The Pacesetter Frontier Magazine

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Bayelsa: Cultist admits to murder of 6-year-old boy

The Bayelsa State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 24-year-old, Godspower Ebisimiagh, popularly known as Bobby, over the gruesome murder of a six-year-old boy identified as Muhammadu Bilah. The deceased, an indigene of Nasarawa State was allegedly lured and killed last Tuesday at the Aretalin area of Ovom, Yenagoa Local Government Area.

Police investigations have revealed that the suspect is a member of the Greenlanders cult group, a notorious gang linked to violent crimes and ritual activities. Preliminary findings suggest that Bobby may have been contracted to procure a child for a suspected ritual killing involving charm for protection.

While confirming the incident, the Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Francis Idu, said an autopsy has been ordered on the body of the deceased to determine the actual cause of death and to verify claims that the victim may have been poisoned.

In a confession made while in police custody, the suspect admitted to being under the influence of hard drugs, specifically ‘ice’ when he committed the act.

“On that fateful day, I took ice. While eating with the boy, I suddenly stood up and smashed him on the floor,” recalled Bobby, whose head was wrapped in blood stained bandage due to injuries sustained during a failed lynching attempt by an irate mob before his rescue by the police.

However, his statement was contradicted by a senior police officer who noted that the boy’s corpse bore no visible injuries consistent with blunt force trauma.

“If he indeed smashed the boy on the floor, why are there no signs of injury on the body?” the officer queried, raising further suspicion that the child might have been poisoned.

The suspect, however, denied allegations that he was paid N1 million to carry out the murder. “I was not paid to bring the boy for ritual,” he said.

The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Francis Idu said the suspect’s media interaction was allowed to dispel public rumours of a cover-up or claims that the suspect had died in custody.

“We are determined to ensure full transparency and will leave no stone unturned in our investigations,” he said.

Idu further assured advocacy groups, including the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) and various gender rights organisations, that the command is committed to pursuing justice and ensuring accountability in the case. Vanguard

June 21, 2025
Enugu LG Chairman Receives WHO Award

The Chairman of Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu state, Hon. John Chukwuma Ogbodo, has received the prestigious World Health Organization (WHO) Award in recognition of his exceptional contributions to healthcare development in the state.

The representative of WHO, Dr. Chukwumuanya Igboekwu and the Southeast zonal coordinator presented the award to the chairman at the Nkanu West council headquarters on Friday, June 20, 2025.

Igboekwu remarked that the activities of the council chairman with regards to his health friendliness, financial support and participation in all state and WHO programmes had earned him the recognition.

He stated that WHO had been following the activities of the Executive Chairman with regards to various health programmes both at the state level and WHO health programmes. He charged the Chairman to see the award as an encouragement that will spur him to doing more for the health sector and humanity.

Responding, Hon. John Ogbodo appreciated WHO representatives for finding him worthy of such a meritorious award. He promised to do more as his administration prioritizes health.

The council boss of Nkanu West also used the opportunity to commend Governor Peter Mbah for creating an enabling environment for health and for the construction of an international 300-bed hospital, 260 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centers across the state, saying that the governor has carried out several health intervention programmes.

Other members of WHO team present at the occasion were, Dr Adaeze Ugwu WHO Enugu State Coordinator; Dr Ikechukwu Chidolue WHO Enugu State IDSR Technical Assistant and some local government functionaries.

June 21, 2025
EFCC Arraigns Four for False Declaration of Assets

The Kaduna Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC has arraignedDatau Irimiya Dangyil, Joshua Ayuba Dodo, Lekan Tosin Olatoye and Caleb Akanmu Kayode before Justices Amina Bello and A.Isiaka of the Kaduna State High Court,sitting in Kaduna for fraud.

Dodo, Olatoye and Dangyil were arraigned before Justice Bello, while Kayode was arraigned before Justice Isiaka, all on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 on separate one-count charge, bordering on false declaration of assets.

Dangyil’s charge reads: “That you, Datau Irimiya Dangyil on or about the 26th May, 2025 at Kaduna, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, knowingly made a false declaration when you failed to declare your interest in Account No: 8141229021 in your name Datau Irimiya Dangyil, domiciled with Palmpay Limited in the Declaration of Assets Form of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 27(3)(a) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act, 2004.”

