Category: News

Former presidential candidate and activist, Omoyele Sowore, has been whisked away from the precincts of the Federal High Court in Abuja by armed policemen, shortly after he made appearance for the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu.

The leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, on Thursday, stunned the Federal High Court in Abuja when he announced that he would be defending himself following the withdrawal of his entire legal team.

The Labour Party Governorship Campaign train, led by former Governor of Anambra State and Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, yesterday stormed the communities of Ukpo, Nawgu, Ukwulu, Nkwelle Ezunaka, Umunya, and Ogbunike in continuation of its community-to-community campaign for the party’s Governorship Candidate, Dr. George Moghalu, and his running mate, Hon. Mrs. Ifeoma Okaro.

Speaking at Ogbunike, Mr. Obi described the town as a place of reference in Anambra State and emphasized that leadership must have a human face anchored on compassion and competence.

He said his support for Moghalu and his deputy was rooted in their integrity and capacity to serve. According to him, “When I was governor, the work I did in Ogbunike is visible and not video noise. I am supporting George Moghalu and his deputy, your daughter, because they are competent and have the compassion required for leadership.

“Please don’t sell your vote. Anyone who buys votes is doing business and will recover the money double when he gets into office. Education is the most important investment in human life, and that is what Moghalu is offering Anambra.”

In his address, Dr. George Moghalu assured the people that his administration would prioritise education by making it free and compulsory across the state. He pledged to revive the Scholarship Board to support indigent but brilliant students and to abolish excessive taxation on traders.

He further promised to tackle insecurity, end the activities of Ndi Aka Ọdọ, provide free medical care for citizens aged 65 years and above, and introduce a monthly allowance for those over 70.

“We will construct durable roads that can stand the test of time, not the type that collapse after one rainy season,” Moghalu added.

The Deputy Governorship Candidate, Hon. Mrs. Ifeoma Okaro, who received a heroic welcome in her hometown of Ogbunike, urged her people to vote massively for the Labour Party, assuring them that the incoming government would be people-oriented and transparent.

The Enugu State Government, on Tuesday, demolished yet another building used for kidnapping in the state, an action it said is in line with the laws of the state.

Security agencies had, during the week, rescued a kidnap victim at the demolished property, a bungalow at Umueze Awkunanaw in Nkanu West LGA of the state, used by the prime suspect, Igwenagu Ogbodo, and his gang for holding victims captive.

Ogbodo and some of his gang members, however, escaped with various degrees of gunshot wounds when security agencies stormed the property.

Speaking to newsmen during the demolition, the Council Chairman of Nkanu West LGA, Hon. John Ogbodo, commended Governor Mbah for consistently demonstrating political will in the war against insecurity.

“The prime suspect and his gang kidnapped the person and brought him here. He was rescued and his vehicle recovered. Some arms and ammunition were equally recovered.

“I thank His Excellency, Dr. Peter Mbah, for his political will and demonstration of capacity in line with what he told Ndi Enugu that any house that harbours criminals or is used to aid criminality will be demolished. That is exactly what is happening here today and it is in line with the laws of Enugu State.

“This is not the first house to be demolished in Enugu by this administration, neither is it the second nor the third. But this is the first one to be demolished in Nkanu West, and I know this is going to be a deterrent to other criminal elements.

“I urge every community and Presidents-General to be very mindful of people around them. They should keep an eye on the people and report any suspicious movement to security agencies.

“Again, I want to use this opportunity to advise anyone who has a property in Enugu State to be mindful of his or her tenants and any activities ongoing in their property. This is because any house used to harbour criminality like kidnap victims stands demolished,” he stated.

He said the demolition would serve as a deterrent to the remaining criminals in the state, as there was no hiding place for them given the level of technology and manpower deployed by the governor to stamp out insecurity and criminality from Enugu State.

“The guy who did this is still on the run, but I know that Enugu State Government has the capacity and the equipment to capture him.

“Others who are into criminality should know that there is no hiding place in Enugu State of today because the arm of the government will catch up with them,” he concluded.

Some community members who witnessed the demolition testified to the suspect’s criminal ways and antecedents, noting that he was an ex-convict.

Ikechukwu Amos, who spoke to newsmen, said: “I can’t deny it, he is a criminal. I am their elder and I know how all of them behave. We have been advising him, but he refused. You have seen the resultant effect of his unholy character.

“This same boy returned from prison not too long ago. Since then, he has been maintaining bad company, using this place for all manner of illicit activities like smoking Indian hemp and other hard substances. I am not surprised that something of this nature will happen, and it has happened.”

Another indigene of Umueze Awkunanaw, Edeh Chidera Kingsley, also spoke about the prime suspect’s criminal records: “Any young man who doesn’t want to work to get money but chooses kidnapping should face the music.

“Fela, as he is also known, is a lazy man. If you call him for work, he would say that he would not go. He finds pleasure in drinking.”

The Councilor of the ward, Uchenna Jideofor, thanked the governor for putting into effect the harsh measures prescribed by the laws of Enugu State against kidnapping, describing the demolition as a welcome development for the people and leaders of Umueze Awkunanaw.

