May 30: IPOB reminds Ndigbo about Heroes Remembrance

Day Pg. 13

Govt has Pg. 3 @newsechonigeria @newsechonigeria @newsechonigeria ...Strong voice echoes the truth ISSN: 2736-0512 MONDAY, MAY 3 , 2021 VOL. 2 NO. 52 N150 capacity to Obiano advocates mandatory genotype protect lives tests for couples Pg. 2 – Uzodimma

Officers of Ebubeagu Security outfit during its launch in . Ebubeagu: More questions than Pg. 10 answers Save from collapse – Ekweremadu tells FG Pg. 12 Insecurity: PDP accuses APC of insensitivity

Your 16 years enslaved Nigeria, APC replies Pg.Pg. 18 17 News Echo Monday, May 3, 2021 Page 2 NEWS Obiano advocates mandatory genotype test for couples From Karen James, and support for people of the Borough for part- urging other men to sup- tion to Mrs. Obiano said He thanked her for be- Nnewi living with sickle cell dis- nering the NGO since port their wives to ful- her excellent work and ing steadfast in her cause orders and other disabili- 2019, stressing that the fill their dreams as such contributions in creating of charity by using her he Founder of ties. relationship had achieved encouragement could awareness and support for NGO to bring medical Caring Family En- In her remarks, Mrs. huge results. propel them to greater people living with sick- and emotional solace to Thancement Initia- Obiano who recalled the She noted that her hus- heights. le cell anemia and other those living with the sick- tive (CAFE), Mrs. Ebe- pain of losing one of her band, Gov. Willie Obiano Earlier, the Mayor, His disabilities, through her le cell as well as children lechukwu Obiano has daughters to sickle cell deserved praise for sup- Worship, Ernest Ezea- charity organisation, the suffering from congenital appealed that mandatory disease years ago, main- porting her dedication to jughi who, presented CAFE was commenda- mouth disorders (cleft lip genotype tests for all cou- tained that the experience the humanitarian drive, the award of recogni- ble. and cleft palate). ples in Anambra before gave her the courage to marriage be taken seri- work for the welfare and ously. well being of persons liv- Foreign loans would impoverish The wife of the Gov- ing with sickle cell. ernor of , “My involvement in made the call at her coun- awareness creation about Nigerians, bishop warns try home, Aguleri An- the dangers of sickle cell ambra East LGA, while includes advocacy to in- From Dan Maduagwu, ing externally for consum- something to keep them deploy the soldiers to such receiving an award from tending couples to go for Umuahia ables and perishables. We busy, this nation might places, while insecurity is the London Borough of mandatory genotype test still maintain our ground not know peace. It has bedeviling the country. Brent for her excellent before marriage,’’ she said nglican Bishop of and call on our govern- been said that the vices in According to the Bish- work and contributions Obiano thanked the Umuahia diocese, ment at all levels to stop the land today are majorly op, “Our Government is in creating an awareness Brent Council and Mayor ARt. Rev’d Geof- increasing our debts rather due to unemployment and experts in sending the mili- frey Obijuru Ibeabuchi has we should start reducing hunger”. tary to other regions of the warned against dragging them for the good of our He wondered why Ni- country where there is rel- NUJ urges transport unions the country into penury future generation. If there geria would show much ative peace and not to the and mortgaging the fu- should be borrowing, let it concern for the security sit- Northern region that has to designate no-park zones ture of the Nigerian child be for investments that will uation in other countries, become a shadow of itself. zones were visibly erected through external loans. yield dividend and not for From Dan Maduagwu, Recall that most recently, consumption”. Imo Govt expresses satisfaction Umuahia on roads, it would drasti- cally bring sanity to roads the Senate gave its approv- The Anglican Bishop who touched the unem- o checkmate driv- as well as end such clashes. al of 1.5 billion dollar loan over rapport with organized ployment rate in Nigeria ers/ thugs’ fights in On the reports of insecurity and 995 Euros for external Umuahia and other in parts of the State, espe- loans. which according to the labour T National Statistics, has in- by the workers, he declared. cities of , the Ni- cially Isukwuato area, the In his address at St. By Jennifer John gerian Union of Journalists council called for adequate Mary’s church, Ohokobe creased to 33.3 percent in Emelumba assured the organized labour that the (NUJ) Abia State council protection of lives and during the year 2021 syn- the fourth quarter of 2020 mo State government has expressed satisfac- welfare of the workers re- has urged the leadership property. od of the Anglican com- from 27.10 percent in the tion at the good rap- mains paramount in the of transport unions in the Earlier in his contribution munion Umuahia diocese, second quarter of the year I port and synergy currently priority list of the state add- State to adopt a new ap- during the congress, the Bishop Ibeabuchi remind- 2020, pointed out that the former Chairman of NUJ unemployment rate meas- existing between it and the ing that government was proach in revenue and traf- ed the Federal Govern- doing everything possible in Abia, Comrade Hya- organized labour in the fic management. ment that such borrowing ures the number of people state. to improve their welfare. cinth Okoli charged newly The council gave the advice will be a clog in the wheel actively looking for a job The government made its He reiterated that Governor through a communiqué is- elected executive of NUJ in of the future generations, as a percentage of the la- feelings known through the Uzodimma was truly a la- sued at NUJ press centre, Abia to embrace those they reminding the presidency bour force. commissioner for informa- bour- friendly governor will Umuahia after its monthly defeated during elections, further of the warnings by Bishop Ibeabuchi said, tion and strategy, Declan remain so. State congress. while calling for support the scriptures which read, “There is an increase rate Emelumba who represent- To assuage the anxieties of It expressed worry at the for the new executives. “The rich rule over the of 6.2 percent from second ed Governor Uzodimma Imo workers who are still be- Okoli commended the past frequency of clashes be- poor and the borrower is quarter to fourth quarter at the May Day Celebra- ing owed, the commissioner tween vehicle drivers, tri- executive for conducting of 2020. Something must tion which took place at informed them that a data a rancor-free election as servant to the lender.” cycle riders with officials be done quickly so as to the Heroes Square, Owerri centre had been established according to him, the out- His words, “ In our last of some transport unions ensure a reversal in the It is in the reciprocation of in the office of the Head of come of the election dis- Synod, we pleaded with the cordial relationship be- Service to ensure those of over alleged wrong park- our Government to be employment rate in this ing by motorists.The NUJ tinguished the journalism tween labour and govern- them who have not been careful and vehemently re- nation. If jobs are not cre- suggested that if No-park professionals from circular ment that the government captured in the automated politicians. sist the pressure to borrow- ated and our youths get donated a bus as requested payroll system are captured as quickly as possible and ensure patriotism among “Our soldiers need moti- their salaries paid accord- External assistance not panacea Nigerian security agencies vation, modern equipment, ingly. by equipping them with intelligence gatherings and In their address earlier, the the right arsenal to defeat most importantly, zero sab- Organized Labour repre- to Nigeria’s insecurity bandits, adding that secu- otage among them. If these sented by the NLC and TUC rity agencies should avoid are not on ground, the Afri- made series of demands - Uchegbuo nepotism in discharge of can Command would not which they said were criti- their duties. achieve much because as cal to their existence such as This is even as he has hands in the last six years. implementation of the N30, From Dan Maduagwu, His words, “ Inviting people who know noth- expressed surprise that the According to Ucheg- 000 minimum wages and Umuahia the United Army is okay ing about the terrain, the Presidency has insisted on buo, rather than hoping on payment of salaries to some but it may not achieve an- American soldiers would retaining Isa Patami as the American magic, the Pres- workers who are being owed resident-General of ything. This is because a take time to study the land, Ahuwa Oboro an- minister of communica- ident should have earlier arrears from February 2020 lot of things have gone out air, sea military systems.”, till date. cient kingdom in tions and digital economy. disarmed armed herdsmen P of hands. The President is he said. Other demands mentioned Uchegbuo spoke on and arrested some politi- Ikwuano LGA of Abia realising the need for for- On minister Isa Patami’s by the organized labour in Sunday in Umuahia while cians who allegedly spoke State, Engr. James Ucheg- eign intervention late, he apologies for his alleged include; payment reacting to Buhari’s recent in their defence, arguing buo has said that President should have started earlier support for terror groups of pensioners, payment of appeal for relocation of that the current armed ban- Mohamadu Buhari’s ap- by dealing with some iden- in the past, the President- check-off dues, reopening of African Command (Afri- ditry ravaging the nation peal for United States of tified issues like unemploy- General said “I am sur- the Labour House in Owerri Com) from Germany to further gained ground from and the constitution of the America’s military assis- ment, armed herdsmen, prised how such a man Africa, arguing that the the soft treatment allegedly government/labour joint tance may not solve the se- bandits, Boko Haram, kid- passed through screenings President allegedly al - enjoyed by the herders. committee for effective han- curity crises in Nigeria, but nappings, poor border con- to become a minister of sincerity and patriotism. lowed things to get out of He advised President to dling of industrial relations trol, among others.” such a sensitive office.” issues in the state. News Echo Monday, May 3, 2021 Page 3 NEWS May Day: Disarray as factional group lock workers out of venue From Dan Maduagwu, to be led by Chief Idima installed Chief Idima Eze substantive case is still be- regular payment of work- of, then we have no prob- Umuahia Eze, even as leadership of to take over. ing expected to be heard ers salaries and pensions lem,” Obigwe said. Trade Union Congress is But the decision did not when judiciary workers payment, regretting that A staff of National beku High School said to be neutral. go down well with Obig- call off strike. many workers were going Root Cross Research In- ground, along Ikot-Ek- Speaking to newsmen we who challenged his Meanwhile, Mr. Uchen- through untold hardship. stitute Umudike who was Ipene road in Umuahia, today in front of Ibeku removal in Court and ob- na Obigwe in a separate “When salaries and pen- one of those stranded, de- Abia State which has been High school gate, Chief tained an injunction stop- interview urged Governor sions are paid and work- scribed the development the venue for Workers’ Idima Eze expressed sur- ping his sack, though, the Okezie Ikpeazu to ensure ers’ welfare are taken care as “shameful”. Day celebration was on prise that the gate to the Saturday, locked up, to the celebration ground was dismay of various labour locked before the arrival unions. of workers, even after he Workers who had had secured permission turned out for this year’s from the management of celebration at the large the school a few days ago venue, were surprised to to use the Ibeku school see the gate to the school ground for the celebra- locked with olympic-sized tion. keys, making the workers He described the devel- to be stranded. opment as sad and embar- Findings by News Echo, rassing to the dignity of revealed that the locking Abia workers. out of workers may not be It would be recalled that unconnected with the al- the national headquarters leged raging battle for the of the Nigerian Labour control of the leadership Congress (NLC) had re- of Nigerian Labour Con- cently allegedly recom - gress(NLC) in Abia State mended the removal of by two factions. Uchenna Obigwe as Abia While one faction is led NLC boss, on the grounds by Mr. Uchenna Obigwe, that he had retired from Umahi, Ebonyi State governor, cutting a tape to present operational vehicles to Ebubeagu security another faction is said the State civil service and operatives. We need zero tolerance policy Govt has capacity to protect lives, - NCC assures workers of prompt salaries to a long line of men and Mediation Centre to pro- From Karen James, women, whose creativity mote the use of arbitration Nnewi - Uzodimma and inventions have led the and mediation for speedy By Jennifer John of workers and automation ty breaches in the state, he inkwell to the internet and resolution of entertainment of the payroll system of the blamed it on disgruntled po- he Director-General from railway to rockets”. disputes”. Nigerian Copyright mo State Governor, Sen- state public service. litical opponents who have In my message last year “To complement the ef- ator Hope Uzodimm a “You will recall that after vowed to make his govern- TCommission (NCC), to mark the World IP Day forts of the Commission, it Mr. John O. Assien has said Ihas assured people of the addressing the payroll system, ment ungovernable, but made and in the face of the COV- is important for practition- that there will be zero toler- state that the state govern- I tackled the issue of welfare it clear that they have failed ID-19 pandemic, I declared ers to pay more attention ment and security agents are for Imo workers. Apart from woefully as they will never be ance policy for the commis- with optimism that the glob- to the business side of their sion. more than capable of pro- ensuring that I secured a con- able to distract him from his al response to it has been creative endeavours such as tecting their lives and prop- ducive working environment good governace initiatives. The NCC in a statement reassuring, especially that clearance, licencing, mar- said they joined stakehold- erties. for you, through rehabilita- According to the gover- humanity is able to use its keting strategies, rights and Governor Uzodimma tion of the secretariat and nor, investigations to un- ers in the creative indus- collective power of creativ- management dispute-resolu- try to celebrate this year’s gave this assurance while provision of critical infra- mask sponsors of the securi- ity and innovation to over- tion and effective protection addressing workers and en- structure therein, I saw to it ty breaches in the state have World’s Intellectual proper- come the challenge. “It is in order to ensure adequate ty Day, adding that the day tire people of Imo State on that official vehicles were pro- reached an advanced stage, gratifying that science has returns in their intellectual the workers’ day, otherwise vided for parmanent secretar- adding that very soon the sought to promote better since found the vaccines and financial investment.’’ understanding of the intel- known as May day celebra- ies to ease their transportation long arm of the law will ex- and restored hope where “The commission will tion and the security breach- problems. I followed it up by pose and prosecute them. lectual property (IP) system there was despair.’’ “While continue to support legit- and draw attention to the es in the state in recent time. providing free buses for jun- He promised not to leave every business starts with imate SMEs, it does not Uzodimma who made the ior civil servants. These have any stone unturned in ensur- importance of innovation an idea, they need to be nur- condone illegal, unfair or and creativity to daily life. address a day after his return been running religiously”, the ing the security and safety of tured and exploited in a pre- unconscionable business from Abuja, where he had governor maintained. all citizens, saying the sponsors According to him, “we dictable manner that adds practices. It will continue to owe the inventions, designs been on official duties, used He said having actualized and perpetrators of the securi- to their market value. The promote a culture of respect the opportunity to appre- the automation, Imo work- ty breaches have failed in their and works of art that ease commission is collaborating for copyright and pursue a our workload, improve our ciate Imo workers for their ers have continued to receive feeble and futile effort to intim- with the World’s Intellectu- zero tolerance policy for all patience and for standing their salaries regularly, except idate government and people living conditions, enrich and als Property Organisation forms of piracy in the copy- beautify our surroundings solidly behind him during for few still having issues with of the state and enthused that (WIPO) Arbitration and right market”. the period of verification their documentation, which his government will employ all he said was being resolved, lawful machinery at its dispos- ASUBEB launches anti-corruption transparency in Anambra assuring that once they are al to crush criminality. resolved, the affected workers “Be rest assured that my From Uchenna Ezeadigwe Transparency Unit, is an tices and other related, of- which is the main mandate will receive arrears of their administration is willing, able Awka initiative of the Federal fences commission (ICPC), of the Board, can easily be salaries. and capable of protecting the Government to serve as Professor Bolaji Owasa- achieved when right pol- The governor who used lives and properties of all Imo nambra State Uni- an in-house mechanism noye. icies, systems, structures the opportunity to enumerate people and residents alike. versal Basic Ed- for corruption prevention Performing the inaugu- and professionals are put in achievements of his adminis- Without any fear of contradic- Aucation Board within Ministries, Depart- ration, the Chairman of place. tration, especially in the area tion, I can declare to you that (ASUBEB) has instituted ments and Agencies of ICPC, Professor Owasa- He charged the members of road construction and re- the recent security challenges a five member Anti-cor- Government nationwide. noye, represented by State of the unit to use the man- habilitation, solicited the con- in the state have been effec- ruption transparency Unit The inauguration which Commissioner of ICPC, date given to them to help tinued support of Imolites, to tively contained. You should (ACTU). took place at the ASUBEB Enugu office, Barrister Sule the Board achieve transpar- enable him deliver his good therefore go about your lawful News Echo reports that Utility Hall, Awka had in Amedu, said the business ency, accountability, hon- governace package aimed at businesses without any fear the Anti-corruption and attendance Chairman of of acquisition of basic ed- esty and diligence in the totally transforming the state. whatsoever”, Uzodimma as- Independent Corrupt Prac- ucation in Anambra State, discharge of its duties. On the issue of securi- sured. Monday, May 3, 2021

