Category: News

This is an optional category description

  • Moghalu Berates Soludo Over PCL Report

    Moghalu Berates Soludo Over PCL Report

    …Interacts With Young Entrepreneurs at Onitsha Business School  

    Labour Party governorship candidate, Dr. George Moghalu, has berated Governor Charles Soludo over Anambra’s poor performance in the 2025 State Performance Index released by Phillips Consulting Limited (PCL), describing the report as “a mirror that exposes the gulf between propaganda and reality.”

    This was contained in a statement released by his Special Assistant on Media, Johnson Okoye.

    According to the PCL scorecard, Anambra ranked 33rd in functional basic educational facilities.

    Moghalu said this exposes the government’s neglect of a sector that once made the state a national model.

    “Anambra used to top every educational contest, thanks to massive investment in the past. Today, because of the absence of basic functional educational facilities, we have dropped to the bottom of the table. This is a tragedy,” he stated.

    On infrastructure, the state was again ranked 33rd in capital expenditure per capita, reflecting limited reinvestment into public infrastructure. Moghalu noted that the poor showing is consistent with the government’s misplaced priorities, saying, “Rather than focus on real development, they are repainting state facilities and renaming them Solution Centers. These are shadows, not solutions.”

    The situation with roads, Moghalu stressed, is a glaring confirmation of what residents experience daily. The index placed Anambra 31st in quality roads, and according to him, “Most of the roads constructed under Soludo have already been washed away. They lack proper drainage systems, are poorly designed, and built with substandard materials. What we see are not durable roads but cosmetic projects that collapse after the first rains.”

    The state also ranked 30th in healthcare delivery, 30th in environmental cleanliness, and 32nd in government support for local businesses.

    Most alarming was Anambra’s ranking of 36th in security of lives and properties, effectively branding the state a red zone. Moghalu said these figures expose the truth: “Anambra people are unsafe, underserved, and abandoned.”

    He further criticized the collapse of the One Youth, Two Skills programme, which he said has left young people stranded without the promised start-up funds.

    “True empowerment is not about raising false hopes; it is about creating sustainable opportunities with real funding and mentorship,” he insisted.

    Moghalu concluded by calling for leadership that will replace slogans with substance.

    “Anambra does not need another painted building or renamed facility. What we need is massive investment in infrastructure, functional schools, quality healthcare, strong support for businesses, and above all, a security strategy that restores peace. Governance is about results, not propaganda. The PCL report is not opposition—it is an independent verdict. Ndi Anambra can now see that Soludo has lost ideas; it is time for him to give way for a man with ideas to step in and save our state,” he declared.

    Moghalu Interacts with Young Entrepreneurs at Onitsha Business School 

    Labour Party Governorship Candidate, Chief Dr. George Moghalu, on Monday engaged young entrepreneurs and graduates at the Onitsha Business School, stressing the urgent need to reposition Anambra as a hub for business and innovation. He noted that the state has enormous untapped potential but has remained stifled by poor governance and lack of enabling environment.

    Dr. Moghalu decried the situation where young graduates are forced to leave for Lagos and other cities in search of opportunities because Anambra is not conducive for business growth. According to him, insecurity and bad governance have eroded people’s confidence in the state. “When you create an enabling environment, industries will thrive. Once our youths are trained, they should remain here to build sustainable businesses. We must make the system ready for them,” he said.

    The Labour Party candidate further assured that his administration, if elected, would restore security, rebuild trust, and support entrepreneurship as a way of redirecting the people back to government through proper governance. He emphasized that prosperity in Anambra is tied to good governance, which provides the foundation for growth and opportunity.

    In his response, the Founder and Director General of Onitsha Business School, Prof. Olusegun Oludapo Sogbesan, commended Moghalu’s vision and sincerity, describing him as a leader with the heart of the people. He wished him well in his governorship bid, praying for God’s wisdom and strength to enable him build a prosperous Anambra where youth and businesses can flourish.

  • FCT council poll: INEC publishes final list of candidates

    FCT council poll: INEC publishes final list of candidates

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has released the final list of 17 candidates for the 2026 Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Area Council elections scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 12, 2026.

    Mr Sam Olumekun, the INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), made the disclosure in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja.

    He said that the publication followed the conclusion of the statutory period for withdrawal and substitution of candidates as stipulated by law.

    INEC had on Aug.18 published the personal particulars of candidates that emerged from primaries conducted by political parties.

    Olumekun recalled that a total of 17 political parties submitted details of their candidates’ (Form EC9) by the deadline of 6 p.m on Monday, Aug. 11.

    “With the publication of this final list, no further withdrawal or replacement of candidates will be allowed, except in the unfortunate event of the death of a candidate or running mate before election day, as provided by Section 34(1) of the Electoral Act,” Olumekun said.

    He added that the comprehensive list of candidates, detailing their political parties, age, gender, and academic qualifications, had been uploaded to INEC’s website and social media platforms for public information and scrutiny.

    (NAN)

  • JUST-IN: NASS unseals Sen. Natasha’s office, postpones resumption of plenary to Oct. 7

    JUST-IN: NASS unseals Sen. Natasha’s office, postpones resumption of plenary to Oct. 7

    The National Assembly has granted Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan access to her office and its premises in a move that indicates that the conflict between the Kogi Central Senator and Senate President Godswill Akapbio may be ending.
    This is also as it postponed its resumption of plenary sessions, previously scheduled for Tuesday, September 23, 2025, to Tuesday, October 7, 2025. 

