NIGERIAN NOTCH

As members of the National Democratic (NDC) across Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency prepare for tomorrow’s direct primary election in line with the provisions of the 2026 Electoral framework, the moment has come for party faithful to make a defining decision about the future of the constituency and the electoral fortunes of the party. The essence of direct primaries is to return power to ordinary party members allowing grassroots voices, not political imposition, to determine who flies the party’s flag in the Nnewi Federal Constituency elections. In this regard, many stakeholders and observers believe the momentum within the NDC is clearly tilting towards Amb. Lotanna Ikebunwa, a candidate widely regarded as the face of youth inclusion, grassroots acceptance, and people-oriented leadership. At a critical time when political parties across Nigeria are struggling to reconnect with young voters and ordinary citizens, Amb. Lotanna has emerged as a ref...

The Anambra State Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has commenced its 2026 Eid-El-Kabir special patrol operations across the state with the deployment of over 210 personnel to ensure safer roads and effective traffic management during the festive period. The operation, which began on May 25 and is expected to end on May 31, is part of the Corps’ nationwide strategy aimed at reducing road crashes and ensuring free flow of traffic during the4 celebration. According to the Command, the personnel deployed comprise Regular and Special Marshals who will be stationed at critical locations across the state to monitor traffic, enforce road safety regulations, and provide prompt emergency response services where necessary. The Sector Commander, Bridget Asekhanuo, said the exercise was designed to address the expected increase in vehicular movement associated with the Eid-El-Kabir festivities. She explained that the operation would focus on public enlightenment, t...

From Kenechukwu Onyekwuluje .‎‎ The National Working Committee of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) conducted ward primaries in Idemili North /South Local Government Area in Anambra State,as part of preparation for 2027 general elections.‎‎The primaries was conducted by eleven (11) man committee chaired by Engr Emeka okolo, the zonal chairman of Anambra North and member of the committee Barr Ojemade.‎Hon Ginichukwu Chukuma Williams pulled 5391 votes, defeating his rivals Nnamdi Ifebi scored  a total votes of votes, 1046 votes, Nnamdi Okoye 721votes.‎‎ During the the declaration of the results, Kingsely Ajunwa of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) department of (Election Party Monitoring) monitored the process and made sure that all stipulated guidelines of the Commission was duly observed during the process.‎‎‎Hon Ginichukwu Chukwuma Williams, who won across 20 wards across the local government area, thanked the good people of Id...

The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) has completed the deployment of its integrated billing and customer service platform, SuperEdge, as part of efforts to improve service delivery and enhance operational efficiency across its franchise area. The electricity distribution company said the platform is designed to strengthen prepaid vending, postpaid billing and collection processes, as well as Meter Data Management System (MDMS) operations. In a statement issued by Emeka Ezeh, Group Head, Corporate Communications, the company said the initiative aligns with its commitment to leveraging technology to provide seamless and customer-focused services. According to the company, customers of its subsidiary distribution firms — MainPower, TransPower, FirstPower, EastLand and NewEra — will also benefit from the enhanced features of the SuperEdge platform. EEDC explained that the new system enables customers to verify payment receipts through QR code scanning, generate rec...

From Mary Obi  The Anambra State Government has intensified its public health response to hypertension with the rollout of free blood pressure screening across public health facilities, while also unveiling new measures aimed at strengthening accountability in hospitals as health officials warn that the condition remains a leading cause of sudden death. The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, said the initiative was part of activities to mark this year’s hypertension awareness campaign and address what he described as one of the most dangerous non-communicable diseases affecting residents due to late diagnosis and poor health-seeking behaviour. He said free blood pressure checks are currently being conducted in government-owned hospitals and primary healthcare centres, including the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Amaku Awka, and General Hospital Enugwukwu, adding that the programme is open to all residents regardless of background....

In the riveting theatre of Nigerian politics, few spectacles are as exciting as the chess match between an incumbent desperate to hold power and a challenger confident enough to rattle such a board. In Abia State, that match has been playing out for months, with Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, and Governor Alex Otti of the Labour Party as the principal actors. The stakes have been enormous, the tension palpable, and the relief when it finally came unmistakable. Since Kalu's stature began its steady, undeniable ascent on the national political stage, the Otti administration has watched with growing unease. A Deputy Speaker who commands federal loyalty, controls patronage networks, has largely performed well within his constituency; and enjoys the goodwill of President Bola Tinubu is not a figure any state government can afford to dismiss. For the Labour Party hierarchy in Abia, Benjamin Kalu was not merely a political figure; he wa...

A deep political crisis has enveloped the candidature for Anambra APC Idemili North and South Federal Constituency of Anambra State following widespread allegations of electoral fraud, intimidation, and the deliberate non-conduct of party primaries in most wards across both local government areas ahead of the 2027 general elections. The development has sparked outrage among party faithful and aspirants who accuse key party operatives of brazenly subverting the will of members at the grassroots level. Leading the chorus of condemnation is Honourable Chimbudike Igboekwe, one of three aspirants who vied for the constituency's House of Representatives ticket. Igboekwe leveled serious allegations against one of the opponents and alleged winner, KK Ezekwelu, accusing him of seizing result sheets meant for wards within both local governments and retreating to a hotel in Awka, where he allegedly entered results that bore no relation to actual voting patterns recorded in the war...