Curbing insecurity

EDITORIAL Publisher through job creation Larry Kingsley he Nigerian nation at the a burden on parents who may have Executive Editor m o m e n t i s h i g h l y other children to train, our teeming Jennifer John Tterrorized. Insecurity is at graduates seek any means possible Managing Editor its peak. There is no part of the to keep head above water. This is Ori Martins country that is not challenged the reason many who lack the Editor security wise. The primary discipline opt for prostitution in the Afam Echi responsibility of any government is case of women and the men take to News Editor to protect lives and properties. But crimes of varying dimensions Chigozie Uzosike it appears that the governments at including scam. Production Editor all levels have been overwhelmed by The unemployment rate is further Anthony Ogbekile insecurity and unable to discharge accentuated by the inability of the this basic duty. government to sustain existing Correspondents Dan Maduagwu Okey (Umuahia) Prophecies and indeed issues on industries leading to their collapse Uchenna Ezeadigwe (Awka) ground strongly point to an and sending scores of thousands to Karen James (Nnewi) outbreak of war any moment soon the unemployment queue. This is Ovat Mike (Onitsha) Nonye Udumiri (Aba) as the entire space is charged with cruel and detestable. From many David Eze (Abakaliki) serial killings occurring in every parts of the country existing Chuma Austin (Enugu) part of the country. Sadly, there industries which were built by Olise Nwagbogwu (Asaba) Chukwudi Chidiebere (Port Harcourt) appears no solution in sight. The previous administrations that governments also have failed in absorbed many workers have all Senior Reporter d i s c h a r g i n g a n o t h e r g r e a t gone into extinction. Uzoma Ogoke economic responsibility which has The consequences of checking Reporter e x a c e r b a t e d t h e s e c u r i t y insecurity are colossal. The huge Ikenna Orioha Chinyere Nwaneri challenges. sums expended in fighting off Boko Glory Ugochukwu There is growing unemployment H a r a m , b a n d i t s, h e r d e r s, situation among the youths who are kidnappers etc especially in Contributors/Columnists Dr. Sir Amos Agwamba in the age bracket that is providing deploying military hardware was Dr. Chuks Osuji personnel for the terror groups good enough to create industries to Justina Nkechi causing mayhem in the country. An absorb the army of unemployed Ogechi Erondu idle hand they say is the devils youths. It is painful paying stupid Production workshop and many unemployed fines of ignorance and recklessness. Ifeanyi Raymond Alex Nnamdi Chukwu youth fall easy prey to the evil News Echo bemoans the ugly Augustine Agwulonu machinations of those perpetrating situation that we are experiencing violence in the society. which are clearly avoidable. ADMINISTRATION General Manager On close scrutiny it would be seen Government is only relevant if it James Kalu that the governments have failed has meaning for the people. It is a woefully in managing our sad commentary that succeeding Operations Manager Patricia Nwoye economic affairs. Rather than governments have never fared create values through economic better than the one they succeeded Web Administrator activities that would generate on many indices. People would not Bismark Ibegbulam employment to absorb the teeming have time to indulge in violent Circulation Team youths graduating from school the activities if they are meaningfully Mr. Aloyius Ogboka Ignatius Ogechi Ajoku leaders instead are neck deep in engaged. Tasie Chidiebere corrupt practices siphoning the We call on the government to Raphael Obioha commonwealth of the people. create employment opportunities Legal Adviser On annual basis our higher beyond rhetoric and politics. They H. O. Ogbusu institutions churn out graduates should go beyond skills acquisition who have no skills for self- programs which is more or less a employment. The combined political tool to win votes or reward graduates from our Universities, for their loyalists to creating Polytechnics, Monotechnics, industries. The likes of Sam Colleges of Education, and other Mbakwe, M. I. Okpara, Awolowo, higher institutions number close to Jakande industrialized their states two million annually. There is no in their era at a time technology planning ahead while they study to was not prevalent. absorb them on graduation into The present crops of leaders are gainful employment. challenged to rival such records and In order to survive and cease being excel. The tine to do so is now. News Echo Monday, May 3, 2021 Page 5 Opinion Six years of excuses, 22 years of locusts By Martins Oloja United Kingdom, Germany and UAE. But then this inescapable ay is here again. We are question: why is it that there is no on the march again to state in our 36-state structure that MMay 29, 2021. As I has invested robustly in even one observed here on May 27, 2018, teaching hospital in any of the 'we are here again to read from the state universities as a reference v e r s i o n o f t h e B o o k o f point since 1999? Why is it that Lamentation' Jeremiah, the even the Western Nigeria, the prophet left on the Bank of River Yoruba nation cannot showcase Niger. Yes, we will lament again education quality and even on May 29 over six years of the q u a n t i t y a g a i n a s t h e i r Buhari administration and 22 identification card? Yes, there is no uninterrupted years of democracy d o u b t t h a t t h e F e d e r a l in the federal republic the Nigerian Government has continually army's political wing gave us in failed the nation in terms of 1999. critical thinking about education And even the morning after quality in the country. the May 29, 2021, we will continue The Federal Government has to retell so many tales as always been a failure that keeps failing in 'told by idiots, full of sound and education and health. The fury signifying nothing.' So, on emergency on education the May 29, 2021, we will blame presidency promised by the end of members of the '1966 class' who April, 2018, has become a mirage, then invaded the democracy after all. But how long will we chambers, stole the mace, the continue to tolerate photographs people's authority and the weapon Buhari of our leaders who attend of competitive spirit called graduation of their wards abroad? federalism and replaced them with chairman of EFCC for six years. leadership in the mainstream some challenges the nation has In 2018, the president of the the 'Federal Republic of The We will be told at the end of this media. Instead of telling truth to been facing, especially in the area senate, and a number of governors Nigerian Army' as once revealed month that never in the history of powers that we elected to govern of critical infrastructure anywhere showcased the reproach their by General M.C. Ali. mankind has so much money been and account to us, we curiously we go. The health sector is a big country has become when they got Besides, on Nigeria's organic recovered from looters created by blame their perverted cabals and source of reproach: we don't have such sumptuous photographs of Democracy Day, May 29, there the main opposition party. But we incompetent aides. good hospitals anywhere. Our their wards' (first deg ree) will be a public holiday to enable will not be told that this public That strange escapism is part leaders at all levels look up to the graduation abroad published so us celebrate what I once called enemy called corruption has also of “the challenge of independent hills abroad 'whence cometh their prominently. here 'ordinariness, mediocrity and grown so luxuriantly in their journalism” we are facing as a medical help'. I have dwelt so much on small dreams' that drive our regime too like yam tendrils in the nation. It will be a big surprise if What is worse, education e d u c a t i o n o n t h i s s i x t h politics. Just as some of the ruling rainy season. we do not find a great deal of alibi quality has become a huge anniversary note because there is party's hypocrites and orators will Before May 29 celebration, i n t h e s p e c i a l e d i t i o n s o f embarrassment as schools churn no doubt that unless our leaders on that day tell us to join in there will be another version of Democracy Day on Tuesday. At out only certificate holders swallow their pride and vanity and celebrating the lanky Sheriff in oratory and sophistry on how the public presentation of a book without employable skills. invest in education quality, we will Town whose body language alone exported banditry has scuttled titled, “Watchdog Or Captured Education is supposed to address continue to celebrate excuses and has produced so many rice farmers democracy and development and Media: A study of the role of the the challenges in this disruptive continue to read from Walter and 5,000 megawatts of electricity indeed the 'Nigerian Dream'. media in Nigeria's emergent digital age. Graduates in this age Rodney's lamentation book, in just six years. Some ever-ready hatchet men in democracy 1999-2016” before are made to solve problems of “How the West underdeveloped Lest we forget, we will be told the media will help the powers that May 29, 2018 at the University of these times. But ours cannot at the Africa” every year. to thank God for giving us a man be to tell us how terrible the Lagos, Mass Communication m o m e n t . S o , e d u c a t i o n , It's, therefore, a time to speak of incredible integrity whose Obasanjos, the Danjumas, the Department, an analyst hinted at h e a l t h c a r e a n d r o a d some inconvenient truth to all the s t r o n g h a n d s a l o n e o n c e Babangidas, the Abdusalamis and ethical challenges induced by transportation infrastructure powers in this our turbulent 'technically defeated' Boko Haram their opposition allies have been. consistent failure of some remain topmost in the hierarchy Federation. Which is to tell them and artfully conquered corruption They will tell us that these greedy proprietors to pay salaries of of our needs. that it is not glorious to be – before their resurgence, no powers are fighting only for their media workers as and when due. The other day, a senior planning for how to win elections thanks to unending wars in Libya oil fields and power stations' It may be possible to discern colleague told one of our state all the time without any actionable among other flash points. What is licences being threatened and “special reports” and wonderful commissioners in a chance meet in blueprint on what to do with the more, soon and very soon, even could be revoked by the only man analyses done for some politically Lagos that the fact that an Apapa mandate? Their current mandate the main opposition leading lights who can fight corrupt Generals exposed people by unpaid workers Local Government Council, the is in crisis and they are planning will engage in a great deal of and oil thieves in town. on May 29, 2021. What is the rich Government and for 2023. It is not acceptable for 'intellectual masturbation' and In the same vein, many of colour of independence of the the almighty Federal Government any leaders in Nigeria to be appeal for forgiveness without Nigeria's national economic media without sustainable have not been able to close ranks to celebrating excuses when the restitution and repentance. c o u n c i l p o w e r s w h o t a g financial independence where the find solution to the peculiar mess people talk about their mental T h e y, t h e c o l o u r l e s s themselves 'executive governors' private sector is the driver of at the Apapa Ports is a failure of all laziness, ordinariness and small opposition figures will sing to us will blow their trumpets too at the economic growth? Who can the governments. Is that message dreams. Our leaders at all levels that we told you in 2015 that the end of this May that they will pay pontificate on independent not well transmitted? should seek knowledge about man who arbitrarily cancelled the salaries regularly now that over- journalism in a nation that is not As I have been saying here, dynamic capabilities, efficiency Lagos Metro line project and bloated subsidy, which is courting entrepreneurial enough to support w h e r e a r e t h e s i g n i f i c a n t and the discipline of getting things education subsidy in 1984 would threat of zero allocation will be good journalism? constituency projects Nigeria's done – instead of fighting critics. compound the problems they had removed. And we will clap for So, as most of the efforts at legislators at federal and state And that should begin with the created for 16 years then. They them. Just as many risk analysts performance evaluation may be levels can be proud of since 1999? quality of presidential and (the born again orators) will add too will be recruited to continue to directed at Abuja on May 29 this Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and gubernatorial bureaucracies. This that we should (in 2023) join forces still blame debt burdens as the year, it is relevant to beam some Shagamu-Ore Expressway Hall of is one area where our leaders don't with them and the third force to reasons they have been unable to light too on the 36 state governors Shame, for instance, should be listen to those who want them to defeat the remarkably parochial p ay s a l a r i e s a n d p e n s i o n s and government of the nation's erected as an albatross on the succeed. They dismiss such suggestions on human resource leader who has serially violated regularly. capital, Abuja – the 37th state. necks of all legislators from management as strategy for the constitution and put only his Part of our institutional Only very few of them including Southwest, Southeast and South applying for jobs. They need to kinsmen in power. weaknesses in the news media Ekiti, Anambra, Osun, Ondo, Edo South who have failed to represent listen to suggestions and criticisms Doubtless, we will hear on these days has been failure and a r e p r o d u c t s o f s t a g ge r e d us. How many times have our from the people who (s) elected May 29 that so much money has lack of capacity to cover the elections. And so, since 2015, how representatives in Abuja and 36 them. Listening is the beginning of been recovered even without federation: we cover and cover up many state governments have state capitals fought over the bad understanding of the complexity details. They will add here that mostly the Federal Government. r e c o r d e d o u t s t a n d i n g roads as economic routes they of the current crisis and national after all, their anti-graft czar the Most of the governors as was achievements that the nation can always fly over? There is another question. strong man, the Asiwaju of hinted at (here) before May 29, use as reference points? relevant question on the 22 years *Let's continue with this Western Nigeria recommended to 2018 had been over-decorated as How many of the governors that locusts have eaten. It is debate on six years of excuses and them was the one who could not “governors of the year” in various and their local government indisputable that our president has 22 years of locusts next week. account for the details of the capacities. That is how we have chairmen can be decorated on failed us in the area of healthcare. gargantuan loot and that was why been celebrating mediocrity and May 29 as poster boys of That is why he and members even failure of governance and democracy, after all? There are of his family are being treated in they couldn't get him confirmed as --Culled from Guardian Monday, May 3, 2021 Page 6 Interview Those to secure us now in danger - Chukwuma

