Imo North bye-election: Trump's refusal to Ibezim heads to Appeal court concede defeat …INEC unaware of ruling, meets to fix new date Pg. 2 Mysterious deaths in Delta, Enugu queries integrity of caused by yellow fever -NCDC DG US election Pg. 9 Pg. 2

@newsechonigeria @newsechonigeria @newsechonigeria Trump ...Strong voice echoes the truth ISSN: 2736-0512 MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2020 VOL. 1 NO. 33 N150 Anambra election: Anxiety grips parties on e-voting Pg. 8 ...Jonathan, Diri, APC, Muoghalu welcome development Erosion destroys four buildings in Bayelsa

community Pg. 9 5 killed in Awka as rival cult

gangs clash Pg. 2 Elect Igbo man president stop Biafra

Yakubu agitation - Prof. Ibe Pg. 10 Abia phases out manual ticketing for Three hospitalized after Rivers Keke, Mini buses, warns shop owners Pg. 3 cop goes on shooting spree Pg. 7 Monday, November 9, 2020

Five shot dead in Awka as rival cult gangs clash From Uchenna Ezeadigwe, other a Keke rider". Awka "Because there was traffic, we all ultism in Awka has reached an stayed in our cars and watched. The apogee as the worst scenarios Keke rider broke free from the grip of Cplayed out within the last seven the other guy and reached into a sling days in the Anambra state capital, bag he had over his shoulders, and drew Awka.Intelligent gathering reveals that a small and rusted local pistol, which he a total of five suspected cult members immediately cocked and pulled the who are said to be within the range of trigger at his opponent". twenty three and thirty years of age have "Lucky for the bus conductor (who, been murdered in different locations as on seeing the gun immediately Amachalla axis, Amikwo axis, Ifite surrendered), the gun refused to shoot". Nkwo-Amenyi road, temp site junction When our correspondent pressured and Udoka Estate. him for more information, he said, "I News Echo Correspondent who went think the gunman may have felt the around the city after some rumours that conductor had a charm, so he aimed the gun shots were heard at around gun away from him; albeit randomly 10:25am, on Saturday, 7th Nov, 2020 at (and at the vehicles in the traffic) and Nkwo Amaenyi markets reports that a pulled the trigger severally. I confess that young man in his mid thirties was shot I almost died sitting in my car. Alas, it several times by unknown gunmen who was obvious that the pistol was faulty. came in keke tricycle. He quickly put it back in the bag and ran Earlier, on Friday, it was also off". gathered that a returnee who resides in "All these happened at day time, and Udoka estate and planning to go back to no one spoke or challenged him'', he Malaysia by December was shot and added. confirmed dead. However, findings reveal that more "The one they shot at Udoka estate than half of tricycle operators in Awka Lifeless body of Miyetti Allah chairman in Imo state, allegedly murdered by cousin. yesterday morning has been in Malaysia are cultists. Some of them carry small but came back last year December bags usually hanged around the waist or planning to go back by December chest. How chairman of Miyetti Allah ending once they open flight movement. Another resident who simply Now he just ended up killed". identified himself as Emeka disclosed However, it reports reveal that two that "All those guys who carry sling bags about, making it part of their dress in Imo was allegedly murdered rival cults were the Viking or Black Axe sense, no matter what they wear; fear confraternity. By Jennifer John scene, the body of late Yaya was them. Na gunmen be that". Imo state, Waziri Baba Suleiman According to a source who did not seen lying lifelessly on the floor, who also visited the scene, want his name on print stated that, "Killings within Awka in just this here was apprehension in expressed shock over the death of "about 11:40am today, I witnessed first- week is almost uncountable, guys let's be Obinze community of in the pool of his own blood. He careful". Yaya Haruna, whom many hand the level at which Awka has fallen, Owerri West Local had sustained several deep as far as cultism is concerned. Meanwhile, efforts to reach the T described as man of peace, Government Area of Imo State machete cuts on his face, neck "I was going to Nnewi from Awka. Police Public Relations Officer for adding that he has been confirmation of the incidents proved when the butchered body of the and other parts of his body. At Ukwu Orji, I saw two men fighting Speaking to newsmen, the instrumental to the tranquility by the roadside, one a conductor and the abortive as at time of filing this report. chairman of Miyetti Allah was visibly traumatized immediate and peaceful coexistence being discovered in a bush in the area. younger brother of late Yaya, enjoyed between cattle breeders Mysterious deaths in Delta, Enugu It was originally suspected that Alhaji Usaini Haruna made a and other residents of the state. by the residents that the act was shocking revelation, narrating When contacted, the Police caused by yellow fever -NCDC DG perpetrated in the middle of the how one of their cousins whose Public Relations Officer, SP Orlando Ikeokwu said he was yet From Uchenna Ezeadigwe Laboratory and NCDC's National night by locals, but later name he gave as Sali Musa has investigations revealed that he been issueing threats to kill both to get full brief on the matter. He igeria Centre Disease Reference Laboratory, Gaduwa. Dr Ihekweazu, noted that more was killed by one his relations. of them and take over their cows. promise to issue a statement once Control (NCDC), in a The Sirki of Northerners in he gets full details of the incident. Nrelease, says that the reports samples are being tested from both When newsmen visited the of a sudden spike in cases and deaths states to confirm the causative in some communities in Delta and organism of this outbreak even as an plan for a vaccination campaign.” the breeding of mosquitoes, use preventable disease, and a single Enugu states were due to yellow fever, incident management system has NCDC's DG assured that the insecticide-treated mosquito nets shot provides immunity for a and it is supporting these states to been activated by NCDC to agency will continue working with and install screens on windows and lifetime. respond to the problem. coordinate response activities and t h e a f f e c t e d s t a t e s, o t h e r doors to prevent mosquito bites and Symptoms of the disease According to a release on 07th, Rapid Response Teams (RRT) have government agencies and our avoid self-medication if ill and have include yellowness of the eyes, Nov, 2020 and signed by Director been deployed to both states. partners to reduce the risk of spread symptoms such as fever as well as sudden fever, and headache and General, NCDC, Dr Chikwe He added, “The NCDC and State of the disease and ensure cases are ensure children are vaccinated body pain. The yellow fever vaccine well managed to reduce the number a g a i n s t y e l l o w f e v e r a s is available for free in primary Ihekweazu, said that as at the 6th of RRTs are carrying out active case of deaths. precautionary measures to reduce health care centres in Nigeria as November 2020, three samples from search, risk communications and community engagement as well as Dr Ihekweazu, however, the risk of yellow fever infection. part of the national childhood Delta and one sample from Enugu pleaded with the individuals to The yellow fever virus which is routine immunization schedule. tested positive for yellow fever at Irrua ensuring prompt management of cases. Our sister agency, NPHCDA is keep their environment clean and spread through the bite of an Specialist Teaching Hospital free of stagnant water to prevent infected mosquito, is a vaccine- working with the affected states to have procedures for dealing with such matters. We give effect to pronouncement of the court if we Imo North bye-election: Ibezim heads to Appeal court have them. The commission does not act on the basis of news paper p u b l i c a t i o n o r r a d i o …INEC unaware of ruling, meets to fix new date announcements. We only act when electorates in Okigwe zone not to By Jude Owuamanam flag bearer at the primary election name with that of Araraume. we receive certified true copies panic, and to remain focused in the held on September 3, but Justice According to Justice Ringim, (CTC) of any judgement and after face of what he described as “the we have read and digested the he All Progressive Alliance Tijjani Garba Ringim of the Owerri this was because there was a petition (APC) candidate in the yet- onslaught of political desperados.” contents. It's then that the division of the FHC, had, on Friday by the APC Screening Committee to-be rescheduled Imo North Meanwhile INEC said that it's commission will meet and take T nullified Ibezim's candidature on the that he and five others were bye-election, Mr. Frank Ibezim, has yet to be informed of the Friday decision. disqualified for not meeting basic said that he will challenge the ruling ground that Ibezim did not ruling of the court. Okoye said that the election will requirements. of a Federal High Court sitting in participate in the primary election Director in charge of Voter go on nonetheless, adding it is the He held that any vote allotted to O w e r r i , w h i c h a s k e d t h e following a suit filed by Araraume Education and Enlightenment, logo of political parties that are on Ibezim was a nullity in the eyes of Independent National Electoral The judge had hinged his ruling Festus Okoye, speaking to News the ballot and not the candidates. the law. Commission (INEC) to replace his on the fact that Ibezim and five Echo, said that the commission “The ballot papers bear the logo But Ibezim has vowed to reclaim name with that of his main others were disqualified on the would only act if it receives a copy of of the parties. Voters vote for his mandate in the court of law. A challenger, Senator Ifeanyi ground that they did not meet basic the judgment. political parties and the name of the statement signed a member of his Araraume, as the party's flag bearer requirements following a petition He said, “The Commission is a candidates are reflected during Think-Tank group, Hon. Jim in the election. against them. regulatory body and not a court of declarations and return. Therefore, INEC had scheduled the bye- He, thereafter, declared Isilebo, said that Ibezim's legal; team law. Section 285 of the Constitution if at the end of appeals the Court of election for October 31, but had to Araraume as the authentic and are already putting finishing touches vests the High Courts and the Appeal decides otherwise the p o s t p o n e i t f o l l ow i n g t h e rightful winner of the primary in the papers to challenge the court Fe d e r a l H i g h C o u r t s w i t h Commission will comply. However, destructions that attended the two- e l e c t i o n a n d o r d e r e d t h e decision. jurisdiction over pre election the candidate must have participated week long protests by Nigerians Independent National Electoral Ibezim was quoted as vowing to matters. I am not aware that the in all the stages of the electoral against police brutality. C o m m i s s i o n ( I N E C ) t o remove the clog on the wheel of his Commission has been served. We process,” he added. Ibezim had emerged the party's immediately substitute Ibezim's candidature and urged the Monday, November 9, 2020

OCDA is no longer market for thugs - Ikpamezie pensioners, Hon Ikpaemzie Boasts of improving IGR said that part of the blames should be attributed to the he General Manager Generated Revenue, IGR of management of some of the of Owerri Capital the authority. institutions whose workers TD e v e l o p m e n t The General Manager are complaining of non- Authority, OCDA, Hon explained that the former payments because they have Innocent Ikpaemzie has financial statements of the failed to do the needful as stated that the authority has place were used to be record required by the governor. been re-organized to be with between #25million to effective, service oriented He stated that most of #30million, but presently them have not been able to and also productive. they are at the close of Hon Ikpaemzie revealed e x p l a i n t h e d o u b l e #70million and above as the appearances of the names of this during a recent chat with IGR. newsmen in Owerri, where their workers in the schedule He maintained that they he said that OCDA is no lists of payment, while some were able to achieve the longer a market where touts of them, their biometric Mr Chimobi Ojiawu and former Miss Ogechi Osuji cutting their wedding cake at the increase in IGR because of and thugs gather to molest verification number does not Dream Land Hotel, Owerri. This was after joining them together as husband and wife at the the cooperation of staff who reflect their real name, their prospective clients, and Chariots of Fire Redemption Assembly, Owerri last weekend. Photo: Afam Echi as such caused confusion in work peacefully as a team, stating that the same and also with the instruction the place. situations occurred on most non-payment. because he wanted to move the show the governor love, by of the governor on zero He said that since the pensioners who worked in The General Manager further State to another level of embracing the programs of the tolerance to corruption in inception of the new two different sections in the said that Governor Uzodinma is development, where it will be all Shared prosperity government, the place, adding that government of Shared State. These he explained not only considering payment inclusive for the state to move which is aimed at stimulating O C D A i s f u l l y i n Prosperity led by Governor c a u s e d t h e d e l ay i n o f w o r k e r s s a l a r y a n d forward. s u s t a i n a b l e g r ow t h a n d c o m p l i a n c e w i t h t h e H o p e U z o d i n m a t h e payments of some of those pensioners as achievement, He appealed to Imolites to development. organization of OCDA has Treasury Single Account, who are complaining of been strengthened to foster TSA. peace and development, Reacting on the allegation which have contributed to of nonpayment of Imo State skyrocket the Internally w o r k e r s s a l a r y a n d 2023: 46 professors to actualize Abia phases out manual Igbo Presidency, says group By Ovat Mike decision of the academia to group is making so bold to for the eastern region. ticketing for Keke, Mini push for an Igbo Presidency in assure Nigerians that the While commending he National Director the next general election is to South East will provide President Mohammadu o f M e d i a a n d buses, warns shop owners ensure a sustainability of formidable candidates for the Buhari and INEC for the free Publicity, Nigeria T democratic governance in the 2023 general election that will and fair elections witnessed in From Dan Maduagwu, warning that such a person Presidential Project (NPP), country. continue to work for the peace the just concluded Edo and w o u l d b e t r e a t e d a s Mr. Tony Nwachukwu, has Umuahia Speaking on the vision and unity of the country. Ondo state elections and for economic saboteur while disclosed that about forty six bia State Board of and mission of the group, he We are also calling on the elimination of vote buying p o i n t i n g o u t t h a t Nigeria. Professors, have internal revenue has said NPP- 2023, as a political those men and women of w h i c h wa s r e p o r t e d ly transporters would benefit v o l u n t e e r e d t o w o r k c o n f i r m e d t h e advocacy group, we are S o u t h E a s t ex t r a c t i o n observed to have taken place A from the new form of u n a n i m o u s l y f o r t h e introduction of online demanding that all political interested in contesting for the during the elections, Oji, payment which would save actualization of a credible t i c k e t i n g s y s t e m f o r parties for the election should office of the President of the urged the President to also them from paying into l e a d e r f r o m t h e I g b o o p e r a t o r s o f t r i c yc l e zone their Presidential Federal Republic of Nigeria c o m m e n c e n u r t u r i n g u n l i c e n s e d r e v e n u e extraction that would succeed popularly known as Keke candidate positions to the come 2023 to commence prospective candidates that collectors. the incumbent President, Napep. South East Geopolitical zone consultations aimed at may succeed him. Similarly, the BIR has President Mohammadu The revenue agency in a for the sake of Justice, equity actualizing their ambition. He also thanked the warned the owners of sealed Buhari, in 2023 Presidential statement signed by the and sense of belonging. The Chancellor, Nigeria President for the reopening of shops in the State against election. acting director general, Mr "We have consulted four Presidential Project, Dr. t h e A k a n u I b i a m attempts to reopen such He said the professors cut C e l e s t i n e A g b a r a i n former Head of State, General Walter Obiorah Oji, in his International Airport, Enugu, shops until they obtained across the six geopolitical Umuahia on Friday, said Ya k u b u G owo n , C h i e f remarks, called on all the the completion and opening clearance from relevant z o n e s f r o m v a r i o u s