    Akpoti-Uduaghan is now able to resume legislative duties, with online reports revealing that the development is to ensure her presence in the hallowed chamber upon resumption on October 7, 2025.

    It was also gathered that the decision was taken during the leadership meeting of the Senate on National Assembly Postpones Resumption Of Plenary To October 7

    The new resumption date was contained in a statement issued to journalists on Tuesday in Abuja, by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Barr. Kamoru Ogunlana, on behalf of the Senate President and the Speaker of the House of Representatives

    “I am directed by the Presiding Officers of both Chambers of the National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to inform all members of the National Assembly and the general public that the resumption date of the National Assembly, earlier scheduled for Tuesday, 23rd September 2025, is hereby postponed to Tuesday, 7th October 2025,” the statement said.

    While no specific reason was given for the postponement, the Clerk noted that committee activities will continue as planne

    “All Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members are requested to take note of the new date and adjust their schedules accordingly,” the statement added

    The Clerk also expressed the regret of the leadership over any inconvenience the change may cause to members and stakeholder

    The National Assembly had proceeded on its annual legislative recess in July, traditionally lasting two month

    While adjourning plenary on July 24, Senate President Godswill Akpabio directed ad hoc and standing committees to continue their work during the brea

    He also urged senators to finalise pending reports and intensify oversight dutie

    Similarly, the House of Representatives, which commenced its recess on Wednesday, July 23, encouraged lawmakers to utilise the period for constituency engagements, monitor federal projects, and address local issues within their jurisdiction

    The annual recess is a regular feature of the National Assembly’s legislative calendar, designed to allow lawmakers to balance their responsibilities at both national and constituency level.

  • Ebonyi Varsity Set to Host Linguistic Hybrid Conference

    Ebonyi Varsity Set to Host Linguistic Hybrid Conference

    Ebonyi State University is set to host a world class linguistics hybrid conference in October, 2025. The Third EBSU Linguistics International Hybrid Interdisciplinary Conference – 2025 is organized by the Department of Languages and Linguistics.

    Theme: Language, Technoscience, Security, and Socioeconomic Development: Towards a Holistic Digital Society

    Conference Dates: October 8–11, 2025

    • Arrival: October 8

    • Opening Ceremony & Keynote: October 9

    • Technical Sessions & Gala Night: October 10

    • Closing Ceremony & Departure: October 11

    Conference Overview:

    The Department of Languages and Linguistics, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, is pleased to invite academics, researchers, linguists, technologists, policymakers, development practitioners, security experts, and stakeholders in governance to its Third International Interdisciplinary Conference, slated for October 8–11, 2025.

    This year’s theme explores the intersections of language, technology, security, and development in the context of our evolving digital world.

    In an age where digital transformation is redefining every aspect of human existence, the convergence of language, technoscience, security, and development has become not only inevitable but essential. This conference seeks to critically examine the interplay among these domains, with particular emphasis on their impact on building a holistic digital society that is inclusive, culturally grounded, ethically sound, and socioeconomically balanced.

    The conference interrogates how language practices, scientific and technological innovations, political conduct, and cultural realities intersect to shape or threaten our collective security and development. Particular attention will be paid to emerging concerns around cyber and physical security, spiritual and metaphysical threats, sociopolitical instability, food insecurity, and the communicative strategies of political actors in digitally networked societies.

    This event offers a robust platform for interdisciplinary engagement, encouraging critical discourse and knowledge exchange across the humanities, social sciences, and applied sciences. Scholars and stakeholders are invited to contribute insights and solutions toward building resilient, safe, and inclusive digital futures.