r c h b i s h o p o f Southeast Province d i s a s t e r, p a i n f u l a n d Aand Bishop of Enugu regrettable situation. We, D i o c e s e ( A n g l i c a n Nigerians are thinking of what Communion), Most Rev. Dr sin we have committed. Apart Emmanuel Chukwuma, last from the COVID-19'pandemic Thursday, marked his 31st which the whole world is years as Bishop. The fiery experiencing, serious problems Cleric used the occasion to are confronting Nigeria today speak to a group of journalists which had never ever been in Enugu on the prevailing before and had brought a insecurity in the country, Igbo serious concern to the Church. p r e s i d e n c y , g r o w i n g I feel very much disturbed to be unemployment and other hearing most of the things that national issues. News Echo are happening. Now, we talk Correspondent, CHUMA a b o u t r a p e, b a n d i t r y, AUSTIN, was there. k i d n a p p i n g , i n s e c u r i t y Excerpt: concerning children who are now abducted in schools. This Congratulations for your 31st has become so serious that anniversary as an Anglican people are afraid to send their Bishop. In all honesty, what is children to school. We totally condemn this as a Church. We your view on the current Obiano socio-economic and political do not accept this situation in a situation in Nigeria? country like Nigeria. It is never April 29, 2021 marked my 31 in its character. I begin to ask, years concentration as Bishop why should these things be in Church of Nigeria, Anglican happening in this present Communion. And by the grace government of our President, of God I have witnessed Buhari? People are no safer. It different types of governments has gone to the point that even in Nigeria. Apart from those who you think will experiencing the Nigeria civil secure you are now in danger. war which happened in 1966- 1970, everybody knows that we What is your take on the on- ( N d i g b o ) h a v e b e e n go i n g b l o o dy f a c e - o f f marginalized. Since 1966 to Chukwuma between Nigeria security date, we have experienced a lot But some say the present that both the rich and the poor of change and we thought that operatives and the militant of things happening in our government under President are now crying and this has the change that was going to wing of Indigenous People of government and we thought Muhammadu Buhari is doing become so much a painful come will bring a serious Biafra (IPOB), the Eastern that everything will be getting enough? thing to all of us in Nigeria. change for us to have a better Security Network (ESN)? better, whereas as a Church, we Who are those people saying When this present government Nigeria. But it has become so We are not happy with the face- feel saddened that things are the present government is was coming in, everybody was surprising that what we off between the Nigeria not getting better rather getting doing enough? I want to say praying to God to grant us thought was going to be a security operatives and the worse. So, as I celebrate my that we have never had it so bad relief because they were talking change has become so much a IPOB. IPOB are not terrorists. 31st year's anniversary, we feel They are only agitating for very much concerned about equality, justice and fairness in what is happening in Nigeria. Nigeria. We are not also happy First and foremost, we “Whereby they find it difficult ‘ to secure lives, we call for a that the police, soldiers are now sympathized with families of being attacked because these all those who lost their lives in serious emergency stakeholders'‘ meeting on security and if people are to maintain peace. various killings in the country possible, let them resign. In some places where these things have We appeal to those people by insurgents. Due to the behind the attack to stop. bastardly activities of the happened, and if not that the presidency has settled some people Whatever may be the mistake insurgents, the Church of God in the Force, the next thing would have been a coup that means of these police and soldiers, let had been praying and will us give them a chance at least to continue to pray for peace and the government cannot control security. Therefore, what I want defend our land. But whatever that had happened, the police we are asking God to intervene. to say is that the government of Nigeria should not moSoludove this We are very much concerned and those in-charge of security that the present government of country to the point of coup situation because people are getting have disappointed Nigerians Nigeria has been so much tired and insecure. The president must wake up to see that the by not being sincere with security. They have been adamant. So much adamant to military, the police and other security agencies are well equipped allow the prayers to God to be selective in security. What a n s w e r e d d u e t o b a d to defend our country, Nigeria. The military must be sincere. It is caused EndSARS protest was gover nance, nonchalant unfortunate that all the money devoted for defence in the budget mainly because people were attitude, insincerity and not being molested unnecessarily being sensitive to the problems is said to be misused or missing. It is also unfortunate that those by police and not only that of the people. One is so much people who could not properly manage our security apparatus are check-points turned out to be concerned and worried that for places of extortions. Thank the past years now, Nigeria has now being made Ambassadors.'' God End-SARS brought little been passing through evil time. sanity but the worst has come to be with us now. Look at ‘‘ Continues on Pg.7 Monday, May 3, 2021 Page 7 Interview ...So dramatic the rich now cry - Chukwuma Continued from Pg.6

please stop. The killings, shooting we are seeing today are ungodly.

Generally, how do you address the issue of insecurity in the country? A lot of evil is happening in this country. The banditry, killings, maiming and kidnapping have spread to the Southern part of the country. Everywhere in Nigeria is not safe. What is the solution we don't know yet but we are calling on government of Nigeria and particularly the President who is the Commander-in- Chief to rise up to his responsibility with his new Service Chiefs to make sure lives and properties are secured. Whereby they find it difficult to secure lives, we call for a serious emergency stakeholders' meeting on security and if possible, let them resign. In some places where these things have happened, and if not that the presidency has settled Residents crowding the streets some people in the Force, the next thing would have been coup that means the government cannot control security. Therefore, what I want to say is that the government of Nigeria should not move this country to the point of coup situation because people are getting tired and insecure. The president must wake up to see that the military, the Chukwuma police and other security agencies are well equipped to defend our country, what is going on in the Northern part of East governors to defend lives and been talking too much. But action will Nigeria. The military must be sincere. It the country. We totally condemn the property of South East people. It was soon come up to make sure there is is unfortunate that all the money abduction of school children. not created to fight IPOB, ESN or peace in Igbo land. South East is not a devoted for defence in the budget is said whatever or to support the Fulani jihad. place where people come and think to be misused or missing. It is also Why did you say IPOB is not a It is not true and anybody saying that is they can do whatever they like. It is not unfortunate that those people who could terrorist organization when the talking nonsense. All what the five in the character of Igbo to kill people. not properly manage our security present government at the centre has governors and Ohanaeze are talking We have never been involved in killing apparatus are now being made tagged it so by proscription, insisting with religious leaders is that we must people. And whoever is involved or Ambassadors. it is a dangerous group? find a way but unfortunately we have masterminding these killings should We definitely condemn the statement A r e y o u s a t i s f i e d w i t h t h e credited to the Minister of Information performances of the nation's political blackmailing the IPOB that they are leaders? terrorists. And I want to say that they Our political leaders have failed are not terrorists. They should also “We are not happy with the face-off‘ between the Nigeria security woefully. Many of them are insensitive declare Fulani herdsmen terrorists. to the plight of the masses. Check the IPOB are agitators by my own operatives and the IPOB. IPOB‘ are not terrorists. They are only growing number of our able youths interpretation. They are agitating for agitating for equality, justice and fairness in Nigeria. We are not roaming the streets seeking elusive jobs. equal rights but unfortunately people Unemployment rate is so alarming misunderstood them. When you say also happy that the police, soldiers are now being attacked because these people are to maintain peace. We appeal to those because our political leaders do not have somebody is a terrorist and the person vision for purposeful and pragmatic begins to behave like one. This is the people behind the attack to stop. Whatever may be the mistake of leadership. We have put the right people problem. We have begun to talk to them these police and soldiers, let us give them a chance at least to as our leaders to make things right. The to sheath their swords. We are working Church frowns at the way our leaders hard as a Church with Ohanaeze defend our land. But whatever that had happened, the police and those in-charge of security have disappointed Nigerians by not live in affluence when majority are poor. Ndigbo to have a dialogue with our There is hunger in the land largely brothers and they know they cannot do being sincere with security. They have been selective in security. caused by selfishness and greed of our anything about this agitation alone. What caused EndSARS protest was mainly because people were leaders. This bad governance has led to Ohanaeze Ndigbo will soon make a present restiveness in the country. We pronouncement on the security outfit being molested unnecessarily by police and not only that check- points turned out to be places of extortions. Thank God End- need to have leaders with fear of God called Ebubeagu which has been who should be responsive, responsible adopted by the Southeast governors. SARS brought little sanity but the worst has come to be with us and accountable to the people. Nigeria is There is fear in some quarters that now. Look at what is going on in the Northern part of the endowed with abundant human and Ebubeagu was created to checkmate country. We totally condemn the abduction of school children.' natural resources. We have to strengthen ESN and consolidate Islamist our system to get credible leaders at all stronghold in Igbo land? levels, devoid of ethnicity, sectionalism Ebubeagu was established by the South ‘‘ and religion sentiment. Monday, May 3, 2021 Page 8