“The guy is notorious in criminal activities. In my first tenure, I made sure that some of them were remanded in prison, but after everything he was later released by some people from the community. And any time they come back, people will be witnessing insecurity in the community. The guy is involved in so many things.

“This morning, I had a confrontation with the neighbours, telling them that they are not doing us good by not giving us information on what is happening. But what is happening here now will serve as a lesson to others that have chosen the fast lane,” he said.

The Labour Party Governorship Candidate in the 2025 Anambra governorship election has hailed His Grace, Most Rev. Valerian Maduka Okeke, the Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha, on the occasion of the 72nd birthday of the Cleric.

In a statement personally signed by him, Moghalu described Archbishop Okeke as “a guiding light to our generation, an epitome of humility, wisdom, and devotion whose words and deeds continue to inspire faith, compassion, and service to humanity.”

He recalled the role of the Archbishop in reviving mission schools in the state and prayed for God’s blessings on him.

The full statement reads:

Today, I join millions of the faithful across Anambra State and beyond to celebrate a great servant of God, a mentor, and a father figure, His Grace, Most Rev. Valerian Maduka Okeke, the Archbishop of Onitsha, on the joyous occasion of his 72nd birthday anniversary.

Your Grace has remained a guiding light to our generation, an epitome of humility, wisdom, and devotion whose words and deeds continue to inspire faith, compassion, and service to humanity.

Through your visionary leadership and the Archbishop Valerian Okeke Foundation (AVOF), you have continued to transform lives and raise young ambassadors of goodwill who have represented our state and nation in countries such as Ghana. Your passion for youth empowerment, moral reawakening, and educational advancement has built bridges of opportunity and strengthened the foundation of character formation in our society.

I recall with deep admiration your historic role in the revival of mission schools in Anambra State. Your persistent advocacy led to their return to the Church during the administration of Governor Peter Obi, after which you spearheaded an era of massive reconstruction and reform. Under your watch, mission schools experienced unprecedented transformation through teacher and priest training, science competitions, reintroduction of priests as principals, and renewed emphasis on moral and religious education, initiatives that restored excellence and brought our schools to national and international recognition.

As you mark this remarkable milestone, I thank God for your life of unwavering service and spiritual leadership. I remain personally grateful for your friendship, wise counsel, and moral guidance, which continue to inspire me and many others. May the Almighty bless you with sound health, divine wisdom, and many more fruitful years in His vineyard. Happy 72nd Birthday, Your Grace, Most Rev. Valerian Maduka Okeke.

Dr. George Moghalu
Labour Party Governorship Candidate, Anambra State

…as Mbah opens fresh window for landowners, investors to secure property titles

In a reassuring move to empower landowners, encourage investment, and ensure every property in Enugu State has legitimate documentation, Governor Peter Mbah has approved a 50% slash in fees for the processing of Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) and other land-related documents.

The announcement, made by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Enugu State Geographic Information System (ENGIS), Mr. Chiwetalu Nwatu, marks yet another milestone in the Mbah administration’s people-oriented and investment-friendly reform agenda.

According to Mr. Nwatu, the discount window will run for 45 days, beginning from October 15, 2025, during which landowners and investors can process their C of O and other title documents at about half the usual cost.

He explained that the policy was introduced to make property ownership more accessible to all, especially unregistered landowners, low-income earners, and the poor, who have long been unable to afford the costs of documentation.

“His Excellency, Dr. Peter Mbah, believes every resident deserves a legitimate and secure claim to their land. This initiative reflects his commitment to inclusivity and economic empowerment,” Nwatu stated.

Reassuring applicants of improved efficiency, Mr. Nwatu noted that under the current administration, Certificates of Occupancy are now processed within 48 to 72 hours, attributing the success to the full digitization of land processing, search, and related services in the state.

He said the automation has made it easier, faster, and more transparent for people to apply for and obtain their land titles without unnecessary delays.

“Beyond affordability, the policy also aims to boost land documentation compliance, promote transparency, and block revenue leakages in land transactions — a problem that has plagued the system for years.

“Residents are therefore encouraged to take advantage of this limited-time opportunity by visiting the Enugu State Geographic Information System (ENGIS) office to process their documents,” he added.

According to him, the governor, who has consistently been praised for his reform-driven leadership, has once again demonstrated that his administration listens to the people and acts decisively to make Enugu a preferred destination for investment and development *noting the huge reduction of over 65%* for industrial/ commercial properties.

“By easing access to vital land titles, the government not only strengthens property rights but also positions Enugu for rapid urban renewal and sustainable economic growth.

“This 50% average reduction underscores the governor’s unwavering resolve to remove barriers, stimulate investment confidence, and promote prosperity for all,” Nwatu further explained.

The Labour Party campaign train led by its Governorship Candidate, Dr. George Moghalu, on Friday made a triumphant entry into Oba, Nkpor and Nsugbe, where massive crowds turned out to receive him and his team with great enthusiasm.