    Indicative Sub-Themes

    A. Language, Identity, and Inclusion in the Digital Age

    • Language and digital identity construction

    • Indigenous languages and digital revitalization

    • Language policies for inclusive digital societies

    • Digital literacy and mother tongue education

    B. Language, Technoscience, AI, and Human Communication

    • Artificial intelligence, NLP, and indigenous languages

    • Human-technology interaction and sociolinguistic change

    • Machine translation, language accuracy, and cultural nuances

    • Ethics of technoscientific research in linguistically diverse societies

    C. Communication, Media, and National Security

    • Social media, fake news, and national security threats

    • Linguistic manipulation and disinformation campaigns

    • Language of terrorism, conflict, and security discourse

    • The role of digital surveillance and linguistic profiling

    D. Language, Socio-Political Communication and Governance

    • Political leaders’ flippancy and threats to national unity

    • Language use in policy, governance, and public accountability

    • Political rhetoric, populism, and digital democracy

    • Civic engagement, protest language, and youth mobilization

    E. Language, Religion, Spirituality, and Metaphysical Security

    • Religious language and spiritual narratives in the digital space

    • Metaphysical security and cultural communication

    • Digital evangelism and religious discourse transformation

    • Intersections of faith, fear, and digital platforms

    F. Language, Economic Development, Food Security, and Cultural Sustainability

    • Communication for agricultural innovation and food security

    • Linguistic barriers in nutrition and health campaigns

    • Language and entrepreneurship in the digital economy

    • Folk knowledge and sustainable development discourse

    G. Digital Linguistics/Humanities, Arts, and Cultural Preservation

    • Archiving oral traditions and folklore in digital formats

    • Literature, music, and film in digital advocacy

    • Cultural semiotics in virtual environments

    • Language, aesthetics, and digital storytelling

    H. Language, Gender, Class & Social Balance

    • Language and gendered power relations

    • Communication access and social mobility

    • Inclusive language reforms and activism

    • Class-based language ideologies

    I. Linguistic Interfaces & Cross-cutting Themes

    • Cyber ethics, data privacy, and digital rights

    • Language and health communication in pandemics

    • Migration, multilingualism, and diaspora identities online

    • Interdisciplinary methodologies in digital society research

    J. Core Linguistics

    • Phonetics/Phonology

    • Morphology/Syntax

    • Semantics/Pragmatics

    • Sociolinguistics

    • Applied Linguistics

    • Digital Linguistics

    • Language Documentation

    Paper Submission Guidelines

    • Abstract: 250–300 words (include title, background, methodology, key findings)

    • Full Paper: Max 6,000 words, APA 7th edition

    • Abstract Deadline: August 30, 2025, Extended to September 30, 2025.

    • Notification of Acceptance: Rolling

    • Full Paper Deadline: November 7, 2025

    Submit via Email: ebsulings.conf@ebsu.edu.ng

    Or

    Via Easyabs: https://easyabs.linguistlist.org/submit/EBSULING-2025/

    Selected papers will be peer-reviewed and published in reputable interdisciplinary journals.

    Registration Fees

    Category: Early Bird (By Sept 15), Regular

    Nigerians ₦20,000 ₦25,000

    Foreigners $30 $40

    Nigerian Students ₦10,000 ₦15,000

    Foreign Students $10 $15

    Payment Info: Account Name: International Conference and Publication (EBSU)

    Account Number: 1028291955

    Bank: United Bank for Africa (UBA)

    Conference Venues:

    • Opening/Closing: New Faculty Auditorium, EBSU

    • Technical Sessions: Faculty Blocks A & B, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities

    • Virtual Presentations: ICT Centre, EBSU

    Format: Hybrid (Physical + Virtual)

    Virtual sessions will be professionally supported and integrated into the program.

    Key Personalities:

    Chief Host: Prof. Michael U. Awoke*

    Vice Chancellor, EBSU

    Host: Dr. Goodluck C. Nwode

    HOD, Languages & Linguistics, EBSU

    Co-Host: Prof. Nkechi Emma-Echiegu

    Dean, Social Sciences & Humanities, EBSU

    Confirmed Speakers:

    Keynote Speaker: Prof. Sani Abba Aliyu

    Director, Advancement & International Education

    Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

    Lead Paper Presenters: Prof. Ngozi Emeka-Nwobia,

    Ebonyi State University

    *Prof. Ahmad Shehu, Kaduna State University

    Dr. Raphael Iyamu , University of Florida, USA

    Major Dr. Y. M. Sukam; Director, Research Development and Innovation

    Nigerian Army College of Environmental Sciences & Technology, Makurdi

    Contact Information: Dr. Jeremiah A. Nwankwegu, Chair, Local Organizing Committee (+2347039469389)

    Dr. Iwuchukwu C. Uwaezuoke, Secretary, Local Organizing Committee (+234806383807)

  • Enugu Police Intensify Manhunt for Assailants in Murder of Priest; as Command Says Report of Attack on DIG Frank Mba’s Country Home False

    Enugu Police Intensify Manhunt for Assailants in Murder of Priest; as Command Says Report of Attack on DIG Frank Mba’s Country Home False

    The Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, psc, has ordered the intensification of the ongoing manhunt for the armed men who shot and murdered Rev. Fr. Matthew Eya in the night hours of 19th September 2025, along Eha-Ndiagu Eha-Etiti Road in Eha-Alumona community of Nsukka LGA.

    This is also as the command, in a statement issued by SP Dan Ndukwe, Enugu State Command Police Public Relations Officer, as described as false, the reported attack on the country home of DIG Frank Mba.

    The CP had earlier directed the Udenu Area Commander, alongside Heads of Tactical and Operational Squads of the Command, to fish out the fleeing assailants upon receipt of information on the incident.

    Consequently, Police Operatives under the Udenu Area Command’s coverage have arrested thirty-eight (38) suspects, following bush combing and raids of different black spots in the area. Incriminating exhibits were recovered, while the suspects are currently undergoing screening.

    CP Giwa, while commiserating with the immediate family of the deceased and the Catholic Church, reaffirmed the commitment of the Police to leave no stone unturned in apprehending the perpetrators of the heinous crime and bringing them to justice.

    DIG FRANK MBA’S COUNTRY HOME NOT ATTACKED

    The Enugu State Police Command wishes to inform the public that the country home of the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, DIG Frank Mba, in Ezimo, Udenu Local Government Area, was never attacked, and no attempt was made to kidnap his parents or relatives, as falsely alleged in a viral social media post.

    Contrary to the false report, on 18th September 2025, at about 8 p.m., police operatives on routine patrol within the Ezimo community promptly responded to a distress call and repelled an armed robbery attack. Sadly, a police officer who sustained gunshot injuries during the ensuing shootout later died in the hospital, where he was confirmed dead by the attending doctor.

    Meanwhile, one male suspect has been arrested and is assisting the police in the ongoing discreet investigation and manhunt for the fleeing suspects.

