NDIC) to pay a of N500,000 to be paid by Plc for which it was expecting All States Trust Bank”. Read boosting indigenous food and subscriber to an aborted NDIC. NDIC said it would payments, but was rather a According to the IST, a n i m a l p r o d u c t i o n , initial public offering (IPO), instruct its solicitors to appeal subscriber to its aborted IPO, Winners Medical Diagnostics consumption/sustainability, in a landmark judgment that the judgment to the Court of whose money is by the capital & R e s e a r c h I n s t i t u t e as well as acceptability at p l a c e s t h e b u r d e n o f Appeal. m a r k e t l aw, r u l e s a n d subscribed to 2, 500, 000 units & targeted international markets uncompleted transactions on The case involved Winners regulations termed “return of shares in the 2005 IPO of for foreign exchange earnings. the NDIC. Medical Diagnostic and money”, to be refunded by the the former All States Trust “It is imperative for the The IST ordered NDIC to Research Institute and eight entity in custody of the Bank Plc, now Ecobank at N2 advertise ministr y to engage the p a y W i n n e r s M e d i c a l others, including NDIC, in money. per shares of 50 kobo each institute to deliberate on the Diagnostic and Research which Winners Medical The Tribunal added that and paid N5 million, which nature of strategic partnership Institute Limited N5 million Diagnostic and Research “NDIC having not denied was acknowledged by the and level of collaboration,” in for the aborted share purchase Institute bought 2.5 million t h a t i t t o o k o v e r t h e First Bank Plc and NDIC. Adebayo stated. Though acknowledging The Managing Director, transaction. In addition, the shares in the 2005 IPO of the subscription money for the NDIC is to pay N5 million at former All States Trust Bank aborted All States Trust Bank the existence of the share-IPO NEWS Rabelat Nigeria Ltd., Ahmed suspense account, Ecobank Raji, said RECAH was two per cent interest above the Plc, now Ecobank Plc, at N2 Initial Public Offer, should be Central Bank of Nigeria per shares of 50 kobo each in a position to refund to Nigeria said it was not part of structured to run both training the private sector deposit and commercial outfits for the (CBN) MRR from March and paid N5 million. Winners Medical Diagnostic liabilities of All States Trust ECHO animal husbandry sub-sector. 2006 when NDIC took over The Tribunal found that it and Research Institute Ltd the Bank it inherited. He said the training arm All States Trust Bank until the was wrong for the NDIC to sum of N5, 000, 000, it paid full payment of the principal classify the Winners Medical for the un-allotted shares of Wednesday, February 3, 2021 Page 7 Cr me Watch

H e s u b s e q u e n t l y of Abia where he was a already elevated to the Court adjourns adjourned the matter until governor for 8 years using his Court of Appeal, as at the June 7 for a report on company, Slok Nigeria time he sat and delivered whether it should be Limited. judgement against Kalu transferred to Lagos or not. However, the Supreme and his co-defendants. Orji Kalu's arraignment “Having rejected an Court, in its judgement on It noted that Justice a p p l i c a t i o n f o r a n May 8, 2020, quashed the Idris was no longer a judge adjournment sine die, I conviction and ordered that of the Federal High Court as EFCC seeks transfer hereby make an order the defendants be retried by as at Dec. 5, 2019, when the he Federal High needed to be resolved proceeding with the matter adjourning this matter until the EFCC. former governor and the Cour t Abuja, on before the former Abia in the Abuja division of the June 7,” the judge ruled. In a unanimous decision other defendants were TTuesday, adjourned g o v e r n o r c o u l d b e court would be an exercise in Kalu was convicted by by a seven-man panel of found guilty of charges the arraignment of Sen. Orji arraigned. futility. the Lagos Division of the justices, the Supreme Court, against them. Court on Dec. 5, 2019 and Uzor Kalu, charged for A c c o r d i n g t o The trial judge, Justice n u l l i f i e d t h e e n t i r e “Government has fully sentenced to 12 years in alleged N7.1 billion fraud O k o r o n m a , t h e Inyang Ekwo, however, proceedings that led to activated all relevant until June 7. prosecution has written a refused to adjourn the matter prison for N7. 65 billion Kalu's conviction. components of the state The Economic and letter to the Chief Judge of indefinitely and insisted that fraud. The apex court held the security architecture to F i n a n c i a l C r i m e s the court seeking a transfer counsel should take a He was convicted for t r i a l j u d g e , J u s t i c e ensure the safety of lives Commission (EFCC) was to of the matter to the Lagos specific date to return to defrauding the government Mohammed Idris, was and property of law abiding arraign Kalu, following a division of the Court. court. citizens, residents and Supreme Court order that he “Looking at the charge visitors to the state. and his co-defendants in sheet, no element of any of Ikpeazu tasks security “We therefore call on fraud charge be retried, the offenses took place in the people to go about their having quashed the 12-year Abuja. l e g i t i m a t e b u s i n e s s e s jail sentence handed to them “We will be asking that agencies to fish out killer w i t h o u t f e a r a s t h e by a Federal High Court in the matter be adjourned government is on top of the be identified individuals Lagos. “sine die” (indefinitely) situation and will spare whose aim the Abia State When the matter was w h i l e w e a w a i t t h e nothing in protecting herdsmen in AbiaGovernor in the statement called, counsel to the EFCC, response from the chief Abians,” the statement he governor of Abia the state and Nigeria. said was to exacerbate Mr Chile Okoronma, told j u d g e , ” O k o r o n m a added. State, Dr. Okezie It also condemns, without already existing tensions. the court that there was a submitted. TIkpeazu has charged reservations, the activities of preliminary matter that H e h e l d t h a t heads of various security criminal herdsmen suspected agencies in the state to fish to have masterminded recent Kaduna: Bandits attack out killer herdsmen in the brazen kidnap of innocent Corps member, one state. citizens around Abia North T h e g o v e r n o r i n a Senatorial Zone of the State. Zangon Kataf, kill one, other in court for statement issued on his According to Okiyi-Kalu, behalf by the Commissioner Ikpeazu has directed security injure three others for Information, Mr. John agents in the state to bring to uspected bandits have agencies have reported an alleged love scam Okiyi-Kalu said that the State justice all those involved in killed one and injured attack by suspected bandits Government condemned in the criminal activities. NYSC corps member impersonation, when he three other persons in o n s o m e l o c a l s i n a in Kogi State, Sam pretended to be one Missie i t s e n t i r e t y t h e r e c e n t He said further that the S Z a n g o n K a t a f L o c a l recreational joint at Wawan destruction of farmlands by government also frowned AA b i o l a , a n d o n e Bonie. G o v e r n m e n t A r e a o f Rafi village, Zangon Kataf Adebiyi Sodiq, were on U s i n g , cows grazing openly in seriously at the wanton Kaduna State. Local Government Area.” Monday arraigned before a [email protected], violation of extant laws of destruction of cows by yet to This was contained in a “The security agencies in a Kwara State High Court Abiola deceived one Rick to statement issued by the state feedback to Kaduna State sitting in Ilorin, on love scam send $550 to him through gift charges. card. Police kill suspected Commissioner for Internal Government said a citizen, The Ilorin Zonal office of The offence was contrary to security and Home Affairs, one John Isah was confirmed Economic and Financial Section 321 of the Penal Code cultist during gun battle Mr. Samuel Aruwan, on dead following the attack and Crimes Commission, (EFCC), and punishable under Section suspected cultist, Reports say Oludipe, had Monday evening. three others injured, listed as arraigned Abiola on one count 324 of the same law. Owolabi Oludipe, been on the wanted list of the According to Aruwan, the follows: charge, while four counts were For Sodiq aka Maria has been shot dead in police before but was sighted bandits killed one and injured “Fidelix Jacob, Abraham A three others, while troops Isah, Philemon Adamu. preferred against Sodiq. Monica, sometime in August a gun duel with the police in at Ita-Ado area of Odogbolu T h e a c c u s e d p e r s o n s 2 0 2 0 , h e c h e a t e d b y Ogun State. where he and fellow Aiye cult recovered two AK47 rifles, “The security agencies pleaded guilty to the charge impersonation via email Police said the cultist also members were planning and over 43 rounds of added that two AK 47 rifles filed against them. a d d r e s s known as Somori, was shot a n o t h e r a t t a c k i n t h e ammunition. were recovered, along with Justice Adenike Akinpelu [email protected]. dead over the weekend while community. H e s a i d , “ S e c u r i t y o v e r 4 3 r o u n d s o f f i x e d Fe b r u a r y 1 1 , f o r “On one Manny via his he and his gang engaged The Ogun police image a m mu n i t i o n f r o m t wo judgment. phone number, by portraying p o l i c e f r o m O d o g b o l u maker, Abimbola Oyeyemi, individuals, Malachi Akut According to the EFCC, yourself as a white female leading to Somori sustaining and Gabas Gaje. They were division in a gun battle.” told newsmen that a distress fatal injuries, as others S a m A b i o l a s o m e t i m e named Maria and induced call was made to the DPO of immediately arrested for between July and September him to send you his Cash before Justice Chukwujeku escaped into the bush. Odogbolu division, who further interrogation. ” 2 0 1 9 , c h e a t e d b y App”, one of the charges read. Aneke. The shot suspect, who was “The security repor t The others listed in the mobilized his men and also the leader of the gang, further said, while the troops c h a r g e m a r k e d moved to the scene. “was quickly taken to the were trailing the bandits, an FHC/L/CS/374c/2019, are: A s h e s i g