That of Olatoye reads: “That you, Lekan Tosin Olatoye, on or about the 27th May, 2025 at Kaduna, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, knowingly made a false declaration when you failed to declare your interest in Account No: 7046305398 in your name Lekan Tosin Olatoye domiciled with Palmpay Limited in the Declaration of Assets Form of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC and you thereby committed an offense contrary to and punishable under Section 27(3)(a) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act, 2004.”

They all pleaded “not guilty” to their charge, upon which the prosecution counsel, Moses O. Arumemi urged the court for a trial date and for the defendants to be remanded in a correctional centre, while the defence counsel, Solomon Ologbondiyan and E.B Abichele, urged the court to grant the defendants bail.

Justice Bello, thereafter granted Olatoye, Dodo, and Dangyil bail in the sum of N500,000.00 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira), each and one surety, each in like sum, who must be resident within the jurisdiction of the court. In addition,the trio shall provide their National Identity Cards and three months utility bill. He
adjourned till October 15, 16 and 23, 2025 for commencement of their trial.

Justice Isiaka on his part, ordered Kayode’s remand in correctional centre and adjourned till July 2, 2025 for the hearing of his bail application.
The defendants were arrested following actionable intelligence that exposed them for operating a school without licence in Minna, Niger State and in the course of the investigation they refused to declare their assets in the Assets Declaration Form of the EFCC.

June 20, 2025
Mbah Appoints New Leadership for Enugu Forest Guard

The Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has approved the appointment of Colonel Dan Didiugwu (rtd) as the Chairman of the Enugu State Forest Guard, and DCP Olamitisoji Akinbamilayo, PhD (rtd) as the Commander of the Enugu State Forest Guard.

According to a government issued statement signed by Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Secretary to the State Government, the appointment of the Chairman of the Forest Guard Board, which is subject to confirmation by the Enugu State House of Assembly, and that of the Commander of the Forest Guard, which takes effect immediately, are part of the State Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen and professionalize forest and environmental security operations across Enugu State, in alignment with its commitment to safeguarding lives, property, and natural resources.

The statement revealed that the office of Commander of the Forest Guard supersedes the previously existing position of State Coordinator, which is now abolished.

The statement noted that the Smstate government expressed confidence in the capacity and experience of both Colonel Didiugwu and DCP Akinbamilayo to reposition the Forest Guard into a highly responsive and efficient outfit.

June 20, 2025
Glitz, Glamour, as Encomiums Flow at U.S.A Igwesi’s Birthday

Doris Ewoh, Enugu

Renowned politician and former House of Representatives member representing Nkanu West and East Federal Constituency, Rt. Honourable U.S.A. Igwesi, was drenched in praises, commendations, and tributes as he celebrated his birthday in a graceful manner.

The birthday party, which was put up by the group, Ikemba Friends Association (Inc.) to celebrate her founder, held on June 18, 2025 in Enugu State. It was a beehive of activities, as dignitaries from different parts of the social spectrum gathered to honor the man regarded as a political game changer in Enugu, the one who saw tomorrow.

The event kicked off with an exchange of pleasantries by the celebrant and some of his guests, revealing a lot about his personality.

In his speech, the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) stalwart, Igwesi acknowledged God as the giver of life and all that he owns.

“I’m grateful to God Almighty, who kept me alive and still provides for me even when I am not worth it as a being.

“His grace, mercies, and blessings did the magic for me. I owe every aspect of my life to him, because he lives above men.”

Speaking about his political career, he said, “As a young man. I realized my mission. As Nostradamus, I saw tomorrow with the help of God. I have always aligned with the right political group that provided succor to the people of Enugu State and beyond.

“Even when the coast was not clear, I knew the right political step at all times. It is a divine gift, not by power.”

He further revealed that he was committed to living and standing for people at all times.

“Human development and capacity building are my topmost priority. When people are happy, I am happy. This is a transient world, and the earlier we realize that, the better for us as human beings”.