Curbing menace of Fulani herdsmen on South East farmers, residents m a i m e d a n d p r o p e r t y By Ikenna Orioha destroyed by Fulani herders who vehemently opposed everal communities in their open grazing on their the South East are farmlands. Sunder siege given to Negatively, the herders menace of Fulani herdsmen a n d f a r m e r s c l a s h e s who kill, maim, abduct experience at Orlu was so farmers (residents) and gory that many indigenes destroy their crops, houses d e s e r t e d t h e l o c a l i t y. and property with the devilish Recounting the ordeal, a intention to possess their resident of Orlu who did not lands for their herds or disclose her name for fear of possibly for permanent the unknown, disclosed that, settlement. Thus, the people "on 25th January, 2021, there of South East, Delta, Ondo, was a carnage at Orlu Benue States are urging communities where Eastern government to set aside Security Network (ESN) politics, ethnicity, hatred and defending our people against religion to curbing the Fulani herders invasion and menace which they frowned attack clashed with the had bedeviled their families, military who were shielding k i n d r e d , v i l l a ge s a n d the herders. Innocent people communities. including some Sabbath Over the years, helpless Fulani herdsmen priests and their worshippers farmers (residents who are were wasted, maimed, major targets) had lamented Sadly, the government does us adversely. Many farmers at years ago, invaded Ihie kidnapped, arrested and setbacks and food insecurity practically nothing to curb the the area are now weakened community, killed and detained in police cells, due to incessant fierce attacks menace. Ngor- Okpala and and demoralized to farm. maimed scores of persons h o u s e s b u r n t , m a n y by the suspected Fulani some parts of Mbaise are also Cows would eat far m and government did nothing displaced". herdsmen who they accused being devastated. This ugly products as herders chase us to sanction them and this Some media reported that of using dangerous and trend causes scarcity of food out of the farms with encourages them more to the Orlu crisis was triggered sophisticated weapons to in Imo State. dangerous and sophisticated encroach our lands and by Fulani herdsmen, who chase them from their farms The people had lamented weapons only to colonize and destroy our farms as we forcefully encroached and and communities and possess their ordeal and demanded occupy the farmlands with experience today. It is bad and occupied Orlu ancestral lands their lands with government government's intervention government and security saddening that the military for grazing of their cattle, but obviously allegedly backing otherwise according to them operatives doing practically and the police who surround were resisted and chased out them. they may be tempted to take nothing to salvage the our environments ignore us to by ESN operatives. "The Recently, a married young laws into their own hands to situation. be wiped out by Fulani federal government later man was butchered by Fulani safeguard themselves from "We have laid series of herders terrorists. We are deployed Air force men, foot herders at Ihube community attack, as well as protect their complaints to government helplessly confused of all soldiers and police, who of Okigwe, just as two old lands from being hijacked. and security operatives these absurdities. Other threw bombs, grenades and men were separately killed at Meanwhile, the aggrieved without any positive action as farmers and farmlands in other arsenals into Orlu, Oru O r o d o a n d O g u t a farmers who spoke to News the Fulani herdsmen have Ohaji communities such as East, Orsu, Ideato and the communities of Imo State in E c h o t h r o u g h I h e k a s i n c e J a n u a r y, 2 0 2 0 , M g b u i s h i , M g b i r i c h i , neighbouring Anambra their farms and on the road Christopher and John Okeka, reinforced and life has been Abakuru, Ohoba, Umuagwo, communities in search of unprovoked and the culprits recounted that "for more than h a r d w i t h u s. U n l e s s Assa, Obile, Ochia, Obosima, ESN operatives instead of went scot- free as government 20 years, Obitti, Ihie, government wants us to take A m a f o , U m u n w a k u , combating the killer Fulani and the military were said to U mu a p u a n d Awa r r a , laws in our own hands we Umuokanne among others herdsmen who are allegedly have been shielding them. communities who farm cannot just fold our hands have been under attack by backed by Miyetti Allah (the Between 2008 and 2014, within the Imo Robber Estate while hunger and insecurity Fulani cattle rearers too who umbrella body of cattle Fulani herders invaded Ihie ( O b i t t i ) w h e r e F u l a n i ravages us. we had earlier asked to leave breeders association of community in Ohaji and herdsmen mainly graze their " I t i s a p p a l l i n g l y our lands since they are bent Nigeria), security agents and killed scores of farmers who cattle are always attacked and degrading that army and to kill us all and possess our federal government". resisted them from destroying our crops eaten by their cows p o l i c e w h o g u a r d o i l lands and enslave our However, some concerned their farm products. The same and lives being destroyed by company workers and their women". Imo indigenes have advised ugly experience happened at stern herdsmen who value facilities patrol the area, but F e w y e a r s p a s t , government to stop Fulani Obitti community where their cattle more than human do nothing to sanction Fulani communities of Ideato North herdsmen from rearing their herders attacked and raped a beings, especially those who herdsmen who they are aware and South, Ihitte Uboma, cattle in Igbo to avoid clashes, female university student, are not of the same race or attack farmers and possess Owerri West, Owerri North, saying open grazing is illegal even after destroying farmers' religion (faith) with them". their lands. Their adamant Okigwe, Orlu, Onuimo, Oru and should be seen as such. crops with their cattle. Till The people emphasized disposition may not be East, Oru West, Mbaitoli and An Imo State based date, Fulani herders are still that because of the attacks unconnected to ethnicity, Ezinihitte Mbaise local journalist, Deacon Dan t e r r o r i z i n g f a r m e r s , and destruction of their farms religion and race". government areas of Imo Opara, wholly "condemned destroying farms, scaring they "no longer farm actively. The farmers recalled that State were attacked and many natives were exterminated, them from going to farm. And hunger is hitting many of "Fulani herdsmen, many Continues on Pg. 9 Monday, May 3, 2021 Page 9

...Curbing menace of Fulani herdsmen on South East farmers, residents insecurity. According to him, Continued from Pg. 8 “I'm disturbed over the worsening Fulani herders and the unlawful activities of farmers crisis in Igbo enclave. Fulani herdsmen in the South Hence, I appeal to the federal East. They are terrorists who government to assist the states terrorize people with their to establish cattle ranches.'' illicit activity of open “Open grazing is illegal grazing". and unconstitutional. If the Sebastian Chuks, a native 1969 statutory laws of the of Nwangele, Imo State, said federation banned it, who else he "totally condemned the has the right to reintroduce it? killing and maiming of Igbo Through open grazing, the farmers right on their South East has lost its ancestral farmlands by Fulani innocent citizens to herdsmen terrorists masquerading as who encroach on their herdsmen. No right thinking farmlands and destroy crops person will accept that in a with impunity. I totally stand saner society, but the problem against it. The only way to h e r e i s t h a t f e d e r a l monitor these killer herdsmen government is alleged to be and infiltrators in and around Fulani herdsmen the one aiding them to communities is to encourage continue with the evil acts in the establishment of ranches. agents cause menace in their Sciences', said the region has who are predominantly fulfillment of Buhari's agenda By so doing, the identities of communities with scores of "a lot to learn from the crisis farmers had abandoned their to Fulanize and Islamize the every cattle rustler will be farmers being killed. They bedeviling it. Just like the homes and fled to Nsukka Igbo". documented and checked for warned their leaders against Ukpabia- Nimbo attack, and Aku in Igbo Etiti, Enugu, B l a m i n g f e d e r a l security reasons. On the other the breach of peace, law and , a common for safety. "Even many days g o v e r n m e n t f o r i t s way round, ownership of order while asking Fulani ground needs to be found, but after the attack, the people of nonchalance to the unrest it has to be addressed in line ranch, be it public or private, herdsmen to stop open Nimbo and neighbouring per petrated by Fulani no one, even government has with its global, political and grazing which they said is community of Abi were still herders, Senator Samuel the right to grab people's lands against the law. religious implications". s e e n l e a v i n g t h e i r Anywanwu, who represented without proper compensation For Michael Nwanna and Reports credited to some Owerri Senatorial District in in the name of building Uchenna Ekeyi, "because anonymous natives of Enugu communities in droves, as the Senate, had condemned ranches". Obiano is the worst governor State, stated that Nimbo "is a they were not sure of their t h e k i l l i n g s a n d t h e The former lawmaker had in the political history of border town of Uzo- Uwani safety". destructions of property by also regretted the manner in Anambra State that is why he areas of Enugu State, where A man who lost his Fulani herdsmen and security which top security chiefs of does not get concerned as his seven villages: Ekwuru, brother to the attack, Obata agents in the South East and the Igbo were being retired citizens are being hacked to Nimbo- Ngwoko, Ugwuijoro, Nnadozie, a native of Ebor c a l l e d f o r p e a c e a n d E b o r, E nu g u - N i m b o, whenever they were due to death by haters of Igbo race. community of Nimbo, tolerance. climb the highest security Umuome and Ugwuachara Why can't the police or the narrated that Fulani cattle Anyanwu, in a statement ladder, describing such as an army arrest leaders of Miyetti were invaded and scores were rustlers "stormed after the signed by his Special Adviser orchestrated plot to silence Allah and charge them for massacred by over 500 armed on Media, Ikenna Onuoha, the Igbo from the security rape, murder and vandalism Fulani herdsmen who were local vigilante had left to expressed worry at the rate of architecture of the nation, of people's farms and rated as the fourth deadliest refresh. Someone gives them clashes between herders and a d v i s i n g S o u t h E a s t properties. Things are getting terror groups in the World- in information on when the farmers in the South East, governors to summon a out of hand in South East. the early hours of April 25, vigilante is around or had even as he condemned the security meeting involving May God help us all". 2016. left". idea of open grazing in the stakeholders and community Regrettably, in June, 2017, Notably, "Uzo- Uwani "The first victim, Eze South East. leaders in the zone, saying the Fulani herders attack on shares boundaries with the Sylvanus", Obata, continued, S e n a t o r A n y a n w u , Southern States of Ebonyi "such a meeting would Aku town of Igbo Etiti local "was on his way to the farm therefore gave the nod for the address the issue of open government area of Enugu and Anambra and Central that ill- fated morning when establishment of ranches in grazing, which is targeted at State had opened the States of Benue and Kogi various states. He maintained grabbing people's lands in community to other ills where these attacks have he was slaughtered like a ram that the policy, when adopted negation to the constitution". plaguing the area. increased lately. Roaming and they went ahead to would not only check the In Anambra, Enugu, Lambasting the leaders of terrorists have reportedly harvest his heart which they movement of mercenaries Ebonyi, Rivers, Cross Rivers, S o u t h E a s t f o r b e i n g terrorized, occupied lands, eventually made away with". and infiltrators, but capable Benue, Akwaibom, Edo, nonchalant over rising raped, kidnapped, murdered Media reports also have it of fostering peace. Open Delta, Ondo and Abia States, i n s e c u r i t y i n t h e i r over 100 of people across the that a high profile abduction grazing remains the cause of residents are living in fear communities, lecturers with farming communities of cases associated to herdsmen incessant communal crises in South and North Central given to the menace of Fulani Federal University of Science including that of Chief Olu the country, leading to herdsmen. and Technology Owerri States in 2016. Apart from Falae "who was traced to his w a n t o n k i l l i n g s a n d To this effect, Anambra (FUTO), Dan Chima Amadi waste of human lives, the destruction of properties. indigenes have accused and Appolonia Ifeyinwa herders also kidnap for farm, kidnapped in his farm at Until the policy is played Governor Willie Obiano of Amadi, in their published ransom". Ilado, , in January down, the country would being lackadaisical while w o r k i n ' J o u r n a l o n According to the Enugu 5, 2016....to be continued. continue to battle with Fulani herdsmen and security Humanities and Social State natives, most villagers Monday, May 3, 2021 Page 10 Cover Ebubeagu: More questions than answers By Ori Martins

Obiano

Ebubeagu security outfit Ebonyi state.

here are many pick the bills? doing otherwise would be days in Abuja before questions begging IPOB's Eastern Security The glimpse or vague arrested and prosecuted.” landing home. for answers in the N e t w o r k ( E S N ) t o T idea of Ebubeagu is all Apart from Umahi, no According to an Owerri wake of the regional Ebubeagu but asked if about was unveiled during o t h e r g o v e r n o r h a s resident, John Muruako, security outfit setup by the there was a law backing the the public presentation of launched the takeoff of Ebubeagu will not work. South East Governors setting up of the outfit put the state chapter of Ebubeagu in his state. Even He said; “Take it from me, F o r u m c o d e n a m e d in place by the governors? Ebubeagu, performed last Imo State where the outfit Ebubeagu will not work. It Ebubeagu. The governors “If you ask me, I will go for Wednesday, during a was launched and where it is dead on arrival. I am led by their chairman, the ESN. My reason is simple. media briefing by Umahi, appeared insecurity is saying this because I live Ebonyi State chief security Ebubeagu may end up after a security council worse than other states, has here in Owerri and I hear officer, Chief Dave Umahi, serving as the governors meeting at the Government yet to announce any things. The masses have had in the wake of the security dogs – they will House, Abakaliki. Still, operational structure for lost confidence in the s e v e r e i n s e c u r i t y work for the personal needs Umahi never revealed the the network. Not minding governors and so they are challenges, announced the of the governors who set operational mechanism of that after the creation of not going to cooperate. creation of Ebubeagu as a them up. By the way, is Ebubeagu. E b u b e a g u h o o d l u m s Most Igbo people see the way out. there any law backing the He said; “We have almost took over Imo State governors as appendages Since its creation, people Soludo emergence of Ebubeagu? agreed that all native leading to the attack on the o f t h e F e d e r a l of the South East have been There are many things not doctors in the state and police command, federal Government. In fact, one asking various questions r e a l l y c l e a r a b o u t traditional medicine p r i s o n s a s we l l t h e commentator noted that without any answer. Some Ebubeagu. Have they dealers must within seven governor's house in his had the Ebubeagu network of the questions being started recruiting? Where days, register with the h o m e t ow n . T h i n g s to favour the South East, asked include; what is the are their bases in Imo State commissioner for border became more confused the Federal Government recruitment process of for instance? I f I want to p e a c e , w i t h t h e when the people of Imo would be cautioning the Ebubeagu? Where are the enlist from Umuahia or commissioner for health State got worried to the governors. This shows you desgninated points of Enugu or Onitsha where and with the commissioner extent that they started the extent of disconnect”. recruitment? Who and will I go? How do I go of police. There would be asking questions about the Another respondent, who are incharge? Will about it? Who will I be an executive order to this whereabouts of their Nduka Onyeuba said he they bear arms? Who will talking to”?, he enthused. effect and anyone caught governor who stayed seven would have preferred Monday, May 3, 2021 Page 11 Issues 20 years after: Why PH Int'l Airport hotel still suffers neglect