h t e d t h e hospital, but died while irate mob comprising youths Mompha in fresh Ridwan Momodu Allison, policemen, the suspect and r e c e i v i n g t r e a t m e n t ,” a n d s o m e i n d i v i d u a l s a.k.a. Osama said to be at his gang were alleged to have Oyeyemi said. launched a violent protest large, and Richard Ogbah. engaged them in a shoot out, The police spokesman N157m fraud charge B a b a f e m i , M o m p h a , and forcibly freed the arrested he Economic and Splash Off Entertainment T h e s c h e d u l e d r e - explained that the deceased Ridwan and Richard, were suspects from custody, aiding F i n a n c i a l C r i m e s Ltd. arraignment and trial of was placed on a police alleged to have laundered their escape. Commission (EFCC) He and his firms have Babafemi and his firms on the wanted list in connection T N157.1 million. Governor Nasir El-Rufai has named internet celebrity, since November 1, 2019 been fresh charge could not go on. with killings of one Runsewe The beneficiaries of the expressed sadness at the Ismail Mustapha, alias on trial in a five-count charge EFCC counsel, Ayanfe Segun, a civil defence officer said funds are: Omojadesola report, and prayed for the Mompha, in its amended before Justice Chuka Obiozor Ogunshina, prayed the court killed on November 14, 2020 Shittu Allison; Olandrewaju repose of the soul of the N157.1million fraud charge of the Federal High Court for to allow the charge to be read and one Sunday Kayode Oriyomi; Abiola Kayode dead, while wishing the filed against a car dealer a l l e g e d l y l a u n d e r i n g to the defendants so they Adegbuyi who was also killed Ayorinde; Bartholomew injured speedy recovery,” the Sarumi Babafemi, alias 606. N207.1million. could take their plea. on February 16, 2020. Oluchukwu Ezeudoka and statement said M o m p h a h a s s i n c e Babafemi was accused by He sought permission to “He was also responsible Amobi Uchenna E., who were Mr. Aruwan added that, November 25, 2019 been the EFCC of being an agent of proceed with the trial, as one for the killing of a rival Eiye said to have received the sums “The Governor frowned at facing a separate 14-count fraud suspects named by the of his five witnesses was in cult group leader, Shoyombo o f N 3 7 . 6 m i l l i o n ; N 9 3 the disruption of security N 3 2 . 9 b i l l i o n m o n e y U n i t e d S t a t e s Fe d e r a l court and ready to testify. Sanyaolu Fakoya, on the 11th million; N1.5 million and N25 operations and fur ther laundering charge before Investigation Bureau (FBI), an Defence counsel, Dr. of November 2020 during a million respectively. directed security agencies to Justice Mohammed Liman of allegation he denied. Muiz Banire (SAN) opposed supremacy battle between the Babafemi and his firms proceed with thorough the Federal High Court in But, on Monday, the the application, saying the two groups. w e r e a l s o a c c u s e d o f investigations into the attack Lagos. EFCC brought an amended amended charge was served “He confessed to all the concealing and disguising the and subsequent protests. Babafemi is the Chief nine-count charge of January on them while they were in killings on the hospital bed origins of the funds he “Investigations into the Executive Officer of 606 22, 2021 against Babafemi, court. before he gave up the ghost,” allegedly laundered for incidents are in progress,” he Autos Ltd; 606 Music Ltd and Mompha and two others, Justice Aneke adjourned Oyeyemi said. Mompha and others. till April 21, 22 and 23. added. Wednesday, February 3, 2021 Page 8 Cover

Kanu Umahi Insecurity: At last IPOB, S'East governors agree on open grazing ban

By Jude Owuamanam, compliance with the 1969 This must have prompted of the leaders is to put up region. yet they claim Nigeria is Chuma Austin (Enugu) Statutory Laws of Nigeria. the governors to ban open programs that favour the “We received with delight one. and David Eze (Abakaliki) Kanu, who issued the grazing of cattle in the zone people and foster national the news of a statement "Alcoholic beverages notice through IPOB's and movement of cows by unity". credited to the Chairman of worth millions of Naira n what was largely seen Media and Publicity foot into the zone. Gov. Umahi announced South East Governors' belonging to Biafrans doing as a rapprochement Secretary, Emma Powerful, The Chairman of the his support for the call to Forum, Dave Umahi, to the their legitimate business in Ibetween the South East warned that the group's Forum and Governor of flush out criminal elements effect that open grazing has those states have been g o v e r n o r s a n d t h e security outfit would Ebonyi State, Chief David from forests across the been banned in all states of callously destroyed by these Indigenous Peoples of commence the enforcement Umahi, who disclosed this nation to boost the security the zone. overzealous elements and Biafra (IPOB), the two of the Anti-Grazing Law in Abakaliki during an APC of the country. “ I P O B w i s h e s t o nothing happened. antagonistic groups have across the entire region if no stakeholders meeting "In our forests today, we acknowledge the wisdom of "Yet some wicked mortals agreed on the need to ban action was taken at the enjoined leaders to exhibit have the kidnappers, the governors to respect the masquerading as herders open grazing by cattle e x p i r a t i o n o f t h e patriotism in their conduct herdsmen, cultists, all sorts people's will for the first are daily openly grazing herders. ultimatum. to guarantee the unity of the of criminals, anybody time. If the governors had their cattle on our farms, Hitherto, the two groups He had asked governors Country. staying in the forest is taking not been seized by useless kidnapping our folks for fear and trepidation over have had a sour relationship in the South East to toe the He said, "We are living in a risk, when we say that ransom, killing and rapping the Fulani before now, our since the formation of steps of their Southwest a dangerous time, without people should move out of our mothers and sisters. region wouldn't have been IPOB by the late Dozie counterparts in banning patriotism to our nation the forests, it is for their "The security agents not in this mess. Ikedife. Ikedife had formed open grazing in their Nigeria; it is very difficult to safety and security, so I only show blind eye to these “We therefore, want to IPOB after he disagreed region, insisting that such have a peaceful time" support that kidnappers, unimaginable criminality with the style of the aver, and assure the move must be reciprocated He called on leaders and herdsmen, cultists, and but sometimes provide Movement for the Survival governors that our gallant and consolidated in the stakeholders of the zone to bandits should be flushed cover for the perpetrators. of the Sovereign State of Eastern Security Network, eastern region, adding that speak up and desist from out of our forests". "We, therefore, wish to Biafra (MASSOB). IPOB ESN, will ensure strict the bold step taken by the playing politics with the However in a rare show of remind all herders in Biafra was thereafter embraced by Yor uba gover nors in Security of the zone and reciprocity, IPOB has enforcement of the ban land that the era of Nnamdi Kanu after he banning open grazing in nation. expressed happiness over which is also in line with a occupying our forests and p a r t e d w a y s w i t h t h e i r r e g i o n w a s "Governors of South East the move and is set to subsisting but neglected grazing on our farms is MASSOB. commendable and as such have been calling on our enforce the law judicial pronouncement in gone. Since then there has been must be reciprocated and leaders to speak out on the I P O B l a u d e d t h e 1969. "They have to vacate our no love lost between IPOB consolidated by a similar Security of the zone and Southeast governors for “At the expiration of the and South East governors, pronouncement in the unity of Nigeria, I read on having the courage to ban t wo - we e k u l t i m a t u m forests and relocate to cities especially as the governors East.. paper where someone said open g razing in the already issued by our where other human beings have not seen the group as Powerful in the statement he was giving Governors of Southeast zone, saying its Leader for open grazing to live. representing Igbo interest. had said, “We wish to South East 7-days to ban Eastern Security Network end in Biafra land, IPOB "Wandering about with Subsequently the governors h u m b l y a n d m o s t o p e n g r a z i n g , t h e (ESN) would enforce the and ESN will move in to cows can no longer be have done a lot of things to submissively call upon all Governors of southeast had ban. deal with any herder tolerated on Biafra soil. undermine it. the governors of the East, to banned open grazing and In a statement by the flouting the law. Anyone interested in cattle The soured relationship as a matter of urgency, ban movement of cows by foot Media/Publicity Secretary “ S i n c e t h e l a w rearing will either build a has made the governors to all manner of open grazing into South East, in each of of IPOB, Emma Powerful, enforcement agents are too ranch as obtains in civilized distance themselves from in the region in compliance States of the South East, we which was made available weak or have wittingly societies or leave Biafra the organization and have with the 1969 statutory law are managing ourselves to News Echo in Enugu on failed to enforce the ban, we land. Do not say you are not failed to defend her even of Nigeria that banned such well, what we discuss with Tuesday, the group stated can no longer afford to sit warned! when it was tagged a provocative and primitive the herdsmen is the system that they were delighted to idly and watch the wanton "We advise all herdsmen terrorist organization by the p r a c t i c e b y F u l a n i put in place for a long time". hear the news on the destruction of lives and in Biafra land irrespective Federal Government. herdsmen. The Chairman of the prohibition of open grazing crops of our people. ESN of their tribe to restrict But recently there seem to IPOB had warned that if Forum cautioned people of by herdsmen in the region. will do the needful. themselves to the law of