    The Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, psc, has urged operatives to sustain the lead already established towards apprehending the fleeing suspects. He reiterates the unwavering commitment of the Command to combating isolated cases of violent crimes in Enugu State.

  • Catholic Priest Killed in Enugu, as State Gov’t Places ₦10 Million Bounty on Killers

    Catholic Priest Killed in Enugu, as State Gov’t Places ₦10 Million Bounty on Killers

    …ENSG Commiserates with family, Catholic Church

    The Enugu State Government has strongly condemned the gruesome murder of Rev. Fr. Mathew Eya of Nsukka Catholic Diocese by unknown assailants.

    The government also commiserated with the late priest’s immediate family, the Catholic Diocese of Nsukka, and indeed the Catholic faithful in general over the tragic incident, which occurred on Friday, September 19, 2025.

    In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Dr. Malachy Agbo, the government described the action as cowardly and cold-blooded.

    The government has, therefore, reiterated that security of lives and property remains its priority and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.

    It added that it would not spare any resources within its reach, including technology and credible intelligence to track down the criminals and defeat the remnant agents of evil in the state.

    Consequently, the Enugu State Government placed a ₦10 million reward for anyone with credible information that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators of the heinous crime.

    Anybody with credible information about the perpetrators should quickly contact 07077451426.

    How it happened 

    One source, who pleaded anonymity, said the attackers deflated the tyres of the priest’s vehicle, forcing it to stop, before shooting him multiple times at close range.

    “He was returning from Enugu when the gunmen closed in on him near the ongoing Type C hospital project. They shot at his car, immobilised it, and then killed him,” the source said.

    It was gathered that another occupant in the vehicle was left unharmed, while the attackers fled immediately after the incident.

    The late Fr. Eya hailed from Ugbaike in Enugu Ezike, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State.

  • ‘Peace has returned to Rivers state’, says Gov Fubara, urges Rivers people to unite for good

    ‘Peace has returned to Rivers state’, says Gov Fubara, urges Rivers people to unite for good

    Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has called on the people of Rivers to put aside their differences, work for the common good, and advance the interests of the state above all else.

    Addressing the people in a state-wide broadcast after returning to the Government House on Friday, Governor Fubara stated that it was the duty of everyone to ensure that the “peace we have all embraced remains permanent in our dear Rivers State.”

    He observed that the political crisis was now behind them and that peace and stability “have once again returned to Rivers State, though not without the hard lessons learnt from the emergency rule.”

    Governor Fubara thanked all those who expressed genuine fears, frustrations, and uncertainty over the nature of the peace process, assuring them that their “concerns are valid and understood.”

    He noted: “However, nothing has been irretrievably lost; there remains ample opportunity for necessary adjustments, continued reconciliation, and inclusiveness. We must all remember the saying… ‘the costliest peace is cheaper than the cheapest war.’”

    Governor Fubara said: “On behalf of the Government and the good people of Rivers State, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr President for his fatherly disposition and decisive interventions in resolving the political crisis and for graciously restoring full democratic governance to our state.

    “Personally, I will never take Mr President’s kindness for granted, and for that, I hereby reaffirm my utmost loyalty and eternal gratitude.

    “To those who have expressed genuine fears, frustrations, and uncertainty over the nature of the peace process, I assure you that your concerns are valid and understood. However, nothing has been irretrievably lost; there remains ample opportunity for necessary adjustments, continued reconciliation, and inclusiveness. We must all remember the saying… ‘the costliest peace is cheaper than the cheapest war.’”

    The Governor regretted that Rivers State was placed under a six-month emergency rule, declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on 18 March 2025, following the intense political crisis in the state.

    “It is without doubt that the last six months had been enormously challenging for our dear state under the emergency rule.

    “As your Governor, I accepted to abide by the state of emergency declaration and chose to cooperate with Mr President and the National Assembly, guided by my conviction that no sacrifice was too great to secure peace, stability, and progress for Rivers State.

    “This was why I also resisted the pressure to challenge the constitutionality of the declaration of a state of emergency, the suspension of democratic institutions, and all other actions that we endured during this difficult period.

    “In the course of the six-month period, Mr President graciously brokered the peace process with all the parties successfully. Our Leader, His Excellency Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, CON, all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, and I, as your Governor, have all accepted to bury the hatchet and embrace peace and reconciliation in the best interest of our dear Rivers State.”

    On behalf of the Government and the good people of Rivers State, he extended heartfelt gratitude to President Tinubu for his fatherly disposition and decisive interventions in resolving the political crisis and for graciously restoring full democratic governance to the state.

    “Personally, I will never take Mr President’s kindness for granted, and for that, I hereby reaffirm my utmost loyalty and eternal gratitude,” he said.

    Fubara added, “Despite the turbulence, you are aware of the credible milestones our administration achieved in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other key sectors over the last two years.

    “Our immediate responsibility is to return to the path of governance and development by completing the projects which we started, ensuring none of them is starved of funds or neglected, thereby reviving our economy, protecting lives and property, and improving the well-being of all Rivers people.

    “I commit to working harmoniously with the Rivers State House of Assembly to recover lost grounds and accelerate the social and economic advancement of our dear state. I also renew my pledge to serve with the fear of God, humility, and a high sense of duty.

    “I wish to sincerely thank you, the resilient people of Rivers State, for your patience, courage, and peaceful conduct during the six months of emergency rule.

