Category: News

The General Manager of the Community and Social Development Agency (CSDA), Hon. Monday Diamond Ani, has met with Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka ahead of the statewide stakeholders’ sensitisation on the Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme in Enugu.

Ani said the meeting provided an opportunity for discussions on the agency’s operations and plans for the upcoming sensitisation exercise.

He described Mbaka as a Nigerian who understands governance, while the cleric commended the CSDA boss for ongoing initiatives, particularly the sensitisation programme.

The Enugu State Government is scheduled to unveil its 2026 community development projects under NG-CARES on April 10, 2026, at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Enugu, by 10:00 am.

The event is expected to bring together stakeholders from the state and federal levels, including the NG-CARES national coordinator, representatives of the World Bank, and officials of the Federal Ministry of Budget and Planning.

Under the NG-CARES framework, the CSDA serves as the delivery platform for Result Area 1: Basic Services, focusing on interventions in water supply, sanitation, livelihood support, renewable energy, and other community infrastructure.

NG-CARES is a federal government programme supported by the World Bank, aimed at strengthening community resilience and supporting economic recovery among vulnerable populations.

Speaking on the initiative, Ani said over 140 communities in Enugu State have already benefited from CSDA interventions, including access to potable water and sanitation facilities.

“Previously, the Executive Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has, through the CSDA, provided potable water to over 140 communities in Enugu State, inclusive of ultra-modern toilets to eradicate open defecation. This was witnessed during the just-concluded statewide CSDA projects inspection tour,” he said.

He added that the state government plans to expand the programme under NG-CARES 2.0 to reach more communities.

…Archbishop Ede Launches Book

The Archbishop of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Archdiocese of Enugu, His Grace, Most Rev. Barr. Christopher Ede, has marked his 60th birthday in a grand celebration alongside his twin brother, Engr. Peter Onyemachi Ede, with the launch of his book, ‘Start Well, Finish Strong: Leadership Principles for Ministers and Organisational Decision-Makers’.

The three day event, held from April 4 to April 6, 2026, concluded with a Eucharistic service at the Methodist Cathedral, Uwani, followed by a birthday reception and book presentation at the Trinity Dome, Agbani Road, Enugu.

The celebration drew an array of dignitaries, including governors, political stakeholders, traditional rulers, business leaders, academics, and top clergy from various Christian denominations.

Delivering a sermon at the Eucharistic service, the Prelate of Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence, Dr. Oliver Ali Aba, spoke on the theme “Gratitude,” drawing from the Gospel account of the ten lepers. He likened Archbishop Ede to the one leper who returned to give thanks, noting that despite cultural circumstances that could have limited his life, divine grace preserved him.

Speaking at the event, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, who launched a book authored by the Archbishop, entitled “Start Well, Finish Strong: Leadership Principles for Ministers and Organisational Decision-Makers,” lauded the book as inspirational.

He described it as both enlightening and impactful, while extolling the virtues of the celebrant as a man of humility, service, and excellence.

“We are here for three reasons: to celebrate the birthday, to celebrate the Archbishop and his twin, and to celebrate what the Archbishop has done,” Mbah said.

“It’s truly a milestone, marking a diamond jubilee. Your life is an epitome of the raw materials of greatness—humility and service,” he added.

The governor noted his personal connection with the Archbishop, recalling their interactions during his campaign period, particularly discussions centred on social services, education, and healthcare.

“You have indeed become a light to many. You’ve shown that we are not restricted by the circumstances of our birth. From humble beginnings, you have risen to inspire countless people,” he said.

Mbah further commended the cleric’s passion for community development, charity, and poverty reduction, describing him as a worthy son of Enugu State whose impact transcends geographical boundaries.

The Chairman of the occasion and CEO of Equipment Hall Group, Gbolahan Olayomi, described the Archbishop as a man of remarkable impact. He noted that the presence of dignitaries and clergy from across the country reflected the significance of Edeh’s contributions to the Methodist Church Nigeria.

He further urged the Archbishop to mentor and raise future leaders who would excel not only in ministry but also in other sectors of society.