the be some synchronization in after 14 days there was no the zone against instigating The statement further “We shall no longer allow land or relocate to regions views, especially as regards firm and decisive action by crises in the country read in part, “We the law breakers to have a field where open grazing is to the menace of Fulani governors to ban open through the dissemination Indigenous People of day after inflicting physical allowed. and economic harm on herdsmen in Igbo land. grazing in our land, #ESN of fake videos alleging Biafra, IPOB, ably led by "Our patience will elapse innocent victims. Last January, Kanu, will step into the breach to killing of Fulanis by IPOB Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, wish after the expiration date of “ T h e 1 2 N o r t h e r n issued a 14-day ultimatum commence the enforcement in the South East. to salute the courage of the 14-day ultimatum by Muslim States already have to the Southeast governors of this 1969 Anti-Grazing "What our people must South East Governors for our Leader, the statement t h e i r H i s b a h p o l i c e to ban all forms of open Law across the entire know is that Security is not heeding our Leader's call to added. grazing in the region in region. political, what is demanded ban open grazing in the enforcing their Sharia law Wednesday, February 3, 2021 Page 9 Tribute Momoh's mystics, heroics and passage of a media machine the CPC, the late prince By Ori Martins contributed in no small measure to the growth and strengthening of is life was denominated the organizations, leading to the by two diametrically eventual formation of the APC. Hopposed forces at almost President Buhari commiserated every point of his existence. with the media industry on the loss Imagine being the 165th child in a of a veteran who put in a lot to family! Prince Tony Momoh raise the bar of the profession as studied at Government School, editor, manager, administrator, Auchi and Anglican School, Okpe President and Trustee of the Guild – the first a public school, the of Editors, urging them to sustain second a private (missionary) his legacies. institution. And that was how he While also condoling with the got himself hugely decoloured by Auchi Kingdom, the government the two polar dimensions of life, and people of Edo State on this great loss, the President prayed both well str uctured and that God will grant the departed variegated. The dual functionality eternal rest and comfort. of his personality made it possible L a g o s S t a t e G o v e r n o r for him to sprout as a teacher and Babajide Sanwo-Olu described headmaster. Momoh's death as a colossal loss His university education was to Nigeria and the ruling party. The a l s o m e a s u r e d b y t w o governor, in a statement by his a c a d e m i c a l l y p o w e r f u l Chief Press Secretary, Gboyega institutions, though with the Akosile, urged family, friends and scholastic imprimatur of Prof Eni colleagues of the deceased as well Njoku as the vice chancellor, as the APC leadership to nonetheless representing two immortalize him. Sanwo-Olu said: distinct visions – University of “The death of Prince Tony Nigeria Nsukka, and University of Momoh is a great loss to Nigeria. Lagos. At UNN, Momoh earned a The late Momoh made lots of degree in Mass Communication positive impact in Nigeria during between 1964 and 1966. And at his life time as a journalist, media UNILAG, he studied between manager, lawyer, politician and 1974 and 1975. Here, he once elder statesman. “I sympathise a g a i n , d r a m a t i c a l l y a n d with President Muhammadu sensationally manifested his Buhari, the entire leadership and a v o w e d k n a c k f o r d u a l members of our party. I also personifications. Even in Daily commiserate with government and Times, Momoh, a dedicated, hard people of Edo State on the loss of working, determined and diligent their illustrious son.” person proved that one could really Paying tribute to Momoh, the climb to the top from the ground APC said his death was a floor. This is so because Momoh m o n u m e n t a l l o s s t o t h e that came to Daily Times as an 'on progressive fold. sabbatical' worked his way The party in a statement by the through to the top when he Secretary Caretaker/Extra- Ordinary Convention Planning emerged the sub editor, editor and Committee (CECPC), Senator d e p u t y g e n e r a l m a n a g e r John James Akpan Udoedehe, said accordingly between 1962 and the ruling party was deeply 1980. saddened by the death of the Probably, the appointment of frontline journalist. He said: “A Momoh as the minister of distinguished journalist, lawyer, information and culture by the Yerima of Auchi, politician, General Ibrahim Babangida in publicist, author, the former September 1986, more than Momoh Minister of Information and anything else brought the true Culture truly lived a storied life characterization of the deceased as Momoh who supported the 1999 General Elections together high goals of its founders. which will be a source of a man with political mystics. It is candidature of retired General with Abdullahi Aliyu Sumaila and Since his death, after a brief inspiration to present and future instructive to point that Momoh Mohammadu Buhari then the Senator Bala Tafidan Yauri. He illness, a deluge of condolence generations. served for four hectic and “The late Prince Tony Momoh candidate of APC hollered thus: was chairman, Media and messages has been pouring –in. herculean years as the information was a strong advocate for internal 'stone us if we fail after two years'. Publicity of the All Nigeria President Muhammadu Buhari, minister. Those were the years of party democracy which allowed He was chairman of the People's Party (ANPP) Campaign the APC leadership, Senate the death of the pioneer editor –in for open, consultative and fair A f r i c a n C o n f e r e n c e o f Organization in the 2003 and 2007 President Ahmad Lawan and – chief of Newswatch magazine, party processes. His mindset and Information Ministers from 1988 elections. He was also chairman of former Ogun State Governor Dele Giwa, who was dispatched approach to politics was that of to 1990. the Political Committee of the Olusegun Osoba, Lagos State via a parcel bomb on September service, not business. This was Momoh was chairman of the M u h a m m a d u B u h a r i Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, 19, 1986, MANSER protest, evident in all assignments he was board of directors of Nigerian Organization. his Edo State counterpart, Godwin SFEM crisis, and the endless regularly called upon to serve on Airways from 1991 to 1993. He In January 2011, Momoh was Obaseki, described Momoh's postponement of the Babangida behalf of the party.” Akpan was appointed a Member of the appointed Chairman of the demise as a huge loss to the polity. transition programme. In all, it Udoedehen said that the late Edo State Economic Advisory Congress for Progressive Change Expressing grief, the president was Momoh that had the ill luck a s s o c i a t e o f P r e s i d e n t Committee in 1991, and a member (CPC) in the lead-up to the April described him as his longtime ally, and headache of defending the Muhammad Buhari will be of the Nigerian Press Council in 2011 national elections, with Buba friend, and political loyalist. The government's not well tailored remembered for his tough stance December 1992. In 1996 Momoh Galadima appointed the National president's message was contained policies. In some, Momoh came against corruption. was one of the directors of the Secretary. Soon after being in a statement by his Special out immaculate. In others, he was He added: “As CPC National Newswatch magazine, said to have appointed, Momoh said the CPC Adviser on Media and Publicity, dragged through the mud. To the Chairman, he made clear the a circulation of 150,000 copies in would bar any of its aspirants to Femi Adesina. President Buhari defunct Party's resolve to bar any consternation of many, he still Africa, Europe and North become candidates if they were to said Momoh stood with him of its aspirants to become k e p t h i s i n t e g r i t y a n d America. He was Director of the engage in corrupt practices. through thick and thin, adding: candidates if they engaged in professionalism intact! Alex Ekwueme Presidential Following disappointing results in “His brand of loyalty is very rare in corrupt practices during the Most Nigerians would again Campaign Organization in 1999. the April 2011 elections, Momoh the politics of today. I will greatly primaries.” Veteran journalist and remember him for two of his most miss him.” The president recalled He chaired the screening and asserted that massive rigging had former Ogun State governor notable quotes One, during the that as chairman, Media and conduct of gubernatorial and State taken place. However, he described Osoba commiserated with the Giwa's death saga, Momoh said: Publicity of the ANPP Campaign House of Assembly primaries in the CPC as a mass movement that family and associates of the 'Police are making progress though Organization in the 2003 and 2007 Kano chapter of the P.D.P. for the was bound to grow and achieve the former, minister. arrests have been made'. In 2015, elections as well as Chairman of News Echo Wednesday, February 3, 2021 P a g e 10 NEWS Police seal off Ebonyi PDP Secretariat, disperse members