Leading the tributes, a former Enugu State governorship candidate of the Labour Party, and now a Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Barr. Chijioke Edeoga, described the celebrant as a man of many good qualities.

“He is a courageous man, he is eloquent, he’s charismatic, he’s focused, he’s hardworking, and he has a heart of gold.”

He disclosed that they had known each other since 1990, growing up together in the political environment of Enugu State.

Edeoga noted that he wishes him long life, good health, and peace that passeth all understanding.

“Let him continue to do the kind of things he likes to do; he likes to be involved in politics, he likes to bring people together to achieve, so, I want him to continue to achieve, bring people together, and be himself,” he stated.

Acknowledging his political journey, Chief Nwabueze Nnamani, a former council chairman of Nkanu West Local Government, stated, “He’s the man of the people, a man of the grassroots, a great mobilizer; you can also call him a one-man riot squad.

“There’s what we call in Igbo ‘Okaa oburu uzo,’ and that’s what he is. A political juggernaut and the Ajadi Igbo of Enugu politics.”

He recalled that when U.S.A Igwesi was in the National Assembly, his voice was being heard everywhere, and he wasn’t one to be put in the pocket. He also added that during the last election, he was part of those who saw to the success of Gov. Peter Mbah’s victory in becoming the governor of Enugu State.

“We still need him. I wish him long life and also prosperity, because when someone is living long and he doesn’t have what he will use to sustain that life, life becomes meaningless,” Nnamani added.

Guests at the event included the Secretary to Enugu State Government, Professor Chidiebere Onyia; the representative of the Enugu State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice; Former Labour Party Governorship candidate of Enugu State, Barr. Chijioke Edeoga; State PDP Chairman, Dr. Martins Chukwunweike; Assistant Commissioner of Police, State CID Enugu, Mrs Hope Isiani; Commander Anti Kidnapping Enugu, Supol. Chuks Odum; Executive Chairman of Nkanu West, Hon. John Ogbodo and his Ezeagu and Enugu South counterparts, Hon. Dr. Vita Ndu and Hon. Caleb Ani.

Others were a former PDP guber aspirant in Enugu, Hon. Nwabueze Ugwu; the Special Adviser to the Governor of Enugu State on Political matters, Chief Frank Anioma; Special Adviser to the Governor of Enugu State on Legislative matters, Hon. Paul Nnajiofor; The Bishop of Awgu/Aninri Arch Diocese Bishop Benson Chukwuwike; Chairman, Nkanu West Traditional Rulers, HRH Eze Barr. Igwesi Obi Igwesi; a patron of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, HRH Igwe Greg Ugwu; the Rector, IMT, Prof. Gozie Ogbodo; and members of the clergy.

Former Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Hon. Obinna Oriaku; Former Commissioner for Special Duties, Mr Mbeke; Former State Chairman of PDP Anambra State and Former Njikoka LGA High Chief, Chief Cosmas Agagbo; Former Chairman of Nkanu West, Barr. Ray Nnaji; Former Executive Chairman of Uzo-Uwani Local Government, Hon. Cornell Chijioke Onwubuya; Former Executive Chairman of Nkanu West Local Government Area, Chief Sir Nwabueze Nnamani; Former Permanent Secretary, Dr. Chris Mba, Prof. Chinwuba Owoh, the Deputy Chairman of Nkanu West, Engr. Friday Nnam, Secretary of Nkanu West, Prince Onochie Jon-Igwesi, former members of the Enugu State House of Assembly, were also present, among others.

June 20, 2025
Alleged unfair practices: FCCPC seals France, Belgium, Italy visa centres

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has raided the Abuja office of Contact Tele-performance Company (TLC), a visa support outfit, and sealed the premises following alleged consumer rights violations as well as assault on security officers by agents of the centre.

The Director of Surveillance and Investigations, Mrs. Boladale Adeyinka, who led the enforcement team to the business premises, explained that the commission was left with no option but to seal the business premises as a result of these infractions.

She also alleged that FCCPC enforcement agents were assaulted by persons acting on the company’s behalf.