Reviewing the book, the Bishop of Methodist Church Nigeria, Atamunu Diocese, Rt. Rev. Barr. Otuekong Ukut, commended Archbishop Edeh for documenting his 44 year ministerial journey. He described the 16 chapter publication, structured in five parts, as an accessible and insightful resource for religious leaders, academics, students, and the general public.

Felicitations from family members and well-wishers also formed a key part of the celebration. His daughter, Miracle Ede, described him as a loving father and disciplined minister who lives out his teachings at home.

Mmesoma Favour Ede praised him as a sacrificial father whose values she has embraced, while his son, Emmanuel Ede, described him as a guiding force whose discipline has shaped his life.

The Rector of the Methodist Theological Institute, Rev. Dr. Nnamdi Kingsley Nwaike, described the Archbishop as a mentor, teacher, and father figure whose life continues to inspire younger generations.

In his remarks, Archbishop Ede expressed gratitude to the governor for honouring the occasion, describing his presence as a demonstration of genuine support and appreciation.

“This is a great honour, Your Excellency, that you’ve come here to celebrate us. That tells me it’s not all about our work, but also about appreciating my person and what God is doing through me.

“This church loves you. We stood with you and we’re standing with you. Thank you so much for coming, and we will continue to pray for you,” he said.

Another highlight of the event was a vibrant dance performance by children of the Trinity Dome, which added colour and excitement to the celebration.

…As Police Arraign 2 for Illegal Revenue Collection

Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah has made good his threat to wield the big stick on illegal revenue collectors and extortionists making life difficult for Enugu residents.

While Mbah, on Tuesday, announced an immediate and indefinite suspension of daily toll collection from traders who have no lockup shops, declaring it as illegal, the Enugu State Police Command on the same day arraigned two before an Enugu Magistrate Court for stealing and forgery of receipts and illegal revenue collection for the registration of native doctors in the state.

Governor Mbah gave the order on the suspension of daily revenue collection from petty traders at a stakeholders’ meeting on the clarification and harmonisation of revenue collection in markets across the state organised by the organised by the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service at the Old Government Lodge, Enugu.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Prof Chidiebere Onyia, the governor said the action was in line with the new tax laws meant to support the poor, adding that a taskforce chaired by the SSG had been put in place to ensure maximum compliance, vowing that anyone caught collecting the 100 or 200 Naira daily toll revenue, either for the government or an individual, would face the full weight of the law.

Mbah further charged the local government chairmen, traditional rulers, market leaders, the Presidents-General, and civil society organisations, and the public to report to the taskforce team any violation of the directive.

While stating that the order did not affect traders in the lockup shops, who pay 30,000 or 36,000 Naira annually, he emphasised that the administration’s aversion to any actions that escalates the people’s sufferings.

Meanwhile, the police has arraigned Mr. Christopher Ifeanyi, aged 65, and Chinenye Ugwu, a female, before an Enugu North Magistrate Court over the registration of native doctors with forged receipts of Enugu North Local Government Area of Enugu State, presenting the same as genuine in order to defraud inspecting members of the public.

The three-count charge sheet marked MEN/153C/2026, read, “That you Christopher İfeanyi ‘m’, Ugwu Chinenye ‘f’ and others now at large on the 31st day of March, 2026 at Enugu North Local Government Secretariat, Enugu, within the jurisdiction of this honourable court did conspire among yourselves to commit felony to wit: Stealing, Forgery and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 495(a) of the Criminal Code, Cap 30, Vol. II, Revised Laws of Enugu State of Nigeria 2004.

“That you and others now at large on the same date, time and place in the aforementioned Magisterial District did steal the total sum of Seven Hundred Thousand Naira (N700,000.00), property of Enugu State Government.

“That you did forge Enugu North Local Government Receipts for registration of native doctors with intent that it may be used or acted upon as genuine, knowing same to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 436 and punishable under Section 443(1) of the Criminal Code, Cap 30, Vol. II, Revised Laws of Enugu State of Nigeria 2004.”

The defendants, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges after which His Worship, O.S Chukwuani, adjourned the matter to May 8.

The Police Prosecutor was Rosemary Ojobo, while State Counsel, Onyinye Ugwu, held a watching brief for the Department of Public Prosecution, DPP.

The Enugu State Police Command Operatives, in synergy with other security forces, rescued of a kidnapped female victim, neutralized one kidnapping suspect in the process, and recovered incriminating exhibits in Udenu Local Government Area, on 3rd April 2026.