From David Eze, executives. Caretaker Committee led Elder Fred Udogu last ers of the party Monday asked that we go and ob- Abakaliki It would be recalled that by Fred Udogu to oversee two weeks instituted an- moved to take over the sec- tained an “Enforcement the National Executive of the party in the state. other case at an Abuja retariat but Security Agen- Order” as if the case is one he Police have sealed the PDP had in November Mr. Nwebonyi and some High Court on the same cies arrived and dispersed requiring further order (s) to off the Ebonyi PDP last year, after the gover- members of the dissolved matter and secured injunc- them after firing shots in the give validity to the initial or- TSecretariat along the nor’s defection, dissolved SWC challenged their dis- tion barring the Nwebonyi air der - this is laughable! Enugu Abakaliki high way the state Executives of the solution at the State High committee from parading It was gathered that secu- “It is very interesting how following a leadership clash party including the State Court. The matter had suf- themselves as the authentic rity agencies had arrested the police is now being used between the Fred Udeogu Working Committee led by fered several adjournments leadership of the party in some of their members in- to play out a script that pro- -led PDP caretaker com- Onyekachi Nwebonyi. even as three Judges have the state. cluding the Youth Leader, motes disorder and fuels cri- mittee and the dissolved The National Executive recused themselves from Backed by the injunction, Barr Obinna Iteshi. sis in Ebonyi State”. Onyekachi Nwebonyi-led of the party had set up a the matter. the Udeogu youths support- Reacting to this develop- “If the Ebonyi Police ment, the State Publicity Command is no longer the Secretary of the Party, Barr. Nigerian Police, it will be Silas Joseph Onu said it is good for us to be notified Anambra 2021: Prepare your handover note, worrisome that the lives of as we can no longer trust Ebonyi people are no longer a public institution that is valuable to those mandated clearly working to create PDP tells APGA government to protect them. division, crisis and disorder He said, “upon a valid banks. through the overt acts of From Uchenna Ezeadigwe, State a quality, responsible Delivery with the highest Court order which re- subverting a valid court or- and responsive leadership. accredited tertiary insti- “Gully erosion is cutting strained Nwebonyi and Awka off communities and de- der and encouraging a rene- The PDP image maker tutions for health workers his urchins from parading gade to cover his crimes. said that no amount of dis- training. All the senatori- stroying properties yet the themselves as leaders or he Peoples Demo- hapless APGA government “Now, we are only left cratic Party (PDP) tractions will stop Anam- al zones had two or three even members of the Peo- with the option of plead- bra people from showing accredited health centers cannot rise to the occa- ple’s Democratic Party, we Thas asked the ruling sion.” Nwangwu stressed. ing with the DSS to do the the fraudulent government well equipped, let APGA duly notified the police of All Progressives Grand However, the PDP needful and restore order Alliance (APGA) govern- of APGA the way out and apologists tell us what has our intention to access our in Ebonyi State as this little hold them accountable for happened to the hitherto spokesman challenged Secretariat today”. ment in Anambra State to the APGA government to spark is not a healthy sign. It prepare its handover note. their actions. functional sector. “Upon arrival, the police may appear innocuous, but “Anambra state had the “Obiano was handed a make public its handover were obviously ordered to The Publicity Secretary notes detailing all finished only God knows how such of PDP in the state, Mr best road network in Nige- zero debt profile with over frustrate that effort and they senseless attack end. The ria, all the towns and com- N75b savings in local banks and on-going projects as swung into action. Firstly, Nnamdi Nwangwu stated was done by Peter Obi at lives of many people are a this in a press release made munities were effectively and future generation sav- the Deputy Commission- stake here”. linked when the saddle of ings in dollars in different inception of the present er in Charge of Operations available to journalists government. Tuesday. leadership was handed over Nwangwu noted that the to the APGA controlled APGA controlled govern- government, today, the ment has failed woefully roads are not maintained in all ramifications and as and new ones are not con- such should be preparing to structed. handover to the PDP which “Anambra state had the is ready to give Anambra best Primary Health Care Corpse of youth discovered beside dustbin in Umuahia From Dan Maduagwu, Bank. Umuahia It was not established if the victim was killed by esidents of World armed robbers, cultists or Bank Housing Es- kidnappers but terrified Rtate, Umuahia, residents and passers-by Abia State woke up over expressed shock at how a the weekend to behold a young man would be killed corpse of a young man in such manner. inside a gutter besides a It was also not established big waste basket with head if the victim was killed in pierced with suspected bul- the morning or at night or Police sealing off Ebonyi State PDP Secretariat let wounds. if he was killed on the spot The corpse of the young where his corpse was found. man in his twenties, dark in A team of Policemen were Court throws out suit seeking to sack Ugwu as Imo PDP chairman later seen at about 9 am complexion was discovered man and others as members the Courts have no business in the early hours of that around the scene of the in- High Court sitting in The Court also cited the of the state executives of the adjudicating on matters re- provisions of the PDP Con- fateful day when residents cident on investigation mis- Owerri, has struck a party. lating to the internal man- stitution that states that par- who had gone to dispose sion. Asuit seeking the nul- The suit was filed by Pat- agement and leadership of a ties must exhaust the inter- Police Public Relations Of- lification of Imo PDP State of the their waste materials rick Agukwe and two others political party unless where nal mechanisms for dispute ficer, Mr Geoffrey Ogbonna congress which ushered in as well as worshippers go- vs PDP and 17 others in suit a Party goes against its own resolution before seeking could not be reached for executives of the party at ing to early morning mass No HOW 220/2020. constitution. remedies in our regular confirmation as at the time all levels, including Charles at nearby Christ the King Delivering his ruling, The Court held that in Courts. The Court found of going to press. Ugwu as State party Chair- Catholic Church, world Hon. Justice E. F. Njeman- the instant case, the Plain- that there was no where in ze, held that the suit of the tiffs did not show from the affidavit of the Plaintiffs Anambra govt endorses elected Nimo Plaintiffs hinged on the al- their Statement of Claim where they adduced even legation that they and their that there was any serious the minutest evidence that town executive supporters were denied breach of the PDP Con- they complied with the provisions of their own party From Ovat Mike, Ben Okaa as National Treas- access to buy nomination stitution in the Conduct of the town union on the 28th forms to participate in the constitution. Onitsha urer and Hillary Ikechukwu the Congresses, rather they The Court therefore re- December 2020 at Nimo PDP Ward Congresses held Civic Centre. as National Financial Secre- were disputing matters with- jected their suit as an at- in Mach, 14th 2020 as it nambra State Gov- The letter of recognition tary, while Clement Ezedi- in the purview of the party tempt to jump the gun and ernment through by the Ministry acknowl- nachi is National Publicity affects Oru East, Orlu and to decide and determine. held that the Court lacks ju- the Ministry of Lo- edged Ekenenna Okafor as Secretary, Paul Ifezue is Na- Orsu Federal Constituen- Citing various provisions risdiction to dabble into the A tional Auditor and Emma cal Government and Com- the President General of the cies. of the PDP Constitution, internal affairs of political munity Affairs has issued a community, Anthony Anie- Obiwelezor as National The Court held that the the Court found that the parties. Provost. letter of recognition to the dobe as first Vice President, grievances of the Plaintiffs Constitution provided ad- The Court struck out the while Valentine Oliobi is News Echo gathered that were intra-party matters equate remedies for any suit and awarded cost of elected executive members the new executive will last of Nimo Town Develop- Second vice President and which the Court has no member who is aggrieved N20,000 against the Plain- Akpuoye Justine-Uche as for a period of three years powers to delve into. The by the decision or action of tiffs. N. N Nnawuchi Esq. ment Union. with effect from the 28th of Third Vice President. learned Jurist ruled that any level of the party to ap- appeared for the PDP while The issuance of the letter December 2020 to 28th De- Others are Marcel Okonk- the Courts have decided in peal to the upper level of the C. K Okorie Esq. appeared followed the conduct of the cember 2023. election into the executive of wo as Assistant Secretary, plethora of cases held that party. for the Plaintiffs. News Echo Wednesday, February 3, 2021 P a g e 11 NEWS Uzodimma charges APC to ensure registration of 70 per cent of South East population