Adeyinka further explained that the investigation into TLS—a private company offering visa support services to Nigerians—began in March 2025, following complaints from consumers over the non-provision of services they had paid for.

On March 25, the FCCPC served TLS a letter in line with its normal complaint resolution process. Instead of addressing the complaint, their officers assaulted FCCPC operatives carrying out their lawful duty of enforcing consumer rights.

She further noted that the situation took a turn for the worse when TLS officials not only refused to collect a letter of summons to appear before the Commission, but also assaulted police officers who were providing lawful security for FCCPC operations.

The FCCPC officer further said, “In line with Section 18(1)(f) of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Commission, Tunji Bello directed the sealing of the premises.”

She emphasized that the Commission had reasonable grounds to believe that certain services rendered by TLS were “inimical to consumer welfare,” and as such, its operations were suspended pending further investigation.

According to her, senior officers of TLS, including the country manager and centre manager, have been summoned to appear before the Commission on or before 2:00 pm on Friday, June 20, 2025, to explain their conduct and defend the company’s actions.

Adeyinka cautioned the management of the company against refusing to honour the latest summons, noting that dire consequences await those who choose to do so.

She said, “Section 33(3) of the FCCPC Act stipulates that failure to comply with a summons, without sufficient cause, is an offense punishable by up to three years imprisonment, a fine of up to ₦20m, or both.”

“Section 33(4) goes further to state that any person who willfully obstructs or interrupts proceedings of the Commission is liable to the same penalties. TLS’s actions clearly fall under these violations.”

She reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to protecting consumers within the confines of the Act establishing it.

In response to a question about the nature of the original complaint, Adeyinka explained that it involved “non-provision of paid visa processing services” by TLS, a core issue affecting many Nigerians who rely on such centres for travel documentation.

The FCCPC urged affected consumers to come forward with evidence of service failure as investigations continue.

She said the sealing of TLS’s office serves as a stern warning to service providers across the country that the Commission will not hesitate to act decisively in defence of consumer rights. Vanguard

June 19, 2025
Enugu: Police Nab 2 Over Eha-Amufu Attack, as Gov. Mbah Says Enugu Among Safest States in Nigeria

…Vows no crime will go unpunished

Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, says Enugu remains among safest states in the country, irrespective of propaganda by peddlers of falsehood.

Mbah said the state had put proactive measures in place and invested in capacity to solve every single crime and bring the perpetrators to book.

This was even as the Police in Isi-Uzo made arrests over the recent attack on Eha-Amufu farm settlements that left some persons dead.

Mbah spoke when he received in audience the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 13, AIG Abayomi Oladipo, at the Lion Building, Enugu, on Wednesday.

Mbah said he was aware that his administration could not achieve the ambition to grow the state’s economy from $4.4bn to $30bn and position it as the premier destination for investment, business, tourism and living without security, hence his decision to invest huge resources and political will in fighting the scourge of insecurity from the outset.

He maintained that with the enormity of security infrastructure such as the Command and Control Centre, establishment of Distress Response Squad special police unit with over 150 security vehicles, installation of AI-enabled cameras across the state for surveillance, and other resources put in place, Enugu had acquired the capacity to not only prevent crimes, but also to solve them when they occur.

“Enugu is the most secure city in the country, unarguably, save for people, who like to magnify things, and who believe that the security we enjoy in Enugu is disturbing them.

“So, they like to sometimes conjecture things to somehow entertain their views or opinions. What they do is to post or peddle falsehood on social media by going back to things that happened years ago to make them appear as if they are just happening. Also, things that happened elsewhere, they make it appear as if they are happening in Enugu.

“I have seen some images and videos recently of things that never happened here, but made to look as it they happened here in Enugu State.

“Therefore, if we discount those false narratives, those fake narratives that we hear from social media, Enugu as I mentioned, unarguably is the safest city in this country.

“But we are not going to rest on our oars. We have to see that our security agents are alive to their responsibilities, to their duties.

“We do not have any tolerance for insecurity, for crime in Enugu State. We are going to continue to work with the security agencies to ensure that we sustain this security we are enjoying in the state today.