The successful rescue of the victim, neutralization of the suspect and recoveries followed the receipt of credible information on the abduction of the victim at about 3:30 p.m. within Ezimo community of Udenu Local Government Area.

On the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, psc, mspsp, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Udenu Division promptly mobilized a joint security team comprising Police operatives, soldiers of the Nigerian Army, Neighbourhood Watch, and Forest Guards, who trailed the suspects to Agu Orba Forest along Ohebe-Orba axis of Udenu Local Government Area. Upon sighting the operatives, the hoodlums opened fire, but the operatives responded with superior firepower, neutralizing one of the suspects, while others fled with varying degrees of severe gunshot wounds.

Consequently, the kidnapped victim was successfully rescued unhurt, debriefed, and reunited with her family. Exhibits recovered include five (5) rounds of live 7.62mm ammunition, one (1) long machete, one (1) short dagger, four (4) mobile phones, four (4) torchlights, two (2) power banks, two (2) memory cards, the sum of Fifty-One Thousand Seven Hundred Naira (₦51,700.00), assorted food items, spoons, clothing materials, face caps, and other items.

Meanwhile, intensive operations are ongoing to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, psc, mspsp, has commended the bravery and synergy of the security operatives involved in the operation and reassures residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to rid the State of violent criminal elements. He also urges members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to aid ongoing security efforts.

Ahead of the planned Awkunanaw Clan Mega Rally in honour of the Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, the Strategic Committee of the mega rally has stated that the entire people of Awkunanaw will honour Gov. Peter Mbah due to his rare and unprecedented mastery of governance that has transformed the clan.

​Speaking jointly to journalists in Enugu immediately after their closed-door meeting, the members of the Strategic Committee—Rt. Hon. USA Igwesi, Chief Sir Nwabueze Nnamani, Rt. Hon. Iloabuchi Aniagu, Dcn. Okey Ogbodo, and Rt. Hon. Caleb Ani—noted that Mbah’s approach to governance is decentralized, touching every part of the state and turning Awkunanaw into a hub of modern infrastructure.

​They noted what they called the “litany of projects” around Awkunanaw, wondering how it was possible that all were conceptualized and executed by the Governor within about three years in office.

​”What we plan to do with this Mega Rally is simple. We want to shower gratitude on Barr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for ensuring that Awkunanaw has not been left out in the litany of physical and human development projects going on in the state. The numbers speak for themselves.

​”We wonder how it is that one man has this level of creativity and Midas touch. The impact of Gov. Mbah’s projects is such that it will outlive a lifetime.

​”It is this depth of love for our people that we want to appreciate. As a clan, Awkunanaw has 18 Smart Green Schools worth over ₦18 billion; 18 Type II Primary Healthcare Centres worth over ₦1.8 billion; one of the five modern transport terminals built in the state; and will have 18 farm estates. By these, the Governor has effectively secured the future of our children and the health of our elders.

​”Gov. Mbah has opened up several parts of Awkunanaw, bringing a breath of fresh air to places previously forgotten through the construction of solid roads and the designation of the entire stretch of Awkunanaw as an urban area through his Executive Order No. 1, 2025,” they stated.

In a special appeal, the Chairman of the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee, Rt. Hon. USA Igwesi, called on all sons and daughters of Awkunanaw, stakeholders, residents of Enugu State, and the general public to attend the rally.

​The Mega Rally will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the Awkunanaw Civic Center, Akpasha, Akegbe Ugwu, in Nkanu West Local Government Area, commencing at 10:00 am.

​The rally is expected to draw a large crowd from the Awkunanaw clan and beyond, as they come together to celebrate the Governor’s achievements and reaffirm their support for his administration ahead of the 2027 general elections.

​Our correspondent reports that the Awkunanaw clan includes: Akegbe Ugwu, Obuoffia, Amechi, Amodu, Umueze, Akwuke, Ugwuaji, and Obeagu, spread across Nkanu West and Enugu South Local Government Areas.

Scores have been reported killed during an Easter Day attack on Mbatsada in Mbalom community, Gwer East Local Government Area, while several others sustained injuries.

