NIGERIAN NOTCH

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Anambra State Command, has confirmed the death of one person and the injury of another in a fatal road traffic crash that occurred on Wednesday along the Nteje–Awka Road, near Igbariam Junction. According to a report issued by the FRSC Sector Public Education Officer, SRC Margaret B. Onabe, the crash occurred at about 2:40 p.m, and the Nteje Unit Command received the distress call five minutes later, while the rescue team arrived at the scene promptly at 2:50 p.m. She said that the accident involved two commercial vehicles: a red Sino trailer belonging to Coca-Cola and an ash-coloured Daihatsu Hijet minibus owned by ASTMA. Both drivers were unidentified at the time of the report. Four male occupants were involved in the crash. One person died on the spot, one sustained injuries and was given immediate first aid before being evacuated to hospital, while two others escaped unhurt. The FRSC attributed the cause of the accident to loss of c...

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the playing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s campaign anthem, “On Your Mandate,” during the opening session of the 2025 All Nigerian Judges Conference, describing it as “an assault on Nigeria’s national dignity and a dangerous intrusion of partisan politics into the judiciary.” Atiku, in a statement on Monday, said he was alarmed after watching a Channels Television video showing the partisan anthem being played in place of the National Anthem at the conclusion of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun’s speech. He said his first reaction was disbelief, assuming the footage might be manipulated, but upon confirmation that it reflected what actually transpired, he expected a swift explanation from the Presidency or the Office of the CJN. “Instead,” he lamented, “there has been total and deafening silence.” Atiku said the incident was not an isolated mistake but “part of a consistent pattern under the Tinub...

Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University College of Medicine (COOUCOM), Awka, Anambra State, has inducted Dr. Echezona Awuzie into the medical profession during its 12th Induction Ceremony held on Tuesday, November 18. The event, which marked the transition of 81 newly qualified doctors into professional medical practice, was attended by dignitaries, faculty members, and proud families at the Pathology Auditorium, Amaku, Awka. Speaking with journalists after the ceremony, the mother of the inductee, Dr. (Mrs.) Chioma Awuzie, who is the Rector of Federal Polytechnic Oko, and his father, Chief Awuzie expressed profound gratitude to God for His grace and for the large number of well-wishers who joined them to celebrate the milestone. They prayed that God would grant their son the strength, wisdom, and compassion required to excel in his duties as a medical practitioner. Earlier in her remarks, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Kate Omenugha, congratulated the inductees and reaff...

The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has warned that the ongoing strike by the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) and the Assembly of Healthcare Professional Associations (AHPA) has crippled federal health institutions across the country, posing what it describes as a “national health emergency.” The President of PSN, Pharm. Ayuba Ibrahim Tanko, raised the alarm during a courtesy visit to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, where he led a delegation of the Society’s leadership and past presidents. “All 73 Federal Health Institutions Are Shut Down” Tanko expressed deep concern over the scale of the disruption, noting that the strike had entered its fourth day with significant consequences. “We are deeply worried because all 73 Federal Health Institutions and several non-hospital facilities have been completely paralysed in the last four days. The impact is debilitating and threatens the stability of our health system,” he sa...

By Mazi Ejimofor Opara Peter Obi’s political legacy is not one of vision or transformation, but of mediocrity exaggerated by propaganda and lies. His candle only flickers because every other bulb around him has been deliberately extinguished. To sustain his myth, he ensures that no other light is allowed to shine. Illustration: Return of Schools To Mission The return of mission schools in Anambra is a perfect example. • Ngige initiated the process, returning 95 schools. • Obi merely formalized it. • Obiano completed the return. Yet Obi claims the glory as if it were his singular achievement. This pattern—claiming credit, erasing predecessors, and dismissing successors—defines his politics. What was Obi’s policy on education? What was Obi’s policy on health? Obi’s insecurity runs deep. For eight years, he dedicated himself to running down Ngige’s feats, comparing and demeaning them at every turn. Obiano’s tenure suffered the same fate. His team cultivated a toxic mindset: ev...