that mini bus drivers, known Olusegun Obasanjo, General political parties to commence of the Onitsha Seaport, the government agencies. disciplines, devoid of religion, as Keke bus, have also Ibrahim Babagida, General the necessar y inter nal ongoing work at the Second The BIR in the statement e t h n i c a n d p o l i t i c a l mig rated to the new Abdulsalam Abubakar, the restructuring, before or during Niger Bridge, the ongoing on Friday said it had affiliations. And they have put payment regime. current security chiefs, their next convention, in order work on Enugu-Onitsha road, uncovered plans by some in place all the necessary The Abia BIR said the Ministers, Religion and to create the enabling Port Harcourt road and other people whose shops were machineries to make it a online payment service Traditional leaders to seek for disposition for zoning their r o a d p r o j e c t s b e i n g sealed for various revenue reality. which started on 17th their unalloyed support for the National Chairman to any of u n d e r t a k e n b y h i s offences, to reopen their Nwachukwu, who made October for Keke riders, also Igbo Presidency. the three geopolitical zones in administration in and around shops without the approval the disclosure during the commenced on November Nwachukwu said the Northern Nigeria to give way the South East Geopolitical 2nd for mini bus drivers. of the State governments. official inauguration of zone. The agency threatened to It vowed to prosecute any Anambra State Chapter of He urged the newly prosecute any operator who shop owner caught in the NPP in Awka, over the sector all over the world is i m p l e m e n t a t i o n o f inaugurated 11-man executive patronised manual ticket, act. weekend, noted that the t h r o u g h I n f o r m a t i o n p r o m o t i o n s , n o n committee of the NPP-2023 Technology (IT) which he said implementation of annual not to waste any time in his government was bent on i n c r e m e n t a l r a t e s, n o n working to establish the body I met neglected, abandoned following. He said it was the remittance of governmnet part chapters in all the local idea that brought about the of the contributory pension government areas and wards automation of the salary scheme at Imo State University. in the state. civil servants who had lost hope – pa yment system of the state. Also the national labour In his acceptance speech, s a l a r y a n d p e n s i o n He denied staggering and Earlier the Vice President leaders frowned at the the Anambra state Chairman Uzodimma discrepancies in the state. underpayment of salaries and national leadership of the indiscriminate retaining of of the group, Engineer Ifeanyi He insisted that all verified also denied the allegation of Nigeria Labour Congress retiring civil servants which Ozigbo, assured that the By Jennifer John and automated workers and using consultants to pay (NLC), led by Comrade they noted was becoming a executive, under his watch pensioners in the state were salaries, saying he rather Benson Jack, had told the tradition in the state, thereby would do their means to mo State Governor, being paid, as and when due, disbanded the consultant governor that they were in the choking up the system and not spread the gospel to all nook S e n a t o r H o p e that those who have not been being used by his predecessor state to dialogue with him on allowing the young ones to get Uzodimma has said, on and crannies of the 21 local I paid are those who have one and made it clear that what he some critical issues affecting opportunities in the civil government areas and 326 assumption of office, he met issue or the other which are did was to establish a data workers in the state and to find service. They demanded an neglected and abandoned wards in the state. being resolved. centre which is housed at the a lasting solution to them. immediate implementation of civil servants who had lost Other members of the He accused civil servants former office of the first lady They listed some of the the N30, 000 minimum wage hope in the system. state executive include; Mrs. of being architects of the c h a l l e n g e s t o i n c l u d e ; and reversal of payment of The governor made this and being managed by N. E I g we n a g u - D e p u t y assertion while responding to problems in the salary recruited and trained Imo sons staggering/irregular payment salaries through consultants, Chairman, Col. Chuba the national leadership of the payment system where and daughters. of salaries and pensions, return of payment of salaries Ikeagu-Secretar y, Mrs. Nigeria Labour Congress account departments pad The governor insisted that underpayment of salaries and and pensions to the office of the Magdalene Okigbo-Women (NLC) who called on him at salaries for themselves and payment of salaries in the new pensions, withholding check- Accountant General, under the leader and Hon. Anthony the Government House, others, from whom they w o r l d o r d e r b o t h b y off dues. supervision of the office of the Okafor-Organising Secretary, Owerri, over the issues of collect kickbacks. governmnet and the private Others are; Non approval/ Head of Service, among others. among others. Monday, November 9, 2020

Curbing the challenge of food insecurity in South East ood is one of the basic needs of Experience so far has shown that when Managing Director man. Others are clothing and the north coughs the south east catches James Kalu Fshelter. Food is needed to sustain cold especially in food consumption. Each life. Food provides nutritional values as time there is violence in the north, Director of Operations well as medicinal properties. When flooding or other environmental hazards Patricia Nwoye consumed in the right proportion and mix, as well as natural occurrences like the it helps to boost the immune system. Covid-19 and the EndSARS protests food Nature has endowed us with different supplies to the area is cut off leading to Acting Editor-in-Chief varieties of food which abound in different very high costs. Jude Owuamanam areas of parts of the country. Interestingly, This is the situation as at present where some of the foods like those in fruit there are so much cries over the costs of Executive Editor category grow themselves seasonally such items as tomatoes, onions, etc. These without the challenge of replanting each are items that can comfortably be grown Jennifer John year. here but which have been ignored to the During the pre-war era when Nigeria detriment of the people. It is hard to Editor was reckoned as the major exporter of understand why a people that cannot feed Afam Echi many cash crops, Eastern region, as the itself could be clamouring for an South East was then called, contributed independent nation as the region is known significantly its quota in the revenue to root for Biafra. It is also a sad earned by the nation. Precisely, its export commentary that Nigeria as large and Production Editor of palm produce as well as other food populous as it is, is suffering from severe Anthony Ogbekile crops grown in the region made it stands food insecurity. out. It is stated that the South East of The federal government’s effort at Correspondents Nigeria was then rated as one of the fastest growing food and other agricultural growing economies of the world. projects appear not reciprocated by the Dan Maduagwu Okey (Abia State) While there are still immense residents in the South East. This could be Uchenna Ezeadigwe (Anambra State) opportunities in growing palms, things glimpsed from their poor responses as have since then fallen apart and the centre evidenced by statistics in taking advantage can no longer hold. The Igbo have special of the various government agricultural Reporters traits they are known for as enterprising programmes. There appears an unwritten people. They are very hard working, rule that people in this region should not Ikenna Orioha focused people who survive under the express interest in some of these schemes most severe conditions. Their success which the northerners have remained the Contributors stories in many endeavours ranging from major beneficiary. Dr. Sir Amos Agwamba business, academics etc, are unrivalled. In the light of the foregoing, there is They are widely travelled people who need for reorientation and change of heart are known to develop other areas they find from the people. In Ebonyi state, the state themselves in. With all the good things government has done so well to improve Production said about them what cannot really be the production of rice which it has the associated with them in truth is their Philip Kalu advantage of growing. It can do better by exploits in agriculture in spite of the great Ifeanyi Raymond harnessing all the available potential. The potentials to and the favourable climatic agro zone of Ngor Okpala and Ohaji conditions. It is difficult to actually place a Egbema which is the food basket of Imo, Circulation Team finger on why the Igbo are yet to hit a gold which remains unutilized, could be put Mr. Aloyius Ogboka mine in agriculture. into effective use. While we can bandy names that are Ignatius Ogechi Ajoku Anambra State also has potentials in accomplished in various areas in Tasie Chidiebere growing rice and yams. So, also Enugu and a c a d e m i c s, j u d i c i a r y, b u s i n e s s, Abia. Palm produce is common to all the engineering, politics, the ethnic group is states in the region yet it suffers from high Legal Adviser yet to give Nigeria a farmer. The question cost of palm oil. H. O. Ogbusu remains why the situation has persisted News Echo wishes to express its concern even where we have a knack for identifying opportunities. Rather than grow our own over the high cost of foods stuff especially foods we appear comfortable importing those that can comfortably be grown from other lands. within the region. The South East boasts This has implications for health, costs of very hard working youths who can hold and convenience as well as employment their ground any day. The challenge we lost opportunities in not growing our identify is the inability of the government foods. Segmenting the states in the South to redirect attention to these areas in order East will reveal that each has potentials to capture their interests. that if it focuses on will improve its food We call on the governors of these states supply. Presently, the states rely on the to have a rethink and go back to the northern region for its food supplies. The agriculture which has been the mainstay implication is that its survival as a group of our economy. Realizing the importance rests squarely on others and this is of food, they cannot shirk this dangerous. responsibility, not at this time. Monday, November 9, 2020 Focus Umuahia abattoir poses health risks to consumers By Dan Maduagwu, The slaughter area, as it was basis, occasioned by low purchasing power of n August this year, Abia observed, did not boast of consumers. State Commissioner for good sanitary condition Reminded that such could Health, Prof. Ikechi considering the fact that I lead to outbreak of diseases Mgboji aler ted Abia beef processed from the among consumers, the place is consumed by residents of the discovery of butcher replied “we sell bovine tuberculosis in some thousands of people. them off the next day”. cows in the state. The absence of a good He warned the public of the water system and proper Reaction of government eating of cow lungs as drainage system also made agencies a c c o r d i n g t o h i m , it impossible for a smooth Queenlilia Nwokocha, the veterinary officials from his channelling of animal Director of veterinary m i n i s t r y m a d e t h e blood. It was also found out ser vices, Ministr y of discovery in two cows after during the visit that A g r i c u l t u r e, L i b r a r y the cows were tested, saying veterinary officials are Avenue, Umuahia in that the bovine tuberculosis posted to the abattoir on reaction, said her office had was highly infectious to daily basis to ascertain in done enough to ensure the humans. The warning by the health conditions of wholesomeness of beef the commissioner created cows to be slaughtered and consumed by the public. anxiety among Abia also to carry out tests on the She however claimed that p e o p l e , e s p e c i a l l y meat after the cows are her office did not have direct consumers of beef. slaughtered. control of activities in the But two months after the However, investigation States as the regulatory alert by Mboji, a new vista gathered that the health f u n c t i o n h a d b e e n has been opened on the officials are much interested contracted out. terrible condition of in the revenue their office According to her “the cattle Umuahia Central Abattoir, generates from the place, control post has been the place where meat than their primary duty handed over to contractors, c o n s u m e d b y g r e a t which is to ensure the so we don't have powers over the activities but it is population of Abians, are suitability of the meat for important that only healthy processed on daily basis. human consumption. animals allowed to enter the Situated at Ubakala, the Local Government officials who are also posted to this market. No unhealthy cow headquarters of Umuahia should be slaughtered or South LGA off the Enugu- place equally pay much premium to the collection sold to the public”. The Ph express way, the abattoir v e t e r i n a r y d i r e c t o r, of revenue than being has a boundary with Queenlili Nwokocha said. interested in the general villages of Ntigha in Isiala- In his reaction, Prof. Ikechi sanitary condition of the N g w a N o r t h a n d Mgboji, the Abia State abattoir. Umunwanwa of Umuahia C o m m i s s i o n e r f o r South Councils. The abattoir as it was A g r i c u l t u r e s a i d h i s There, 30 to 80 cows are observed, also lacked the Abbattoir Ministry would always slaughtered on daily basis presence of functional ensure the sanity of with prices ranging from laboratory where the Umuahia abattoir as well as N150,000 to N350,000 wholesomeness of beef lamented that all concerned and good drainage. The suffered some disease the healthiness of meat sold depending on the size and should be confirmed before government agencies in State Government and all before being slaughtered for in the market. the relevant agencies are not sale, the butcher's chairman specie of cows. being allowed for sale to the Abia State had abandoned Prof. Mgboji reminded the general public. t h e w e l f a r e o f t h e assisting us at all. They only dismissed the claims as reporter that it was through promise us many things unfounded. Poor condition of abattoir “slaughter” to the butchers the vigilance of his Ministry alone, adding that the before elections but after In his words, “all the cows The abattoir which is We are abandoned by govt- that outbreak of Bovine government agencies were g a i n i n g p owe r, t h e y slaughtered here are s u b d iv i d e d i n t o t wo O r i a k u , b u t c h e r ' s tuberculosis was prevented only interested in huge abandon us. certified fit for human sections “Slaughter” and chairman in Abia State. revenue they generate from “Most of the things we use consumption by health trading area was a beehive T h e C o m m i s s i o n e r Speaking to News Echo, the the market. here were put in place officials. We don't allow of activity as buyers came however promised to Chairman of Umuahia through the efforts of cows with diseases to be investigate all the issues from different parts of the Butchers Association According to Oriaku, members, not from the sold. Even if we discover raised by the reporter about state and beyond, to buy government. Can you any one to be unfit for Pastor Tobechi Bright “during rainy season this Umuahia abattoir, while consumption, we won't charging Abians to report to allow it to be sold. We work h i s o f f i c e , a n y He however lamented that all concerned government agencies in w i t h t h e v e t e r i n a r y unwholesome conduct by “ officials.'' Abia State had abandoned the welfare of the “slaughter” to the butchers alone, meat dealers. Beyond the chairman's The Commissioner for adding that the government agencies were only interested in huge revenue explanations, this reporter environment, Chief Tony they generate from the market. According to Oriaku, “during rainy season this noticed that many butchers Nwamuo, speaking through in several markets visited in the Director of Pollution place becomes a major challenge to us to manage because of the environment. Umuahia left the beef on control of the Ministry, Mr. This is because of lack of a functional water system and good drainage. their tables uncovered, Ikechukwu Ukaegbu said it attracting a swarm of flies was the responsibilities of The State Government and all the relevant agencies are not assisting us at all. around the meat. Sale of relevant agencies in synergy They only promise us many things before elections but after gaining power, leftover meat, popularly with the leadership of known as “Anu Fridge” by butchers to ensure that Abia they abandon us. “Most of the things we use here were put in place some butchers is another residents are not served

through the efforts of members, not from the government. form of worry for the unfit commodity.