Speaking earlier, AIG Oladipo, who said he had received security briefing from the Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Police Command, CP Mamman Giwa, and his Anambra State counterpart, CP Ikioye Orutugu, and rolled out modalities for synergy in fighting crime, commended Governor Mbah for the notable improvement in security of lives and property in the state.

“I can tell you that what we have put in place is really working for us. I want to thank you for the support and your cooperation with the police and other security agencies of the state,” he stated.

It is recalled that while there were various levels of warning against trips to 27 states by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, FCDO, in its 13th June 2025 travel advisory, which was still valid as of 18th June, Enugu State was among the few states without any travel warnings whatsoever against them.

Meanwhile, the Police in Isi-Uzo have arrested two alleged collaborators and informants, Matthew Ebeh, and a woman, who allegedly provided guide for the attack and also sold information on security movement to the militant herders.

It was gathered that Ebeh, 26, allegedly led the suspected herders into the community. He, however, ran out of luck when one of the locals escaped, leading to his arrest.

June 18, 2025
Benue Killings: Tinubu Visits Victims of Yelewata Attack at Teaching Hospital

President Bola Tinubu has visited surviving victims of last Friday’s brutal attack in Yelewata community in the Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.

Tinubu visited the North-Central state following the attack which left over 59 people dead and several others injured.

The President went straight to the hospital after arriving at the Tactical Air Command, Nigerian Air Force Base, Makurdi, at about 12:58 pm on Wednesday.

He later left the hospital for the new Banquet Hall of the Benue State Government House where he is expected to meet with major stakeholders in the state in view of the violent attacks that have led to the loss of lives.

Tinubu is expected to meet with families of victims, displaced and injured persons, and community leaders directly impacted by the violence.

The meeting with the stakeholders is part of a broader effort to find a lasting solution to the crisis that has affected parts of the state, especially rural communities.

Expected at the meeting are key national and state-level figures, including the state governor, Hyacinth Alia; governors from across the country, particularly from the North-Central states; the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume.

Also expected to attend are service chiefs, key members of the National Assembly, leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), and other prominent individuals, especially those representing affected communities in Benue.

The state government declared a public holiday for the visit. Channels TV

See more photos from the hospital visit below:

June 18, 2025
[FULL LIST] LPPC Releases 72 Shortlisted Candidates For 2025 SAN Conferment
…Seeks Public Input After Critical Evaluation Stages

The Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC) has released the list of shortlisted candidates for the conferment of the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) for the year 2025.

In a press release signed by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court and Secretary of the LPPC, Kabir Eniola Akanbi, Esq, the committee announced that the shortlisted applicants have successfully passed critical evaluation stages, including the First and Second Filtration Exercises for Advocates, Academic Pre-Qualification, Independent Appeals Hearing, and Law Office Inspections.

The list features a total of 57 Advocate Applicants and 15 Academic Applicants, selected after rigorous screening in accordance with the LPPC Guidelines.

Advocate Applicants:

Theophilus Esan Kolawole, Esq

Fedude Zimughan, Esq

Ernest Chikwendu Ikeji, Esq

Victor Esiri Akpoguma, Esq

Leslie Akujuobi Njemanze, Esq

Akintola Wilson Adewale, Esq

Preye Agedah, Esq

Omamuzo Erebe, Esq

Hannibal Egbe Uwaifo, Esq

Olumide Ekisola, Esq

George Ejie Ukaegbu, Esq

Oromena Justice Ajakpovi, Esq

Tairu Adebayo, Esq

Bawa Akhimie Osali Ibrahim, Esq

Suleh Umar, Esq

Emeka Akabogu, Esq

Godwin Sunday Ogboji, Esq

Godwin Aimuagbonrie Idiagbonya, Esq

Adeolu Olusegun Salako, Esq

Adetunji Oso, Esq

Achienike Godwin William-Wobodo, Esq

Shuaib Agbarere Mustapha, Esq

Adizua Chu-Chu Okoroafor, Esq

Olanrewaju Tasleem Akinsola, Esq

Amaechi Fidelis Iteshi, Esq

Adakole Edwin Inegedu, Esq

Oyinkansola Badejo-Okunsanya, Esq

David Ogenyi Ogebe, Esq

Aminu Sani Gadanya, Esq

Oluseun Awonuga Adeniyi, Esq

Ayodeji Joseph Ademola, Esq

Kelechi Nwaiwu, Esq

Lawal Garba Hudu, Esq

Ibim Simeon Dokubo, Esq

Ikechukwu Raphael Uwanna, Esq

Luka Abubakar Haruna Musa, Esq

Shakeer Adedayo Oshodi, Esq

Oluwole Tolulope Jimi-Bada, Esq

Mubarak Tijani Adekilekun, Esq

Chinyere Ekene Moneme, Esq

Shuaibu Magaji Labaran, Esq

Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, Esq

Augustine Enenche Audu, Esq

Ali Dussah Zubairu, Esq

Adeyemi Adebambo Pitan, Esq

Habeeb Abdulrahman Oredola, Esq

Abdulakeem Labi-Lawal, Esq

Victor Agunzi, Esq

Nkwegu Luke Ogbagaegwu, Esq

Bidemi Ifedunni Ademola-Bello, Esq

Temilolu Femi Adamolekun, Esq

Abdulkarim Kabiru Maude, Esq

Adedayo Gbolahan Adesina, Esq

Usman Yusuf Zaiyanu, Esq

Taiwo Azeez Hassan, Esq

Mustapha Olayinka Ajenifuja, Esq

Olufemi Olabunmi Oyewole, Esq

Academic applicants

Prof. John Alewo Agbonika

Prof. Osy Ezechukwunyere Nwebo

Prof. Nlerum Sunday Okogbule

Prof. Najeem Adeyemi Ijaiya

Prof. Nnamdi Onyeka Obiareri

Prof. Akkaarren Samuel Shaakaa

Prof. Nathaniel Ahagbue Inegbedion

Prof. Collins Obioma Chijioke

Prof. Violet Aigbokhaevbo

Prof. Meshak Nnama Umenweke

Prof. Augustine Robert Agom

Prof. Osaretin George Izevbuwa

Prof. Chimajosephat Ubanyionwu

Prof. Ibrahim Abdulqadir Abikan

Prof. Ominiye Bukola Akinola

The LPPC emphasized that the current publication only represents candidates who have progressed to the final interview stage. It is not a confirmation of conferment.

The general public is hereby invited to submit comments on the integrity, reputation, and competence of the listed candidates. Such comments must be accompanied by a verifying affidavit deposed to before a Superior Court of Record in Nigeria or a Notary Public, submitted in 20 copies to the LPPC Secretariat no later than 4:00 pm on Monday, July 14, 2025. Submissions may also be sent via email to:lppcsecretariat@courts.gov.ng or enquiries.lppcsecretariat@supremecourt.gov.ng.
June 18, 2025
FG suspends pilgrimage to Israel until end of crisis

The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), has announced that there would be no further pilgrimages to Israel until the Israel/Iran conflict is resolved.

Executive Secretary of the commission, Stephen Adegbite, made this known via a statement yesterday by the Deputy Director and Head of Media and Public Relations, Celestine Toruka.

Adegbite dismissed reports claiming that Nigerian pilgrims were currently in Israel for pilgrimage.

“Given the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran, which escalated on June 13, no Christian pilgrimage will occur in Israel until the crisis is resolved.

“The commission is closely monitoring the situation,” he said.

June 18, 2025
Anambra govt approves over N9.6bn for erosion, road rehabilitation, infrastructure upgrade

Anambra State Government has approved contracts worth over ₦9.6 billion for erosion control and road rehabilitation across the state.

The approvals were granted during the 11th meeting of the Anambra State Executive Council (ANSEC), held on Monday, June 16, 2025, at the Light House (New Government House), Awka.

The meeting was presided over by Governor Charles Soludo.

During the session, ANSEC approved a new set of contracts aimed at tackling erosion and flood issues, rehabilitating roads, upgrading infrastructure, and renovating public institutions across various communities in the state.