In the political and economic conversations shaping the future of Anambra State, one name is increasingly gaining attention across Nnewi Federal Constituency, Amb. Lotanna Ikebunwa. For many residents, his story represents more than business success. It is becoming a compelling argument for why proven entrepreneurs with grassroots impact should be entrusted with public office. From humble beginnings as an ordinary land agent to building a thriving multi-billion naira real estate empire, Amb. Ikebunwa has steadily transformed himself into one of the most talked-about young entrepreneurs and emerging political figures in South-East Nigeria. Now, with growing calls for a new generation of leaders who understand enterprise, job creation, and economic development, his desire to represent Nnewi Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives is generating widespread interest among youths, business owners, and grassroots supporters. Years ago, Amb. Lotanna Ikebunwa started mo...

From Mary Obi  Wife of the Anambra State Governor, Nonye Soludo, has called on Nigerians and the international community to embrace peace, unity, tolerance, and reconciliation as the world commemorates the International Day of Living Together in Peace. In a statement marking the observance, Mrs. Soludo described peace as a critical foundation for human progress, social stability, and harmonious coexistence, stressing that societies thrive better in unity than division. “Today, the world pauses to remember a truth as old as humanity itself: that we are stronger together than apart,” she said. The Anambra First Lady said peace extends beyond the absence of conflict, noting that it requires a conscious commitment to respecting human dignity, promoting compassion, and fostering understanding across cultural, religious, and political divides. She added that lasting peace begins at the grassroots level through acts of kindness, inclusion, and mutual respect within families, c...

Grassroots women’s groups across Enugu State got a major boost this week as WOYODEV hosted a one-day sensitization and capacity-building training for selected Community-Based Organizations (CBOs).   The training is part of WOYODEV’s Women’s Political Participation Project , a deliberate push to strengthen grassroots engagement and mobilization ahead of the 2027 general elections. Setting the Stage for Change The session opened with WOYODEV’s Executive Director, Tosin Apiriola-Ajayi , who laid out the organization’s vision and mandate. She spoke plainly about why this work matters now: too many women are still locked out of governance and decision-making by structural and cultural barriers.   Her message was clear – if we want different outcomes in 2027, we have to start dismantling those barriers at the community level today. Breaking Down What Holds Women Back Participants didn’t hold back. Throughout the day, CBO representatives from differe...

In Nigeria’s turbulent political landscape where promises are often louder than performance, the story of Amb. Lotanna Ikebunwa stands out as a rare testimony of vision, consistency, and transformational leadership born from little beginnings. It is a story that traces a remarkable link between the former presidential candidate of the Labour party and today the frontline presidential aspirant under the platform of Nigeria Democratic Congress, the NDC.   Peter Obi, and one of the rising political voices in Anambra State, Amb. Lotanna Ikebunwa, a young entrepreneur, youth developer, and Federal House of Representatives hopeful for Nnewi Federal Constituency under the Nigeria Democratic Congress, is interesting to read, as it shows a semblance where destiny meet both great personalities.  For many political observers, the connection between Mr. Peter Obi and Amb Lotanna Ikebunwa is no coincidence. It is the unfolding of a destiny shaped by opportunity, prudence, ...

Popular nightlife entrepreneur and socialite, Cubana Chief Priest, has reportedly suffered a political setback in his bid to secure the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for the House of Representatives ahead of the 2027 general elections. The celebrity businessman, who had publicly declared his intention to represent the Orsu/Orlu/Oru East Federal Constituency of Imo State under the APC platform, was said to have lost out in the party’s internal selection process, according to reports. Cubana Chief Priest, popularly known for his influence in Nigeria’s entertainment and hospitality industry, had in recent weeks intensified consultations with party stakeholders and supporters across Imo State in pursuit of his political ambition. The socialite had earlier announced his aspiration through social media, where he stated that his desire to contest was driven by a commitment to contribute to the development of his constituency and empower young people. His entrance into par...

From Mary Obi   A 13-year-old girl battling Advanced HIV Disease (AHD) at Regina Caeli Hospital has received emergency humanitarian aid following a coordinated intervention led by Nonye Soludo, the wife of the Anambra State Governor. The rapid response was triggered after the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) escalated the case, raising urgent alarms over the child’s rapidly deteriorating health. Multi-Agency Mobilization Acting on the report, Mrs. Soludo deployed resources through her non-governmental organization, Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo, to cover the child's treatment, specialized nutrition, and welfare. A high-level delegation immediately visited the hospital to deliver food supplies, essential medical items, and financial assistance. The coalition included representatives from:  Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo  ANSACA The Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria (NEPWHAN)  The Association of Women Living with HIV/AIDS...