consuming public. This is He added that the Ministry Can you imagine that we buy water from women to wash because of the health threat “ had the power to sanction the meat we sell, clean the slab and to they pose to the human any group that contravened system. the State's environmental ensure a good smelling environment. B u t a b u t c h e r a t ethics. Amuzukwu relief market, But Dr. Joe Osuji, the Mr. Okechukwu Ndumele meat. While the trading Oriaku said his association place becomes a major imagine that we buy water Commissioner for health said problem of leftover section of the market was in under his leadership had challenge to us to manage from women to wash the whose office is at State done a lot to ensure the b e c a u s e o f t h e meat we sell, clean the slab m e a t o n e c o n o m i c Secretariat, failed to reply to good condition, the same hardship, noting that neatness of the abattoir and environment. This is and to ensure a good text messages and phone could not be said of the butchers found it hard to i t s s u r r o u n d i n g because of lack of a smelling environment.'' calls sent to him on the abattoir area, popularly finish their meat on daily called “Slaughter”. environment. He however functional water system On the fear that some cows issue. Monday, November 9, 2020 Page 6 Business News Expectedly, the other parts of the w o r r i e s o n t h e # E n d S A R S l o s s country, operators a b i l i t y o f t h e #EndSARS: incident is covered in fear this may be a insurance sector to i n s u r a n c e u n d e r s e t b a c k f o r t h e c o p e w i t h t h e policies that extend industry. expected number of Many insurance firms may struggle to riot and civil It is however not claims. commotion. So, fire too clear how much A d e m a y o w a a c o n t r a c t i o n o f a n d b u r g l a r y o r of the #EndSARS Adeduro, managing 29.53% in the second- C o m m e r c i a l l o s s i n c i d e n t i s director/CEO, Law to settle claims – Experts quarter GDP report property insurance if covered under the U n i o n & R o c k p u b l i s h e d b y t h e ith many across the country insurance penetration t o c o p e w i t h t h e ex t e n d e d c ove r s different types of Insurance plc, says National Bureau of businesses recently. in Nigeria is quite expected number of damage that results available policies. the loss is colossal Statistics (NBS). It is c o u n t i n g Aftermath of the hollow, but most of the claims. from vandalism, A c c o r d i n g t o and I am not sure W likely to drop into a losses estimated in #EndSARS protest government properties Shedding more light rioting and civil N A I C O M , whether we have recession when the billions of naira, most hijacked by hoodlums are expected to be on the development, commotion. These I n s u r a n c e w i t n e s s e d t h i s NBS releases its third- insurance firms who are may have a rippled c o v e r e d CSL Stockbrokers in a policies specifically companies paid a before, apart from quarter GDP report in faced with the grim negative effect on the comprehensively. note said the Nigerian include coverage for t o t a l n o n - l i f e the Civil War era. a few weeks' time. prospects of settling insurance segment of The La g o s Sta te i n s u r a n c e s e c t o r acts of looting in insurance claim of “The destructions C S L s t a t e d t h a t claims arising from loss the economy, which is gover nor Babajide r e m a i n s l a r g e l y connection with a N64 billion in 2018 are massive and though it is yet to of properties and assets currently in the process S a n w o - O l u w a s underdeveloped. r i o t o r c i v i l compared to N56.4 because there was recover from the effect destroyed by hoodlums of recapitalisation. reported to have said “ I n s u r a n c e commotion. billion a year earlier. c u r f e w , t h e o f t h e C o v i d - 1 9 who cash in on the A s D e c e m b e r the state alone would penetration still at W i t h m a n y Out of this total, perpetrators had a pandemic which has EndSARS protest are deadline for phase 1 need about N1 trillion about 2% and with the insurance firms in c l a i m s o n f i r e fie l d d ay g o ing resulted in an increase already groaning. recapitalisation of the for reconstruction after sector contributing less Nigeria set to incur i n s u r a n c e w e r e around looting, in in health, travel and Giving insights on the i n d u s t r y i s f a s t the destruction caused t h a n 0 . 5 % t o t h e claims following the about N9.1 billion s e t t i n g h o u s e s, business disruption capacity of insurance approaching, pressure by the hoodlums. nation's gross domestic violence and looting while Motor Vehicle banks, shops on fire. claims. firms to settle claims, is already mounting T h e m a s s i v e p r o d u c t s , ” C S L across Lagos and was N17.3 billion. Insurance industry analysts have projected due to expectation of destruction of both Stockbrokers added. T h e m a s s i v e is going to pay unprecedented rise in massive claims by public and private The Insurance sector Hospitality firms destruction of both h e av i ly f o r i t ,” i n s u r a n c e c l a i m s policyholders affected property has sparked is currently reeling public and private Adeduro stated. judging by level of by protest turned red. worries on the ability from the effect of the count N7.3bn losses property has sparked damages perpetrated A n a l y s t s s a i d of the insurance sector Covid-19 pandemic, with the sector posting in nine months Import ban alone can't fix h e nine-month period, textile sector – DG LCCI Nigeria's Internet speed peaks hospitality posting a N5.6bn loss e s p i t e t h e i n t h e N i g e r i a Tsector has from N683.8m profit f e d e r a l I n d u s t r i a l continued to grapple in the same period a Dgovernment's Revolution Plan amid rising subscriptions with losses in the first year ago. concerted efforts to (NIRP). nine months of 2020. revitalise the nation's “ M o r e he Internet for mobile Internet September 2019. the 175 countries I t s r e v e n u e T h e h o s p i t a l i t y over 250 moribund importantly the s p e e d i n download speed for As of August this dwindled by 53.7 per e x a m i n e d w a s fir ms, Transcor p textile mills only 30 are power issue needs N i g e r i a the 138 countries year, the industr y cent to N6.7bn from T 85.73mbps while it Hotels Plc, Ikeja currently operational, to be addressed. It N14.6bn, according peaked in September e x a m i n e d i n regulator reported that recorded 45.74mbps T h e N a t i o n c a n i s a l m o s t Hotel Plc and Capital t o i t s u n a u d i t e d 2020 in line with the S e p t e m b e r w a s the country's 3G and for the upload speed. authoritatively report. i m p o s s i b l e t o Hotel Plc suffered a financial statements i n c r e a s i n g 3 5 . 9 6 m b p s w h i l e 4G subscriptions had T h e N i g e r i a n C o n f i r m i n g t h i s a c h i e v e r a p i d combined loss of obtained from the subscriptions to the 11.22mbps was the reached 82.65 million. C o m m u n i c a t i o n s d e v e l o p m e n t , t h e industrialisation N7.3bn for the first N i g e r i a n S t o c k third generation of global average upload Also, Ookla index C o m m i s s i o n d a t a Director General of without resolving nine months of the Exchange. wireless technology, speed attained. showed that Nigeria's indicated that the L a g o s C h a m b e r o f the issue power and year, compared to the I k e j a H o t e l P l c C o m m e r c e a n d 3 G , a n d f o u r t h O o k l a ' s G l o b a l r a n k i n g f o r f i xe d nu m b e r o f a c t ive the deficit in key same period of 2019. p o s t e d a l o s s o f Industry, Dr. Muda infrastr uctures. generation of wireless Index indicated that broadband download subscribers to mobile This contrasts with N1.4bn for the nine- Yusuf, noted that import Textile production technology, 4G, in the the country's Internet speed also dropped by Internet services in the their profitability month period ended ban, forex exclusion list, is energy intensive. past one year. speed ranking hovered two places from 149th country increased to scorecard in 2019, September 30, down and intervention funds T h i s i s a h i g h N i ge r i a r a n k e d between 107th and position in August to 149.34 million in where the firms made from the N429.1m alone cannot fix this e n e r g y c o s t 1 1 8 t h i n m o b i l e 119th position in the 1 4 7 t h p o s i t i o n September 2020. a combined profit of profit recorded in the once vibrant sector. environment, and it Internet download past one year amid globally in September T h i s i s a n N1.3bn in the nine- same period a year Yusuf said, “It is is very difficult for speed as of September rising 3G and 4G this year. important to underscore indication that the month period. ago. a n y e n e r g y 2020, the latest data the importance of a intensive sector to subscriptions. I n t h e f i x e d country gained 26.55 Transcorp Hotels I t s u n a u d i t e d f r o m O o k l a ' s strategic approach to be competitive or The latest industry broadband category, million new Internet P l c r e p o r t e d t h e financial statement S p e e d t e s t G l o b a l industrialisation and efficient.” data from Nigerian N i g e r i a r e c o r d e d u s e r s b e t w e e n biggest loss in the s h o w e d t h a t i t s Index showed. this applies as well to the He said that some C o m m u n i c a t i o n s 13.07mbps average September 2019 and turnover dropped to The index stated textile industry. The of them have even Commission indicated download speed and S e p t e m b e r 2 0 2 0 , handy price and is N3.6bn in the period t h a t t h e c o u n t r y ' starting point is to g o n e i n t o t h a t a b o u t 1 5 . 0 7 12.11mbps upload recording a 22 per cent known for its promise under review from strengthen the capacity a v e r a g e m o b i l e receivership adding million new 3G and speed in September growth in subscribers “Light Up Your Day”. N9.1bn in the same of domestic industries, that they could not Internet download 4G subscriptions were this year. under the Global With this promotion p e r i o d o f 2 0 1 9 , e n h a n c e t h e i r repay their loans. speed peaked at 17.09 added by telecoms The global average System for Mobile Pure Bliss is staying true representing a decline competitiveness, and “The lesson is megabits per second o p e r a t o r s i n 1 1 for fixed broadband c o m m u n i c a t i o n to its promise and aims of 60.4 per cent. reduce their import that we should deal up from 17.07mbps in m o n t h s s i n c e download speed for category. to uplift the mood of Capital Hotel made dependence as espoused w i t h t h e millions of Nigerians in August. a loss of N256.5m, fundamental issues This is as Nigeria's these uncertain times. “ T h e i m p a c t o f o f p r o d u c t i o n S p e a k i n g o n t h e compared to a profit av e r a g e I n t e r n e t Pure Bliss to crown of N221m it recorded COVID-19 on the competitiveness in reason for launching this our economy. The upload speed, which in the same period business is like nothing has been fluctuating in promotion, Mr. Murali the company has ever textile industr y Krishnan Managing last year. the past one year, also witnessed. needs to be saved Director said that “Pure The firm's turnover 15 lucky millionaires “ T h e h o t e l a n d f r o m t h e peaked at 7.52mbps in Bliss is one of the most plunged to N1.4bn in ure Bliss, one emerge as millionaires promotion you need to hospitality industry in e x c r u c i a t i n g t h e m o n t h u n d e r loved Biscuits brands in the period under of the brands with Cash prize of 1 simply buy any Pure burden of high review. Nigeria across age review from N3.7bn Nigeria have never from the stable million naira. There will B l i s s m i l l i o n a i r e o p e r a t i n g a n d According to the P groups and so it is fitting faced a crisis that of OK Foods, has once also be lots of other promotion pack of your i n t h e f i r s t n i n e production cost. monthly report, the that we are launching brought travel to a again sought to delight, lucky winners of mouth- favourite variant and months of 2019. Meanwhile, and in average Internet speed o n e o f t h e l a r g e s t standstill, including reward, and financially watering prizes ranging open the pack. If you Transcorp Hotels in the spirit of the consumer promotions t h e E b o l a v i r u s performance of the empower Nigerians f r o m P r e m i u m find a unique alpha- September said it was executive order of b e i n g d o n e i n t h e outbreak of 2014 and country in September with the launch of a Smartphones, 40-inch numeric code, you need d i v e r s i f y i n g i t s the President, all category. We want to the recession of 2015. was the highest in one massive new promotion t e l e v i s i o n s e t s , to SMS the code to p o r t f o l i o a n d u n i f o r m s o f t h a n k o u r l o y a l “The slow pick-up of year while the lowest t a g g e d ' P u r e B l i s s Bluetooth headsets, 34778 or WhatsApp to r e d u c i n g i t s m i l i t a r y a n d consumers for their Internet download Millionaire Promo'. Bluetooth speakers, 08135053867 to win one international travel, p a r a m i l i t a r y patronage to Pure Bliss. workforce as part of speed at 15.13mbps The promotion which product hampers and a of the amazing prizes up restriction on large institutions should Along with great tasting its cost management was recorded in April was launched across whopping 30-million- for grabs. Every code gatherings, the switch b e m a d e f r o m products which they initiatives. Nigeria is valid until naira worth of airtime. guarantees a prize.” to virtual meetings and Nigeria produced this year. a l w a y s l o v e , t h i s This was due to the T h u r s d a y , 3 1 s t While describing the The Pure Bliss range fear of the virus, have textiles. This is a The index, which promotion will bring in unprecedented losses December 2020 or while m e c h a n i c s o f t h e of delicious biscuits (& drastically reduced low hanging fruit compared Internet that extra cheer and lift it suffered, according stock lasts, whichever is p r o m o t i o n M r s wafers) that is widely demand for our hotels t h a t c o u l d b e s p e e d d a t a f r o m up that resilient spirit to a statement by the earlier. Oluwaseyi Aderibigbe, available today are made explored while the around the world on a which resides within Managing Director, and occupancy levels Under this promotion Brand Manager, said with rich ingredients, i s s u e o f h i g h monthly basis, stated millions of Nigerians in to its lowest of less 15 lucky Nigerians will “To participate in this attractive packaging, Mrs Dupe Olusola. production cost is that the global average these testing times.” Olusola had said, than five per cent.” being addressed,” Monday, November 9, 2020 Page 7 Cr me Watch #EndSARS: Hoodlums looted 100 AK-47 rifles in Lagos police stations – Force committee nspector-General of and about 30 per cent of the return them to the nearest police Police Committee on police infrastructure in the state station or community leaders, IE n d S A R S P r o t e s t has been crippled. noting that three firearms were Damage Assessment has said that “Also, a lot of arms and r e t u r n e d t o s o m e p o l i c e Some of the paraded suspects about 100 AK-47 rifles and 2,600 ammunition were carted away. formations on Friday. pieces of ammunition are missing We are still counting and He added, “One of them was Arson: Lagos to release 253 suspects, because of attacks on police collating. In some police stations, returned to the Area Commander between November 4 and formations in Lagos State by 15 to 30 firearms and several Ajah, ACP Gbolahan. It was detains 92 others 5. hoodlums who hijacked protests. ammunitions were stolen. So far found somewhere, and the he Lagos State would be prosecuted as “The directorate has The committee stated that 37 from our preliminary report, community alerted him. They Directorate of there was a prima facie been able to dispatch legal police formations were attacked about 100 pieces of AK-47 cannot (policemen) went to pick it. If the P u b l i c case against them. advice in respect of 81 during the widespread violence in be accounted for and up to 2,600 community sees it (firearm) and T the state while 367 vehicles, refuses to report, the weapon will Prosecutions has cleared A statement on Sunday persons that are being pieces of ammunition are and ordered the release of by the Director, Public charged to the various i n c l u d i n g 1 0 A r m o u r e d missing. This is when criminals still be used to unleash terror on the population. That is why we 2 5 3 o f t h e p e r s o n s Affairs, Lagos State courts, while others will Personnel Carrier, saloon cars become more aggressive whereas and Hilux vans were burnt. are appealing to community arrested in connection Ministr y of Justice, be dispatched to court on police equipment has been The Chairman of the 10-man crippled. It is pathetic.” leaders, youths and other w i t h t h e m a y h e m K a y o d e O y e k a n m i , Monday, 9th November committee, CP Yaro Abutu, who The committee chairman stakeholders to be on the unleashed on the state, quoted Onigbanjo to have 2020. disclosed this in a chat with urged hoodlums in possession of lookout.” including burning of stated that the case files “ O u t o f t h e 3 6 1 newsmen, said the team was the arms and ammunition to public properties, in the forwarded to the DPP did persons, the Director of taking the inventory of property a f t e r m a t h o f t h e not disclose any prima Public Prosecutions shall destroyed in police facilities #EndSARS protests. facie case against the 253 be prosecuting 92 persons across the country. Police arrest 22-year-old The state's Attorney detainees, who were for different offences I t w a s l e a r n t t h a t t h e G e n e r a l a n d directed to be freed. ranging from arson, committee is expected to submit robbery suspect Commissioner for Justice, He explained that the stealing, breaking into its report to the IG, Mohammed he Cross River State the suspects and then called the Mr Moyosore Onigbanjo police forwarded 40 case buildings, armed robbery Adamu, within three weeks. Police Command at the police. (SAN), however, said 92 files to the DPP and legal and murder, while the Abutu lamented that it was weekend paraded 22- Jimoh: “Our Creed is not of the persons arrested advice was issued on them office has advised that 253 unfortunate the destruction T year-old Oke Sheriff and Eyo Nsa waging war on criminals as well happened towards the end of the p e r s o n s b e r e l e a s e d Etim 35, robbery suspects who as detection and prevention of Suspected Kidnappers kill year “when there is a surge in f o r t h w i t h f o r n o n - tried to burn their victim alive crime but also putting up valiant criminality all over the country.” disclosure of a prima facie while robbing a household in measures to ensure that relative NSCDC official, vigilante, Abutu said, “We are taking a case. Calabar. peace is experienced in all facets tour around the 17 states where “In the meantime, two The Command also disclosed of life especially this period of burning of police facilities and abduct two PhD students case files in respect of 16 that they rescued a kidnap victim security challenges. killing of police personnel e c u r i t y a n d mistaken by sources for persons have been advised with the assistance of the “Let me assure residents that occurred. Since Lagos is the i n d e p e n d e n t where the attack took place for further investigation community while his captors this command's resolve to epicentre, we decided to come to Ss o u r c e s h a v e because the two residential b y t h e p o l i c e,” t h e escaped when they discovered the conscientiously operate within Lagos first. Thirty-seven police confirmed that one officer buildings are not far apart. police were on their trail. the principles of Justice, fairness statement said. stations were attacked in Lagos of