overnor Hope Uzod- also assist in the conduct of 15, 2021 having started in Gimma of Imo State on party primaries and every Kastina with President Mu- Tuesday in Owerri flagged other exercise that will have hammadu Buhari perform- off the All Progressive Con- to do with membership of ing the flag-off ceremony gress (APC) registration and the party.” on Saturday January 30, revalidation exercise for the He emphasized that the 2021. South East with a charge on numerical strength of each Governor Uzodimma re- leaders and stakeholders to state or zone will surely go a iterated his earlier call on work hard and ensure that long way in determining the the South East to return at least 70% of South East bargaining strength of the to the mainstream govern- population are registered as zone even though no one ment at the centre which APC members. expects the party member- is controlled by the APC, Addressing the party ship of every state or zone insisting that “the only way faithful at the Eze-Imo to be the same. the South East can achieve Auditorium, the Governor The Governor told the that is through her member- informed them that their members that the party at- ship strength that will de- Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma (2nd left) numerical strength will as- taches great importance to fine their bargaining power addressing newsmen after the APC SouthEast leaders sist them to plan ahead and the revalidation exercise ex- in the forth coming general that “the same strength will pected to last up to March election.” meeting with him, Sen. Ken Nnamani (left), Dep. Speaker Rt Hon. Amara Iwuanyanwu, (2nd right) Special Adviser, Special Duties Nze Chinasa Nwaneri (right), and others in We can’t achieve Igbo presidency, Owerri. justice without APC - Uzodimma 2 women get 150,000 over gender-based The starting point is from By Jennifer John “When we took over I this party registration exer- noted with dismay the sor- abuse in Enugu mo State Governor, Sen- cise”. ry state of our roads in the He challenged the stake- ator Hope Uzodimma state. Consequently I did not From Chuma Austin, Ojukwu, said that it is the Patrick who is her husband has hinged the actualiza- holders to ensure they regis- hesitate to declare a state of Enugu has not paid her bride price I ter not less than 70 percent responsibility of every mar- tion of a Nigerian president emergency on roads includ- ried man to cater for the but instead married another of eligible adults in their uccour came to the of Igbo extraction to people ing federal roads. I was em- needs of his wife and chil- woman who also has a baby various wards as members way of two abandoned of the zone massively join- boldened to do so because dren. girl for him. of APC. He assured that women in Enugu, ing the mainstream nation- of the understanding I have S According to Ojukwu, Continuing, Chinaza and there was enough materials Monday, when the Special al political party, being the with Mr President, Muham- “apart from providing the her mother who was also to go round. Investigation Panel on Sex- All Progressives Congress madu Buhari and the mutu- basic needs of life like food, present at the panel pleaded The Imo State governor ual and Gender Based Vio- (APC). al trust we share, which can clothing and shelter, men with the panel to ask Patrick made it clear that there are lence (SGBV) sitting in the Uzodimma made this as- only exist among members whose wives are supposed to keep away from them. lots of benefits to derive Coal City granted them the sertion during the Southeast of the same political family. to further their education, Affirming this position, from belonging to the main- sum of N150,000 to take Stakeholders meeting of the “Today, the Owerri-Orlu should encourage them to Chinaza told the panel that stream political party which good care of themselves. party held at the parliament and Owerri-Okigwe roads do so to enable them have she is no longer interested he said Imo State has bene- The two indigent women of Imo State Council of which are both federal the capacity to support their in marrying Patrick who fited immensely. brought complaints to the Traditional Rulers, Mbari roads are being constructed respective husbands and the she said did not keep to the “Perhaps I need to men- panel alleging domestic vi- Street, Owerri, Imo State. by a world class construc- family in general”. Ojukwu earlier task given to him by tion here that Imo State is olence and abandonment The stakeholders meeting tion company Craneburg. noted. NHRC office in Enugu in already reaping bountiful- of parental responsibilities was said to serve as flag-off The Assumpta Porthar- Earlier, the panel asked respect of taking care of the ly from being part of the against their respective hus- of the party registration and court Road and Owerri-Aba Mr. Ozokafor Sunday to de- family. ruling party, the attendant bands. revalidation exercise. Road, again are also federal sist from maltreating or vi- Chinaza recalled that Pat- proper reconnection to the The sum of N100,000 was “Even more importantly, roads and also undergoing olating his spouse (Oluchi) rick signed an undertaking national grid. Am sure you handed over to Mrs. Oka- we cannot get the justice we massive reconstruction. insisting that he (the hus- with the Commission to be observed as you entered for Oluchi, while N50,000 seek from the federation by “All these are possible be- band) will sign an under- sending N3,000, 50 cups of Owerri that Imo State has was given to Mrs. Ejiofor playing opposition politics. cause of the tacit, physical, taking promising that such rice and some quantity of been turned into a huge Chinaza to support them in We can reverse the narrative overt and covert support we violations will not happen milk on weekly basis to her construction site. their petty businesses, to en- if we resolve to do so now. are getting from the federal again. for the family’s upkeep and able them to augment what- government. These are the In the same vein, the oth- that he failed to discharge ever their husband might ones the eyes can see, but er complainant, Ejiofor Chi- the said duty satisfactorily. afford to offer them for their IGP Adamu still in charge I can tell you without fear naza (20 years) and mother The panel advised Patrick to upkeep and that of their of any contradiction that of two children told the go back to his wife and in- children. - Force Headquarters by belonging to the ruling panel that her husband, Mr. laws and beg them for for- The Chairman of the pan- party and having the confi- Patrick Ani barely feeds his giveness with a promise that P Frank MBA, Force service as stipulated by the el set up by the National he will immediately pay her Public Relations dence of the president and family despite the fact that law on Monday. the party, we are benefiting Human Rights Commission wife’s bride price and im- Officer, on Tuesday she is breastfeeding their C The last announcement everything”. in partnership with EU-UN prove in taking care of his second baby girl. evening debunked reports Spotlight Initiative, Tony from the Presidency over the According to Chinaza, family. Patrick agreed to do that IGP Mohammed m a t t e r w a s f r o m as the panel directed. Adamu has stepped aside Presidential spokesman and handed over the running Nigeria’s development tale incomplete without Momoh, Garba Shehu on national of the Force Headquarters to Sanusi Lemo, the new television on Monday saying Says Uzodimma Deputy Inspector General he was unaware of any services are still required in and nation. all to see and learn from. imminent announcement of overnor Hope Uzod- of Police in charge of Gimma of Imo State has the country, noting that Ni- Besides, Governor Uzod- While commiserating the operations. a new IGP. bemoaned the sudden death geria’s development story imma said Prince Momoh widow, immediate and larger Mba, who spoke on the Shehu had said the of All Progressive Congress will not be complete without remained vocal and truthful family members of late Prince phone with newsmen simply President, who returns to (APC) chieftain and former Prince Momoh’s contribu- in courses he was convinced Momoh as well as the good tions. in, and believed so much in a people of Edo State on the said: “I am not aware of it.” Abuja on Tuesday, should be Minister of Information, Prince Tony Momoh, saying The Imo State governor said united Nigeria where equity, sad loss, Governor Uzodim- With the development, should be on his desk by that Prince Momoh impact- justice, fairness should be the ma urged them to find solace A d a m u r e m a i n s t h e We d n e s d a y, r a i s i n g the deceased’s contribution to the development of Nige- ed the society as a teacher, a guiding principle. in the fact that the deceased Inspector General of Police, expectations that a major ria is invaluable. journalist, a lawyer, a politi- He said the APC has lost a led a good life and touched despite having reached the announcement may be Governor Uzodimma re- cian, among other numerous dependable statesman, ally many lives for which we are mandatory 35 years in made in respect to situation. gretted that Prince Momoh ways he deployed his talent and consumate party man but all witnesses. Prince Momoh died when his statesmanly in service to community, state that his legacies are there for died on Monday, aged 81. Wednesday, February 3, 2021 Page 12 Education High expectations in MOUAU as Iwe now new VC From Dan Maduagwu, Umuahia

ear 2020 was a year of mixed Yfortune for the M i c h a e l O k p a r a University of Agriculture Umudike, (MOUAU), Umudike, Abia State. It was the year a new Vice Chancellor of Abia State o r i g i n e m e r g e d , t o succeed the outgoing Prof Francis Otunta. It was a year the school was rocked by series of salacious allegations of a l l e g e d a m o r o u s relationship against Prof Otunta by two aggrieved staff of the university. It was also a year academic a n d n o n - a c a d e m i c activities were crippled by the long closure of Universities nation-wide following the corona virus Michael Okpara University of Agriculture outbreak as well as i n d u s t r i a l a c t i o n s clans, youth groups, f a c e d t h e s t r o n ge s t investigation of the issues: p r o m u l g a t i o n o f Abia State got the job on e m b a r k e d u p o n b y student groups and even challenge of his life allegations by the two University of Agriculture December 26, 2020, members of Academic p o l i t i c a l i n t e r e s t s following two petitions persons which lasted till Decree, making the ending the tension created S t a f f U n i o n o f demanding the slot of the written against him by two late evening, while also institution the third by the spontaneous Universities (ASUU). VC. In the front line of academic staff, Dr Patricia apologizing to the press federal university of protests organized held in But a new chapter was agitations for VC slot were Mbah and Dr Nelson for the late press briefing. agriculture, after Federal the election week by opened in December 2020 various communities and Udenze, who accused the He concluded by giving U n i v e r s i t i e s o f various interest groups. as Prof Maduebibisi Iwe academics from Abia incumbent VC of alleged a clean bill of health to Agriculture Abeokuta and The final result of beat 28 other, Vice State, who felt that other sexual scandal and illegal Prof Otunta and members Makurdi were established examination had been C h a n c e l l o r s h i p South East States were demotions. of the Governing Council in 1988. scheduled to hold by 10th candidates to emerge the being "unfair" to Abians. But the Governing on the accusations, MOUAU eventually December, 2020 but has to 6th helmsman of the T h e s e c l a i m s o f council of Michael i