By Chukwudi Chidiebere

Obiano

Dilapidated hotel h e P o r t H a r c o u r t Olympia hotel by former Rivers The CEO Pride & Hilton said that use the hotel. He stated that the international airlines, business Inter national Air por t governor Rt Hon Chibuike Rotimi the hotel unfortunately fell victim of owners have so far lost huge sum of opportunities are just limitless. Tcommands the highest Amaechi, without consulting the political considerations, from 1999, funds. He disclosed the hotel had "Before now, there was the attention and patronage, among its Bayelsa government. The former when this republic commenced, the more than 300 rooms, the best problem of armed robbery attacks, equals, in the South East/South House member also revealed that contract was taken away from conference halls. Affirming the but with what governor Wike is South region. The economic there is a court case between them them." Prior to our success in the splendor of Israeli architectural doing in the area of security, peace relevance of , currently at the Supreme Court of management of the hotel and the d e s i g n s a n d c o n s t r u c t i o n and tranquility, the citizenry enjoys occasioned by oil and gas prospect Nigeria, over their jointly owned image we gave to it, the government superiority, he vouched, the Port such a feat calls for commendation. obviates the need of the hotel's assets. of , also gave us Harcourt International hotel, can Cultists and bandits do not operate position. He affirmed that the fate of the contract for the management of the only be compared with the Concord at will nowadays, as was the order in The old Rivers State invested a lot hotel remains uncertain until the Presidential hotel and Cattle Rest Hotel Owerri, Imo state. time past. Anybody who goes to therein, to get it to such Supreme Court decides on the case. House, now called the Delta Hotel. The CEO Pride & Hilton clean up the area will be opened up a international standard. Up till 1998, When 'News Echo' interviewed the However the documentations and Consultancy revealed that, because visa for business activities. it was the beehive of social activities. Chief Executive Officer CEO of the contractual agreement were not yet of the way they managed the On how much that could be All the relevant facilities were in last catering firm that managed it, perfected before the government Airport hotel, the military governor required to restore/revive it for place, even as proceeds were also Pride & Hilton Management bowed out." of Imo state, on coming there for the business again, he vouched it will coming. The International hotel Consultancy, Hon Emeh Glory He vouched that when they left, Chief of Army conference, realizing need the services of architects for then provided job opportunities for Emeh, he obliged information, the hotel was given to one Mr that, while there years bye, snakes structural and integrity tests, not less than 5000 people, from r e g a r d i n g t h e p e r s o n a l i t y, Desmond from either Edo or Delta and other reptiles nearly attacked clearing the bush to recover the regular staff, casual workers, and commercial value and social state, to manage and that was when him, could only experience sporting facilities, which he said, are suppliers to contractors. Supports relevance of the International it began to go down, saying that a e s t h e t i c s, b e a u t y, p r o p e r rather possible services firms also thrived. It Airport, Omagwa Port Harcourt. some of the stories they began to organization, expressed surprise at What have been lost so far, he became the pride of the garden city He explained that they got the hear after, was that the equipment the revival of the hotel. After inquiry regretted, the inestimable losses state. privilege of managing the hotel removed from there, for repairs were from the then Governor, invited when one considers sale of rooms. But today the once opulent edifice between1994-98, and did so on never returned. them to Owerri, to discuss the taking "There are 350 rooms in all there. To has become the ghost of its former management contract, by his On why the hotel is in its present over of the Concord hotel. put the place to use needs a lot. Once self, overgrown by bushes. It has company Pride & Hilton Int'l sorry state, he said he did not know. Expressing optimism on the the structure remains strong and become a safe paradise for all forms Consultants, specializing in "What I can't vividly say is that, the possible reactivation of the place, habitable other challenges can be of criminal activities. Armed promoting investment opportunities hotel belonged to Rivers and Bayelsa former Chief of Staff to Governor faced and attended to gradually. robbers hide there; kidnappers have and providing initial management states then. I also remember there , assured, there is nothing On his advice to the owners of the taken over it, as they keep their support services. was a time efforts were made to too hard getting back into the hotel. edifice, he reminded them that victims there, while they negotiate Chief Emeh Glory noted that by separate its ownership, how far they "First clear the bush, the building Rivers State is the hub of oil and gas, with their family members. the time they went there, it had went about it, I do not know." remains there, a few facilities would it will take time for the State to be A visit to the hotel reveals the already been abandoned for a while, Considering huge investment have gone bad I knoSoludow, like the dry business wise, Rivers will soon sorry sight it represents. A privileged but the grace of God helped them, made to set up the five star hotels, generating sets, air conditioning and be the tourists' destination point, and former member of the Rivers and that of the military governor of the former contractor regretted the central air conditioning system." hence any reasonable investor State House of Assembly, pleading the time, Col , losses so incured by the owners, "Others include the cooking should not allow such a huge anonymity, blamed the fate of the they revived the hotel, such that, it noting that, there is no way anybody utensils like the gas cookers, electric investment to die off like that, he hotel to joint ownership by Rivers once more became the centre of or state could keep such an edifice cookers and all the rest of them, they warmed. and Bayelsa states. He further activities in the State. for close to 20 years in a state of are all replaceable. The thing that is News Echo noted with extreme disclosed that there are three other "As such, all weddings, marriage disuse, without incurring losses. permanent and strong is the surprise, the nonchalance of Rivers hotels-- Presidential, Delta and the ceremonies as well other social "Everybody has lost, workers have building, because the builders State civil servants with the Ministry demolished Olympia, both states events were then held there. We had lost, landlords also lost, for they actually spent judiciously the time of Trade and Commerce, who own jointly. what was called 'two nights for the used to have supply quota to make to and money of the owners, to get the refused forms of information The source revealed, the Rivers price of one night', when people the hotel, tourists have also lost", he place well done. materials, even the write was aimed government wanted to buy off the came at weekends, paid for only a summarized. "It had a-9-hole golf course, a at attracting government's attention equity shares holdings of the hotels night, having spent two. The effect Chief Emeh Glory explained that football pitch, a long tennis court, a to it, perhaps for possible partner from there, but were refused. was that people trooped from the when he was there, for the first time basket ball court, among other rehabilitation. Even efforts to get He noted that face off crept between entire world to patronize us," he in the history of the hotel, they facilities. Now that there is more responses from the Ministry of them, after the demolition of the narrated with relish. attracted the military and airlines to business at the airport, with the Justice met a brick wall. News Echo Monday, May 3, 2021 Page 12

NEWS Insecurity: Save Nigeria from collapse - Ekweremadu urges FG From Dan Maduagwu, Diocese of Umuahia; at is profusely bleeding to like rams as we witnessed ingly bourgeoning kidnap an exception. Umuahia St Mary’s Church, Ohoko- death in our own hands in Zabarmari village in industry. “Our economy, if any- be/ Umuohu, Ndume- and by our making. Every . The country is as divided thing like that still remains, ormer Deputy Ibeku, Ekweremadu rep- day, reports of bloodlet- “The schools are no and disjointed as never in has collapsed and the peo- ple are writhing in pains. Senate President , resented by Hon. Alex ting, mass killing, and kid- longer safe as they have our history. “Ethno-religious confla- This has helped to fuel the Senator Ike Ekwer- Chiedozie Ogbonnaya, nap for ransom pervade turned to sports ground by F bandits, who kidnap and grations and killings at the communal clashes all over emadu has lamented the National Publicly Secre- our news media and con- kill, while the lucky ones slightest provocations have the country because a hun- rising insecurity in parts tary, Ohaneze Ndigbo, ventional media spaces get ransomed in an increas- become a norm rather than gry man is an angry man”. of the country , calling on lamented that Nigeria is and channels as mindless the federal government to currently at crossroads. militias, terrorists, ban- save the nation from col- Ekweremadu insisted dits, and a host of assorted lapse. that if there is any time criminals run riot across Anambra Government battles Ekweremadu made the Nigeria seriously needs to the length and breadth of observations in a message rebuild, that time is now our nation. malaria to standstill titled the role of chris- as Nigeria is burning, liter- Hunger has enveloped From Karen James, to 23 per cent in 2018. The efforts made in controlling tian politicians in Nation ally and figuratively at that our land because farmers Nnewi commissioner said this dur- malaria and also celebrate cannot go to their farms. building at the 1st Session juncture where we have to ing a symbolic ceremony the successes recorded in They are either killed or rebuild or risk perishing. he Anambra State to mark this year’s `World eliminating the disease.’’ of the 10th Synod of An- raped by arm-bearing mili- glican Communion His words, “Nigeria Government has said Malaria Day at Ekwueme Okpala said that the tias or have their throats slit Tits resolve to end ma- Square, Awka. state through `Zero malar- laria needs individual com- According to him the ia starts With me and draw mitment. State government through the line against malaria pro- According to the commis- his ministry would contin- grammes, made significant sioner for health, Dr. Vin- ue to sustain efforts in order gains in tackling the disease. cent Okpala, malaria had to eliminate the burden of He added that with high affected more than 228 mil- malaria in the state. Theme coverage in distribution of lion people globally in 2019 for this year is: “Zero Ma- long lasting mosquito treat- with 450,000 deaths. And laria-Draw the Line Against ed nets and impact of prima- in Nigeria it was responsible Malaria’’ while the slogan is ry health services through for about 27 per cent of the `Stand up, Take Action.’ the Primary Health Centres, population and 22 per cent He noted that the current the drive had been sustained deaths while regretting that administration through var- across the state. Nigeria had the worst bur- ious interventions made Okpala noted that the den in Sub-Saharan Africa. commendable milestones in Anambra Health Insurance He noted that the coun- tackling the disease. Scheme had given vulnera- try made significant gains The World Malaria Day is ble people in the 326 politi- in eliminating the disease held every April 25 and was cal wards in the state easy ac- by reducing the prevalence set aside by the internation- cess to quality and affordable rate from 27 per cent in 2015 al Community to evaluate healthcare services. Pure water price hike: A suspected unstable man occupying Enugu-Onitsha expressway. Producers decry high cost of materials From Uchenna Ezeadigwe, modity for two hundred nai- hundred pieces of packing Awka ra, and a sachet, twenty naira. bag, which sold between two We are yet to get new minimum It was equally gathered that thousand, five hundred naira roducers of sachet wa- the last weekend’s strike by and three thousand naira, is wage - Anambra NLC tells Obiano ter, popularly known as the manufacturers and the now nine thousand naira at P‘pure water’ in Awka recent increase in price of the the market, and half ton of From Ovat Mike, ernment at all level to come that government will address and its environ have identified commodity are as a result of foils sold for three hundred Onitsha up with policies includ- other challenges in no distant and blamed the recent hike in increase in prices of raw ma- and fifty thousand naira, is ing skills acquisitions pro- time. the price of the commodity terials in the market. now between one point five nambra state Chapter gramme for the youths to be The State Chairman of on high cost of raw materials. According to the Anam- million, and one point six of the Nigeria Labour self-reliant, he commended Trade Union Congress News Echo who monitored bra State President of Table million naira. ACongress (NLC) has Obiano for his regular pay- (TUC), Comrade Ifeanyi the recent price of the com- Water Producers Associa- Another manufacturer, Mr. reminded the State Gover- ment of salaries and pensions Okechukwu, in his part, modity in Awka and its en- tion, Reverend Augustine Peter Asogu explained that nor, Willie Obiano to fully as at when due and the recent commended the state gover- virons reports that during the Ofiaeli, raw materials for the apart from the hike in the implement the new mini- construction of International nor, for the prompt payment monitoring exercise, it was production of the commodi- prices of raw materials, mem- mum wage of N30,000 and Cargo airport in the State. of workers salaries and the discovered that a set of sachet ty have skyrocketed, forcing bers also have to make up for its consequential adjustment In his remarks, the state promotion of workers in water (11 bags) earlier sold for manufacturers to increase the other recurring expenses in as agreed with labour as soon governor, Willie Obiano, rep- 2019 and the 2020 promotion one thousand, three hundred commodity’s price in order to order to maintain production as the COVID-19 is over. resented by his deputy, Dr. exercise which is expected to naira, is now one thousand, cover their expenses. machines and supply vehicles. It also asked the governor Nkem Okeke urged the work- commence soon. five hundred naira, while re- Reverend Ofiaeli noted that Also, two of the retailers to resolve all outstanding la- ers to be patient, promising tailers sell a bag of the com- who spoke to News Echo, bour issues in the same. Mrs. Igwe and Mr. Chukwudi The state NLC chairman, Owolabi replaces Kuryas as Anambra CP Uche, said even at the present Comrade Jerry Nnubia, twenty naira they sell a sachet haul the Police architecture ployment of the new CP is Police Monday Bala Kuryas stated this in his May Day From Uchenna Ezeadigwe, of water, there is no much of the South East and South part of the ongoing efforts at has been redeployed to the speech on Saturday, at Alex Awka profit in the business, consid- South Geo-Political zones. re-ordering, overhauling and Anti-Fraud Section of the Ekwueme Square, Awka. ering transportation and other A press statement signed strengthening the security and Force Headquarters Annex He also appealed to the The Nigerian Police Force expenses they make daily. and made available to the policing architecture in An- Lagos. governor to intervene in has announced the deploy- Lamenting over the new de- press by the force Public Re- ambra State and other States Also, the statements fur- other workers’ challenges ment of a new Commission- velopment, some customers, lations Officers, force head- of the South-East and South- ther reads that “the IGP has which included, contributory er of Police to the Anambra including Mr. Jachi Aghara quarters, CP Frank Mba South geo-political zones of ordered the posting of other pension scheme, arrears of state in the person of Mr. Mrs. Amara Onwubiko, and said: “The Inspector General the country”. strategic and tactical com- gratuity, problems of health Chris Owolabi, to replace Mr. Mr. Ebuka Chukwu urged the of Police, Ag. IGP Usman Prior to his deployment Mr. manders within the zones. A sector unions, problem of Monday Bala Kuryas. state govermnet to look into Alkali Baba has ordered the Chris Owolabi was the Dep- total of two (2) Deputy Com- teachers, problems of NASU, This is in reaction to the the activities of major play- posting of CP Christopher uty Commissioner of Police missioners of Police (DCPs), construction of affordable huge insecurity level in the ers in the production of the A. Owolabi as the new Com- in charge of Finance and Ad- fourteen (14) Assistant Com- houses for workers, construc- state that has resulted to loss commodity, in order to save missioner of Police (CP) in ministration in the Anambra missioners of Police and tion of labour house, among of high number of lives and the masses from unnecessary charge of Anambra State State Police Command while other mid-level officers were others. properties which prompted hardship. While calling on the gov- the force command to over- Police Command. The de- the Former Commissioner of affected”.