    “I also extend appreciation to all stakeholders, religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups, political actors, women’s groups, youths, concerned citizens at home and abroad, and well-wishers whose prayers and support sustained us through the challenging period.

    “Above all, let us draw strength from our shared identity as Rivers people. Our diversity is our greatest asset, and our unity the strongest guarantee of our future. We must rise above bitterness and division and channel our energies into rebuilding trust, fostering inclusiveness, and securing a peaceful and prosperous state for all.

    “I also thank our Leader, His Excellency Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, CON, the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, for committing to the prompt resolution of the political impasse in the state.

    “I also wish to express my profound thanks to the President of the Senate, His Excellency Senator Godswill Akpabio; the Speaker of the House of Representatives, His Excellency Dr Abbas Tajudeen; and the distinguished members of the National Assembly for the role they all played in the resolution of the matter.

    “I thank the Honourable Speaker and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, respected elders, stakeholders, and all concerned citizens for working together to resolve our differences and ensure peace and harmony in our state.

    “Finally, I call on all citizens of Rivers State, regardless of political, religious, or ethnic affiliation, to join hands in rebuilding our beloved state and securing a future of dignity and progress for everyone. In all, I give glory to the Almighty God.”

  • Anambra rejects rating, says Philips Consulting’s used ‘flawed methodology’

    Anambra rejects rating, says Philips Consulting’s used ‘flawed methodology’

    The Anambra State government has faulted the 2025 state performance index rating conducted by the Philips Consulting Limited, saying that it relied on flawed methodology, weak sampling, and biased inferences to arrive at its result.

    According to the ‘2025 PCL State Performance Index’ report released by the organisation on Thursday, Anambra was rated as one of the worst states, to live, and one of the “underperforming” states, a report the state government disagreed with, insisting that the rating agency did not follow due diligence.

    In a statement released on Friday, the Anambra State Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Chiamaka Nnake, rejected the report, saying the PCL 2025 report produced results that are not only misleading, but risk damaging its own professional reputation.

    Nnake insisted that Anambra is performing well in all sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, security, saying that serious international organisations adopted rigorous, verifiable methods and ranked Anambra at the top.

    She added that despite the rating by serious international agencies, PCL simultaneously ranks Anambra at the bottom, nothing that the credibility gap of the PCL’s rating becomes impossible to ignore.

    The statement read in part, ‘Philips Consulting Limited, once renowned for its expertise in human resource services, now appears to have veered into areas far beyond its traditional competence. Everyone now rushes into the business of ‘ranking’ as the new fad in town.

    “While it is not wrong for a firm to broaden its scope, such ventures demand rigorous training, capacity development, and methodological soundness. Without these, credibility is compromised, and reputations are put at risk.

    “The 2025 PCL State Performance Index raises fundamental questions: What capacity does PCL have to rank Nigerian states? How was this research designed, and on what basis were such sweeping conclusions drawn? Increasingly, intellectuals and observers alike are asking whether PCL is not losing strategic focus and joined the crowd of spurious rating agencies.

    “For context, in the 2024 edition, Anambra was ranked 8th. Even then, we were amused by the methodology and its results, and we never took it seriously. Now, in 2025, with a phantom change in methodology, the state suddenly plunged to 34th. Such dramatic swings within one year should have compelled any serious consultant to re-examine assumptions, refine data, and validate findings perhaps via field engagement, not publishing questionable outcomes.”

    The Commissioner listed methodological flaws, sample data bias, over reliance on spending without outcomes and lack of ground engagement to rubbish the PCL rating.

    “Methodological flaws – PCL claimed 78 respondents for Anambra State, a population of over 6 million people (adjusted 2022 census estimate). By the widely accepted Cochran’s formula, a minimum of 385 respondents is required for five per cent margin of error, while 9,593 respondents are required for one person cent margin of error. Anything less introduces serious levels of sampling error.

    “Sample distribution bias – PCL admits that 76 per cent of its respondents were male. A credible survey must proportionally represent age, gender, income, and employment status, drawn from census or reliable population data. By skewing so heavily toward one gender and failing to stratify properly, the research was fundamentally compromised.

    “Over reliance on spending without outcomes – The report appears to emphasise state expenditure levels without adequately measuring the efficiency or tangible outcomes of such spending. By focusing on the absolute amount spent rather than juxtaposing it with the real impact achieved, the analysis risks overlooking whether resources are being utilized effectively – Value for Money

    “Lack of ground engagement – No evidence exists that PCL engaged stakeholders, visited communities, or conducted any direct validation of outcomes in Anambra. Findings were inferred without context, first-hand observation, or alignment with verifiable state-level data.

    “Contradictions with verifiable data – Education: Anambra is a national leader in education. Since September 2023, the state has implemented truly free education from Nursery to JSS3, extending this to SS3 in 2024 in all public schools. Enrolments rose sharply—27.05 per cent increase in primary and 10.36 per cent increase in secondary schools—bringing the state’s out-of-school rate to just 2.9 per cent (lowest out of 36 states and FCT, UNESCO).

    “Additionally, over 8,115 teachers were recruited transparently and competitively and have continued to transform the Education Infrastructure. Without measuring learning outcomes and teacher/teaching quality, any educational ranking is incomplete.

    “We are not aware of any other state where a government recruited 8,115 teachers within the first two years in office to end the era of schools without teachers. Over the past two years we have also been massively investing smartly in upgrading physical and technological infrastructure in the schools, and our students and teachers continue to win national and international awards. It will also be nice to know which State(s) do better in these milestones,” she added.