The vibrant atmosphere reflected the people’s growing faith in the Labour Party’s vision for a new Anambra built on transparency, integrity and people-oriented leadership.

Addressing the jubilant supporters, Dr. Moghalu unveiled his comprehensive plan to reposition Anambra State through massive investment in agriculture to drive food security and job creation, free and compulsory education for every child, payment of monthly allowance to senior citizens aged 70 and above, and construction of durable and accessible road networks across the state.

He assured Ndi Anambra that his administration would place human welfare, accountability and sustainable development at the center of governance.

Dr. Moghalu used the occasion to acknowledge and commend His Excellency, Mr. Peter Obi, who he described as the symbol and moral compass of the Labour Party, whose exemplary leadership, humility and prudence continue to inspire millions across the nation.

He equally praised Senator Tony Nwoye for his impactful representation and Governor Alex Otti for setting new benchmarks in governance, reaffirming that the Labour Party remains a home of competence, integrity and service-driven leadership.

Accompanied by his running mate, Hon. Mrs. Ifeoma Okaro, Dr. Moghalu reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to restore public trust, empower communities and build a peaceful, united and prosperous Anambra State where opportunity, dignity and good governance thrive for all.

…Peter Obi, George Moghalu in attendance 

The family of ARISE News anchor, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, fondly known as Sommie, presidential candidate of Labour Party in 2023, Mr Peter Obi, the LP Anambra governorship candidate, and many other on Saturday mourned as she was interred in her father’s compound.

President Bola Tinubu returns to Abuja today after participating in the Aqaba Process Heads of State and Government-level Meeting in Rome, Italy.

The Aqaba Process is a counter-terrorism initiative launched by His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan in 2015. It is co-chaired by the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the Government of Italy.

The Rome edition focused on strengthening regional and international collaboration in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism, with particular attention to West Africa.

The high-level meeting was held on Wednesday, October 15, at the National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art in Rome. Many heads of State and Government attended, including King Abdullah II of Jordan, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and the Presidents of Nigeria, Chad, Paraguay, Sierra Leone, and Togo.

Azouz Nasri, President of Algeria’s Upper House, delegations from Côte d’Ivoire, Kazakhstan, Mauritania, Senegal, and Uzbekistan, special envoys, and security experts were also in attendance.

The meeting was held behind closed doors.

On the sidelines of the event, President Tinubu held bilateral meetings with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and U.S. President Donald Trump’s Senior Adviser on Arab and African Affairs, Massad Boulos.

President Tinubu also met with the Vatican’s Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, to discuss religious harmony in Nigeria. The meeting addressed the widespread disinformation campaigns that falsely portray the country as intolerant of religious diversity.

Since its establishment in 2015, the Aqaba Process has convened 33 meetings at various levels, from Heads of State summits to technical expert sessions. It is built on three core pillars: prevention, coordination, and closing operational gaps in counterterrorism efforts.

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
October 18, 2025

Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo addressed a large crowd during a campaign rally in Ihiala local government area, emphasizing the significant transformation the community has undergone since the onset of his administration.

Governor Soludo described the rally as a historic celebration of the liberation of Ihiala, once plagued by insecurity that made political gatherings impossible.

“This is not just another campaign rally; today is different and historic. We have come to celebrate the liberation of Ihiala,” Soludo declared, reflecting on the challenges faced just four years ago when violent incidents made it unsafe for any political party to hold rallies in the area.

The Governor recalled that “On the day we scheduled our APGA rally, we could not come because of massive shootings and people were wounded. Even the election had to be postponed and rescheduled to hold on a separate day,” he recounted.

The Governor expressed his gratitude to Ihiala stakeholders and security forces for their efforts in restoring safety, stating, “Today, Ihiala is liberated.” He announced the implementation of an amnesty programme for youths who had previously engaged in criminal activities, encouraging those still in hiding to come forward for rehabilitation and skills training.

Governor Soludo highlighted the remarkable community support for his campaign, noting, “Communities are contributing funds to our campaign—something never seen in the history of the state.” He ended his speech with an optimistic message, stating, “Anambra is rising,” and promised to return to the community with a progress report on their initiatives.

Speaking on behalf of the Ebonesie community, Rev. Fr. Ernest Obiegwu expressed gratitude for the positive changes in the area, stating, “Our churches, which were once closed, have finally reopened, and for the first time in years, we are celebrating Mass again.” He emphasized the importance of these gatherings in revitalizing the community’s spirit.

Pastor Azuka Mgbochi also took the opportunity to commend Governor Soludo for his impactful security initiatives, saying, “Thanks to the Governor’s efforts, we now feel safe and secure in our homes and places of worship.”

Others echoed their support, including Chief Nwabueze Umeh and Hon. Chika Obi, both of whom pledged to actively mobilize resources and support for the Governor’s campaign. Comrade Ukatu Damian, Adaobi Orizu, and Ichie Ifeanyi Orjiakor also expressed their commitment to work tirelessly to ensure the governor’s success in the upcoming election. Together, they reinforced a unified front, celebrating the progress made and looking forward to a prosperous future for their communities.