News Echo Monday, May 3, 2021 Page 13 NEWS Insecurity: Umahi charges nation’s leaders to seek face of God large. Ibiam International Con- ... As Ebonyi organizes 7-day praying and fasting The praying and fasting ference Center, while the will hold in three catego- third category will be at By David Eze, the schools, etc, they want issued in Abakaliki by denominations under the ries. Those at the state the local government ar- Abakaliki us to share the money but the state commissioner aegis of Divine Mandate level will carry out their eas while other members we say no. for Information and State pastors will beseech God own exercise at the Chris- of the public are enjoined overnor David The Governor, who lik- Orientation, Barrister Orji in prayer for His inter- tian Ecumenical Center, to observe the prayer from Umahi of Ebonyi ened the registration of Uchenna Orji stated that vention in the state, South Abakaliki, the second their locations. Gstate has charged native doctors in the State clergymen from different East zone and Nigeria at category will be at Akanu leaders of the South East to the fallout of the recent Zone and the country kidnap and killing of a to rise and act rightly youth by a native doctor, to save the nation from decried the social media the bang of hostilities ranting that are misrep- in parts of the country. resenting the fact on the Umahi made the call dur- ground, saying it was a ing a special Church Ser- way of checkmating the vice in Abakaliki rebuked excesses of the native doc- those who instead of of- tors. fering advice on how to Meanwhile, the state surmount the vagaries of has commenced a 7-day challenges, take delight in praying and fasting fol- the blame game and called lowing security challenges for all hands to be on deck that has engulfed Nigeria to come out of the chal- as a country. lenges. The exercise com- “What is happening in menced on Saturday, May the South East is not pecu- 1, at the Christian Ecu- liar to South East, it is all menical Center Abaka- over the country and so, liki and its grand finale the leaders must sit up, we will hold simultaneously on May 8, at Ecumeni- can’t continue to pretend Prof. Magnus Chidi Onuoha, Executive Director, West African Green Economic Development Institute (WAGEDI), cal Center, Akanu Ibiam as leaders, in this State, we Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State, presenting a key-note paper at the occasion of the launch of a book, titled: Ogwa have so much battle and International Conference Anunu Umumgbe: A ground-work of history and culture of Ogwa people, written by Dr. Chidi Ukomadu, of Federal Uni - the battle is stomach Infra- center, and local govern- versity of Lokoja, at the weekend, at Oboro Umuaro, Umunneato, Ogwa, Mbaitoli, Imo State. structure, they don’t want ment headquarters. us to build the hospitals, According to a release Heroes Remembrance Day: Umuahia bishop marks five years IPOB orders sit-at-home enthronement anniversary By Glory Ugochukwu tional rulers. The Guest Speaker and immediately. He was done on 30th May The Bishop while pre- the Bishop of Methodist with his masters degree he President and senting his address said that church Aba East, Rt. Rev. programme and had just From Nonye Udumiri, freedom. General Overseer he was consecrated and en- Dr. J. A. Anyanwu, while graduated last year Decem- Aba “All Biafrans living over- Tof Fulfilled Apos- throned as a bishop on 3rd speaking on the theme, ber. So he had dedicated seas must hold rallies in their tolic Gospel Church In- April, 2016 but the thanks- Mystery of thanksgiving that it was going to be a he Indigenous People respective countries of abode ternational INC, Bishop giving service could not encouraged the church to be big celebration because all of Biafra (IPOB) on in honour of our fallen he- Shedrack Igbariam Ubani hold because of the pan- thankful, they must not wait his achievement were all by TSunday announced roes and heroines including at the weekend hosted a demic and its consequent for great things to happen merit and by the mercies of that it’s annual anniversary the gallant Imo State East- thanks giving ceremony lockdown that prevented to them before they can ex- God. of for the remembrance of ern Security Network, ESN, to mark his five years en- the event from holding last press gratitude. They should He also said that thanks- Biafra fallen heroes and her- Commander, Ikonso and his thronement as a Bishop. April, 2020. be thankful for things that giving is a part of our lives oines will be on Sunday, 30th men murdered last week by He used the occasion to He said that his desire to God has given to them for and should not be cere- of May 2021. the Nigeria security agents. celebrate his award of a attain the Ivory tower held free like Life, Salvation, Air, monial, it should not be The Pro-Biafra group said “The rallies will also show doctorate degree in philos- him tied down for the past and Water and so on. educational, and it should that as usual, there will be the outside world of our re- ophy. five years but by the Glory The Bishop while speak- be moment by moment oc- total lock down of the en- solve and preparedness to The event which took of God that he has achieved ing to newsmen said that currence. He admonished tire land areas it considers leave Nigeria. We equally ad- place at the church’s head- that desire of Doctor of Phi- one of the reasons that he the people to continually to be part of Biafra land on vise our Diasporas to ensure quarters at Umuoshi-Lagu- losophy, Ph.D. Ubani also has not done the thanksgiv- remain grateful adding that that day. IPOB said that they get the written approval ru Ubakala, Umuahia Abia remarked that the event is ing was that when he was 1 Thess. 5 vs, 18 urged us to there will also be sit-at- home of their host countries before State was graced by dig- unique and peculiar in the enthroned he was a mas- remain grateful in all things across in Lagos, Abuja as embarking on the rallies.” nitaries from the church, sense that is a double cele- ters degree candidate and no matter the circumstanc- well as northern towns with Powerful said that 30th business moguls and tradi- bration. he had gone for his Ph.D es. reasonable number of Bia- of May every year is very fran population. dear to Biafrans, because it “The sit-at-home order is was the date Biafran war- Again, gunmen attack Ebonyi Police station, also to be observed in all the lord, Dim Chukwuemeka markets within and outside Odumegwu-Ojukwu, de- kill one, injure another Biafra land where our people clared Biafra’s resistance to tack occurred on Saturday motorcycle at the division” However, Ebonyi Com- do their businesses. It shall the genocidal attacks. By David Eze, also be observed by diaspora “This resistance culminat- Abakaliki night. Recall that in recent times, missioner for Internal Se- Biafrans in the over 100 coun- ed into the 30-month civil “Yes, it happened on several Police stations and curity Chief, Stanley Oko- tries with the IPOB family is war from 1967 to 1970. We unmen have Saturday night; some gun- Divisions in Ebonyi State ro-Emegha, who confirmed present,” said Emma Power- shall always remember all attacked the men attacked Abomege have been under attack by the incident in a telephone ful, IPOB’s spokesman. those who died in the course GAbaomege Police police station, they came gunmen. interview described the at- “We equally request our of the war and our march to Station in Onicha Local and started shooting spo- Efforts to get reactions tack as ‘worrisome’. fellow comrades in Yoruba, freedom. Government Area of Eb- radically and a policeman from the PPRO, Ebonyi “The police division was Middle Belt and other Chris- “Consequently, there will onyi State killing one po- was killed while another State Police command attacked yesterday, Satur- tians living in the far North to be no movement on the roads liceman and injuring an- was hospitalized following DSP Loveth Odeh proved day; it is very unfortunate be in solidarity with us in the throughout Biafraland; no other. an injury sustained in the abortive as she could not and worrisome. I urge the event as we honour all those banking or financial services According to an eyewit- attack”. immediately pick her calls police to step up strategy to who have paid the supreme in our territory; no commer- ness in the area, who spoke “The gunmen also de- or respond to texts sent to deal with the hoodlums,” price in our struggle for total cial activities of any kind. with Newsmen said the at- stroyed police vehicles and a her. he said. News Echo Monday, May 3, 2021 Page 14 Special Report How govt kills education in Abia State

From Nonye Udumiri, Aba

Dilapidated structures at Market Road Primary Schoool

wise saying explained basis around what were once Action Week on Education passed through professional money." e d u c a t i o n a s t h e school premises. Others are with the theme: Education training before becoming She however faulted the having their lands taken over by passport to the future, Financing, Egbuna explained teachers. She however lamented inability of the Abia State A people alleged to have been that the level of infrastructural that lack of retraining and moves government to access the as tomorrow belongs to those a u t h o r i z e d b y t h e s t a t e decay and poor teacher's aimed at updating and upgrading Universal Basic Education who prepare for it today. government, while other schools welfare and more issues are their knowledge on current and Commission (UBEC) grant that From all facts on ground, with are disappearing as if nothing biting the system seriously. modern way of teaching is not will enable it improve the pictorial evidences that are once existed there. "If I'm to rate the current ideal. infrastructure of primary and 'visible to the blind' and For instance, the situation at educational level of Abia State, "They supposed to be going secondary schools in the state. disturbing sounds that are City Primary School Aba, I'll say that It's below 40% through retraining for them to She decried the fact that all the 'audible to the deaf', Abia State Township Primary School Aba, because of the things we see understand what's available in state has not been able to pay her education sector is sick and needs School road Primary School a r o u n d . T h e s c h o o l s , the world. For instance during own counterpart fund to enable urgent attention. One needs not Aba, Azikiwe road Primary administration, environments, the Covid-19 lockdown, no her access the billions of Naira to go to the remote villages to see School Aba, Wilcox Memorial teachers' welfare, terrible public school here be it primary mapped out by UBEC as the decay. Evidences are all over Secondary School, All Saints private schools everywhere. In or secondary was able to marching grants to help improve Aba, the commercial nerve Secondar y School, Girl's fact, I'm not happy with many continue educating their pupils basic education. centre of the state where schools Secondary Commercial School, things. Whenever you come to or students. There was nothing News Echo gathered UBEC are now replicas of IDP camps National High School and many a school environment, all about the internet that the mapped out several billions for seen in movies from war ravaged others exemplify the issues emphasis are on the students teachers knew about. Other states to confront several countries. Coordinator, Civil Society and teachers. They're the most states, we had they continued challenges confronting basic Aside the dilapidations, public Action Coalition on Education important people in every doing so many things but nothing education that will enable them libraries are being converted to (CSACEFA), Mrs. Eunice school environment," she said. was done here. help to execute intervention motor parks; schools are Egbuna, said that the condition Egbuna said that the public " N o w a f t e r C o v i d - 1 9 projects and improve standard of converted into other purposes of education in Abia State is schools in Abia State in terms lockdown, we've been telling learning in schools outside academics, as markets unbelievably low. Speaking of teachers, have qualified authorities to retrain teachers, "Abia don't access the and shops keep rising on daily during CSACEFA's Global teachers whom she is sure they'll tell you that there's no Continues on Pg.15 News Echo Monday, May 3, 2021 Page 15 Special Report ...How govt kills education in Abia State Continued from Pg.14