    According to the commissioner, in 2024, the National Primary Healthcare Leadership Challenge Awards (assessed by UNICEF, Dangote Group, NGF, and the Gates Foundation, among others) ranked Anambra number one in the South-East and number one in Nigeria, awarding Anambra $1.2m in recognition.

    “We understand that the rankings were done by an international team of about 15 consultants who visited every state and the FCT. This is in addition to the celebrated revolutionary policy on free antenatal and free delivery in all public hospitals which has benefited over 120,000 women in two years as well as massive investments in general hospitals, telemedicine and tertiary services.

    “Anambra’s child mortality rate is second only to Lagos state, and patronage of public hospitals has moved from 25 per cent in 2022 to 73 per cent currently— a historic record, etc. This contrasts sharply with PCL’s ranking of Anambra at 30th in Health—a glaring inconsistency that underscores the superficiality of their approach.

    “Infrastructure – the state has awarded 842.2 km of roads in three years (including 8 bridges and flyovers), completing 546.3 km to date, including over 150km dualization projects— earning multiple awards for transformative infrastructure delivery. Yet, PCL’s methodology manages to underplay these tangible achievements.

    “These are just to mention a few. By relying on flawed methodology, weak sampling, and biased inferences, the PCL 2025 report has produced results that are not only misleading but risk damaging its own professional reputation. When serious international organizations adopt rigorous, verifiable methods and rank Anambra at the top, and PCL simultaneously ranks it at the bottom, the credibility gap becomes impossible to ignore.

    “If PCL seeks to expand into performance ranking, it must embrace the discipline of robust statistical methods, field engagement, and impartial analysis (You cannot sit in Lagos/Abuja and rely on what a handful of people “think” (perception) to rank states). Anything less reduces serious work to mere propaganda,” the statement concluded. Punch

  • Rivers Assembly Resolves To Probe Ibas

    Rivers Assembly Resolves To Probe Ibas

    Rivers State House of Assembly reconvened yesterday with a vow to probe the budget and expenditures of the former sole administrator, Vice Admiral Ibik-Ete Ibas (Rtd).

    After six months of suspension, the Rivers State House of Assembly reconvened yesterday in Port Harcourt. The lawmakers stressed the need to ascertain the funds received and spent by the outgoing Military Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd).

    The legislature reconvened after the expiration of the six-month emergency rule that President Bola Tinubu had imposed on the legislative and the executive branches of government following political conflict between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his estranged political mentor, Nyesom Wike, the minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

    The legislators said the resolution is important because the 10th Assembly did not contribute to the budget prepared by the National Assembly.

    They also resolved to outline the legislative agenda for the remaining two years, promising to work with Governor Fubara and abide by the outcome of the peace parley brokered by President Tinubu.

    The Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, said this in the resolution taken after a voice vote by about 26 members, excluding Deputy Speaker Dumle Maol, who was absent.

    They also resolved to call on the governor to develop an Appropriation Law for the remainder of the year to address current realities.

    Other resolutions include commending Tinubu for restoring democratic institutions in Rivers State and demanding that Fubara forward the names of commissioner-nominees for the State Executive Council.

    “We never saw the budget by the National Assembly, but we only read it in the newspapers. We don’t know what is contained. No member of the House is against the motions, but there is a need to ascertain what came into Rivers State and the expenditure by the administrator”, the Speaker said.

    The motion to set the legislative agenda for the remaining part of the third session of the 10th Rivers State House of Assembly was sponsored by nine House members but read by the House leader, Hon Major Jack.

    Part of the motion reads, “Pursuant to the foregoing, we wish to pray this august House to: commend the president and commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for restoring democratic institutions in the state; declare that the House would continue to abide by all the terms of the peace parley and the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the interest of peace and good governance of Rivers State.

    “Ascertain what transpired in the last six months regarding awards, contracts, and expenditures from the state’s consolidated revenue fund.”

    The Speaker commended the motion’s sponsors, saying the emergency rule thwarted the House’s legislative business.

    He said, “But we thank God that we’re back.

    “There’s a need to abide by the terms of the peace parley. I listened to you all, and no member is against the prayers, especially on commendation for the president, forwarding commissioner-nominees by the governor, reviewing what transpired in the last six months, and reviewing what happened to the budget.

    “If the State needs to move forward, the issue of the budget and others should be taken into consideration,” Amaewhule said.

    We Delivered Milestones of Progress in Rivers – Ibas

    Outgoing Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), has stated that his six-month administration delivered “milestones of progress,” including the conduct of local government elections, the reconstitution of statutory boards, and the passage of the state budget by the National Assembly.

    Ibas disclosed this in a state-wide broadcast marking the end of emergency rule in the state and declared that law and order had been restored.

    He noted that governance was “a living process” that required vigilance, sacrifice, and dialogue, warning that “the exercise of power without restraint can cripple institutions, and rivalry without dialogue clearly endangers democracy.”

    “One of the enduring lessons of this season is that the exercise of power without restraint can cripple institutions, and rivalry without dialogue clearly endangers democracy.

    “Let this chapter, therefore, stand as a permanent reminder that the health of our polity depends not on who wins or loses, but on how political actors manage their differences, on the strength of the institutions we preserve, and the unity we nurture,” he said.