…Seek Political Solution to Southeast Challenges A coalition of 44 serving members of the House of Representatives has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to order the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, and initiate a political solution to the escalating security and socio-political challenges in the Southeast. The lawmakers, drawn from various geopolitical zones across the country, made the appeal in a jointly signed two-page letter addressed to the President. They urged President Tinubu to direct the Attorney-General of the Federation to exercise his constitutional powers by discontinuing Kanu’s prosecution and paving the way for a broad-based dialogue. The group, operating under the banner of Concerned Federal Lawmakers for National Unity and Stability, was led by Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere. Other signatories to the letter include Hon. Obi Aguocha, Hon. Murphy Osaro, Hon. Peter Akpanke, Hon. Mudashiru Lukman, Ho...

Journalists were on Tuesday barred from entering the Anambra State House of Assembly complex on the orders of the Speaker, Rt Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze. Trouble began when the New Telegraph correspondent, accompanied by other reporters, arrived at the Assembly gate but was stopped by police officers stationed at the entrance. The officers insisted that journalists could only gain access upon clearance from one Emma Madu, who they said was acting on the Speaker’s directives. When contacted, Madu reportedly told the journalists that he had not received any instruction from the Speaker permitting media access to cover the day’s legislative proceedings. The development effectively shut out the press from a public institution, a move many described as a violation of journalists’ rights as guaranteed under the Freedom of Information Act. The incident has raised concerns about transparency and press freedom in the state’s legislative processes.

Twenty-five female students of Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State, were abducted in the early hours of yesterday when armed bandits stormed the school and killed the Vice Principal, Malam Hassan Makuku. According to community sources, the attackers invaded the school around 5 a.m., operating without resistance and causing widespread panic. Witnesses said the bandits shot sporadically before gaining access to the students’ hostel. Residents said the Vice Principal was killed while attempting to protect the students. “He was shot as he tried to stop the attackers from taking the girls. It’s a huge loss for the community,” one resident, Aliyu Yakubu, said. Another resident, Sulaiman Abdullahi, said several unidentified bodies were found within the school premises, adding that the bandits arrived in large numbers. He added that air force jets arrived overhead about three hours after the incident, while security forces cordoned off the a...

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed profound shock and sadness over the killing of Brigadier General Musa Uba and several soldiers reportedly ambushed by terrorists, describing the development as a tragic reminder of Nigeria’s worsening security crisis. In a strongly worded statement issued on Monday, Atiku criticised what he called the military hierarchy’s failure to provide a clear and credible explanation on the circumstances surrounding the officer’s death, noting that earlier official denials only deepened public anxiety. He described the incident as “one death too many” and warned that the renewed boldness of terrorist groups poses a grave danger the country cannot afford to ignore. Atiku said the tragedy reflects a broader failure of political leadership, insisting that the Presidency must urgently refocus on its constitutional duty to protect the lives of citizens. “The security of Nigerians is the President’s foremost responsibility as Command...

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has recorded a major milestone with the official unveiling of its National Party Secretariat, a development hailed as a renewed commitment to purposeful leadership and national unity. In a statement issued on behalf of the ADC Voice Worldwide Diaspora Network, the Youth Leader, Hon. (Dr.) Abdul-Malik Rabiu Jaafar, FMNES, FCILRM , commended the party’s national leadership for what he described as a bold and visionary move. He noted that the new secretariat stands as a symbol of institutional strength, transparency and organizational readiness, adding that it reflects the ADC’s determination to engage Nigerians with a refreshed spirit of inclusiveness and progressive politics. “As a key youth constituency in the Diaspora, we understand the importance of strong party structures in enhancing political credibility. The unveiling of this secretariat sends a clear message that the ADC is prepared to lead with integrity, innovation and a dee...

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Anambra State Sector Command, has commemorated the 2025 World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims with a church visitation at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Maryland, Amawbia, on Sunday, 16 November. The initiative aimed to raise awareness about road safety within faith-based communities and encourage responsible behaviour among road users. During the event, Sector Commander Corps Commander Bridget Asekhauno delivered a presentation highlighting key road-safety statistics in Anambra State, the main causes and consequences of road crashes, and the importance of compliance with traffic regulations, including speed limits and traffic signals. She cautioned against drunk driving, distracted driving—including mobile phone use—and reckless overtaking, while drawing attention to the vulnerabilities of pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists. Faith leaders were encouraged to integrate road-safety messages into sermons and church programme...

The Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU), Federal Polytechnic Oko Branch, has honoured key institutional leaders and dedicated union members for their outstanding contributions to the growth and stability of the institution. The recognitions were made during the Regular Meeting of the Polytechnics and Others Trade Group Council of NASU, held at the Polytechnic Auditorium, Extension Site. The gathering brought together Chairmen, Secretaries, and Treasurers from NASU branches across Polytechnics, Colleges of Agriculture, and allied institutions nationwide. Declaring the event open on behalf of the Rector, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, the Polytechnic Librarian, Dr. Nwabu Ezemba, commended NASU for its pivotal role in staff welfare, institutional progress, and maintaining industrial harmony. He praised the union’s consistent support in ensuring a stable and productive academic environment. In goodwill messages, the Chairman of the Academic Staf...

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) today, Monday 17th November 2025 opened its new national secretariat in Abuja, with the National Chairman of the party, David Mark, describing the development as “a defining moment” for both the ADC and Nigeria’s democratic future. Mark said the commissioning of the four-level complex marks far more than a physical relocation, noting that it represents the beginning of a disciplined, visionary and people-driven political movement. “This unveiling signals the emergence of a stronger, more organised and more accountable political force. It will no longer be business as usual,” he said. According to him, the new headquarters will serve as the party’s operational nerve centre where strategies will be crafted, ideas refined and future leaders groomed. He added that the facility will drive the ADC’s efforts to strengthen institutions, uplift communities and defend democratic values across the country. Calling for unity and discipline within t...

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic attack on Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State, which resulted in the killing of the Vice-Principal and the abduction of several students. In a statement on Monday, Abubakar described the incident as another grim reminder of the deteriorating security situation in the country. He also condemned the killing of an APC chieftain, Umar Moriki, and the mass abductions in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State, where entire families, including women and children, were seized by bandits. He said similar tragedies unfolding in Plateau, Benue, and other states underscore a nationwide security emergency. He noted that residents of Shanono LGA in Kano have begun fleeing their communities out of fear, pointing to what he described as an “intolerable level” of insecurity. Abubakar urged the Federal Government to urgently overhaul the nation’s security architecture...

From Uchenna Ezeadigwe, Awka The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has appointed Comrade Godwin Ugo Okoye as the Acting Chairman of its Anambra State Chapter, following a leadership restructuring approved by the organisation’s National Executive Council (NEC). The appointment was announced on Friday, November 14, 2025, at the NYCN National Secretariat, during a session attended by national executives and state representatives. The leadership change followed what the NEC described as confirmed acts of insubordination and executive misconduct by the suspended State Chairman, Surveyor Emeka Obi. Comrade Okoye received his appointment letter from the National President of NYCN, Amb. Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sokubo, in the presence of the National Vice President (South East), Comr. Amb. Innocent Nduanya, and leaders of various youth-based associations. Reacting to the development, the Deputy President of NYCN, Amb. Innocent Nduanya, who hails from Anambra State, prais...

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday announced the expulsion of former Rivers State Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike; the party’s factional National Chairman, Senator Samuel Anyanwu; and former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, over alleged anti-party activities. Their expulsion was approved during the PDP National Convention currently taking place in Ibadan. The motion, moved by one of the party’s founding fathers, Chief Bode George, received unanimous backing from delegates and was seconded by Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed. Also expelled were the PDP National Legal Adviser, Adeyemi Ajibade (SAN); Umar Bature; AbdulRahman Mohammed; Mao Chunduabuwa; George Turner; Austin Nwachukwu; Abraham Ammah; and Dan Orbih. The party said the decision was necessary to restore discipline and reposition the PDP ahead of future political contests.

A High Court sitting in Ibusa, Delta State, presided over by Hon. Justice H.O Akpotohwo, has issued a bench warrant for immediate arrest of a popular Asaba based land dealer, Lucky Favour Abuah, aka Bullet; his company, Henric Empire Garden Ltd., and other four accused persons in a criminal charge of forceful acquisition of land belonging to a group of landlords operating under the umbrella body of Fountain City Landlords, Asaba. Chief Abuah, his company, Henric Empire Garden Ltd., and others were dragged to court by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, over alleged breach of public peace, obtaining money by false pretenses, criminal forceful entry, dispossession of lands from its true owners, among other charges. Chief Abuah and others were standing trial over alleged breach of public peace, obtaining money by false pretenses, criminal forceful entry, criminal dispossession of lands from their true owners etc, which are punishable under the criminal laws of ...