The management of Federal Polytechnic Oko has commenced the construction of a new students’ hostel following the official foundation laying ceremony performed by the institution’s Rector, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie. The project, located at the institution’s Students’ Village, is being funded through the 2025 intervention programme of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), with a focus on improving students’ accommodation and enhancing the overall learning environment within the Polytechnic. Speaking during the ceremony, Dr. Awuzie reiterated the institution’s commitment to infrastructural expansion and the provision of a conducive atmosphere for academic activities. She assured the contractor and project consultants of the management’s readiness to ensure prompt release of funds to facilitate timely completion of the hostel project. According to the Rector, the development aligns with the Polytechnic’s broader agenda of strengthening students’ welfare and exp...

A frontline aspirant for the House of Representatives seat for Aguata Federal Constituency, Chief Hon. Valentine Ezeuchegbu, has officially purchased and collected the Expression of Interest and Nomination Form of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja. The form was obtained at the NDC National Secretariat located at No. 4 Odienna Close, off Libreville Street, Wuse II, Abuja, amid cheers and excitement from supporters, party faithful and youth groups who accompanied the grassroots politician. Chief Ezeuchegbu, a respected mobilizer from Akpo in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, declared his readiness to offer purposeful and people-oriented representation at the National Assembly. Speaking shortly after collecting the form, the aspirant expressed gratitude to the leadership of the Nigeria Democratic Congress for providing a platform that encourages credible and service-driven leaders to emerge. He noted that his decis...

Frontline aspirant for the House of Representatives seat to represent Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency, Amb. Ikebunwa Lotanna, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 general election after obtaining the Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), at the National Headquarters of the party in Abuja.  The development officially signals his entry into the race for the Green Chamber under the platform of the NDC. Speaking shortly after obtaining the forms, Amb. Ikebunwa described the moment as a major step in his commitment to public service and grassroots development across the constituency. He expressed gratitude to God and appreciated the growing support he has continued to receive from youths, women, community leaders, political stakeholders and supporters across the three local government areas. According to the aspirant, his decision to contest is driven not by personal ambition but by...

From Mary Obi  Adaora Soludo, daughter of the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has relaunched the Gloria Foundation, a non-governmental organisation focused on women empowerment, with the award of scholarships to 10 indigent female university students. The foundation, originally launched in 2018, is dedicated to empowering women and nurturing future leaders through education and social support initiatives. Established in memory of the late Mrs. Gloria Uzomaka Ezenwanne, an educator, disciplinarian and social advocate, the foundation’s scholarship programme forms part of its Education Support Scheme, which provides full tuition assistance to students from low-income backgrounds. Speaking during the presentation ceremony, Adaora Soludo said the initiative was aimed at reminding young girls that they deserve support, encouragement and opportunities to succeed. According to her, personal experiences had taught her that many young people only ne...

From Mary Obi  Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has defended controversial burial reforms in southeastern Nigeria’s Anambra State and announced a crackdown on what he described as fraudulent religious leaders exploiting vulnerable residents. Speaking at the annual Knights Day celebration of the Catholic Diocese of Awka held at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Soludo said leadership requires “the courage to implement change,” urging both public officials and Christian faithful to choose “the right path over the easy one.” The event featured a Pontifical Mass presided over by the Catholic Bishop of Awka, Paulinus Ezeokafor. Soludo praised the Catholic Church for promoting what he called the “common good” and commended the diocese for taking a firm stance against social vices. A key focus of the governor’s remarks was the implementation of Anambra’s Burial Law, a reform introduced to curb lavish funeral spending and reduce the economic burden on families. According to ...

Fresh reports that former President Goodluck Jonathan may contest the 2027 presidential election under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party have triggered nationwide political reactions, as major stakeholders debate the implications of his possible return to active politics. The development is already reshaping conversations around the 2027 presidency, opposition unity, zoning, and the chances of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu securing re-election. Jonathan Reportedly Chooses PDP for 2027 Presidential Ambition Sources close to the former president disclosed that Jonathan is considering the PDP as the preferred political platform for his alleged 2027 presidential ambition after what insiders described as “extensive consultations and strategic calculations.” According to sources, the former president believes the PDP offers a more viable structure for a possible return to power amid worsening economic hardship, insecurity, and rising poverty across Nigeria. The reports h...

By Chigozie Igbo Jr As political realignments begin ahead of the 2027 general elections, stakeholders across Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo are increasingly engaging in conversations around equity, political balance, and strategic representation within the Nnewi Federal Constituency. At the center of this growing debate is a compelling argument that the 2027 House of Representatives seat should naturally return to Nnewi North, not merely as a matter of sentiment, but as a deliberate political calculation capable of preserving fairness, and improving electoral chances for any serious political platform seeking victory. The conversation has become more significant considering the current political realities within the constituency. The present Senator representing the zone under the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) is from Nnewi South and is expected to complete the tenure of the late Ifeanyi Ubah through 2027. At the same time, strong political i...