    Ibas expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for entrusting him with the assignment, praised security operatives for maintaining peace, and commended the resilience of the people of Rivers State.

    He said: “Now, as I hand back the reins of leadership to His Excellency, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, I do so with confidence and respect. I call on all Rivers people to support him wholeheartedly, because leadership and followership are shared responsibilities.

    “No matter how competent and clear your vision may be, it can only come to fruition and thrive with the active support of citizens. For me, this marks the closing of another chapter in a life devoted to service – at sea, in diplomacy, and now in governance.

    “My dear people, may this state never be brought to the brink of collapse again. May we always choose unity over division, dialogue over discord, and progress over paralysis. The Garden City must never lose its fragrance.”

    I Won’t Call For Probe Of Sole Administrator -Wike

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, has said he will not call for a probe into the tenure of the state’s sole administrator, despite mounting pressure from some quarters.

    Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today yesterday, Wike said his decision is guided by the need for peace and stability in Rivers. He noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s intervention prevented the state from collapsing.

    “I don’t want to take the role of people. If indeed there is something that the governor wants to look into, that is fine. But I won’t sit here and say I want him probed. For me, what matters now is peace in Rivers State.”

    Wike acknowledged Tinubu’s decisive action in lifting the controversial emergency rule in the state.

    “I must commend Mr President for lifting the emergency rule in Rivers. But for his intervention, it would have been a different outcome entirely. So many people became constitutional experts because of this so-called emergency rule, but today peace has returned. The President deserves credit for that.”

    He also disclosed that the peace accord involved meetings between the presidency, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, members of the State Assembly, and other stakeholders.

    “We spoke, the governor and I. What matters is that we talked, and by the grace of God, peace has come,” Wike said.

    When pressed on whether he had forgiven his successor, Wike responded

    “Have I forgiven Fubara? Yes. I don’t play games. If I say everything is over, it is over. We have moved past the quarrels; it is time to focus on governance,” he declared.

    When asked if he would support Fubara for a second term, Wike refused to commit. “We don’t talk like that now. That’s what fuels the crisis. We still have two years before 2027. Let us work first. When the time comes, we will decide,” he stated. Leadership

  • Gov. Mbah: Enugu to Generate 1,000MW of Power from Coal

    Gov. Mbah: Enugu to Generate 1,000MW of Power from Coal

    …Says “We’ll not treat our coal as stranded asset”

    …Enugu Air to take delivery of six planes before year end

    …NBCC President: “Enugu a state on the move, witnessing infrastructural expansion under Mbah”

    Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has declared that coal deposits in the state would be used to generate 1,000mw of power, and would not be treated as a stranded asset without adequate compensation.

    Mbah explained that coal deposits in the state have about 0.5 sulphuric content, saying he was counting technology to make the impact of coal utilisation on the environment minimal.

    Mbah made these declarations Thursday in Lagos when he was the guest of the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) “Meet The Governor Series,” where he presented a business case for investing in Enugu State.

    He said: “We cannot treat our coal as a stranded asset, particularly the Enugu coal, which is a premium coal.

    “Our target is to see how we can use our coal to generate at least 1000 megawatts of power. We do have technology today that makes coal utilisation less adverse to the environment. Essentially, that is the direction for us.

    “Coal deposits in Enugu have less than 0.5 per cent sulphur content. For a lot of coal, if you have 1.0 per cent you are still okay. But we have 0.5 per cent.

    “Our coal is also very good to fire power plants due to its high calorific value. So, we are on that and we are not going to warehouse our coal resources.

    “However, if we have to warehouse or treat coal as a stranded asset, then there has to be a conversation on compensation.”

    Mbah also said that his administration had cut crime rate in the state by 80 per cent and was putting infrastructure in place to attract three million visitors per year.

    “Businesses are not designed to absorb security challenges. So, we have to get that out of the way. That is why we invested hugely in the area of security to build infrastructures that will enable us to defeat criminal activities.

    “Today, in Enugu we have reduced crime rate by over 80 per cent,” he said.

    Mbah revealed that in furtherance of tourism contribution to the state’s economy, he completed the Enugu International Conference Centre, ICC, that hosted 20,000 participants during the the 2025 Nigerian Bar Association’s Annual General Conference, while the ICC 5-Star Hotel was nearing completion and would be delivered soon.

    “Enugu naturally lends itself to tourism. We are building the Cross of Hope, which is something we want to put in place to attract religious tourism.

    “The highest point in Enugu State is about 580 metre above sea level and we are bringing a massive cross of about 100 metres to put on its highest point.

    “Our plan is to bring in three million visitors. So, we worked with an investor to get the concenssioning of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport.

    “Hopefully, the international wing of the airport will be operational by the first quarter of 2026. We are also investing to build the cargo terminal.

    “We are looking at bringing in additional six aircraft for Enugu Air for the Christmas season. We are obviously going to expand very quickly because we have surpassed our projections within one month of operation,” he said.

    The governor added that the state would have four branded hotels by the end of next year. “If you are expecting three million visitors hotels will be on huge demand,” he said.

    The President of NBCC, Mr. Abimbola Olashore, in his welcome address, said that the timing of the “Meet The Governor Series” could not have been more fitting because Enugu had become a state on the move under Mbah’s administration.

    “We have seen bold steps in digital governance, in infrastructure expansion, and in creative public-private partnerships.