A major highlight of the meeting was the reaffirmation of the Council’s commitment to launching the Anambra Rebirth Programme a behavioural change initiative aimed at restoring core Igbo values such as integrity, the dignity of labour, and industriousness. The programme is anchored on the popular Igbo proverb, “Aka aja aja na-ebute ọnụ mmanụ mmanụ”, which translates to “Hard work begets reward.”

The State Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor, who disclosed these details in a statement issued on Tuesday, also announced the Council’s plan to retrain and re-educate drivers in the state.
Under the new traffic reform initiative, drivers who commit major traffic offences will be blacklisted as part of efforts to reduce road accidents and curb reckless driving.

In the education sector, the Council approved the rehabilitation of more public schools, especially those that have been previously neglected. This decision follows the clearance of counterpart funding arrears—dating up to 2024—by the Soludo administration, and the anticipated contributions from the Federal Government.

Among the newly awarded contracts is a ₦3.5 billion project for erosion reclamation, flood control, and road construction covering 2.28 km in Umunze and Umuchu communities. The contract was awarded to Saidi Nigeria Limited.

Additionally, ₦2.65 billion was approved for the construction of 3.9 km of access roads within the Uli campus of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University. The project was awarded to Anyi Supreme Industries Ltd.

The Council also approved ₦2.1 billion for access road construction at the Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe. Furthermore, ₦718.6 million was allocated for the renovation of dilapidated structures within the college. This renovation project was distributed among three firms: Biggstruct Engineering Ltd. (₦263.7 million), Zonel Projects Ltd. (₦222.9 million), and Euro Energy Resources (₦208.5 million).

For the completion of the ongoing Country Club project at the Ekwulobia Stadium Complex, ₦528.6 million was approved and awarded to Crystal Dove Construction Company Ltd. The same company also secured a ₦65.6 million contract for additional works at the Onitsha Specialist Hospital in Fegge.

Further approvals include ₦97.3 million for the rehabilitation of Nya Ranch Road in Awka by the Anambra Road Maintenance Agency (ARMA) and ₦55.1 million for the installation of traffic management infrastructure by the Anambra Road Traffic Management Agency (ARTMA). These installations will include road signs, rumble strips, flashing caution lights, and thermoplastic speed bumps at key locations across the state.

According to Dr Mefor, these projects align with Governor Soludo’s vision of building a livable and prosperous homeland for all.

He emphasised that both ongoing and newly initiated infrastructural projects reflect the administration’s deliberate efforts to impact every sector and community in the state —especially in the areas of education, transportation, public safety, and disaster control.

Dr. Mefor reiterated the government’s commitment to delivering people-focused policies and projects, and he urged Ndi Anambra to continue supporting the Governor’s vision for a progressive and inclusive state. Tribune

June 18, 2025
Anambra: Police arrest 6 during cult initiation

The Anambra State Police Command has raided and foiled a cult initiation ceremony at Nawfia, Njikoka Local Government Area of the state.

During the raid, the police arrested six suspects and also recovered one pump-action gun, two live cartridges, two cutlasses, one Lexus Sports Utility Vehicle, among others.

In a press statement released on Tuesday, the Spokesman for the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, stated that the operatives, acting on intelligence-driven information, carried out the exercise on June 15.

Ikenga said, “Anambra police operatives on June 15, 2025, by 9.30am, acting on intelligence-driven information, foiled a cult initiation ceremony at Nawfia, Njikoka Local Government Area.

“During the raid, the team arrested six suspects and recovered one Jojef pump action gun, two live cartridges, one golden coloured Lexus SUV with Reg No: ATN 202 AE, two cutlasses, two scissors, one cap with inscription of the Supreme Vikings confraternity, some charms, hard substance and other incriminating items.

“The suspects include: Nwadike Chibuike, Anierobi Precious, Raphael Ebube, Ezechi Benjamin, Okafor Chidera, and Chiema Okoye, all males between 20 and 30 years old.

“They are currently undergoing Police interrogation to get more insight into their modus operandi, after which the case will be charged to Court on the conclusion of the investigations.”

According to him, the Command, while noting the connection between cultism and other serious crimes, remained committed to actively working to combat cultism and other related crimes in the state. Punch

June 17, 2025