the Nigeria Security and T h e P o l i c e P u b l i c Speaking with newsmen, the and equity as enshrined in the C i v i l D e f e n c e C o r p s Relations Officer (PPRO) C o m m i s s i o n e r o f p o l i c e, established laws of the state and (NSCDC) and a member of of the Adamawa State Three hospitalised after Rivers Abdulkadir Jimoh said despite the Federation is of utmost a vigilante group have died Command, DSP Suleiman the situation of things in the importance. of gunshots from suspected Nguroje, reiterated on cop goes on shooting spree country his men are still poised to “Within the period under kidnappers in Adamawa Sunday that the vigilante do their job and effectively police review, the Command in her State. died at the scene of the hree persons are in Speaking on the incident, the state. efforts to rid off and bring crime The sources said the gun attack while the NSCDC critical condition the Chairman, Rumuokuta, According to him, five suspects to it's barest minimum recorded wielding attackers stormed official died afterwards after a policeman Ada George branch, Tricycle T were apprehended for various some achievements. a residential house in from wounds he sustained attached to a supermarket Owners Association of “They include the arrest of Mbamba in Yola South from the gunmen. The along Ada George Road in crimes including armed robbery, Nigeria, Kingsley Wobo, armed robbery suspects, rescue of Local Government Area PPRO could not disclose illegal possession of firearms, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, said the union would liaise kidnap victim, arrest of suspects allegedly to kidnap a the owner of the house that cultism and looting. The have opened fire on them. with the affected persons to for unlawful possession of prominent occupant but was attacked. confessed to the crime and will be It was learnt that the get justice for them. charged to Court firearms and sundry crime. ended up abducting two O n h i s p a r t , t h e policeman was angry at the He added that he got P h D s t u d e n t s o f t h e He hinted that one of such were “A t t h i s j u n c t u r e , t h e A d a m aw a C o m m a n d attitude of the commercial information that a policeman American University of Public Relations Officer of two armed robbery suspects who Command enjoins all and sundry tricycle drivers operating in attached to a supermarket in Nigeria (AUN) residing the NSCDC, Mansur Sajor, tried to burn their victim alive to be wary, conscious and the area. there and shooting two of affirmed that one Solomon the area shot three persons. while he and his family were proactive of the happenings in the security operatives who Joshua, an Inspector, was T h e v i c t i m s w e r e a “I was told that he was being robbed at their residence at their respective environments, resisted them. the NSCDC officer who commercial tricycle rider, a angry that a bus driver State Housing estate, Calabar w h e t h e r r e s i d e n t i a l o r While the vigilante died died as a result of gunshots passer-by, and a trader. They blocked the frontage of Municipality LGA of Cross recreational centres at all times,” at the scene of the attack, from the attackers. were said to be receiving where he was. He asked the River. he said. the NSCDC official died “We understand that treatment at the University driver to leave the place. The Commissioner explained The Police boss also revealed later, the sources said. some gunmen went to a of Port Harcourt Teaching Before he left, another keke t h a t d u r i n g a d i s c r e e t that they rescued one Emmanuel Report hit that it was the house to kidnap somebody. Hospital. rider came and he shot at investigation it was revealed that Akpan at Ebuka Ebuka street in residence of the Adamawa Our officer was among One of the victims said, “I him. We are not happy with the suspects jumped into their Calabar South LGA while some State House of Assembly security operatives from saw my brother who is also a what is going on,” he stated. victim's compound entered hoodlums were trying to abduct Speaker, Rt Hon Iya Abbas different outfits drafted keke driver. He said I should When contacted, the through the kitchen injured the him. that was attacked. there under Operation wait for him to park. The spokesman for the state children with a knife. He said they had the assistance from the Anantigha community Refuting this version of Farauta. Our officer was next thing I heard was a Police Command, Nnamdi Speaking further, he said they the story in an interview in the rescue operation while shot during an exchange of gunshot. When I heard the Omoni, confir med the (suspects) also tied their victims w i t h n e w s m e n , t h e fire against the kidnappers,” down ,poured fuel on their bed appealing to the public to always gunshot, it was on my leg. It incident, noting that two Chairman of the state Mansur said. and their body, threatened to set make it a point of duty to pass was my brother that brought cops linked with the shooting House Committee on The AUN could however them ablaze if they raised an useful Information to the police me to the hospital.'' Information, Hon Japhet not confirm that those had been detained. alarm, but they struggled with the for actionable analysis and The third victim identified Kefas, said, “I want to make abducted were its students. He said, “I am aware of the robbers and alerted their parents prompt response at all levels. it clear that nothing like that The Vice President in as Nice operating a store incident. I can confirm that who came in and overpowered happened (at the speaker's charge of Public Relations close to the supermarket said the two policemen are in residence). How can you of the University, Prof the policeman opened fire on detention at the State write such a lie about Abba Tahir, said the school him after he approached him Criminal Investigation and somebody who represents a was yet to resume and the to leave the tricycle drivers Intelligence Department. community and represents school management had no alone. The Commissioner of Police Read & advertise the whole Assembly? We i n f o r m a t i o n t h a t a n y “He shot me on my waist. I has ordered an investigation are not happy.” s t u d e n t s h a d b e e n went down and shouted, into the matter.” It had become clear by abducted. 'officer you have shot me'”, with NEWS ECHO Sunday, however, that the he stated Speaker's residence was Monday, November 9, 2020 Page 8 NEWS Anambra elections: Anxiety grips parties on e-voting

"The man who teaches you ... Jonathan , Diri , Muoghalu, APC welcome development how to fish is better than the By Jude Owuamanam, Maduako Eleweke, Rhoda Godwin, Yenagoa hope national assembly ill use electronic voting where one who gives you fish. To be process in the country. m a k e t h e n e c e s s a r y nobody will use thugs to win taking fish from a politician he All Progressive appropriate time when the Ejidike said that the APC amendments to the Electoral elections. Immediately we use everyday is to be dependent. G r a n d A l l i a n c e picture is clearer. For now, we in Anambra is fully in support Act of 2010 to make these electronic voting, the issue of To be a fisherman is to be (APGA)-run Anambra cannot make any categorical T and is ready to work with the reforms possible. It's great that thuggery and cultism will drop independent. And to be State Gover nment and statement." INEC to achieve successful the electoral commission by at least 50 percent." independent is the glory and People's Democratic Party Nwobu said that the INEC election in the state. intends to start as early as Q1 On his part, Governor Diri desire of every reasonable ( P D P ) h ave u r ge d t h e needs to make clarification "We are in support and 2021 with voter registration.” who was represented at the man. I n d e p e n d e n t N a t i o n a l them on the guidelines for e- fully prepared to work with “Surely time to make votes occasion by his deputy, "So, we are ready to make Electoral Commission (INEC) voting before he can make I N E C i n t h e e - vo t i n g count and be counted S e n a t o r L a w r e n c e our youths self-reliant and to disclose the details of its categorical statement. experiment. The e-voting will transparently! That's a core Ewhrudjakpo, urged youths to prosperous by teaching them proposal to use the 2021 While welcoming the idea s t o p t h e u n n e c e s s a r y r e q u i r e m e n t o f r e a l shun politicians who only use how to fish in agriculture and A n a m b r a g ove r n o r s h i p of e-voting, Nwobu said manipulations, rigging and democracy,” his tweet added. them as canon fodders to other legitimate endeavours." election to test run electronic adequate information should others that were associated M e a n w h i l e f o r m e r achieve their selfish political Delivering his charge as voting system in the country. be made available to the with our electoral process in President Goodluck Jonathan goals and abandon them President of the Synod and The position of the two parties on how it was going to the past. and Bayelsa Governor Senator afterwards. Bishop of Ogbia Diocese, parties came as the former be organised. It behoves on all of us to Douye Diri have advocated the He noted that, the only way Right Revd James Aye- President Goodluck Jonathan He also said that before the support and make sure that it use of electronic voting as a a youth could resist the Oruwori, cautioned the and Bayelsa Governor, Duoye e-voting commences, there is works. We will do everything means of checking electoral temptation of going into Federal Government not to Diri, have advocated e-voting need for it to backed by law so thuggery and cultism is to love humanly possible to ensure malpractices in the country. use its Companies and other as a means of checkmating that nobody will challenge the and appreciate him or herself that INEC succeed with the e- T h e y l a m p o o n e d Allied Matters Act (CAMA) electoral malpractice in the outcome of the election in the as a unique creation of God. voting. It is not a new thing, it politicians who promote to undermine the sacred place country. court on that basis. Governor Diri also used has been working in other thuggery and cultism as a of the church in society. Also All Progressive "The INEC statements on the opportunity to call on climes and it will work in means of winning elections in He said the theme of this Congress (APC) and the using Anambra state 2021 Nigeria" he said. the country. people of the state to key into Young Progressives Party, governorship elections to test year's synod tagged 'I Am That He however said that the The two leaders who spoke the present administration's (YPP) have commended the run the e-voting needs to be Am' emphasizes the self system cannot be adopted at the Third Synod of the p r o s p e r i t y a g e n d a b y electoral umpire initiative in made clearer to us for us to existent nature of God who is without a legal framework, Diocese of Ogbia at St Mark's embracing agriculture and introducing e-voting, which know what are involved. We in perfect control of all stressing that that INEC as a Anglican Church, Otakeme, at small scale businesses to better they said will improve cannot officially react on situations and circumstances. credible institution cannot do the weekend, called for the their lot. e l e c t i o n s a n d c u r b issues when we don't have Bishop Aye-Oruwori, who anything that is not backed by immediate adoption of According to him, "Just manipulations in the electoral details information" he said. thanked the dignitaries and all law. electronic voting system to like our father (the former system in the country. Also speaking on the issue, synodees for attending the "The fact that they said curb the ugly trend. President) said earlier, I want INEC Chairman, Prof. one of the governorship event, urged Christians not to they want to test run e-voting Jonathan said, "Our to encourage our youths to Mahmoud Yakubu had aspirants under platform of presume to have known God in Anambra, means they will political activities particularly resist evil politicians who do disclosed that the Anambra PDP in the state, Dr. Godwin enough but strive to serve Him make sure that their actions the use of young people as not mean well for them. If they election will be a test case for Ezeemo also said that he in humility at all times. are backed by law. E-voting is militiamen and thugs and so invite you to carry guns, ask the introduction e-voting in cannot say anything on the e- The 3-day programme had more transparent and credible. on to win elections has t h e m , w h e r e a r e yo u r the country. voting until he get clearer in attendance the Bishop of It is done in other places and it i n c r e a s e d t h e s e c u r i t y children? You must learn to M a h m o u d h a d a l s o picture of the modi operandi. Northern Izon Diocese, Right can be done in Nigeria. This challenges facing our nation. love yourself above any disclosed that there were also "Right now ,I cannot make Revd Funkuro Amgbari, his simple means as you are "Some the youths they use politician. plans to ensure Diaspora any statement on it until I see Niger Delta West counterpart, voting, it is automatically are so protected that even the "For us as a government, voting to enable more eligible the condition for the e-voting . Right Revd Emmanuel Oko- being recorded and giving no police cannot arrest them we are determined to improve Nigerian citizens working in I cannot not make comment Jaja and the Bishop of the rooms for rigging and because they are 'boys' to the lives of our people. And diplomatic missions or those on what I don't know anything manipulation of votes. It is powerful politicians who use our focus is to see how Diocese on the Lake, Imo permanently living abroad to about. They said they want to highly welcome and I want to them during elections. prosperity can be engendered. State, Right Revd Chijioke Oti, vote. u s e e - v o t i n g f o r t h e commend APC for the "That is why I've always Prosperity is not engendered in addition to several Speaking to News Echo in forthcoming governorship wonderful move" he said. advocated that for us to move by coming to beg a politician prominent personalities from elections in Anambra state. I separate interviews, the State The 2019 Presidential forward as a country, we must to give you something to eat. within and outside the state. cannot say much until they C o m m i s s i o n e r f o r candidate of the Young come out with the details Information and Public Progressives Party, YPP, Prof. information" he said. Enlightenment Mr. C. Don Kingsley Moghalu welcomed However, the chairman Adinuba and the state the development. He urged the APC in Anambra state, Chief chairman of the opposition National Assembly to make Basil Ejidike described it as a Peoples Democratic Party necessary amendments to the great milestone in the electoral (PDP), Chief Ndubuisi Electoral Act in order to make reengineering of the nation's Nwobu said that they are yet the reforms possible. electioneering process. get full details of the Speaking on his Twitter According to him, the e- modalities for the e-voting. handle, the former YPP voting allows free and credible A d i n u b a s a i d t h e presidential candidate, who elections that are devoid of government needed the full hails from Anambra state said, manipulations and other vices information on the modalities “I'm very pleased that INEC associated with the country for the e-voting and can only has decided to introduce elections process over the react when act when such electronic voting and voting years. details were available. access for Nigerians in He said by introducing e- The commissioner said, diaspora. voting, the ruling party was "We are still waiting and “ K u d o s t o I N E C interested in bequeathing a studying the INEC statement Chairman Prof. Mahmoud legacy of sanity in the electoral and we will make statement at Yakubu for these steps. We 55 NSCDC officers graduate in Gory scenes from Anambra cult war. intensive language course for Afrika also noted that it had privilege to learn our indigenous NICO language program in Enugu their seriousness, dedication become imperative due to issues languages and interact better and hunger to learn more. of transfer of officers as with members of the public, From Chuma Austin the three major Nigerian Office, said that getting It is clear that indigenous demanded by the NSCDC job, g a i n t h e i r t r u s t a n d Enugu indigenous languages namely; acquainted with indigenous languages are vital in modern that each officer must have the cooperation,'' he said. l a n g u a g e s e n c o u r a g e d security of a vast nation like knowledge of indigenous One of the beneficiaries of etermined to improve Igbo, Yoruba and Hausa. information and intelligence ours and to create that closeness languages handy. the language course, SP Emilia on the operations of Declaring the language sharing between security required by security personnel O u r j o b i s b a s i c a l ly Igwebueze, said that the course the Nigeria Security course closed in NSCDC D personnel and members of the to interact freely among the information and intelligence had exposed her to Hausa and Civil Defence Corps h e a d q u a r t e r s , E n u g u , public. people of various localities of gathering; done by knowing the language and its rich culture (NSCDC), the Enugu State Mohammed Yahuza, Executive His words: ``I appreciate the the country people's indigenous language w h i l e s e r v i n g i n I g b o Command, at the weekend, Secretary of NICO, said that the civil defence for such a Earlier, the Commandant of that will usher you into their predominantly speaking areas. successfully trained 55 of its ability of security personnel to cooperation to boost the N S C D C E n u g u S t a t e cultural practices, which one Another officer, DSP Lillian staff in Nigeria indigenous c o m m u n i c a t e i n m a n y capacity of its officers and men Command, Valentine Afrika, must respect to work in Adah, said that learning Igbo language program of the indigenous languages would to understand and interact in said that without adequate harmony with them. language had given her the National Institute for Cultural b o o s t t h e f i g h t a g a i n s t many Nigerian languages understanding and interaction I must thank the executive latitude to interact more freely Orientation (NICO). insecurity. especially the major ones. with the locals, providing s e c r e t a r y a n d N S C D C with the locals within Enugu It was gathered that the Y a h u z a , w h o w a s I commend the officers and security for them becomes Commandant-General for State and appreciate their graduated officers were given represented by Mr Nnaemeka men that participated in the `difficult and near impossible''. giving this command this rare culture the more. two-month intensive lessons on Nwajagu, NICO Head, Enugu Monday, November 9, 2020 Page 9 News Nigerian govt, Igbo leaders meeting: Lai Mohammed reveals details, plans i n i s t e r o f He spoke to the newsmen eight hours. will investigate positions Information, on Sunday in Enugu. Mohammed disclosed and demands made by the ML a i The delegation was led by that stakeholders agreed on South-East leaders. Mohammed, has said that Ibrahim Gambari, Chief of the unity and oneness of I n a t t e n d a n c e we r e the meeting a presidential S t a f f t o P r e s i d e n t Nigeria. governors, statesmen, as delegation had with leaders Muhammadu Buhari. The minister noted that well as religious, traditional, and stakeholders of the The Saturday's meeting in this was clearly spelt out in women and youths' leaders. South-East was fruitful. Enugu lasted more than different presentations. T h e p r e s i d e n t i a l “We listened clearly and d e l e g a t i o n h a d t h e Trump's refusal to concede carefully to all the positions Inspector-General of Police, Dialogue with IPOB, and demands, and we are M o h a m m a d A d