Governors of Enugu and Ebonyi, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah and Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, alongside former governors Ifeanyichukwu Jim Nwobodo and Samuel Ominyi Egwu, are expected to attend the 60th birthday celebration of Most Rev. Barr. Christopher Nweke Ede.

The three-day event, scheduled for April 4 to 6 in Enugu, is expected to draw prominent political leaders, clerics, and traditional rulers from across the country.

According to the programme, Governor Mbah will serve as chief host, while Nwifuru is billed as chief guest of honour.

The celebration will begin on April 4 with a medical outreach at Wesley Specialist Hospital.

A thanksgiving service will follow on April 5 at Wesley Cathedral Church, with His Eminence, Dr. Sunday Ola Makinde, expected to preach.

Activities will conclude on April 6 with a eucharistic service at Wesley Cathedral Uwani, after which a birthday reception and book presentation will be held at The Trinity Dome along Agbani Road.

Other dignitaries expected at the event include Rt. Rev. (Prof.) STV Adegbite and business executive Gbolahan Olayomi.

Organisers say the celebration will bring together stakeholders across religious, political, and social spheres in honour of the archbishop’s milestone.

The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has extended warm felicitations to Christians in Enugu State and across Nigeria on the occasion of Easter, calling on citizens to embrace peaceful coexistence and sustain the virtues imbibed during Lent.

In his Easter message on Saturday, Mbah described the season as a profound reminder of the triumph of hope over despair, love over hate, and eternal life over death, noting that the resurrection of Christ underscored the enduring values of sacrifice, redemption, and renewal.

Governor Mbah further enjoined Nigerians to foster unity and peaceful coexistence across religious, ethnic, and political divides, stressing that the nation’s strength lies in its diversity and shared aspirations.

“At this critical time, we must reject division and embrace tolerance, mutual respect, and understanding. Our collective progress depends on our ability to live together in peace and harmony,” he added.

 

The governor noted that given its symbolism as a period of spiritual reinvigoration, Easter is a call to recommit to higher ideals.

He also urged Nigerians to reflect deeply on the solemn journey of Lent, and to ensure that the virtues of self-denial and sacrifice remain a constant guide in their daily lives beyond the Easter celebration.

“The piety that characterised the Lenten season should not end with Easter. Rather, it should continue to shape our conduct, inspire selfless service, and strengthen our commitment to the common good,” the governor stated.

Nigerians, Mbah emphasized, should see the sacred feast as a time to renew their commitment to excellence, integrity, and diligence.

“May this Easter renew our faith, strengthen our hope, and inspire collective efforts towards building a more just, peaceful, and prosperous society,” he concluded.

The Enugu State Police Command has concluded activities marking the National Police Day 2026 with the disbursement of cheques totalling fifty-two million, nine hundred and seventy-one thousand, eight hundred and three naira, nine kobo (₦52,971,803.09) to families of deceased Police Officers.

Presenting the cheques to the beneficiaries on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, the Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, psc, mspsp, consoled the families and charged them to invest and judiciously utilize the funds for the welfare of their households.

In his vote of thanks on behalf of the beneficiaries, Rev. Charles Ugwuagu, Regent of Uboji-Ngwo Autonomous Communities in Udi Local Government Area, appreciated the Inspector-General of Police and the Nigeria Police Force for remembering the families of deceased officers in a special way.

He assured that the beneficiaries would make prudent use of the funds for the betterment of their families.

It would be recalled that the Command commenced activities for the National Police Day 2026 with town hall meetings, sanitation exercises, medical outreaches, a walkathon, and public sensitization campaigns on electoral violence and related offences, as well as safe driving and adherence to traffic regulations. The activities culminated in the cheque presentation.

The grand finale of the celebration will take place at Eagle Square, Abuja, featuring a ceremonial parade, procession, and other displays.

The Commissioner of Police appreciates the citizens of Enugu State for their support throughout the period and assures that insights gained from the engagements will be leveraged to strengthen police-community relations and build public trust.

Gunmen have killed another traditional ruler in Ebonyi State, Nigeria’s South-East. The victim, Josephat Ikegwu, who is the traditional ruler of Ishinkwo Community in Onicha Local Government Area of the state, was shot dead by the attackers on Wednesday night.