n s i s t i n g t h a t t h e took off on May 3, 1993 be rescheduled till 16th university. unfairness were built Okpara University of petitioners had no proof with only 82 students December after a group of Before the emergence around the sentiment that Agriculture, Chaired by to back their cases. The which have now increased youths, representatives of o f I w e , t h e V i c e Abia State had produced Lawan Zayanna, later G o ve r n i n g C o u n c i l t o t h o u s a n d s w i t h host towns and student Chancellorship seat of the the VC of the school just cleared Prof Otunta of all Chairman said Dr Patricia inclusion of more courses groups stormed the school school had rotated among once in the person of Prof the allegations, explaining M b a h i n p a r t i c u l a r of study over the years. c o m m u n i t y a n d the five States of the South Ogbonnaya Onwudike. that Dr Patricia Mbah and allegedly abandoned her Iwe's emergence and Umuahia, the Abia State East with Prof Placid T h e s e c l a i m s o f Dr Nelson Udenze were job in MOUAU and the fresh challenges in capital, chanting angry Njoku, the present Deputy marginalization in no properly placed on the travelled out of the MOUAU: songs while threatening Governor of Imo State, small way, created a bad grade level they belonged, c o u n t r y w i t h o u t Before December 2020, fire and brimstone, if a drinking the first water of blood among staff of the adding that no vendetta authorization, thereby over 15 Professors had candidate of Abia origin leadership in from 1993 to s c h o o l , w h o a l s o was visited upon the two breaching the rules of her struggled to succeed the did not emerge as VC. 1999. He was succeeded wondered if merit should petitioners. duty and employment. outgoing V C, Prof A Professor of Food by Prof Ogbonnaya be sacrificed on the altar In fact, the allegations It is on record that every Francis Otunta. The and Technology and the Onwudiwe (Abia) who o f s e n t i m e n t a n d written against Prof VC who reigned in the number increased by the President of Nigeria reigned from January parochialism. Otunta by the two staff university inked a page of day, rising to 29 in Institute of Food Science 2000 to Feb 2006. During the era of Prof caused tensions in the achievement and also December, 2020 with and Technology(NIFST) In March 2006, Prof Ikenna Onyido as VC, a school for a few weeks received punches of candidates from various would be mounting the I k e n n a O n y i d o section of the workforce at before a press conference criticism from those who S o u t h E a s t S t a t e s, seat of leadership as the (Anambra) took over and MOUAU and the host was held at 9pm in saw nothing good in his especially Imo, Anambra tenure of Prof Francis his tenure ended in State, Abia accused him of February, 2020 by the performance. and Abia States flaunting Otunta rounds up in February 2011. Prof a l l e g e d l y Governing Council of the While each VC was their qualifications and February, 2020 but a lot of Hilary Edeoga (Enugu) "Anambranising" the school to clear Prof d e c o r a t e d w i t h t h e visions, to become Vice challenges await him succeeded Prof Onyido in s c h o o l i n a r e a s o f Otunta of all allegations, garlands of praises by his Chancellor. which include: March 2011 and finished employment and contract with the Gover ning admirers inside and Three factors became Reduced students' in 2016 with Prof Francis awards. council describing the outside campus, others the subject of campaigns population: Otunta (Ebonyi) taking T h e s a m e t h i n g allegations as baseless and saw nothing good in their f o r t h e VC - s e e k i n g During the tenure of over in March 2016 and happened during the time aimed at tarnishing the performances. academics they were: state Prof Hilary Odo Edeoga, will be completing his of Prof Hilary Edeoga sterling reputation of the History of the school: of origin, academic the 4th VC, student tenure in February, 2021. who was also alleged by institution. M i c h a e l O k p a r a records and campaign population in MOUAU With the seat of power another group of critics of Explaining the reasons University was known as promises. increased appreciably and having rotated among the giving undue advantage to for holding the press Fe d e r a l C o l l e ge o f H o w e v e r , P r o f the rise in the population five States of the South the people of Enugu State conference in the night, Agriculture but on 13th Maduebibisi Iwe, a was attributed to some East, the stake became in areas of employment Chairman of Governing November, 1992, it was Deputy Vice Chancellor factors like the inclusion higher in 2020, towards and promotion. Council, Lawan Zayanna made a Federal University MOUAU who hails from of some courses of study the selection process, with T h e n c a m e P r o f said it was after long, of The by the federal A m u d a I s u o c h i , to the existing ones which many interest groups, Francis Otunta who also careful and detailed government through a Umunneochi LGA of Continues on pg 13 Wednesday, February 3, 2021 Page 13 Education Continued from pg 12 2 4 P r o f e s s o r s we r e demoted to 18 associate professors while 6 others went down to positions of senior lecturers. B u t t h e M O UAU ... Iwe now new VC m a n a g e m e n t i n responding to the issues said the stopping of some programs in the school was as directed by the National University Commission (NUC). On the affected lecturers, the s c h o o l ' s G ove r n i n g Council said the decisions were as a result of series of alleged petitions written against the professors by some staff of the school. Also, over 300 non- academic staff who were employed by a previous administration of the school were also laid off, in an exercise the school's spokesperson, Adanma Odefa denied. T h e P R O r a t h e r maintained that some illegally employed staff of t h e s c h o o l w h o s e employment did not follow the due process, were suspended from duty, promising that after some of the affected individuals would still be r e c a l l e d i f t h e i r employment were found to have followed the due process. However, winning the fight against cultism and the development of core agricultural programs happened to be among the g r e a t a c h i e ve m e n t s recorded by Prof Otunta, described as the outgoing q u i n t e s s e n t i a l mathematician. But another chapter has been opened in the school as Prof Maduebibisi Iwe takes over from Prof Otunta in the first quarter of 2021 to bring in his own idea of leadership. So far, academic activities are back in the school following the suspension of strike by the ASUU w h i l e s t u d e n t s a r e Prof Iwe enthusiastic of free flow of learning periods, to cover for the lost grounds. a t t r a c t e d s e v e r a l Umuahia Campus which school ran contrary to her admissions and opted to the school as the school Abia State government authority made it clear i n t e r e s t e d J A M B hosts the ABSU faculties m a n d a t e a s a c o r e seek admission elsewhere also in a congratulatory that the affected academic of Agriculture and Law agricultural institution rather than study what message to the new Vice candidates attention. staff were not victimized were all at close range to they referred to as 'strange Chancellor, Prof Iwe, The proximity of the and the school was asked but placed on the levels University to Umuahia, the school, thus enabling to scrap the programs and courses'. expressed satisfaction t h e y m e r i t e d , a f t e r with the selection process Abia State capital, gave some students to even harmonize the fate of the This shift in fortunes allegedly jumping to which produced the food study two courses in two existing students in the affected the economic the institution another p r o m o t i o n w i t h o u t scientist as the school's edge as many civil different institution at the affected Departments. base of the school the allegedly following the e x i s t i n g s t u d e n t helmsman. servants, traders and other same time, if they had the Few weeks after the laid down process. The State government population dwindled, artisans conveniently financial wherewithal. tenure of Prof Otunta Most of the affected in a message signed by combined their works But at the twilight of kicked off, the NUC thereby affecting the professors, some of whom John Okiyi Kalu wished while still studying in Edeoga's tenure, the eventually began the economy of both the host were either demoted to the school the best in MOUAU. school suffered some implementation of its communities, owners of positions of Associate achieving her vision. Another factor that blows as the National d i r e c t i v e a n d t h e private student lodges as p r o f e s s o r s o r P h . D The hopes are very high b o o s t e d t h e s c h o o l University Commission development created well as transporters who statuses or even other that every interest group population was the fact (NUC) and the Federal tension in the school smiled to the bank when lower grades, described both inside and outside t h a t t h r e e o t h e r Ministry of Agriculture environment with several the school had a large their demotions as illegal the Umudike campus i n s t i t u t i o n s n a m e ly wrote the school to inform of the affected students population base. and vindictive, insisting would work towards the that their academic Federal Ag riculture it of plans to stop some being asked to move to D e m o t i o n o f success of the school uprightness were not in Research Institution, programs being offered by other departments. While professors: while every genuine doubt. National Crop Research the school. many students coped in Demotion of 28 agitation should be Again, at its 21st amicably attended to, in Institution, National According to the their new departments, a Professors in 2017 by the emergency meeting held order to benefit the school, Cereal Institution Abia school's source, some of few others relinquished Governing Council, was another challenge that on Monday, 13th to staff, students and host S t a t e U n i v e r s i t y , the courses offered by the their already secured shook the foundation of Thursday, 16th May 2019, communities. Wednesday, February 3, 2021 Page 14