a m u ; defeat queries integrity going back to report directly Minister of Labour, Chris others over agitations, to President Buhari.” Ngige; Minister of Science of US election — CNN Mohammed said the a n d T e c h n o l o g y , s the world jubilates Supreme Cour t or would federal government had O g b o n n aya O nu , a n d o v e r t h e challenge the integrity of an Orji tells Buhari been spreading development Minister of Foreign Affairs, Aannouncement of election that Biden looks set to ormer a n d i n f r a s t r u c t u r e Geoffrey Onyeama. Joe Biden as the winner of the eventually win with sufficient A b i a nationwide simultaneously Others were Minister of 2020 US election, the refusal of electoral votes, which would FGover and equitably. S t a t e f o r T r a d e a n d his challenger and the incumbent make challenges in individual n o r, S e n a t o r He assured the region that Investment, Uchenna Ogah; President, Donald Trump, to states unlikely to alter the Theodore Orji, the Buhari administration M i n i s t e r o f S t a t e f o r concede defeat, is casting national result. has called on will never marginalise any Education, Chukwuemeka shadows on the credibility of the T h e l e g a l f r o n t l o o k s P r e s i d e n t zone. Nwajiuba, and Minister of election more than 24 hours after increasingly like a rallying point M u h a m m a d u The minister assured that State for Environment, the results were announced. for partisans keen to prevent B u h a r i t o on return to Abuja, the team Sharon Ikeazor. Biden surpassed the 270 votes Biden's presidency from being dialogue with from the Electoral College, seen as legitimate by Trump dissident group, Erosion destroys four buildings which he needed to win by 7 and supporters and as a face-saving including the popular votes of 75, 215, 431 or way for the President himself to I n d i g e n o u s in Bayelsa community 51.5 per cent, with Trump explain his defeat. Renowned People of Biafra trailing behind with 213 votes Republican election lawyer e s i d e n t s o f Speaking with newsmen, from the Electoral College or 70, Benjamin Ginsberg said that (IPOB) to stem O g b o g o r o the Ebenibe of Epie/Atissa 812, 515 or 48.5 per cent popular there was no sign that the i n c r e a s i n g Rcommunity in clan, His Royal Majesty, M, votes, President had any case that agitations and Orji Y e n a g o a L o c a l King Godwin Igodo, and While Trump has yet to give could change the result of the insecurity in the don't talk with them, they G ove r n m e n t A r e a o f f o r m e r C h a i r m a n o f any public sign, he's prepared to election. He told CNN's Erin country. will continue to give you Bayelsa State following Bayelsa traditional council relinquish power, sources tell Burnett that there was so far "no O r j i , w h o s p o k e t o trouble. You discuss with massive coastal erosion that said, he is not surprised at CNN on Saturday that Jared evidence of the systemic fraud or reporters ahead of his 70th them.” destroyed four residential what is happening, because Kushner, the President's son-in- irregularities to cast any of the birthday anniversary this On the Igbo presidency in buildings within a week it's a yearly thing. law and senior adviser, has results in any of the states into w e e k , i d e n t i f i e d 2023 under the PDP, Orji The inhabitants were He said, "We are not a p p r o a c h e d h i m a b o u t doubt." restructuring as panacea for said the PDP has no choice seen abandoning their surprised at the natural conceding the election. The White House signalled the manifest marginalisation b u t t o a c c e d e t o t h e houses to seek shelter occurrence, we live at the Trump has not denied the that the public was unlikely to in the country. yearnings and aspirations of elsewhere and escape from bank of the Ekoli River and outcome of the election, see the President soon after he T h e A b i a C e n t r a l the South East. the natural disaster, which the place is always affected privately at least, sources tell returned from playing golf lawmaker said the South CNN. But he's continuing to Saturday afternoon, but he was He said: “It is a party has destroyed schools and by seasonal flood. Every East would negotiate with push his attorneys to pursue legal well within earshot of the crowds affair. It will be sorted out by churches. year, from June to October, the Peoples Democratic the party. We are members of challenges that would delay clamouring for his exit in It was gathered that the this ugly incident continues. Party (PDP) to zone its 2023 the party. formal certification of the Washington, DC. gully erosion was caused by Right now, our primary presidential ticket to the “So, when the argument results. Chief of staff Mark One joyful gathering was inability of the government school is seriously affected. region. about zoning comes, we will Meadows, who is working from directly across from the White to dredge Ekoli River, which We have lost the NYSC On what advice he has for address it. We can't be happy home after testing positive for House in Black Lives Matter Nigeria on attaining 70, Orji when other states have six was fast eating up the Lodge to erosion. The corona virus, discussed next Plaza, near where the Trump said: “The advice is already states, and we have five. c o m m u n i t y a n d NYSC lodge that was very steps with the legal team administration enraged activists on the table and that is “It shows that we are submerging house on its far from the bank of the river Saturday. in June by clearing peaceful Trump again on Saturday protesters with pepper balls, restructuring. m a r g i n a l i s e d . We a r e way. is now at the bank, basically baselessly impugned mail-in flashbangs and rubber bullets “If there are dissident cheated. That is what is An affected resident eroded. ballots, which overwhelmingly during a demonstration against voices, call them and discuss causing the agitation in the Awo keme, said he was “ S o m e o f t h e s e tipped the election in Biden's police brutality shortly before with them and find out how region. traumatized because he had environmental problems are f av o r, a n d r e p e a t e d t h e Trump walked across the street you can bring them in and “ S o m e g r o u p s a r e lost his home to erosion and natural while some are that is what will solve the he currently had no place to man-made. Our own is falsehoods on Twitter that he for a photo op while holding a agitating that the zone "WON THE ELECTION." He Bible in front of historic St. problem we are facing now. should be a country on its stay. natural, it has been there, Re s t r u c t u r i n g i s w h a t claimed "bad things happened" John's Church. own. Others are demanding The residents called on and we have written to the in the election that his poll While Trump may not accept everybody is shouting.” restructuring because it is t h e f e d e r a l a n d s t a t e Federal Government and observers were not allowed to that he has lost, many world He added a major part of glaring that the South East is governments to come to interventionist agencies to see, even though there is no leaders did on Saturday as they r e s t r u c t u r i n g i n c l u d e s being marginalized. their rescue and save them come to our aid, but nothing evidence that GOP poll watchers sent congratulatory messages to resource control. “If you treat me fairly like from the threat of erosion. has been done''' were systematically shut out of Biden and Harris. He said: “The issue of you treat other persons and the process anywhere in the In a sign of how quickly resource control should also I'm convinced that you are N75bn fund: Lagos, Kano, country. global realities shift after a US be addressed because the sincere, I will not complain. "71,000,000 Legal Votes. The election, even some leaders who resources are coming from “It is when I look around Abia to get more beneficiaries m o s t E V E R f o r a s i t t i n g had courted Trump, including the same people who are me and I see that I am being agos, Kano, and confirmed the report. President!" Trump tweeted British Prime Minister Boris agitating. marginalised and treated like Abia states will Justifying the government's Saturday afternoon. (While the Johnson, rushed to congratulate “You won't expect us to a second-class citizen that p r o d u c e m o r e d e c i s i o n t o p i c k m o r e p o p u l a r v o t e t a l l y w a s the President-elect. keep quiet when we are would make people to be L continuing to rise for both men as In perhaps the most notable beneficiaries than any other beneficiaries from the three producing, and you are not ballots were counted Saturday, message, India's nationalist agitating. state and the Federal Capital states, Akande explained that giving us enough. Biden had won 74.5 million Prime Minister Narendra Modi, “When the time comes for Territory in the sharing of the Lagos, Kano, and Abia State “Governor Nyesom Wike votes and Trump had won 70.4 who had appeared at huge the PDP to determine zoning Economic Sustainability have more MSMES activities is shouting every day because for the 2023 presidential than the remaining states. million votes). campaign-style rallies with the Niger Delta people are Plan's N75bn Micro, Small, Trump's campaign team is Trump in India and the United election, the party will do the and Medium Enterprises A c c o r d i n g t o t h e not getting the required needful. d i s t r i b u t i o n p a t t e r n expected to continue its effort to States, tweeted a picture of Biden attention they require as oil Survival Fund. dispute the election results with a leaning in to whisper in his ear “We will sort it out at the This was contained in an contained in the report, for producing region. We know the Payroll Support, Lagos next round of lawsuits Monday, during a previous meeting. Modi the areas that are sensitive.” party level. We will present updated report of the Federal but so far they have been unable s e n t a s e p a r a t e t w e e t G o v e r n m e n t o n t h e will get 25,000 beneficiaries; On whether the dissidents our case and the party would Kano gets 17,000; Abia gets to point to any credible instance congratulating Harris and noting implementation of the he referred to include the listen. PDP is strong in the 16,000; while other states get of voter fraud that would alter her Indian heritage, saying her proscribed IPOB, the Abia survival fund scheme on the outcome of the race. success was a great source of South East, if not for any 13,000 each. Central lawmaker said: “Yes, Sunday. For the General MSME It is not clear how isolated pride for Indian Americans and of course. other reason, the party T h e S e n i o r S p e c i a l Grants, Lagos gets 3,880; instances of irregularities, even if her "chittis" -- a Tamil term of “Is there anything bad in should listen to us.” A s s i s t a n t t o t h e V i c e Kano -3,280; Abia -3,080; found, would add up to a case endearment that has been used discussing with IPOB? If you President on Media and while other states get 2,640 with sufficient legal questions to by the vice president-elect. Publicity, Laolu Akande, each. make it all the way to the Monday, November 9, 2020 Page 10 Interview Agitation for Biafra will stop when Igbo man National Centre for Diseases Control NCNC, I don't think becomes president — Prof. Ibe we would have survived it. We rof. Gregory Ibe is the complained that the rice was should critically review what founder of Gregory n o t g o o d f o r h u m a n the governors did with one PUniversity Utur u consumption. Some states still billion naira and additional (GUU), Abia state and one of shared them to their people to money from the various donor t h e p e o p l e e y e i n g t h e eat that way and they ate and agencies across the country. governorship seat for Abia by God's grace they survived. I N1billion is not a small money. under the platform of PDP in want to look at few scenarios If you have an existing 2023. In this interview with before any other thing. Those building, to build a molecular MADUAKO ELEWEKE, he states they found these rice and laboratory it will not cost speaks on EndSARS protests, food items, were those food more than N25 millions and Abia state charter of equity, items part of the Federal with N100 millions, one will Nigeria presidency of Igbo government palliatives given do about four molecular extraction. to states? Two, when were laboratories in each state and What is your take on the state these food items received? everybody would have been of Nigeria, especially the just Some states claimed that they tested. VTM is between N800 concluded EndSARS protest? just received those items, and to N1000 for single probe and Prof. Ibe they were waiting for another N1500 to N1800 for double EndSARS came like a outbreak to share them. For p r o b e . T e l l m e w h y surprise to everybody and like would be watching what the With the vacuum, the state me, they made wrong excuses. government could not flood they called it hashtag which other is doing. What led to governors will have to create The foods that were meant for the country with all these switched all over the world and A m e r i c a n p r o b l e m wa s state police, which everybody hungry people and you kept materials to test every Nigeria? everybody decided to follow American police sitting on a has been clamouring for over them without giving to them. It was possible because federal the challenge, because it was a black man neck till he died. So, the years. I know that Federal If the epidemic breakout g o ve r n m e n t r e s p o n d e d challenge. In the modern time, I think we continue to reform government will not allow that again, there is a government quickly and timely by sending you must see this kind of thing police until they get where they vacuum to be, because it is very and system, there should be N1billion to governors. Where because of one injustice or ought to be. They were not like dangerous. Two wrongs do not another provision. Why are all these monies? Federal perceived injustice along the this some 20- 30 years ago. make a right. So, I appealed to allowing people to suffer Government should institute a line. They went for the police This is a lesson to Nigeria. our brothers and sisters in the hardship when there was panel to investigate all these to the extent that they took the Police and government should Police to return to work and provision to soften their things and find out what matter so far and what came be reformed totally. I should function according to the laws challenges? Those states h a p p e n e d . T h e I s r a e l i out of it was surprising to also call for different forms of that guide their operations. It making such excuses and government, my company every right-thinking person. police in the country. Let was the police extrajudicial statements should stop that Skill G and my University Ye s, t h e r e i s r i g h t f o r create railway police, school killing that triggered off the and find another excuse to Gregory University Uturu in agitations, which the president police and others to reduce the protest g i v e . A g a i n , f e d e r a l Abia state jointly produced said was provided for in the pressure on the main police g o v e r n m e n t g av e e a c h materials and donated to Constitution .if i may say, we and their duties should be In some states Covid-19 governor N1billion for the federal government. We also ran it to a point that hoodlums enshrined in the Constitution. palliatives were hoarded, Covid-19 pandemic. What did did palliatives in Abuja, Imo took over it and we couldn't I will also want the police to be while people were dying of the governors do with the and Abia states and if I have meet the aim again. The of decentralized and give state hunger, what does that money? The Kogi state opportunity, I would have agitation was to develop a some level of autonomy. If p o r t e n d a b o u t o u r governor stated this and I am done it to the whole country. template to speak to the there are traffic police, they leadership? q u o t i n g h i m . F e d e r a l Again, during Covid-19, I authority ,but as far I was should not do the work of civil government should ask them made sure that people have concerned it was a total police. When Covid-19 started, you to give account of how they food on their tables. That is confusion because I don't In some states, there is could recall that Federal spent the money. How many what we called responsiveness know if we actually achieved complain that police have Government shared a lot of molecular laboratories did we when it comes to emergency. I anything apart from the refused to return to duties. seized rice from customs to have in each state done by the want us to be our brother's responses the president or the What is your take? different states government. federal or state government keepers. I am looking at the government gave. If it was S o m e s t a t e g o v e r n o r s during the Covid-19? Without situation where all the rich coordinated well, it could have men will be there brother's led to sitting down with the keepers not just for their government and bringing out Again, federal government gave each governor N1billion for c o n s t i t u e n c i e s b u t t o something reasonable for the the Covid-19 pandemic. What did the governors do with the everybody. system. People bought into it and it became marketplace money? The kogi state governor stated this and I am Recently, one Nigeria and what we are left with today “ national newspaper Daily quoting him. Federal government should ask them to give i s t h a t o u r c r i t i c a l account of how they spent the money. How many molecular Trust honoured you, as infrastructures have been Unsung hero. How do you reduced to nothing. Police laboratories did we have in each state done by the federal or feel? cannot operate in a vacuum; state government during the Covid-19? Without National they need buildings, vehicle to Centre for Diseases Control NCNC, I don't think we would It was a surprise, that a carry out their duties. I think, newspaper could honour me we have left more vacuum, have survive it. We should critically review what the with that. When somebody more dangerous vacuum than governors did with one billion naira and additional money drew my attention to it, I was we tried to cure. Ever y from the various donor agencies across the country. looking at the pictures; I could not recognize anybody. I also community needs police and N1billion is not a small money. If you have an existing security men, and they are not believed that many people having it now. Police is your building, to build a molecular laboratory it will not cost looking at my face may not friend and how can police be more than N25 millions and with N100 millions, one will do r e c o g n i z e m y f a c e . I yo u r f r i e n d u n d e r t h i s about four molecular laboratories in each state and appreciated the honour and condition. I think, there must those who were honoured be a reform system that would everybody would have been tested. VTM is between N800 to along with me as well as those reform whole Nigeria. The N1000 for single probe and N1500 to N1800 for double who are yet to be identified in police code of professional probe. Tell me why government could not flood the country the same honour that have conduct ought to be put in d o n e w e l l t o h u m a n place so that an average person with all these materials to test every Nigerian? development and bringing “ succour to people My Monday, November 9, 2020 Page 11 Interview State govs should account for N1bn Covid-19 funds philosophy in life is that , do president of Nigeria from what is right for the people and South East. I have been on it for the alleviation of poverty. over the years. I founded a Support one another, build coalition to make sure that the capacity of other people so dreams of every Igbo man, that their tomorrow will be that Igbo man become of the better, and they will investigate country is