    “Each of these signals a state that is not waiting for the future, but actively shaping it.”

    Meanwhile, speaking, the British Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Jonny Baxter, said the United Kingdom (UK) and Nigeria share a dynamic, long-standing and multi-dimensional trade relationship that is currently valued at £7.9 billion, the highest figure since records began and which continues to increase every year.

    Baxter added that the United Kingdom is currently the biggest investor in Nigeria, accounting for about 65 per cent of all foreign direct investment (FDIs) flows into Nigeria. He described it as a demonstration of the depth of commitment based on historic ties.

    “Nigeria is also the United Kingdom’s second largest trading partner in Africa and its largest export market, and in February 2024, we signed something called the Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership, which is about trying to make trade smoother between our two countries.

    “It is the first of its kind that we have signed with an African country, and in fact it is the second globally, the first being with India, and you have seen where the trade relationship between the United Kingdom and India has gone. So, we certainly hope for the same sort of trajectory between us and Nigeria.”

    Baxter also said that The UK’s “Developing Countries Trading Scheme,” would enable over 90 per cent of Nigeria’s exports to The UK to be duty-free.

    “All the normal taxes are taken off those items exported from here and imported into the UK. But one of the key obstacles is often standards,” he said, adding that the UK was working with Nigerian standards authorities to help Nigerian companies raise the standards, “because once you are meeting British standards, you are meeting European standards, you are meeting American standards, you have got a much bigger market to export to,” he concluded.

  • Nov Poll: Be Civil, Shun Campaign of Calumny – Moghalu to Anambra Guber Candidates

    Labour Party Governorship Candidate in Anambra state, Dr George Moghalu has described as embarrassing ongoing campaign of calumny among major candidates of political parties in the state ahead of November 8 election.

    He regretted that rather than engage in issue based campaign, including offering solutions to prevailing insecurity in the state, politicians preferred toeing the path of incivility and casting aspersions on others.

    Addressing newsmen on Wednesday, Moghalu said such mundane issues of certificate and infidelity were too infantile to constitute distractions to weightier issues bedeviling the state.

    He said, “It’s quite embarrassing what we politicians engage in. We shouldn’t belittle ourselves getting involved in mundane and personal issues and casting aspersions with foul language.

    “I believe campaign should be conducted in an orderly and civil manner. There are more contending issues in our polity to talk about. Talking about sex issues and certificates is lowering the bar.

    “We should concentrate on what we’re going to offer the people especially as November 8 election approaches.

    “If we see things not working well in government, it behoves on us to draw the attention of the citizenry to those shortcomings and profer solutions.

    “What should engage us is to market ourselves and how we intend to alleviate their burden and contribute in making the state better by changing the narratives.

    “We must concentrate on delivering our promises, seeking their consent and entering into contracts and agreement with the electorate.

    “The government in power hasn’t done enough as far as I’m concerned. That’s why we’re in the race to offer alternatives.

    “For example, during the time of Peter Obi, Anambra has never missed first or second position in education. Same Obi distributed buses and computers to schools.

    “But currently, we’re talking about twenty and above position. It’s scandalous. These are the things I expect should engage us as politicians. Our health systems, infrastructure, erosion, things that touch lives of people.

    “I’ve intended not to talk about this but due to several calls I’ve been received from people who insisted my views must be heard. I plead with my colleagues to be civil. Let’s face this campaign with credibility and character.

    “It’ll be most unfortunate to reason that the only way to distract people from real issues of insecurity is by these mundane things.

    “Issue of insecurity is the talk of the moment and there’s nothing you can do to distract the people from that. The reality is that the state is insecure and that something drastic has to be done.

    “Otherwise, we get ourselves consumed. No matter new information you bring, no matter the distractions, the fact remains people are being killed regularly.

    Moghalu reiterated that addressing insecurity would be among the priority actions if elected governor of the state.

    “In my 12 point agenda, insecurity is top priority. We can change the narratives by taking it from various perspectives, including through kinetic and non-kinetic.

    “We’ll tackle issues of unemployment which is producing a bank of criminals in the state,” he added

  • Obi reacts to lifting of emergency rule, says it’s ‘misstep that shouldn’t have happened’

    Obi reacts to lifting of emergency rule, says it’s ‘misstep that shouldn’t have happened’

    The 2023 Presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, has described the six months emergency rule imposed on Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu, as a misstep which should not have happened.

    Obi expressed hope that all of the political gladiators in the state had learnt a lesson from the sad episode because it would be a tragedy if no lessons were learnt.

    The former Anambra State Governor said this in a post captioned: “The misstep that should not have happened,” on his X handle on Thursday.

    He said, “The restoration of democracy in Rivers State after six months of needless disruption remains a sour side of our democracy today.

    “It was a constitutional breach that will hurt our democracy for a long time.

    “I just hope that some lessons were learned by all the gladiators in the Rivers State impasse. Great minds remind us that ‘The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing”

    “A true leader is the one who admits his/her mistakes, is smart enough to learn from them, and is strong enough to correct them.

    “I would like to congratulate the good people of Rivers State for their endurance in the face of provocations.

    “And to appeal to Governor Siminalaye Fubara, the members of the state House of Assembly and all the political leaders in the state to embrace peace and forge ahead.

    “The real mistake is the one where we end up learning nothing. Be assured that a new Nigeria is POssible and inevitable. -PO.”