From Nonye Udumiri, Aba

Dilapidated structures at City Primary School, Aba Universal Basic Education Fund supply or supporting power government talking if they don't (UBEC) Fund. UBEC has given generating engine? know anything about it." every state in Nigeria the She stressed that most She added that inasmuch as opportunity to just pay 50% secondary schools in Abia have public schools are seriously between four to eight teachers having problems, majority of the counterpart fund to enable the private schools in the state are struggling to teach all subjects state access the fund that can help not worthy to be called schools. while government went on them do many things in primary She decried the level of sacking spry against teachers two education, but they've never extortion and "profit at all cost years ago. i d e o l o g i e s " b e h i n d t h e done so. "You go to some public schools establishment of majority of the "The state has not done here, you see 4-8 teachers, private schools, stressing that anything to access the marching teaching the whole school from such need to be curtailed if grant. I have a record, 2011, SS-1 to SS-3. There is shortage of government is serious about 2012, 2017, 2018, 2019 Abia teachers all over the state. They education. State has not been able to access employed people sometime ago, "The differences between the fund. They're always among and they've all been sacked. private schools in Abia and those that have not been able to "What I don't know is how government schools are many. access their funds and the they managed to employ them. I T h e G ove r n m e n t i s n o t question is why? also heard recently that those monitoring certain places that "These grants are there, all you sacked teachers are coming back claim to be schools because may need to do is to pay the after they've done their be they understand that they've counterpart fund and you access reconfirmation will pay some failed in their own side as well. the entire money. Go to our money to write some exams and Anybody can just wake up one schools, the infrastructure is get their confirmation letters. morning and decides to start a nothing to write home about. This is what's happening at the school with his or her one room. You see students and pupils present. What about those that My only problem in the private schools is that most of them are writing on the floor, some of have served who are now seeing it as merely business. them are sharing one seat just to pensioners? They're suffering "How can someone go to have a place to learn, how do you seriously." collect an O' level certificate of watch, teach and control exam The CSACEFA boss lamented an exam he or she paid for to sit malpractice?'' the conversion of school and write, and a school will ask S p e a k i n g m o r e o n premises into other uses they the person to pay N20, 000 and infrastructural decay in the were not originally meant for and negotiation starts? WASSCE is schools, Egbuna said that Township Primary School asked for investigations to not what they're giving to people majority of the public schools in ascertain what is currently by demanding huge money from "Majority of the schools don't absolutely none. Abia State do not have toilet happening in those schools. the owners of the certificates. have water. We move from "You have a system where facilities, boreholes and even "I wouldn't be able to say Majority of the private schools s c h o o l t o s c h o o l t o d o many may not even be able to libraries. what's happening in all those aren't even standard to the level monitoring and from our continue after junior secondary "There are no toilet facilities in schools been converted into of the government schools. Do discoveries, school environments education, but nothing is done most of the schools in Abia State. markets and all those allegedly you know that majority of these here are nothing to write home to at least equip them at least to Even teachers sometimes when sold, but those are information private schools don't do PTA about. say they've seen a school to they're pressed, run into the t h a t c a l l s f o r p r o p e r meetings. "They don't have libraries at enable them face their b u s h e s . P r i n c i p a l s , investigation. I also don't "They just wake up, take all. Whatever they call libraries immediate environment. headmistresses, students and understand certain things administrative decisions and here are simply one room in the " T h e y s h o u l d h a v e pupils run into the bush to help because it's very impossible for force them down on the throats schools where you see outdated computers and teachers themselves when pressed. That's someone to wake up, enter of parents without consultations. books of no academic relevance teaching them. How can they Why should schools be running too bad. There are only few school premises, start erecting to modern day education. What do that when majority of the without calling on parents when schools here with boreholes structures and converting them given by individuals. about computers? There's schools don't even have power into other uses without Continues on Pg.16 News Echo Monday, May 3, 2021 Page 16 Special Report ...How govt kills education in Abia State Continued from Pg.15

From Nonye Udumiri, Aba

Township Primary School which hoodlums have turned into a toilet

taking decision?" over the abandonment of Aba meeting the state actors to enable P e r c e i v e d w a r a g a i n s t Divisional Library permanent us discuss the framework with education: site on Constitution Crescent them and that's the way forward. An activist and member of (former European Quarters) "Discussion is important. CSACEFA, Comrade Chucka resulting in its unfortunate However, welfare of a labourer Okoye, said that the manner in conversion. They explained that should not be joked with. which school environments are libraries were necessary within a Government has done well by being converted into other uses city to afford users, timely, handing some schools to the or even completely taken over is a accurate, pertinent, and reliable missionaries, but before they can sign that war has been declared information that cannot be run it properly, I believe the same against education. Okoye also dispensed with. government has some roles to said that Abia State government The book club that libraries play by carrying out their own has no moral justifications to increased the knowledge-base part of the business. checkmate private schools and academic consciousness of a "There's need for stakeholders because it has not done anything society and enables residents meeting so that government can to improve its own schools. become better through reading open up to the people and "Nothing is working here in even books they cannot afford. probably seek for help of citizens. educational sector. Government They noted that apart from the Many individuals can be can reduce the number of bad Abia Divisional Libraries' influenced to improve schools in private schools by putting the Office of Headmistress, City School, Aba headquarters at Umuahia, the their areas. There are people who public schools in order. You can't Aba divisional library was next can do that here, but we must get have terrible public schools and level of neglect. and Secretary, Dr. Ugo Emeodi to importance in Abia hence the government to come out and do you are busy chasing mushroom "There's no way you'll do well if respectively and made available need to secure and develop the the needful." private schools to close them up. you're a teacher and not paid to News Echo. The book club permanent site. Adding her voice to the I felt bad some years back when I well. They find it difficult to said the conversion of the state The group that the Eastern s o l u t i o n s, E g b u n a s a i d l e a r n t t h a t A b i a S t a t e receive salaries as at when due. government-owned library into regional government established CSACEFA had recently visited Commissioner for Education Our government is wicked, a park for impounded vehicles the "Eastern Regional Library the Executive Secretary, Abia went about checkmating private heartless and has no good and sites for small-holder shops Board in 1955 which acquired State Education Trust Fund and schools to know if they met the intentions for the society. would stop the library's the land which was handed down that they were willing to grant required standards. To me, that's "Everything government touches development and discourage to Imo state and later Abia on audience to them on issues a wrong act. here, they spoil. Imagine people reading culture in Aba. creation. related to schools and their "What he should have done was elected to serve will go so low as The group further said the They said that converting the funding. to put the public schools in order forcing leadership on traders and move by Aba South local library's permanent site to other "We have visited the Executive and all mushroom private forcing them to accept their own council was “harmful to purposes would amount to Secretar y of Abia State schools will definitely collapse appointees as market chairmen. Ikpeazu's rebranding and destroying the legacies of past Education Trust Fund which I on their own because parents "Even the so called chairmen selling of the Aba Brand. The governments and their good never knew existed although I have eyes and they can see where brought in by government are not Made-in-Aba project is not intentions for the people. The was told they were launched last there's something to benefit even traders as they have no shop limited to artisans, but also group therefore urged Ikpeazu to year before the Covid-19 from. In fact, they've declared in the markets. Government has other creative like, authors, stop the encroachment of Aba lockdown. We were received, war against education in this bastardized everything” poets, playwrights, and S o u t h l o c a l g ove r n m e n t they expressed happiness that we state. They're the ones giving out Aba public library converted to essayists etc. who are the think- authorities on the site and from came and were ready to partner these school premises to Motor Park: tank of the Aba society. using it for anything other thing. with us to get solutions in some businessmen and financial Aba Book Club has also “We believe your Excellency Solutions for the decayed of these issues. We can have a contractors to use them as shops. expressed displeasure over the has good intentions for the city education system in Abia: stakeholders meeting. "They can't deny knowledge of decision of Aba South Local of Aba and Abia State in Answering questions on the “Cooperate organizations are what's happening all over the Government authorities to general hence, our drawing solutions to the decayed here that have a part to play. All existing public schools that are convert Aba zonal library your attention to this distasteful educational system in the state, we need is to discuss and consult now turning into markets. Abia permanent site to a motor park. development. We also call on Okoye said that CSACEFA has a and problems will be solved. State government has failed The club consequently, pleaded the general public to support framework towards solving the However, I still insist that woefully. All the good results you with Abia State Governor, Dr. the full development of Aba problems, but only needs teachers' welfare cannot be see Abia make in external exams Okezie Ikpeazu to stop the local Divisional Library through cooperation from government. exchanged for anything. They're like WASSCE and JAMB are as a government authorities from donations of books and other "There's no way a none state now complaining that teachers result of students' personal such anti education action. hardware to encourage reading actor on its own, can actualize or are not committed, but how can efforts and hard-working The call was contained in a letter in the commercial city," they some any problem that requires they when you're not paying teachers who are ready to give to the governor signed by the said. the consent of a state actor to them well?'' their all notwithstanding the club's Curator, Nnanna Daniel The group expressed sadness make it possible. It's all about News Echo Monday, May 3, 2021 Page 17 Fire for Fire Insecurity: PDP attacks, APC defends By Anthony Ogbekile he Peoples Democratic Party has asked President Muhammadu Buhari to declare a state of emergency on security over the growing spate of attacks and kidnappings across the country. In a communiqué issued at the end of an emergency meeting of Tthe National Executive Committee of the party last Thursday in Abuja, PDP's spokesman, Kola Ologbondiyan, backed the call by the House of Representatives for the President to urgently fix the worsening insecurity. The All Progressives Congress (APC) has responded to a communiqué issued by governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on recent security incidents recorded in some parts of the country. In a statement signed by the National Secretary of the APC's Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC), Sen. John James Akpanudoedehe, the ruling party said it shares the concerns of the PDP governors. However, the statement noted that the PDP and other well meaning Nigerians should avoid politicising the issues or trivialise the complexity of the solutions required. It’s now a case of attack and defence.