actualized. You see you and you will live a life of o u r c o n d i t i o n i s v e r y fulfillment. That was what I precarious and somebody who feel that has happened and it wants to be president is given has been my guiding principle. ultimatum to the party that I appreciated the newspaper, prompted him up or move to the people that wrote about other party. This running from m e. I f I s t i l l h ave t h e pillar to pole in politics gives opportunity, I will continue to me a lot of concern; it weakens do good for the people for the position of Ndigbo in societal good. Nigeria politics. As it stands Ebonyi State House of today, Ndigbo is riped, Assembly recently gave PDP qualified and the right people 7 days ultimatum to zone it's to produce the president of 2023 presidential ticket to this country come 2023. South East or face court Nigerians should give Ndigbo action. Again, the Igbo the opportunity as given to youths are agitating for others to lead this country. Biafra, while the elders are Nigerians should disregard all Prof. Ibe calling for Nigeria presidency the agitations by some group. of Igbo extraction. Which If the Igbo is made the operation. You know that permutations going around, turn to lead Abia state. Why way Ndigbo? president of this country, strength of the governor was but everybody seems to be would people want to change Freedom of expression and Nigeria will develop faster d e p e n d e n t o n m o n t h ly playing blind eye on what Abia the rules of the game at the politics is guaranteed in the because their views, thinking allocation from federal charter of equity says. middle of the game? They Constitution, but when it is and God's blessings on them. government and the internally The Abia state charter of should remove selfishness, taken too far, one begins to ask Other tribes have ruled the generates revenue. He invested equity says at whatever anything that should bring questions. A party prompted country and I hope if the heavily on busses for situation, we find ourselves r a n c o u r i n t h e z o n i n g you up and suddenly you opportunity is given us, we commercial pur pose for and if the three senatorial have arrangement and let us have a decided to give it warning that shall deliver effectively to the women and for men. Under a shot, the I (Isuikwuato) must state that is called a state. i f i t d o e s n ' t g i v e y o u surprise of many. two years, he could not handle have it. This is the guiding presidential ticket the worst the buses carrying women document, the elders had said APC is making serious would happen. I think 7 days Are you saying that if the again and the women started it should be enacted as a law in inroads in South East, have elapsed and we are Igbo man is made president joining the men in the same the state, but those who have especially Abia state, do you waiting for their worst to o f N i ge r i a , t h e B i a f r a buses. The market forces tested the power from our think APC is a threat to PDP happen. As far as I am agitations will die? played it roles, and everything district sat down on it because in Abia state? concerned, the PDP national died naturally. So, the issue of they can manipulate it. should disregard the threat It will. There is nothing to Biafra agitations will fizzle out Whatever is of God, is APC is a political party and and let see how to achieve our worry about, it will just fizzle the day, the Igbo man is made whoever that is going against the more you spend the more d r e a m s o f S o u t h E a s t away any day Igbo become the president of Nigeria. this, most also know that life visibility you get. Politics is all p r o d u c i n g p r e s i d e n t o f president of Nigeria. Let me doesn't belong to anybody. about creating impression, Nigeria. It is surprising that give an example, when the In Abia state where you are Whatever that is in this world even when all is not good, you such statement was coming governor of Zamfara state aspiring to be Governor comes from God. Whatever, keep telling people that all is from the South East and with introduced Sharia law and under PDP platform, the w e a r e d o i n g w e m u s t well Whether, APC is these kinds of utterances our people asked Obasanjo, who is N g wa p e o p l e a r e s t i l l remember that there were coming up or not, there are c h a n c e s o f p r o d u c i n g my boss about what he had to insisting on continuing in people who made sacrifice for more people in the state that president of the country keep say ,he said he has nothing to power, what is your reaction? the state. After these people believe in PDP. Abia is PDP getting narrow by the day. I for say ,rather he will allow h ave t a k e n t h e i r t u r n , and majority of ndi Abia one I have been promoting market forces to determine the T h e r e a r e a l o t o f Isuikwuato must have their believe, tr ust, and have confident in PDP. PDP will certainly get all votes and It will. There is nothing to worry about, it will just fizzle away any supports of Abians any time day Igbo become president of Nigeria. Let me give an example, and any day. However, that does not mean a downtrodden when the governor of Zamfara state introduced Sharia law and party cannot come take over the state because at the end, people asked Obasanjo, who is my boss about what he had to say, there must be minus and plus. “he said he has nothing to say ,rather he will allow market forces to If your government is not doing well, you can lose out determine the operation. You know that strength of the governor from the seat and APC become the bride for the was dependent on monthly allocation from federal government and people. APGA can also the internally generates revenue. He invested heavily on busses for become the perfect bride of the s t a t e d e p e n d i n g o n commercial purpose for women and for men. Under two years, he circumstances If the PDP can maintain it's structure and all could not handle the buses carrying women again and the women the seamless zoning formula started joining the men in the same buses. The market forces that has been working in the state, the way it has been played its roles and everything died naturally. So, the issue of working, then it becomes more formidable and the pride of Biafara agitations will fizzle out the day, the Igbo man is made the the state. president of Nigeria. “ Monday, November 9, 2020 Page 12 Feature EndSARS: counting the losses, rebuilding efforts in South East By Uchenna Ezeadigwe demands of the youths, which the government pledged to early two weeks after address. The government also t h e r e c e n t met with religious, political #EndSARS protest N and community leaders in the turned violent, resulting in unprecedented destruction of state, where they were urged to both private and public dialogue with the youth in properties, looting in many their localities. states of the federation, and A civil servant with the state loss of lives, the rebuilding government who did not want process have begun. his name in print described the Many of the affected states in #EndSARS protest as a sad the south east have unveiled development, explaining that some initiatives targeted at repairing/reconstructing businesses and public service public properties destroyed by were interrupted during the hoodlums during the protest, period. y o u t h e m p o w e r m e n t , “I observe that the prices of compensating the victims of goods and services still remain the protest and forestalling a high. The state is just reoccurrence in the future. recovering from the COVID- While, residents lamented that 19 lockdown, which lasted for while they were battling to months. Here we are now; the recover from COVID-19 woes, state government has not paid the #EndSARS protest has added to their hardships on salaries and pensions of them, citing the increase in the workers. Now they have added prices of goods and services as more excruciating pains and skyrocketing each day. hardships on families,” he Findings showed that during said. the protest, traders had Another resident, Frank said: ENDSARS Protesters challenges in bringing food “Many state governments items from the northern part h a v e s e t u p J u d i c i a l will attain new heights of Some shops were broken into many private and public killed. of the country into the eastern Commission of Enquiries on development, we will build and goods stolen. All these are properties were attacked, like To forestall further loss of lives parts like cattle, beans, onion, more resilient systems, we will happening because there are the University of Nigeria, and destruction of properties yam, tomato and pepper, police brutality. Citizens have confidence that security become more united and no policemen in sight to Enugu campus where the during the period, the state among others. maintain law and order in the protesters smashed entrance Subsequently trucks that bring agencies will respect the civil accomplish our audacious government had imposed a 24- community. windows and burnt down cows and other goods into the society. Unfortunately, the fear goals and visions for Lagos hour curfew on the municipal “There is no policeman to some cars. The premises of state were targeted by here is that police may not give State. local councils of Enugu East, r e s t o r e s a n i t y i n t h e many commercial banks and hoodlums during the unrest 100 per cent performance, Enugu North and Enugu community as I speak to you; their Automated Teller that followed the protest because they are torn between “ I a s s u r e y o u o f t h e South. The police also b e c a u s e s o m e o f t h e Machines (ATM) were either resulting to one of the major protecting the law and c o m m i t t e e ' s u t m o s t barricaded movements around policemen are well known in destroyed or set ablaze. Some barricade for importation of respecting the civil society, c o m m i t m e n t t o t h e their stations to ward off food. the community, most of them security officials were also which is a difficult task. There reconstruction and upgrade of attackers. A member of the National have run away while some are killed while others sustained c o u l d b e i n c r e a s e i n our dear state. In these Although the curfew was U n i o n o f B u t c h e r s challenging but interesting still receiving treatment in the injuries. A similar fate also criminality because the police meant to restore order, most Association of Nigeria in times, we realize that we have hospital due to the injuries befell some of the protesters. have reduced their action for residents ignored it and went Rivers State at Okoruma the potent opportunity to inflicted on them by hoodlums A c c o r d i n g t o t h e fear of being tagged 'brutes' of about their normal activities, Slaughter, Suleiman Sule, reform our state and upgrade on that 'black Tuesday'. I just Commissioner of Police, said: “From Delta State, boys civil society.” our structures,” Sanwo-Olu hope that all the burnt police Ahmed Abdurrahman, some apparently because law blocked the road and forced said. stations would be rebuilt very of the burnt facilities in the enforcement officers were the drivers to go and offload. Lagos State However, not fully satisfied by soon. I want policemen to state include Emene Police nowhere to enforce it. These boys were ready to burn The epicenter of the protest is these government proposals, return to the streets. If not, this Station, two operational However, the curfew has fully the trucks and because of this, Lagos State and the violence coming December will be hell vehicles, Amechi-Idodo Police been lifted and life is gradually the truck owners warned their residents still live in worry on that followed at the Lekki toll for residents.” Station, Akwatta Police Post returning to normal in the d r i v e r s t o t u r n b a c k the withdrawal of policemen gate, here Governor Babajide and other law enforcement Another resident in the state, under Central Police Station, state. Students are back to i m m e d i a t e ly t h e y s aw Chidi Nwafor, also said: Maryland Police Post under situations like that. That is one Sanwo-Olu, has signed an officers from the streets since school while employees of “#EndSARS protest brought a Uwani Police Division and of the factors that is causing executive order establishing the end of the protest. Even various institutions and lot of negative changes in our Phase Six Police Post under scarcity of meat in the state the Lagos State Rebuilding officials of the Lagos State organisations have also and as it is; we cannot Trust Fund. Traffic Management Agency society. The state of affairs Trans Ekulu Police division. resumed work. Some of the now is that of the survival of Others are the Nigerian guarantee that Rivers people According to him, the trust (LASTMA) are yet to return to major roads earlier barricaded t h e f i t t e s t . C OV I D - 1 9 Immigration Service complex will see meat soon.” f u n d w o u l d d r i ve t h e duty in many parts of the state. as a result of the protests have disrupted many things good in Emene, National Identity However, checks around the reconstruction of the state due The development has resulted about this year. So, the Management Commission been reopened, thereby easing eastern states revealed that to the huge destruction in traffic gridlock across the the traffic challenges residents cow meat, fish, onions was #EndSARS protest, indeed, ( N I M C ) o f f i c e ; N j o d o witnessed during the mayhem. state and other acts of experienced during the period. relatively available in the state lawlessness that have put added salt to injury. We all Development Centre, Enugu The governor also constituted But commercial banks in the but very costly. This was also residents in fear. know that the Nigerian North local council secretariat an eight-member Lagos state now operate between the case with other food items According to a resident in economy hasn't been fine security house and the R e b u i l d T r u s t F u n d 10.00am and 3.00pm. Also, earlier mentioned. Ilasamaja area of the state, before the protest. A lot of University of Nigeria Enugu Committee headed by the News Echo Correspondent Adedoyin Afeez, the arms people were struggling to Campus (UNEC) security most ATM machines in Enugu reports that only few police C h a i r m a n o f C i t i b a n k carted away by hoodlums from survive. house. metropolis are non-functional stations are open in the south Nigeria, Yemi Cardoso, to the police stations were “Now, there is no security in He added that First Bank as they were either destroyed east with little attention oversee the rebuilding of every already in the hands of armed my neighbourhood because branches in Abakpa and and cash looted. a c c o r d e d t o m a s s e s . aspect of the state and also the police station, which was Gariki; Access Bank branches Even where the ATMs are Volunteers and 'area boys have robbers and cultists. look at the future and healing meant to harbor the security on Presidential Road, Agbani good, they are not being taken control of traffic and He said: “A lot of police of Lagos. operatives, has been burnt. Road and Garden Avenue; maintaining law and order in stations were burnt down in stocked with cash. As a result, “Therefore, by the power the name of the protest while Everyone has taken his/her and United Bank for Africa making transactions in the some areas. Residents were security in his/her hands, he (UBA), Fidelity Bank, also seen obeying them but vested in me as the Governor arms and ammunitions were banks is no longer easy as added". Ecobank ATMs in the areas that was not enough as there of Lagos State, I will today carted away by hoodlums. customers who hitherto used were either destroyed or set was gridlock in some parts of sign an Executive Order to set Cultists are already using these the ATM now throng the Enugu State ablaze. Several shops were the cities particularly in up an eight-man Lagos arms to fight and kill each banking hall. Social and economic activities also looted. Onitsha. R e b u i l d T r u s t F u n d other in some places. Last A resident businessman, Mr are gradually returning to He said that a Police Inspector, As part of efforts to restore Committee, which will as a Sunday, cultists identified as Onyebuchi Anya, said "early normal after the nationwide John Jesse, attached to Emene normalcy, the five eastern state matter of urgency begin to Eiye and Aye confraternities last week we saw hell clashed at Salako Street in my #EndSARS protest. For the Police Division and Constable transacting money due to bank governments recently held a oversee our recovery process. few days the rampaging youths Ogboji Emmanuel attached to meeting in Enugu to discuss “As I sign the Executive Order area. The fight left one person half say work and non dead and many others injured. took to the streets of Enugu, Abakpa Police station were functionality of the ATM best ways to tackle the today, I am positive that we Monday, November 9, 2020 Page 13 Feature EndSARS: counting the losses, rebuilding... machines, but thank God I was 1,500 cartons of tin tomatoes, able to download my access 2000 gallons of oil, 2000 S t a t e G ove r n m e n t h a s b a n k A p p f o r o n l i n e cartons of noodles and these received a contingent of transactions. I hardly get hold items for the students put Special Forces of the Nigerian of cash these days". together is not up to what we A r my i n Aw k a w h e r e H o w e v e r , E c h o N e w s gave to polling units. Governor Willie Obiano had Correspondent gathered that charged them to help locate no policeman was sighted in Abia State the remaining troublemakers, the Enugu capital as all of Abia State also recorded loss who invaded and are still them have deserted the streets of lives, destruction of private disturbing the peace in the of Enugu. and public properties during state. Further inquiry reveals that and after the #ENDSARS The State government has also protest. even at their stations, they do made a budgetary proposal of The state Commissioner of not wear their uniforms. Any N200m for the compensation visitor to the police stations is Police, Mrs Janet Agbede, said two police officers were killed of persons in Anambra who thoroughly questioned before have proven cases of gross being allowed entry and during the protest and their human rights violation, attended to. Following their riffles taken away. absence from the streets, men A c c o r d i n g t o h e r, t h e torture and death from of the Forest Guards and hoodlums looted and burnt activities of the defunct SARS officials of the State Ministry Police Zone 6 Annex Building in Anambra state and also set of Transport (MOT) now in Aba. They also attempted to up the police control vehicular movements attack police stations and the Again, the governor has also in the state. Correctional Service Centre in inaugurated a 32-man Judicial Apparently not wanting to Umuahia but were repelled by Panel of Inquiry on SARS take chances or compromise a combined team of police and brutality in the state. The the security of the state, the military operatives. The committee would look into state government few last hoodlums also looted and various allegations against weeks ago inaugurated the bur nt five branches of Police brutality and the extra- Forest Guards to provide some commercial banks in the state, judicial killings carried out by level of security pending when a High Court complex, a the defunct Special Anti- policemen would return to Magistrate Court, Aba South work. Town Hall and a church Robbery Squad (SARS). The The government has also therein, Aba Fire Service members were drawn from started rebuilding some of the Building and 102 government various strata of the society, facilities destroyed during the and private owned vehicles. such as youths, students, protest like traffic lights. They equally destroyed r e l i g i o u s a n d r i g h t To ensure that victims of the streetlights in Aba and organisations. #EndSARS protest are Umuahia even