Former Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, has dismissed a rumour circulating about his health, describing it as false and mischievous. In a personal message to the public on Thursday, Obiano assured Ndi Anambra, friends, and well-wishers that he is “alive, hale, hearty, and in excellent health,” adding that he remains grateful to God for sustaining him. He expressed concern that some individuals still derive satisfaction from spreading unfounded claims, noting that the motive behind such falsehood remains unclear. However, he emphasized that he would continue to rise above such acts. Obiano also extended heartfelt appreciation to those who reached out to him with calls, messages, and prayers following the rumour. “To everyone who showed concern, your love and goodwill mean more than words can express,” he said, urging the public to completely disregard the speculation. He reaffirmed his commitment to staying focused and guided by God’s grace. The statement was ...

The late Bursar of Federal Polytechnic Oko, Mr. Stephen Udu (Udumili), has been laid to rest in his hometown, Ndiagu Akparata Ugwagba Ngbo, Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. A funeral mass held at Mt. Carmel Catholic Parish, Ugwagba, preceded the interment, drawing a large crowd of relatives, friends, and colleagues. The Rector of Federal Polytechnic Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, led members of the Polytechnic Management Committee, Governing Council, and staff to pay their final respects. Speaking during the service, Dr. Awuzie described the late Udu as a peacemaker, humble administrator, and a dedicated public servant who executed his duties with integrity and a deep sense of responsibility. She extended her condolences to the bereaved family and the Polytechnic community, encouraging them to take solace in the belief that God remains the ultimate comforter. In an emotional vote of thanks, Mr. Emmanuel Uchenna Udu, son of the deceased, expressed gratitude to t...

The youth wing of apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has described the recent effort of the Nigerian Government towards the release of former Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu as heart warming.  National President of the organisation, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike spoke through a statement he made available to journalists on Thursday in Enugu.  Okwu recalled that the Ohanaeze youths pushed severally to secure the attention of then former president, late Muhammadu Buhari for the same purpose, but the government was not interested.  He said it was a thing of delight that President Bola Tinubu’s government has moved towards facilitating the return of Ekweremadu to Nigeria. It could be recalled that President Tinubu’s delegation, led by Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, has commenced consultations with the United Kingdom, UK, authorities on the possibilities of securing Ekweremadu's transfer to Nigeria to serve his remaining ...

In a decisive move to strengthen basic education across Anambra State, Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has approved the establishment of 30 brand new public primary schools in communities where none currently exist. The landmark decision was taken at the first Executive Council Meeting after his landmark winning over the weekend, signaling a renewed commitment to equitable educational access and community development. According to a statement from the Anambra State Government House, the governor’s directive aims to ensure that every child in the state, regardless of location, has access to quality primary education, a key foundation for human capital development. Governor Soludo, who was recently re-elected for a second term, emphasized that education remains the bedrock of his administration’s development agenda. He noted that the new schools will be strategically located in underserved and remote communities, many of which currently lack functional public primary schools...

The Federal Polytechnic, Oko, has held a valedictory session in honour of its late Bursar, Mr. Stephen Udu, described by colleagues and associates as a man of integrity, humility, and uncommon dedication to duty. Speaking during the special session held on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at the institution’s Convocation Arena, the Rector, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, paid glowing tributes to the late bursar, noting that his passing was a great loss to the Polytechnic community. Dr. Awuzie described Mr. Udu as a consummate professional who served the institution with distinction. “Mr. Udu served this Polytechnic with unwavering dedication, integrity, and excellence,” she said. “He set a standard of loyalty and professionalism, not only in managing the finances of the Polytechnic but also in his civility, humility, and kindness towards people around him. He made a difference, not through noise or fanfare, but by doing his work quietly, faithfully, and consistently.” The Rector, on be...

The governorship candidate of the Action Alliance (AA) in the just-concluded Anambra State election, Chief Jeff Nweke, has congratulated Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo on his victory, urging other contestants to accept the outcome and join hands with the governor in advancing the state. Speaking at a press conference in Awka on Monday, Nweke described the election as largely peaceful, credible, and a true reflection of the people’s will. He appealed to those planning to challenge the results in court to reconsider, emphasizing that governance requires collective effort rather than prolonged legal battles. “Our people have spoken, and the voice of the people is the voice of God,” Nweke said. “I have accepted the outcome of the election and already sent my congratulatory message to the governor. It is time for all of us, regardless of party affiliation, to come together and support him in building a greater Anambra.” Nweke commended the Independent National Electoral Commis...