Kola Ologbondiyan Sen. Akpanudoedehe Buhari will bounce back, don't politicize Buhari, APC have failed Nigerians – PDP insecurity – APC EC urged President Muhammadu Buhari to immediately et no one be in doubt as to the urgency and capacity of the President declare a national state of emergency on security,” the Muhammadu Buhari government to end the recent security Nstatement partly read. “NEC also urged President Buhari to, Lincidents.” “We urge stakeholders and indeed all well-meaning without delay, convoke a national conference on Security so as to Nigerians to avoid politicising or being simplistic about the security galvanize ideas and options to tackle insecurity in our country. “NEC situation,” the statement said. “At a time like this, our duty to our nation as lamented the heightened insecurity pervading all parts of our nation good citizens should outweigh political party colorations. “As those who due primarily to the misrule of President Muhammed Buhari and All receive constant security briefings, PDP Governors should know that Progressives Congress as well as their failure to decisively tackle the divisive rhetorics can only embolden the criminals who are carrying out menace of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, bloodletting and acts of these cowardly acts. This is not the time to play to the gallery, but sit down violence in our country. “NEC further commended the efforts of to find real and lasting solutions. The latter is what the President Buhari governors, senators, House of Representatives members and other administration is doing. “While high-level investigations are ongoing to officials elected on the platform of the PDP in forcefully seeking fish out sponsors and perpetrators of the security incidents, President solutions to the spate of insecurity in our country.” Nigeria has been Buhari has already given marching orders to our security services to check the security incidents. We pray the investigations should not reveal experiencing a series of security threats ranging from terrorism, conspiracies by the opposition to weaken the government in furtherance of banditry, militancy, cultism among others in several parts of the their desperate 2023 aspirations. “We are however confident that our PDP country. The country has been battling terrorism for more than a decade governors and indeed all stakeholders will cooperate and support ongoing which has killed 36,000 people and displaced hundreds of thousands in efforts to quickly and permanently end the security incidents.” “The issue the northeast. “It is instructive to state the alleged affiliation of APC of insecurity in the country has found expression in terrorist and criminal leaders with terrorist elements, who had reportedly infiltrated our activities of Boko Haram, bandits, kidnappers, rustlers and recently the nation after being imported from neighboring countries by the APC, as highly condemnable attacks on security formations in some states.” “As a political mercenaries, to assist it in unleashing violence to rig the 2019 progressive party in government, we are fully focussed on identifying and general elections. “The PDP invites Nigerians to note that the APC and bringing to book the perpetrators and sponsors of this hydra-headed its leaders have failed to account for these mercenaries and have insecurity monster and consolidating on our visible development strides. remained silent despite widespread demands by Nigerians asking the While the party sympathises with all affected by the security incidents, we APC to return these killers to wherever they brought them.” call on all to unite against insecurity and criminality, however, expressed. SPORTSMonday, May 3, 2021 Page 18 Transfer: Manchester United shortlists Ndidi to Gunnar Solskjaer, said enjoy talking to him, and I recently, “No, of course also enjoy challenging him replace Pogba at Old Trafford not. because he is a winner. a n c h e s t e r Pogba this summer if an “I have always said “He wants to be better, United have agreement over a new with Paul [Pogba] that I and that's why he listens. Ms h o r t l i s t e d contract is not reached, the enjoy managing him, I You can see he's enjoying Leicester City's Wilfred Red Devils manager, Ole enjoy coaching him, I himself here as well.” Ndidi, and two other players to replace Paul Pogba at Old Trafford Chelsea get Mount injury scare should the midfielder decide to leave the club ahead of Real Madrid clash this summer transfer ason Mount has prepares for Wednesday's want to take any risks but I window. given Chelsea a clash. have no other information on R e c a l l t h a t M a n Ms c a r e a f t e r The Chelsea manager that. He has the full package, United are prepared to sell suffering a back injury ahead said: “I hope really that mentally, in terms of talent Pogba at the end of the of their Champions League Mason is not a big thing and and physically. season if he fails to sign a semi-final second leg against hopefully he can fully recover “And the most important new deal. Real Madrid. for Real Madrid.” part is his character, he has However, according to The midfielder was in He added: “It was my his feet on the ground and Sunday Mirror, Man visible discomfort when decision, there was not any he's a nice guy. He comes to every day to learn United have now lined up substituted late on in the 2-0 doctor or physio who told me Cobham win against Fulham on to take him off. something new and have new three replacements for the Saturday. “But I saw him landing experiences. France international, Chelsea will assess the hard and it was the moment “He is the guy who can which include Ndidi, West extent of the damage and are anyway when we wanted to recover very fast, he's a very Ham's Declan Rice and waiting to see how he reacts take him off anyway. physical player and is fully Atletico Madrid's Saul to it after rest – but it is a “I saw him holding his adapted to PL football. He Niguez. worry for Tuchel as he back slightly, so we didn't has big self-confidence in a Pogba will enter the very, very positive way. final year of his contract “It's a pleasure to have with Man United this him, be at his side and guide t's s u m m e r , a n d a n him and support him. I impressive, he's not affected agreement between the by all the praise. two parties has not yet “This is maybe the most been reached. important part. He seems to T h e 2 8 - y e a r - o l d be a guy who likes the sport, publicly stated his desire to and feels an obligation to leave Man United nearly make the most out of it. And two years ago, but he failed he wants it absolutely badly, to secure a move away so it's a top mix.” from the club. Better news for Chelsea Meanwhile, asked if he was the performance of Kai Havertz, who strengthened wants Man United to sell Injured Mount at the weekend his case to start against Real with both goals against Fulham. At last Kroenke put Arsenal Tuchel added: “This is what we want if someone gets his chance. He scored up for sale for £1.7bn two decisive goals and he was rsenal reportedly of £1.7bn. b i l l i o n a i r e s A l i s h e r involved along with Timo are up for sale They claim that despite U s m a n ov a n d A l i k o Werner – two very good Ad e s p i t e t h e publicly announcing they Dangote were keen to buy performances from our Ndidi Kroenke family declaring are not for sale, Arsenal the North London giants. strikers how it should be. they will not entertain any have been on the market Speaking to CNBC “We knew Fulham gives offers. for around two years. during the week, Ek, 38, everyone a hard time. They Osaka dumped out by Gunners owner Stan The news outlet adds insisted he has the funds to make you under-perform and K r o e n k e r e l e a s e d a that is has been two years assume control of Arsenal. they make you suffer. You Muchova in Madrid second statement earlier this week since KSE received an He said: “I've been an cannot get confused with the where he declared he will a p p r o a c h f r o m a n Arsenal fan since I was 8 table. round 'not sell any stake in the international financial years old. Arsenal is my “That's why I have the e aomi Osaka suffered a club'. consortium. team. I live the history, the highest respect for what w tough for us, second-round exit at the His announcement And they quoted their players, and of course I did today. It was we hang in the game. We NMadrid Open on Sunday as came after Spotify CEO price at £1.7bn, rather than love the fans. but could decide the match the Japanese second seed lost 6-4, 3-6, Daniel Ek teamed up with r e b u f f t a l k s a f t e r earlier, but it was a tough and 6-1 to Karolina Muchova. Invincibles Thierry Henry, a very important win. Osaka, the reigning US and Patrick Vieira and Dennis Australian Open champion has seven “We were spot on. It was Bergkamp to try and buy career hard-court titles, but has never what we demanded from the club. managed to lift a clay-court trophy. Osaka ourselves. We showed the Playing her first clay-court event two years ago, fell 3-1 behind in the T h e S w e d i s h pride we are capable of – to since the 2019 French Open, Osaka second set but rallied to win the next billionaire – who first do it in between two big beat compatriot Misaki Doi in the five games and force a decider. signalled his intentions games. I'm beyond happy first round, but she came unstuck Muchova regrouped and broke take control of his beloved that we did it. against an opponent making her top Osaka early in the third set, and then side on Twitter amid fan “There was no lack of 20 debut this week. again for a 5-1 lead, before sealing protests – is worth over concentration. We had some Muchova, who reached the last victory in just under two hours. £3billion. trouble which everyone four in Melbourne this year, used a The Czech will meet Greek 16th And according to the against this Fulham side has single break of serve to claim the seed Maria Sakkari or Estonia's Anett Mail on Sunday, Kroenke but there was no lack of opening set against the world number Kontaveit for a place in the quarter- Sports and Entertainment concentration and that was two. finals. (KSE) would be willing to Kroenke key.” Osaka, a quarter-finalist at Madrid listen to offers in the region SPORTSMonday, May 3, 2021 Page 19

Inter Milan players Inter Milan crowned Serie A champions for first time in 11 years nter Milan clinched Bergamo club went in front 82 points, and Atalanta's rounds since beating Lazio first since winning the Serie overtaken AC Milan, who their first Serie A title in 10 minutes later through a d r a w e n s u r e d i t w a s 3 - 1 o n Fe b r u a r y 1 4 , A , C o p p a I t a l i a a n d have 18 Serie A titles, to 11 years on Sunday after Robin Gosens strike. mathematically impossible improving on a runners-up Champions League Treble become the second-most I finish in Conte's debut in 2009/10 under Jose successful club in league Sassuolo drew 1-1 with Sassuolo equalised early for any of the chasing pack Atalanta to assure Antonio in the second half through a to catch them. season in 2019/20. Mourinho, and their 19th history behind Juventus, Conte's side of the league Domenico Berardi penalty, Inter have led the league The league title is Inter's overall. Inter have therefore with 36 league wins. crown. but the hosts were then also standings for the last 13 Inter are 13 points clear reduced to 10 men when in first place with four games Marlon earned a second Andy Ruiz survives knockdown to beat r e m a i n i n g , a n d t h e i r yellow and conceded a triumph ends a run of nine penalty. The judges scored it consecutive title wins for However, Luis Muriel's Arreola in comeback fight 117-110, 118-109, 118-109. Juventus. spot kick was saved by H e h a d a l s o s h e d Atalanta goalkeeper Andrea Consigli. considerable weight since Pierluigi Gollini saw red Inter defeated Crotone 2- his fights with Joshua. after 22 minutes, but the 0 on Saturday to move up to “Chris is a veteran and a hard puncher,” said Ruiz Jr. “We did what we had to Guardiola in love with do tonight. We got the victory that we wanted. I 'incredible' Aguero was at my lowest point and now I have to climb the e r g i o A g u e r o ' s player who will attract thankful Manchester City career interest from around the ladder again. I'm Sis in its final weeks but world. for the victory and I'm the 32-year-old provided Guardiola was generous in ready to move on to the evidence of just how much he his praise for City's all-time next. will be missed on Saturday. leading scorer after he took Ruiz ( R ) and Arreola (L) during the fight “He got me with a good Injury, illness and manager his Premier League tally for clean right hand in the Pep Guardiola's preference the club to 182 goals in 273 n d y R u i z J r Chris Arreola in his return Arreola when, in the second round. I was too for a line-up featuring no appearances. r e t u r n e d t o to the ring on Saturday second round, he was overconfident and dropped orthodox striker have limited “What a goal. What an Awinning ways in night in California. forced onto a knee after my hand a bit. Hats off to Aguero's appearances in his action. What a player. What a his first fight since the He won a unanimous taking an overhand right. him. final season, a decade after man, we are delighted he is rematch with Anthony decision in his first fight He survived but the “We just kept pushing joining. back,” Guardiola said. Jo s h u a ; h e h a s s h e d since conceding the world third round became a and pushing. I switched up But given a rare start at “We will enjoy the last significant weight and h e a v y w e i g h t dramatic shoot-out with and started focusing on Crystal Palace he produced a games with him. He showed l i n k e d u p w i t h S a u l championships back to both men landing power counter-punching and stunning strike to send City with the goal what he is. I am 'Canelo' Alvarez's trainer Anthony Joshua in their punches. on their way to a 2-0 win and working the body. in love with him as a person. but was forced to climb off rematch in December Eventually, Ruiz Jr to the brink of a fifth Premier “He is an incredible guy. We “I felt a little rust and I the canvas to beat Chris 2019, a battle he lost after adjusted and settled into League title in 10 seasons. haven't been able to use him know other fighters can Arreola. Aguero has been integral in many times, but maybe we g a i n i n g w e i g h t a n d the fight as a counter- relate to that,” said Ruiz. the other four, and while his got him back at the right time. Andy Ruiz Jr was blaming “partying”. puncher, dominating the “If he wants to run it back, fifth will have been limited to He knows he has a special floored but overcame the Ruiz Jr looked to be final stretch. we'll run it back with him.” cameo roles, he remains a quality.” early struggles to out-box facing disaster against Dramatic! The rich now cry – Bishop Chukwuma Pg. 6, 7 Insecurity: Umahi charges nation’s leaders

ISSN: 2736-0512 MONDAY, MAY 3, 2021 VOL. 2 NO. 52 to seek face of God Pg. 13 Column 28 years ago, Okocha played 1, with Yekini scoring twice and Amokachi putting a full stop to it. his first game for Nigeria Whereas this is not the moved to Europe from Africa c o m p l e t e s t o r y o f By Ori Martins It was Okocha's first game for Nigeria and he launched Sport of Cote d' Ivory and Okocha, it must be unday, May 2, 1993 his arrival emphatically. He who boasted before that game pointed out that his was a crucial day never disappointed. Okocha that he would score, lived up other exciting games in Sfor Nigeria as the really proved that he meant to his pre -match billing. He E a g l e s ' c o l o u r s Super Eagles travelled to business - his sublime skills the Eagles ahead in the early included but not limited Abidjan to honour a a n c h o r e d i n d r i b b l i n g minutes of the first half. He t o : f i n a l a g a i n s t World Cup qualifier to accuracy, measured shooting would have made it two had Z a m b i a i n E l e p h a n t s o f C o t e and perfect passes indicated Siasia gave him an expected T u n i s i a d'Ivoire. It was the first that Nigeria had got a true pass. Rather, Siasia decided ' 9 4 , leg, first game of the number 10 which the fans to take his chance and seco group which also had enjoyed from Henry Nwosu m i s s e d . C o a c h Algeria, Uganda and and Etim Essien even as both Westerhof was Ethiopia. stars never lasted the distance. a n g r y a n d As the Eagles filed out, On that day, the match tongue lashed this was the line up: plan of the Elephants crashed Siasia during Wilfred, Iroha, Agbola as they never ever bargained the interval - Ruben who was replaced o r f a c t o r e d i n t h e Siasia lost h i s by Thomson Oliha - it was mesmerising moves of Jay shirt until t h e nd Agbola's last game for Jay. He really scattered the N a t i o n s Cup in roun Nigeria, Keshi, Siasia, hosts match plan. When he Tunisia. d game against Ye k i n i , A m o k a c h i , was substituted in the second At the end of the game, Italy in USA '94, O k o c h a w h o w a s half, Nigerians in the Stadium Nigeria lost 2 - 1. But Okocha s e c o n d r o u n d replaced by Semitoje, protested while the Elephants had endeared himself to the g a m e a g a i n s t Chris Nwosu, Amuneke, heaved a sigh of relief. fans. Denmark in France Mutiu, and Eguavoen. Meanwhile, Yekini who Nigeria played host to '98 and the quarter Algeria on July 13, 1993, final match versus just a month after the Cameroon in Tunisia controversial June 12, 2004 Nations Cup 1 9 9 3 p r e s i d e n t i a l Finals. Indeed, Okocha e l e c t i o n . T h e was the only Nigeria meaning was that player who made impact tension was high and in France '98 and he got i n s e c u r i t y w a s rewarded for it as he got bee transferred to PSG on an equally scaring. Even Algeria n the tried making it issue out of it African fee of $17! cynosur Okocha In all of this, CAF never but FIFA ignored their e o f a l l petitions. voted him as the African eyes and Player of the Year: twice he As it turned out, Algeria t h e got the lead and the over 60, c a m e c l o s e, t w i c e h e darling of t h e finished second. But BBC 000 spectators who thronged fans got a beauti to the National Stadium, voted him twice as African f u l equali Player of the Year. Surulere, Lagos, developed z e r throu cool feet. There was absolute It was at the Tunisia gh a free kick. 2004 that Okocha scored silence. Just when all were T h e stadi dreaming that a repeat of the the historic Nations Cup u m w h i c h w a s 1000th goal. It was a October 10, 1980 disater like a burial grou w h e r e u p o n A l g e r i a penalty against South nd came back t o Africa as Nigeria went hammered Nigeria with two life. Okocha unreplied goals here at the ahead to beat boys from restored hope Mandela country 4-0. National Stadium was about and confidence. Okocha playing out, Jay Jay who had Nigeria won 4-

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