as they Chairman Poultry Farmers adequately compensated, the dislodged traders at the Aba Association of Nigeria, government has set up a onions, yam and watermelon Anambra State Chapter, Commission of Inquiry to markets. Even the Aba P r i n c e U g o c h u k w u interface with them and make Primary Health Centre was recommendations. There is Okpalaeke commended not spared as it was broken Destruction of property Anambra State Government also a Judicial Commission of into and looted. Inquiry on police brutality in for reacting aptly to `End The state Governor, Okezie the level of damages to private hour curfew, which he p r o g r a m m e . T h e SARS' protest held across the the state, which is yet to begin Ikpeazu, had described the imposed at the peak of the N2,000,000,000 take off fund work. and public properties in the country by setting up judicial level of destruction in the state protest. Soldiers have been will be deployed for the state. panel of enquiry to ascertain as monumental, saying how deployed to some strategic training of the first batch of the Ebonyi State long it would take to repair locations in the state but beneficiaries of this scheme. injuries that SARS operations Human and business activities Imo State them was uncertain. policemen are hardly seen The programme is aimed at inflicted on the people, are gradually returning to Imo State also recorded H e d e c l a r e d t h a t t h e anywhere. The state Police training the first, second and describing it as a step in the normal in the State especially g ove r n m e n t w o u l d d o human and infrastructural Public Relations Officer t h i r d b a t c h e s w i t h a n right direction in Abakiliki, the state capital everything within its power to losses during the recent (PPRO), Orlando Godson “The idea is aimed at after the #EndSARS protest estimated number of 500, 000 recover the medical equipment #EndSARS protest across the Ikeokwu, however, insisted compensating the injured, so took a violent turn. Imo youths in different skills looted from the Aba Primary country. Reports have it that that no police operative was as to ensure harmonious To quell youth agitation in the acquisition programmes Health Centre. He urged the two soldiers were killed near a withdrawn from his/her duty coexistence; government set State, Government of Ebonyi within the next two years and l o o t e r s t o r e t u r n t h e roundabout in Nwaorieubi, post. State during a nation-wide provide them with start-up aside N200 million to achieve equipment within seven days Mbaitoli local council. The After the protest, activities broadcast announced a 2.6bn seems to be gradually taking capital to begin their own this goal. or face the consequences. Director of Accounts in the SME fund for organized shape to normalcy but some enterprises. “I hope they do well this time. After the protest, police council also lost his life. youths Cooperative society in commercial activities in the Known as the Imo State If SARS wronged in any way, personnel withdrew from the the 13 Local Government In Okigwe local council, the banks have been closed down Special Youth Empowerment articulate what happened in streets. As a result, the state is areas of the State and call for protesters murdered two as some of their branches writing and take it to the panel presently witnessing traffic and Intervention Programme dialogue from the irate youths. police officers. Two police operate from 11.00am to set up to look into the matter, congestions/chaos. To ease (IMYEIP), the state's Ministry “I have today set aside the sum stations, Nwaorieubi Police 3.00pm. he added". the situation, personnel of the of Skills Acquisition and of 2.6bn SME fund for Station in Mbaitoli local As a result, bank customers are state Traffic Indiscipline Entrepreneurship is directly Consequently, the youths even organized youths cooperative council and Orji Police Station finding it difficult to make in the face of anger and rage Management Agency and the banking transactions in the charged with its immediate in all the Local Government in Owerri North local council have shown their loyalty and Red Cross Society have been state. As an alternative, implementation. Areas of Ebonyi State. Let us were also set ablaze. Four local patriotism by cleaning the dialogue on how you could controlling traffic in certain residents now patronise Point council headquarters in the Anambra state streets of Awka after the recent benefit from it. This is aside locations in the state. But of Sale (POS) centres, where state were equally reduced to Barely few weeks after the protests in some parts of the from the over 100 Executive r e s i d e n t s a r e g e t t i n g they pay as much as N200 and increasingly worried about the rubbles by the protesters. above to withdraw N5,000. bloody EndSARS protests state that led to burnt tires and Council members, over 1100 They are Ehime Mbano, Isiala TAs and over 2000 Ebonyians safety of their lives and As part of efforts to restore embarked upon by angry other debris littering the Mbano, Aboh Mbaise and normalcy in the state, the 16- who occupy political positions property as they go about their youths in varoious parts of streets. Orlu. This is as a part the member Judicial Panel of in the state of which 90 percent businesses daily. Anambra State, armed robbers The youths were seen Some residents who spoke on popular Afor Ogbe market in Inquiry into Police Brutality, have started terrorizing sweeping and carting away of those who occupy this Ahiazu local council was also Extra Judicial Killings and political position are youth t e l e p h o n e w i t h t h e residents of the commercial debris by House of Assembly burnt. Even INEC offices and Related Matters set up by the and over 30 percent of them Correspondent noted that the city even in broad daylight. junction by Enugu-Onitsha court buildings were not governor commenced sitting are also women. Umahi withdrawal of policemen from Cult killings have equally express road, Aroma junction, the streets as a kind of protest last Tuesday. sympathized with victims of spared in some local council in resumed in the state capital as Government house, Regina against the killing of their Also, the Imo state governor the protest and promise to the state. six people have been allegedly Ceali junction, UNIZIK colleagues and the attacks on Governor Hope Uzodimma, Uzodimma has begun the compensate the families. implementation of his murdered in cold blood within junction and Eke Awka round Governor Umahi had also their stations will only add speaking during the state more salt to the injury. a d m i n i s t r a t i o n ' s last week. about especially burnt tyres promised to compensate all broadcast, said intelligence empowerment package for the H o w e v e r, c o m m e r c i a l and keeping the debris at Meanwhile, the governor has reports available revealed that families whose loved ones youth. activities like, trading, banking s t r a t e g i c p l a c e s t o b e inaugurated a panel of enquiry the arsonists came from other were either injured or killed According to him, “as part of services are said to be in full evacuated later. during this unfortunate headed by a retired Chief states, adding that security m y a d m i n i s t r a t i o n ' s gear though some areas where Conclusively, it is hopeful that period, whether security Judge of the state, Justice agencies were on their trail. determination to address your banks exist still have not fully the federal government will agencies or civilians or even Sunday Imo, to investigate The governor and the state needs. I am glad to announce been operational due to have to implement other these hoodlums. allegations of brutality by the Commissioner of Police, Isaac to you therefore that my security consciousness . Most measure to support youth “School has resumed; they police, which triggered the Akinmoyede, have visited government has approved an #EndSARS protest. He has especially is the increase of empowerment, agricultural have started carrying their some of the burnt facilities to immediate release of a take- also set up another panel food stuffs, even household and small and medium items, the only items left are assess the level of damage. off fund of N2,000,000,000 being taken now by students headed by the Commissioner Meanwhile, security has been out of the N6,000,000,000 items and service delivery. industries for the unemployed and they are 50 bags of just for Special Duties, Mr beefed up in the state since the earmarked for an accelerated y o u t h s a n d f o r e v e n 10kg rice, 200 bags of 20kg rice Chimaobi Ebisike, to ascertain governor relaxed the initial 24- y o u t h e m p o w e r m e n t Meanwhile, the Anambra development. Monday, November 9, 2020 Page 14 SPORTS Nigeria vs Sierra Leone: Celebrated abroad, snubbed Napoli may stop Osimhen dello Spor t, Napoli over COVID-19 believes that national by Nigerian men recalled to the national team matches add an f feelers from Italy team for the Sierra Leone extra burden to the club The pathetic story of female para-powerlifters are anything to go challenge after he was during the coronavirus ost able- breaking and setting Iby, then Victor barred from the friendly pandemic. “A lot of men who b o d i e d several records in the Osimhen may play no games against Algeria The Serie A giants are snub us see us like men come process. part in the double-header and Tunisia during the concerned that their M people with leprosy, a f t e r w o m e n w i t h Africa Cup of Nations last FIFA international players risk suffering N o t a b l e n a m e s thinking that when they disabilities because of qualifiers between the window because Napoli i n j u r i e s w h i l e o n among the women para- end up with you, you Super Eagles and the players were ordered into international duty due to what they can get from athletes are Lucy Ejike, will give birth to a child Leone Stars of Sierra quarantine following their hectic schedule. them, not because they Ndidi Nwosu, Bose with a disability as well, Leone scheduled for three positive COVID-19 Under the revised FIFA love them. I have many Omolayo, Josephine but that is not true. Friday, November 13 and cases. rules, European clubs are friends that have been Orji, Patricia Okafor, That's why female para- Tuesday, November 17. According to Italian not obliged to release deceived by able-bodied Victoria Nneji and athletes prefer to marry Reports suggest that sports daily, Corriere their players to the men. When you go for Iyabo Ismaila, who all their kind,” Okpara d i l a p i d a t e d Napoli president and F e d e r a t i o n s f o r events and come back won Paralympic gold said. arena. Oluwafemiayo ow n e r, A u r e l i o D e international matches, with a medal and you medals. “I used to be against She's a rare Laurentiis, is considering competitive or not. get a cash reward, they However, despite such relationships in the because of their s t o p p i n g h i s m o s t breed, indeed. With three goals in come after the money. winning more medals past but along the line, I g l o b a l e x p e n s i ve s i g n i n g , addition to two assists to O m o l a y o This happened to me for Nigeria than their knew why they did it. achievements. Osimhen from joining his name, Osimhen has believes her case too before I met my a b l e - b o d i e d “A lot of our para- Sunday stated, other invited Super been the Super Eagles' i s e n o u g h t o husband, who is also a counterparts, there's still a t h l e t e s h ave k i d s “I know several Eagles player who are most influential player in c o nv i n c e a n y physically-challenged a widely held wrong without fathers, they people that have expected to hit camp in t h e 2 0 2 1 A F C O N doubting man person,” London 2012 perception about people g av e b i r t h o u t o f c a j o l e d Benin. q u a l i f i e r s , h a v i n g that para-athletes Paralympic Games with disabilities in the wedlock. When the men p h y s i c a l l y - The 2015 U17 World contributed to 83.3 c a n a l s o l i ve s i l v e r m e d a l l i s t , country, Oluwafemiayo get what they want, they challenged ladies Cup winner has been percent of their goals. normal married Osimhen F o l a s h a d e said. quit. Relationships because they are lives, as well as Oluwafemiayo, told “That was why I hardly favour women i n t e r n a t i o n a l give birth to kids Ex-Eagles Ogunsanya upbeat newsmen. determined that the with disabilities in stars, just to steal w i t h o u t ormer Super I t i s t h e s a m e person I was going to get Nigeria, especially those from them. disabilities. E a g l e s on present squad dilemma several of the married to would be in sports.” “But I met my She said, “An line-up are experienced Federation (NFF) to country's top female someone like me so that Esther Nworgu gold wife before she FDefender Seyi able-bodied man e n o u g h t o p i c k allow the Nigerian p a r a - a t h l e t e s, w h o we could understand medallist in the 41kg started sports; O g u n s a n y a h a s took a chance on m a x i m u m p o i n t s league resume to help spoke with newsmen, each other. There is no category at the 2019 b e f o r e s h e expressed his delight me and we got a g a i n s t t h e i r local players. have found themselves. able-bodied man that I n t e r n a t i o n a l Pa r a became a star. I with the present crop of m a r r i e d . M y opponents. “The league can start B o r n i n Jo s, t h e will be faithful, it is very P o w e r l i f t i n g didn't marry her players in the Super three children “ Y o u c a n n o t without spectators first; Plateau State capital in rare,” she added. C h a m p i o n s h i p s i n because of her Eagles especially the 24- d o n ' t h a v e underrate any team talents are wasting 1985, Oluwafemiayo The plight of the Lagos says some men achievements. man team to prosecute disabilities and a g a i n i n t o d a y ' s without action; you began life like any other wo m e n i s i n s t a r k s o m e t i m e s w o o “I opened a t h e d o u b l e h e a d e r we are happy. football, if you do you also want to imagine kid, until she was struck contrast with their physically challenged h a i r d r e s s i n g against the Leone Stars “ M a r r y i n g will get punished,” he the teams representing by polio. f e l l o w m a l e p a r a - women just to confirm salon for her in of Sierra Leone slated someone with a warned. us in the continent. Her parents took her athletes, who usually go their curiosity. Surulere, Lagos for November 13 in disability will not Ogunsanya now a How will they fare?” he for medical treatment in on to marry and live “Some men come to a n d i t w a s Benin. make your child coach in the United queried. a bid to ensure she didn't normal lives, a female us just to confirm if truly a n o t h e r The member of the have a disability. States also said with the lose her limbs. para-athlete, who spoke we're women. That's p h y s i c a l l y - Enyimba team that The condition is returns of regulars who However, despite o n c o n d i t i o n o f w h e r e w e f i n d challenged lady ruled Africa in 2003 and not transferable, were missing against t h e i r e f f o r t s, t h e i r anonymity because she ourselves.” t h a t c a m e t o 2004 in the prestigious and you can't Algeria and Tunisia in daughter lost both legs was “used and dumped” G l a s g o w make her hair C A F c h a m p i o n s i n f e c t y o u r the last international and has been confined by an able-bodied man, Commonwealth Games that proposed the League said though children. f r i e n d l i e s w o u l d to a wheelchair ever said. silver medallist, Bose sport to her and I there are no longer “ D e f i n i t e ly, since. “Most men who have Omolayo, has been supported it.” minnow in today's strengthen the team. people will talk, O l u w a f e m i a y o ' s same disabilities with us married to an able- He added, “I football the present The defender called f a m i l y a n d disability didn't weigh are married to able- bodied man for several spent a lot on her crops of players in the on the leadership of the friends will kick Ogunsanya on Eagles’ colours her down, though, and bodied women and are y e a r s , w i t h t h r e e t r a i n i n g f o r N i ge r i a n Fo o t b a l l against it, but I she turned to sports, doing fine. children. several years, but think the men w h e r e s h e r o s e t o “We are humans too Omolayo has been we are reaping it Two West Brom players s h o u l d s t a n d become one of the and have blood running a b l e t o p e r f e c t l y as a family. their ground.” w o r l d ' s b e s t p a r a - in our veins, we can combine household “ S h e O m o l a y o ' s powerlifters. satisfy men sexually. activities as a wife and previously won test positive for COVID-19 h u s b a n d , In 2012, she won “There was a time I mother, with her role as medals for Ogun their first league win this S u n d a y , a silver in the women's was desperate for an an athlete, despite her State but didn't season. prophet in the 75kg category at the a b l e - b o d i e d m a n disability. get a dime for her Pereira was key to Celestial Church London Paralympics, because I wanted to For several years, she e f f o r t s, s o, I West Brom's promotion of Christ, said breaking the world settle down, but I ended w o u l d wa k e u p a t changed her state last term and had started despite initial record in the process. up being used and 3:00am every weekday t o D e l t a a n d all seven of their Premier resistance from She also won gold at dumped. Since then, I to prepare her three since then we've League games, scoring f a m i l y a n d the 2012 World Para- weigh their sincerity children for school been enjoying it once and contributing friends, he went P o w e r l i f t i n g before I have anything before setting out for financially. She's two assists. on to propose to C h a m p i o n s h i p s i n to do with them.” work. gone to countries “ S l ave n B i l i c h a s and marry the Mexico. Since getting married The 31-year-old then she never dreamt confirmed two Albion Paralympics star. “ We a r e h u m a n . in 2012, Oluwafemiayo makes her way to the of and we are all players will miss today's “I experienced M o s t o f u s ( w i t h and her husband have National Stadium in very happy.” Premier League fixture all sorts of things Ivanovic Pereira a g a i n s t To t t e n h a m disabilities) contracted one child, who does not Sur ulere, Lagos by Irrespective of from family and e s t the pair are in a period of Hotspur after testing polio, we were not born h ave a n y p hy s i c a l 5:00am for training in the conditions friends when I Bromwich 10 days in self-isolation. positive for COVID-19,” this way. I fell sick when disability. powerlifting from her they've found b e g a n t h i s Albion duo “It's a setback. We a West Brom statement I was three, I was taken But Ebere Okpara, a G b e r i g b e, I k o r o d u themselves, these W journey with my Branislav Ivanovic and found out on Tuesday said. to the hospital and gold medallist at the h o m e , a b o u t 3 5 special women, wife, but I was Matheus Pereira missed and Wednesday. We “Branislav Ivanovic injected. That was how I 2 0 1 8 A f r i c a P a r a kilometres away. whose hearts are focused; this is their side's Premier have put a team out that and Matheus Pereira b e c a m e d i s a b l e d ,” P o w e r l i f t i n g She did this for 12 often made of t h e w o m a n I L e a g u e c l a s h w i t h is very good,” Bilic said. have begun a period of Oluwafemiayo said. C h a m p i o n s h i p s i n y e a r s , b e f o r e t h e steel, have not wa n t e d t o b e Tottenham on Sunday T h e a b s e n c e o f self-isolation. Indeed, since making Algeria, says most men stadium was closed given up, and with,” he said. after testing positive for S e r b i a n d e f e n d e r “The club wishes the their Paralympics debut shy away from women e a r l i e r t h i s y e a r have continually He confirmed the coronavirus. I v a n o v i c , 3 6 , a n d p l a y e r s a s p e e d y in 1992 in Barcelona, with disabilities because f o l l o w i n g t h e found a path to that some other A l b i o n m a n a g e r Brazilian playmaker r e c o v e r y a n d w i l l Nigeria's women para- of the notion that they coronavirus outbreak global stardom, m e n t o o k Slaven Bilic said the club Pereira, 24, was big blow s u p p o r t t h e m , i f athletes have been will always give birth to and the subsequent with or without a d va n t a g e o f received the results for str uggling West necessary, during their amazing winning 37 c h i l d r e n w i t h r e n o v a t i o n o f t h e an able-bodied earlier in the week and Brom as they search for quarantine.” m e d a l s, i n c l u d i n g disabilities. p a r a - a t h l e t e s partner. Monday, November 9, 2020 Page 15 SPORTS Troost-Ekong in top Watch out Manchester City and Liverpool: shape for AFCON qualifier, delighted to Ziyech-inspired Chelsea can mount a score first Watford goal new life into the team. A run and set-pieces are so just missing a goal. Premier League title challenge of good performances has important in this We played well in seen him claim four goals league, you see how possession today, and five assists despite they can change we moved the ball limited minutes this season. games. It's been better than we did in Callum Hudson-Odoi and going against us so the previous games Giroud are still struggling for Troost-Ekong far this season so to and it's always nice game time as Chelsea's £220 illiam Troost-Ekong score from a set- when we score the million ($275m) round of has expressed his piece is massive. first goal. spending has elevated the Wdelight after scoring “ I ' m h a p p y I “We lost ourselves club to be rapidly ready for a his first goal for Watford in their 3- m a n a g e d t o for a minute when title charge. 