Onigbinde Chukwu The dilemma of coaches in the development of football in Nigeria By Amos Agwamba that militate against the duties of other essential ative staff lives like h a p h a z a r d about his/her plight and he high profile effective discharge of the personnel in the sports l a n d l o r d s w i t h o u t t r a i n i n g / c o a c h i n g on the other hand the of football in above schedules of industry who have little knowing that what kept sessions as well as fire coach himself who is Tthe world of football coaches include: or no ways to develop them on the job are the brigade approach in ignorant about the sports has placed coaches 1. “High standard sports rather engage in players and handlers. It is selection of players. The player's emotional and of the spor ts with set by hirers or employers filling their pockets. only when skill and psychology of learning psychological wellbeing myriads of dilemma and of coaches without Instances equally motivation are both will therefore, offer the and the effect on his duty. psychological problems. a d e q u a t e a n d abound where coaches present (and of course coaches the concepts of The non adherence of Nigeria football coaches compensatory provision ride to training session in aptitude) that optimum r e i n f o r c e m e n t , m a n a g e m e n t n o t are no exception. of operational materials" hired motor bikes while performance in sports knowledge of results, m e e t i n g u p t h e As a result, of the high A b o v e d i l e m m a their wealthy players and results. Poor results in skill sequence, and expectations of coaches ex p e c t a t i o n s, m o s t presents itself as a major team managers ride in most cases are products transfer of training leads and altercation, Nigerians and other stake problem of Nigerian exotic cars. In situation of non-or-inadequate d e s i g n i n ge n e r a l . and misunderstanding holders in the game of f o o t b a l l c o a c h e s like above both hirers and motivation of both Nigerian coaches should between the coach and football seem to over look especially when wrong fans expect miracles from players and coaches. We be allowed time to hirers. these problems and their appointments are made the coach and players!!! - are told Hear tland a c h i e v e t h i s . T h e When coaches show effects on the football for non-professionals to E x p e c t a t i o n s f r o m players got two months' expectation of Nigerians concer n to players development. The public manage sports. Instances Nigeria Coaches should salary arrears en route to place very serious strain problems, the later builds does not see the Nigerian abound of highly rated b e m a t c h e d w i t h Jos to honour their week on coaches hence the hire c o n f i d e n c e o n t h e football coach as one clubs arid National adequate provision of encounter with Plateau and fire syndrome of former. Coaches that are whom less is given but Teams performing below operational materials as United. They care back c o a c h e s b y t h e i r not well versed in from whom much is expectation without motivation and incentive to confirm the effect of employers be that at club professional clinical expected!! In most cases, serious diagnosis of what facilitate performance. motivation. Hence they or National Levels due to psychology usually find it the coach is expected to is amiss rather, an 2. The motivation posted 2 – 0 win against impatience and quick difficult to identify, squeeze water out of rock Utopian expectation by of footballers during Enyimba in Owerri in result expectations. As diagnose and remedy no matter the odds the club management preseason, session pre- week 4. Motivational there are three options in some of the player's against him. and hirers of the coaches events and actual events techniques like material, every match; win, draw personal problems. The A c c o r d i n g t o most of whom lack are yet other identifiable s y m b o l i c a n d or loose we should adopt threat of many coaches Dictionary of Sports by integrity, transparency problems of coaches. psychological rewards any and go to the drawing to leave the duty post G & C Morian Company and honesty. A visit to the Motivation is a process especially when results board for better result results in most case when Publishers USA, a coach training session of a whereby needs are a r e a c h i e v e d a r e next time. the agreements are is defined as “a person typical football club will c r e a t e d w i t h i n a n advocated. The concept 4. Understanding breached. who instructs and trains give a very good picture individual which forces of Enyi Ihe Eme Ihe t h e P s y c h o l o g i c a l 5. Identification of performers or players in of this assertion. There h i m / h e r t o s e e k played out in Heartland problem of each player most trainable and the fundamentals of you may see players in particular goals to satisfy match against Enyimba. (footballer) coachable player devoid various techniques in training session with few the needs. Generally 3. The progression Coaches are "in loco- o f p s y c h o l o g i c a l sports”. b a l l s a n d t r a i n i n g speaking, a motivated of footballers as quickly parentis" to players. That problems and who will In team sports like materials. In some cases person is more active a s p o s s i b l e f r o m is that they should act like make the team football he “teaches the players are lured in to than one who is not performance potential to p a r e n t s. T h e r e f o r e This is yet another f u n d a m e n t a l s a n d signing for clubs that will motivated. Although performance realization" c o a c h e s / p l a y e r s problem facing Nigerian techniques, conducts not meet their obligations skill is essential in sports is yet another problem relationship should be football coaches. Since practices, develops plays, – regular payment of like football, without Nigeria football coaches that of father and above qualities cannot be and runs the games (by their salaries, poor motivation skill is of little have to contend with. children in a family. d e t e c t e d d u r i n g directing offensive and m e d i c a l f a c i l i t i e s, value. What plays out When quick results are Anything short of this screening exercise the defensive strategy) and transportation and other nowadays is poorly expected from coaches will surely affect both the coach may end up making substation”. welfare packages. The motivated players and t h e g r a d u a t i o n o f performance of the screening and registering The dilemma and i n r o a d o f n o n technical crew while potential footballer to player who feels the stubborn footballers who psychological problems professionals highjack management/administr performers end up in coach is nonchalant could fr ustrate his Wednesday, February 3, 2021 Page 15 ...the dilemma of coaches in the development of football in Nigeria

Ilechukwu Amakapabo programme, match plans communication style players should be a optimum performances coaches to update their packages to enhance and obstruct the coach's between the coach and collective responsibility of coaches and player m a s t e r y o f t h e their duties. r o a d t o s u c c e s s . players. Most Nigerian not a one man show. i n c l u d e p o o r T e c h n i q u e s a n d Conclusion T h e r e f o r e t r a c k football coaches operate Coaches who adopt jack i n f r a s t r u c t u r a l Contemporary methods Coaching in Nigeria records/dossiers of on very high frequencies of trade posture dissipate d eve l o p m e n t , p o o r of coaching during pre- has come of age. The footballers which seem to that make their job energy meant for their welfare and insurance competition era and m o m e n t N i g e r i a n be lacking in our sports difficult to the players. actual schedule, hence policies, as well as lack of breaks. populace is schooled to diaries should be the Derogatory statements their colossal failure in e v a l u a t i o n o f s e t 3. Mass Media - a p p r e c i a t e t h e f o c u s o f s p o r t s most cases. objectives. and calling of names that print and electronic psychological problems administrations - match 9. Thought on how, Remedies may dampen the spirit media should devote that beset her football commissioners, press and enthusiasm of and what to do as to 1. Stakeholders' quality pages and airtime coaches, the better the a n d t e c h n i c a l footballers especially better performance, fear fora should be organized o n i n f o r m a t i o n , development of football department of Nigeria when they perform skills of failure and negative periodically through e n t e r t a i n m e n t a n d awareness and positive Football Federation wrongly should be external influence by workshop seminar and B o a r d a n d L e a g u e minimized by coaches colleagues lectures for officials - enlightenment of all and expectations. Despite all Management Company “Afor anu, good for T h e s e p r o b l e m s match commissioners, sundr y to the new the myriads, dilemma (LMC). This surely will nothing, idiot”. Most deprive football coaches r e f e r e e s , r e f e r e e concepts and periodic and limitations Nigeria reduce to a minimum the rifts associated with of the basic comfort of a s s e s s o r s , f a n s , reviewed laws of game of f o o t b a l l c o a c h e s problem of handling coaches and players have life and consequently supporters club and the football by FIFA. encounter, many have footballers with such been traced to poor their families are not left mass media etc. Their 4. G o v e r n m e n t made remarkable impact h a n d i c a p s b y o u r communication skills out either. No wonder a cross fertilization of (Federal, States and both Local, National and coaches. that sound derogatory. good number of them ideas will help curb some L.G.A) which cannot in International Football 6. T h e 8. Role Defects suffer such ailments like of the nagging problems single handedly sponsor competitions. development of team and Role Conflicts u l c e r, h i g h B l o o d that militate against sports should attract Many have really m o r a l , e f f e c t i v e Most Nigeria football pressure, frustration and football development in p r i v a t e p u b l i c c a r v e d n i c h e s f o r competitive situation and coaches play the role of