By Raymond Ozoji, Awka  The President-General of Umueri General Assembly in Anambra-East Local Government Area of Anambra State, Chief Amb. Dr. John Metchie has said that he predicted Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo's reelection in September this year during the 2025 Umueri New Yam Festival Celebration.  Metchie said he predicted Soludo's historic reelection victory when he told journalists while responding to questions from them during the community's new yam festival this year that the governor had already won the November 8th governorship election because there is absolutely no one contesting with him or against him.  Metchie who spoke exclusively with this journalist in his country home Ezi-Umueri, recalled that he had made it categorically clear that there is no vacancy for now in the Light House Awka and that anyone else seeking to be governor should go to states like Kaduna and try their luck because Anambra state has been taken by Governor Chukwuma Ch...

.....As Governor hails Tinubu, INEC for ensuring transparent and credible election The Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, and his Deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, received their Certificates of Return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), following their re-election for a second term in office. The presentation ceremony, held at the INEC headquarters in Awka, was presided over by the Commission’s Supervising National Commissioner and Chairman, Tenders Board Committee, Dr. Ken Ukeagu. The event was witnessed by the governor’s wife, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, and their children, as well as top government officials, members of the Anambra State House of Assembly, and supporters of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). Notable attendees included the member representing Ihiala Federal Constituency, Hon. Pascal Agbodike; Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Ben Obidike; and Chairman of Awka North Local Governme...

The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company PLC (EEDC) has commenced the second phase of its free prepaid meter distribution under “Tranche B” of the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF) metering program, a metering initiative instituted by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to close the existing metering gap in the sector and put an end to estimated billing. The Group Head, Corporate Communications of EEDC, Mr. Emeka Ezeh, made this known in a statement issued on Tuesday. The metering program, funded through the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF) “Tranche B”, is targeted at unmetered customers on service band “A” feeders across the South-East region. According to Ezeh, a total of 13,335 customers of EEDC, including those of its subsidiary companies, will be beneficiaries in this phase of the metering program which began on 2nd November 2025, with the Know Your Customer (KYC) validation exercise. He affirmed that the free metering initiative is funded through the Meter ...

Governor Hope Uzodimma has ordered the immediate suspension of all activities of the Imo State Environmental Transformation Commission (ENTRACO) following a tragic incident in Owerri that reportedly claimed one life and left another person critically injured. The suspension, announced on Monday, November 10, 2025, takes effect immediately. According to a statement issued by Oguwike Nwachuku, the Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, the decision followed a report linking ENTRACO operatives to the incident. Governor Uzodimma expressed concern over the development and noted that it was not the first time the agency’s mode of operation had drawn public criticism. He said the government could no longer overlook the recurring issues associated with the agency’s enforcement approach. “The Governor is not unmindful of other recent ugly incidents where the mode of operations of ENTRACO has been brought to question by members of the public,” the stateme...

TAF Africa has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other stakeholders to strengthen efforts toward ensuring full participation of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria’s elections process. The call followed the organization’s observation of the 2025 Anambra State Governorship Election, which revealed persistent gaps in accessibility and inclusion. In a post election press release made available to this newspaper through the senior communications officer to TAF, Lynn Agwuncha,TAF Africa, with support from the European Union under the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EUSDGN II) Programme, said they deployed 150 trained citizen observers, 25 sign language interpreters, and roving media monitors across the 21 local government areas of Anambra State. The process was coordinated through the TAF Disability Hub Application, a real-time, data-driven platform for tracking accessibility, assistive tools, and the voting ex...

Senator Uche Ekwunife, Ph.D., CON, the Deputy Governorship Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the just-concluded Anambra State governorship election, has congratulated Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo on his re-election, while expressing deep gratitude to her supporters and campaign team for their steadfastness throughout the election period. In a heartfelt message she posted and signed on her official Facebook page, tilted “A Message of Congratulations to Prof. Chukwuma Soludo and Gratitude to My Esteemed Supporters,” Senator Ekwunife commended the resilience, courage, and faith of those who supported her and Prince Dr. Nicholas Ukachukwu, during the campaign. “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stood with us on this remarkable journey. Your voices, strength, time, and prayers were the cornerstone of our campaign,” she said. While acknowledging that the outcome was not as expected, Ekwunife described the campaign as a victory of faith and unit...