2 victory over Coventry City in contribute like that they got the two The return on investment Saturday's Championship game. today and hopefully goals back, but we is being proven through the The 27-year-old teamed up with we can get some s h o w e d g r e a t current league position, with the Hornets in the summer from more during the character to come an extra four points being Italian club Udinese and was season.” out with the three ear ned from the same afforded his fifth appearance at The Super Eagles points.” fixtures compared to last Vicarage Road. defender is happy “If you're looking season. The tr uncated The Nigeria international shone w i t h h i s s i d e ' s at the target for the schedule following the in the encounter, scoring to help performances in rest of the season, Ziyech De Bruyne coronavirus pandemic has Vladimir Ivic's men secure their front of goal but we need to stay on sixth win of the season. w a n t s t h e m t o c o u r s e , s o i t ' s Chilwell's far-post tap-in meant less time to recover he Blues' run of the ones who deliver and The centre-back powered a fine improve on their important we stay with his trademark crossing between matches, and an form has seen deserve that first credit. header past goalkeeper Marko defence. up in the table, but them go from They were amazing, all of ability and again for Thiago increased risk of players T missing games through Marosi from James Garner's well- “The goals for are ever yone knows mid-table to sitting right them today. The balance of S i l v a . T i m o We r n e r taken corner. really important. how close it is,” he behind Jurgen Klopp's men, the team was good and it's rounded off the scoring injury or illness. But the squad depth is now sufficient Troost-Ekong is pleased with his We have to do a bit added. which has left them looking nice to see. We must with his eighth of the contribution in the game and better; we've been “If we'd lost today like contenders. continue. I really enjoyed season in all competitions. to withstand those rigours. The rapid schedule has hopes the Hornets will continue to conceding too many w e m i g h t h a v e E d o u a r d M e n d y watching it, but I know how Ziyech's emergence in the last few games dropped five, six or also led to strange results, utilize their set-pieces. embraced Reece James as football is." e pitomises the squad “James Garner put a fantastic but there's so much seven places, so I and with Man City currently they walked off the field, United manager Chris s t r e n g t h a t S t a m f o r d ball in and made it easy, I just had we can still improve don't think you can languishing in the bottom while Ben Chilwell had Wilder, having seen his side B r i d g e . T h e p u z z l e to run on to it,” Troost-Ekong told and I think this team really look at the h a l f , t h e g a z e m a y Thiago Silva in a playful play both Liverpool and presented by an injury to the club website. h a s s o m u c h table yet, but it's increasingly turn to the Blues h e a d l o c k f o l l o w i n g Man City already this Christian Pulisic was easily “It was an important moment p o t e n t i a l , ” h e important for the Chelsea’s 4-1 win over season, puts Lampard's side solved by his presence, to provide Liverpool with a continued. feeling and for the S h e f f i e l d U n i t e d , in the race. while Kai Havertz's positive title race. Kane insists “We just have to momentum.” emphasizing the prevalent " To m e, M a n C i t y, Covid-19 test rules him out Dare Chelsea dream? keep going and keep Troost-Ekong will feeling currently around the Liverpool and Chelsea are for the time being. With Ziyech as their new Tottenham working, keep the hope to replicate his club. the top three sides in the A b r a h a m h a s a l s o talisman, Chelsea can now goalscoring going i m p r e s s i v e Joy is being felt. Work on countr y. Just look at emerged up front to breathe be quietly confident. can win Premier and hopefully we performances for the training field is now Jo r g i n h o a n d G i r o u d won't concede as Nigeria in their beginning to show on the coming off the bench," he Manchester Utd critics League title many goals from A f r i c a C u p o f pitch, new signings are said. o t t e n h a m H o t s p u r set-pieces as we Nations qualifying bedding in nicely and Frank David McGoldrick's are jealous, says Maguire forward, Harry Kane, is have done. g a m e s a g a i n s t “The first half we Sierra Leone on Lampard's side are racing strike was the first breach of Insisting United's critics Tconfident that Spurs can lift the 2020-21 Premier League were dominant but November 13 and up the Premier League table M e n d y ' s g o a l i n 4 5 9 resent the club's past ahead of the international minutes of action but that title. 17. success, Maguire said: “At break. backline looked strong for Jose Mourinho's men have made this club one thing I've 'Yahoo boys' Chelsea are now just one much of the 90 minutes on a strong start to the campaign and noticed in my time here – point behind the table- Saturday. It is four wins in a currently sit fifth in the fledgling after Super Eagles I've been here a year and a topping duo of Liverpool row - and eight games table – two points behind current half – is we are the most leaders Southampton with a game u s p e c t e d activities of the a n d S o u t h a m p t o n , a undefeated - for the side talked-about club in the in hand. i n t e r n e t f o r t h c o m i n g situation which puts the who were previously weak world. The Lilywhites are still waiting Sfraudsters, N o v e m b e r 1 3 Blues firmly in the title in defence. “Why? Because we are for their first ever Premier League popularly known as A f r i c a n C u p o f conversation. Along with a settled rear Yahoo boys, have Nations qualifying the biggest club in the title triumph and have not won a In a title race that looks guard, Lampard has got the major trophy since 2008, but Kane made members of m a t c h b e t w e e n like it's going to have plenty b e s t o u t o f h i s 4 - 3 - 3 world. People don't want us the Nigeria senior Nigeria and Sierra to do well. Why? Probably firmly believes that the current of outsiders, Chelsea look f o r m a t i o n w h i c h h a s Tottenham crop have what it takes national football Leone in Benin City, because of the success n o w t o b e t h e m o s t perfectly balanced his to go the distance. team, the Super t h e E d o S t a t e threatening to Liverpool signings. Many of his new Maguire we've had in the past. “When you look at the ability of Eagles their target, C a p i t a l , w a s and Manchester City, who players, like Thiago Silva, a n c h e s t e r “We have to live up to our squad, you would definitely say according to reports. uploaded by the face each other on Sunday are making a huge impact. U n i t e d that, we have to react to it we've got enough to win a title,” The fraudsters, hacker while some night. T h e 3 6 - y e a r - o l d ' s Mc a p t a i n and don't let the negatives Kane said in quotes attributed to whose aim is to Super Eagles players The depth of the squad presence has lifted both Harry Maguire claims get into our bubble inside The Mirror. “But I'd also say we've s w i n d l e took a view. and the ease in which the Kurt Zouma and James to a criticism of his club is often t h e t r a i n i n g g r o u n d . been close over the last four, five u n s u s p e c t i n g “I don't know how big signings have settled new level, and goalkeeper provoked by jealousy. Sometimes it is difficult for years but just haven't quite got over victims across the that information got the line. g l o b e , u s i n g there. I hope I have h a v e m e a n t a r a p i d M e n d y i s a h u g e U n i t e d e a s e d t h e the lads.” “So, it's not as easy as just having dece ptive social not been hacked. I'm improvement in form. improvement on out-of- Speaking after the pressure on boss Ole a good squad and winning a few media handle, made c h a n g i n g m y L a m p a r d h a s b e e n form Kepa Arrizabalaga. Gunnar Solskjaer with a match in a video posted on M a n c h e s t e r U n i t e d ' s games to challenge for title. This is a t h e i r i n t e n t i o n password straight cautious about talking of Many of Chelsea's most much-needed 3-1 win at season where I don't think one Twitter account, Maguire known by hacking a w a y, ” h e t o l d t h e t i t l e t o m i n i m i s e dangerous chances against Everton on Saturday. team's going to run away with it like the official social newsmen. added: “We reacted well to pressure on his side, but the the bottom of the table side Solskjaer had been Liverpool did last year. media account of It had earlier been n o i s e f r o m o u t s i d e were conjured by Ziyech's under fire after United's two poor results. We felt we “So, there are going to be the team's newly r e p o r t e d t h a t increasingly puts Chelsea in wand of a left-foot, which spluttering start to the were on the right track after opportunities for other teams to put appointed media various social media the picture. was too much to handle. season hit a new low with a Leipzig (a 5-0 win) and we good runs together and get right up officer, Babafemi accounts, including "We are third. Now we Ziyech created more shock Champions League let ourselves down against the table. We've got to make sure we Raji. Facebook, Twitter are seeing some of the chances than any other d e f e a t a t I s t a n b u l Arsenal (last Sunday). don't get carried away either. We Raji, whose duty is and Instagram, of work. Some of the work player in a single league Basaksehir in midweek. “It wasn't good enough know we've been playing well; to stay connected Nigerian soccer t o d a y w a s r e a l l y match this season - six -with Three wins in seven as a performance. In the we've been winning games. with each member stars like Wilfred “The last two games have been encouraging for me to see two leading directly to goals league matches still leave week again we gave them a of the team, cried N d i d i , V i c t o r those signs. I am the first to on a day when Chelsea soft goal and found it too good for confidence, just to grind out after seeing Osimhen and a host United in the bottom half out results and to get good, ugly k e e p my f e e t o n t h e created 20 in total. of the Premier League, but hard to create chances to strange information of others have been wins under our belt, because that's which was uploaded tampered with by ground," Lampard told Sky He played in Mateo England defender Maguire come back. what we're going to need. o n h i s v e r i f i e d suspected internet Sports after downing the Kovacic, who pulled the does not believe Solskjaer “We knew this was an Kane already has six goals and Blades at Stamford Bridge. b a l l b a c k f o r Ta m my important game to get three Instagram status. fraudsters who hide and his team deserve so eight assists to his name from seven T h e p o s t w h i c h under false pretence " E v e r y g a m e i s Abraham's opening goal. much abuse. points. We reacted well but matches in the current top-flight challenging. The players are He then assisted Ben it is only a start.” consisted various to carry out their campaign. acts. Umuahia abattoir poses health risks

to consumers Pg. 5 2023: 46 professors to actualize Igbo Presidency - group ISSN: 2736-0512 MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2020 VOL. 1 NO. 33 Pg. 3 Abattoir

Column In my own thinking Phone: 08035360957 By Afam Echi Email: [email protected]

It is not a curse to be single I vote for single parents n our land today educated and elite group absolutely. When you are there is a way that w h o m a y l a t e r f i n d s i n g l e y o u a r e n o t men and women I themselves incompatible to c o n f r o n t e d w i t h t h e who are not coupled are soldier on irrespective of burdens that go with looked at. Different people the challenges rather than married life. Many people hold different opinions take the 'shit' coming from are married and living a lie, about them some of which such relationships. The living in bondage rather s e e k t o m o c k a n d people usually found here than opt out to have their embarrass them. This are the working class who freedom. They are worried s i t u a t i o n i s m o r e are not ready to sacrifice over what becomes of their p r o n o u n c e d a m o n g t h e i r f r e e d o m o r fate if they quit such women. Today we have a convenience for anything. relationship. They are l o t o f u n m a r r i e d Today the desperation to dying in silence. When you marriageable women in the get married among young are single or as a single society majority of who people has reached an all- parent your freedom is not may have outgrown their time high leading many compromised. They can prime. In some cases, some woman to engage diabolic work hard to close the gap may have even attained m e a n s t o t r a p t h e i r of financial insecurity menopause. husband 'for better for which is the main reason Cultural and religious worse''. Such marriages are women cling to most factors and indeed social never sustainable and crash unsuccessful union. After consciousness may have s o o n e r t h a n all today women are largely accounted for the c o n s u m m a t e d . T h e sustaining many homes. n e g a t ive p e r c e p t i o n s churches preach that there The men and women among unmarried persons insistence on monogamy is a man for a woman and are subjected. It is terribly sacrifices they can be who mind getting someone in the country. Even with which is part of the western vice versa and that sends a to learn what our young relieved of this challenge. as offspring to replace them the level of education and culture we have imbibed w r o n g s i g n a l t h a t women and even adults do T h e r e h a v e b e e n to continue his/her lineage sophistication pervading through them is alien to us everybody must marry. with their lives in foreign testimonies by some who and not get blurted out the environment some a n d c o n t r a d i c t s t h e This view buried in the lands. have received this blessing f r o m e x i s t e n c e h ave persons in this category are polygamy which is part of minds of the adherents In a typical Igbo society, while those who may not resorted to close the gap still being perceived as our culture. They created begins to seek expression. it is believed that one believe they are under any t h r o u g h a d o p t i o n . rejects and unworthy of units to pray for people Desperation is also reason everybody must influence of anything live Although adoption is alien marriage. seeking couples. It is not caused by the social marry is to bear children their lives as they see it. to Igbo culture it is now Reasons many people surprising that our women consciousness which holds that would nurse the Contrary to the widely practised as a solution to remain unmarried after continually keep vigils in that people must marry parents at old age. Children held views among society the challenge of infertility their prime are varied. churches praying for their o t h e r w i s e t h e y a r e are highly valued and seen folks, being single in my and for the singles who Some could range from husbands to come until adjudged ineligible by as part of the achievements own thinking is not an want children. people refusing offers some get frustrated. virtue of their character expected of anybody. issue. We have become Marriage or not does not because they may have set There are many men which disqualifies them. Anyone not meeting this m o r e s o p h i s t i c a t e d , determine your happiness. their expectations on their who can take up to five On the contrary, we have expectation is seen as educated, exposed, and Happiness is something would-be spouse so high wives if we have sustained many ladies with excellent irresponsible, in extreme westernized that it has you create. It comes from and are not seeing same. our culture of polygamy, behaviour, beautiful, c a s e a n ' e f u l e f u ' - a become more fashionable w i t h i n , n o t w i t h o u t . Some could draw from but we chose to live a lie resourceful, and willing to w o r t h l e s s p e r s o n o r now to become single. Happiness is a choice. You incompatibility in faith and and in deep hypocrisy. marry and with everything unfortunate person. In People are now changing can be single and be b e h a v i o u r , l a c k o f While the young women going for them yet remain some places people still feel their views while the very happier. There is no law on opportunities, lack of are not prepared to 'share unmarried. But, is it that such a one may be conservative and religious earth which insists that you money to embark on the their man' as they usually possible for everybody to cursed. ones still see it as a big must marry. Don't allow journey if a man, personal say but are prepared to get married? Most women and men issue. Who says that you o t h e r s d e f i n e y o u r choices, spiritual causes function as a side chick to This opinion though who are not able to get cannot get a life being happiness. Try and get among numerous others. men who can comfortably realistic may sound very married are also believed to single? I have come across better in your chosen Today we are seeing a lot keep them at home and unpopular if it is said that have been stopped by their persons especially women endeavour. When you of people opting out of f e n d f o r t h e m . I t i s the church significantly has spiritual husbands and w h o r a t h e r t h a n succeed nobody will ask if marriage and preferring to saddening when we see the contributed to the present wives. The churches and c o m p r o m i s e t h e i r you are married or not. remain single parents. This level of abuse to which glut of women which is traditional practitioners happiness and security They will surge towards i s m o r e p r o n o u n c e d women through whom creating social crises believe that by doing the have opted to remain you. If it did not work for especially among the everybody comes to earth e v e r y w h e r e . T h e i r necessary prayers and single. you, you can choose to be

Email: [email protected], Website: www.newsecho.com.ng, Editor - Afam Echi, 08137914644