nervous disorders etc. Nigeria. Issues like p a r t n e r s h i p i n themselves as the world understanding of group master of all. The role The negative external violence in spor ts, investment in sports has acclaimed many of influence of coaches audience psychology and dynamics and leadership defects could be traced to especially football. them. Having x-rayed i s y e t a n o t h e r o f against their colleagues is control, role of the press, either their own making 5. Professionalism few of the problems physiological problems the worst professional p l a y e r s / c o a c h e s o r t h a t o f t h e i r should be the guiding b e s e t t i n g f o o t b a l l that confronts football e m p l o y e r s . M a n y misconduct observed motivation/welfare - coaches, we should p o l i c y o f coaches in Nigeria. c o a c h e s f r o w n a t among Nigerian football incentive and rewards are therefore support them to government/owners of Players should be made e m p l o y m e n t o f coaches. Many come to discussed leading to reach their goals rather football clubs in the to lead (captain) and be assistants. Many assume watch the matches of better grasp of the than pull them down. led. Captainship should all the roles - trainer, their colleagues with the problems and their r e c r u i t m e n t o f When people are be rotatory. Individual manager, coach, scout mind set of lobbying for e f f e c t s i n f o o t b a l l management/administr enlightened, er rors differences that will aid physiotherapist, football their colleagues position. development in Nigeria. ators of sports while the prejudices and biases will in team cohesion and d i r e c t o r, t e c h n i c a l The Pull Him Down These fora will ride in the technocrats/ Technical be minimized giving way friendship should be adviser, welfare officer Syndrome (Ph.D) is the minds of people errors, crew should be in the to constructive and allowed in the camp. etc. Most jack of all trade mark of many prejudices and bias they hands of reputable and positive assessment of Coaches should be trades coaches end up as coaches. Any threat of h ave ove r f o o t b a l l qualified personal and Nigerians in ever y e x p o s e d t o s o c i a l failures. Division of any coach's position development. not politicians. h u m a n , e n d e a v o r physiologies to assist labour should be the elicits the dusting of 2. Authorities that 6. Coaches should i n c l u d i n g s p o r t s t h e m a v e r t t h e s e watch word of every coaching certificates of administer football in b e p r o v i d e d w i t h especially football. problems. coach for effective colleagues in readiness to Nigeria should organize complementary working Agwamba (Ph.D), is a 7. " T h e m a n a g e m e n t . F o r step into their shoes. r e f r e s h e r / c o a c h i n g t o o l s a n d m o u t h retired referee, and sports Other demands and development of best example selection of courses/clinics for our w a t e r i n g w e l f a r e administrator. challenges that frustrate Agenda for new

security chiefs Pg 5 Momoh's mystics, Pg 9 heroics and passage

ISSN: 2736-0512 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2021 VOL. 2 NO. 14 of a media machine Column Gov Uzodimma: Time to rescue Heartland FC By Ori Martins commissioner, to have gone to an away game to our Excellency, d i r e c t l y h a n d l e sir, recall that H e a r t l a n d a f f a i r s Yabout a week without the general ago, I addressed you manager. There is also through this medium, an Olympian, a World urging you to rescue the Cup star and FIFA U-17 darling team of Imo World Cup winner, State, Heartland FC, Mobi Oparaku, who is from the hands of some also a member of p o l i t i c a l h a w k s H e a r t l a n d i s parading as football management. We must m a n a g e r s a n d ask him if what Ogu is a d m i n i s t r a t o r s . I doing is right. understood that you 6. For the avoidance really commenced an of doubt, we must ask inquiry to determine the Ogu to let us know who veracity or otherwise of is spending Heartland's my claims. However, funds. He should tell few people who are Imo football fans why currently benefiting he does not remit the from the rot routing team's funds to it's Heartland went to town, account. If he feels labelling me as a PDP otherwise, he should a n a l y s t . W h a t a provide evidence. senseless talk! 7. We painfully recall Sir, I am here again, that Heartland went on employing all manner relegation for the first of facts as my evidence time in history. even mentioning some Indeed after 40 years, established football when OZB, also deputy p e r s o n a l i t i e s a s speaker then, wrongly w i t n e s s e s . T h e Uzodimma took over the affairs of following are my stand: t h e c l u b t h e r e b y 1. The problem of usurping the powers of H e a r t l a n d i s t h e This is why the team matter of fact, the t e c h n i c a l a d v i s e r H e a r t l a n d h a s a n achieved the glorious c o m m i s s i o n e r o f stumbles here and players never trained for equally never travelled a c c o u n t a n t , b a n k height they attained. the chairman who was sports. c r u m b l e s t h e r e . that outing and so they to Jos for the same account and a cashier as Therefore, Ogu should Bash and in the process The man lacks basic Examples. (A) After worked into the pitch reason of nonpayment well. In addition, the be told in unambiguous the team was relegated. knowledge of what putting up a spirited straight from their of salaries. Expectedly, management performs terns to act within his Again, now, deputy football management is performance against protest. Needless to say Heartland lost in Jos. In the team's budget purview on matters speaker, Rt. Hon. all about. He does not Katsina United away, it Heartland lost 1 -2 at the last away game defence. So, why should concerning Heartland if Amara Iwuanyanwu, understand his primary was expected that home against Jigawa in Ogu disburse the team's the team must find their h a s a l s o a s s u m e d responsibility as a H e a r t l a n d w o u l d ( B ) A f t e r t h e K a d u n a , t h e money? The usual and footing in the ongoing almost the position supervisor of sports in devour Nassarawa Nassarawa home loss, commissioner, once normal process is for the season. OZB took in 2016 on the state. Rather, he is United in Owerri in expectation was high again sidelined the ministry of sports to 5 . A t l e a s t , Heartland. If care is not now, what some sports their next game. It never the commissioner for general manager and wire the club's money A m b a s s a d o r taken, the de puty commentators in the happened. Why? The sports would turn a new took the team to the directly to their account. Nwankwo Kanu is one s p e a k e r w i l l l e a d state call "commissioner reason was that the leaf. Sadly, no dice. And n o r t h e r n N i g e r i a But Ogu does not do o f t h e m o s t Heartland to relegation of Heartland". This is so commissioner for sports the trip to Jos against enclave. He handled all this. He rather handles recognizable faces in this season as OZB did. because; the sports went on air to announce P l a t e a u U n i t e d the logistic provisions all the club's financial m o d e r n g l o b a l And now to the root of commissioner does not that the players had no b e c k o n e d . T h e w h i l e t h e ge n e r a l concerns. football. He should be the matter. Ogu is being carry himself as one reason to lose the game government released m a n a g e r w a s 4 . T h e E n y i m b a asked if the present smart. He has dragged who supervises the in Katsina as they were p l a y e r s a n d mischievously left c h a i r m a n , F e l i x activities of Ogu in C o m r a d e C h i n a s a not owed any kobo. generality of sports management's salaries. behind in Owerri. An Anyansi Agwu has Heartland whereupon N wa n e r i i n t o h i s To that effect, the d e v e l o p m e n t a n d What happened next illegality will only lifted about eight he cages the general inanity. But Nwaneri is players went on strike, growth in Imo. Instead, was a clear case of produce an illegal result l e a g u e a n d s eve n m a n a g e r b y n o t innocent here. He is u r g i n g t h e all his activities are administrative rascality and so Heartland lost Federation Cup titles. remitting money due to your trusted back man. commissioner for sports c e n t e r e d a b o u t and an express show of yet again in Kaduna He led the People's the club but rather Though he is not a to provide evidence of Heartland. Since he official impunity. How? against Jigawa. These Elephant to a back to handles it himself, is football personality, and payment. It took the this is why he should not came in as the sports T h e s p o r t s are signs that if the back CAF Champions appropriate. Prince intervention of some allow Ogu to mess him commissioner, which c o m m i s s i o n e r, f o r c o m m i s s i o n e r i s League glory in 2003 Lemmy Akakem who m e m b e r s o f u p. N wa n e r i i s a other sport under his w h a t e v e r r e a s o n , allowed to continue in and 2004. Had the just turned 70 last week, ministry has he touched government and that of grassroots mobilizer refused to pay the his inanity, Heartland r e s p e c t i v e s p o r t s still remains the most positively? He cannot the general manager of and he does it well for p l a y e r s a n d t h e are doomed. commissioners in Abia successful chairman of mention any! the team before the y o u . L e t t h e management team. In 3. The activities of S t a t e c o n d u c t e d Heartland ever. 2 . T h e s p o r t s p l aye r s a g r e e d t o commissioner leave view of that, most t h e s p o r t s themselves in the way We must reach out to commissioner usurps h o n o u r t h e h o m e Nwaneri out of this and senior players of the commissioner, Mr Dan and manner Ogu is him and get his opinion the functions and e n c o u n t e r a g a i n s t let Nwaneri not allow team refused to travel Ogu, run fowl of going about it, Enyimba if it was right for Ogu, as duties of the general himself to be messed up. Nassarawa United. As a t h e s p o r t s manager of Heartland for the Jos tie. The football management. w o u l d n o t h a v e

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