NIGERIAN NOTCH

Dauda Usman Zamani, a popular political figure in Yobe State and a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has resigned his membership of the ruling party and defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Zamani, who is widely known across the state and within the APC as a Special Adviser to the Yobe State Government, announced his decision in a formal resignation letter addressed to the APC Ward Chairman of Bolawa B Ward, Potiskum Local Government Area. The resignation takes immediate effect. He said the decision followed extensive consultations and engagements with his political associates, stressing that his defection to the ADC was driven by the desire to actualise the ARISE agenda for the development and progress of Yobe State. According to him, the move was taken after careful consideration and in the best interest of the state, as he believes the ADC provides a viable platform to pursue policies and programmes that would enhance good...

A former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Mr. Najeem Salaam, has emerged as the candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2026 Osun State governorship election. The emergence followed the party’s governorship primary held on Monday at the Ultimate Civic Centre, Osogbo, with Hon. Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba PhD serving as the Returning Officer and Chairman of the panel of ADC 2026 Primary Election Committee. Speaking to party delegates before the commencement of the primary, Nwajiuba disclosed that Salaam was the sole aspirant cleared to contest the party’s ticket. “From the list and information provided by the ADC Organising Secretary’s Office, as well as the outcome of the screening exercise conducted by this committee, it is clear that Mr. Najeem Salaam is the only aspirant seeking the party’s governorship ticket,” Nwajiuba stated. A total of 528 delegates drawn from the 332 wards across Osun State subsequently lined up to cast their votes during the...

The leadership and members of Young Nigerian Voices (YNV), in collaboration with Hon. Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, PhD, have congratulated Ms. Sarah Yusuf, a member of the Abuja Chapter of the organisation, on her emergence as the Winner of the 2025 Maltina Teacher of the Year Award. In a statement issued on the official Facebook platform of Young Nigerian Voices, the organisation described the honour as a well-deserved recognition of Yusuf’s passion for teaching, unwavering commitment to excellence and selfless dedication to shaping young minds for a better Nigeria. According to the statement, signed by the Director-General of Young Nigerian Voices, Prince Collins Enwere, the prestigious award not only brings pride to her state and the YNV family but also places her among the nation’s finest educators whose impact transcends the classroom and contributes meaningfully to national development. Prince Enwere noted that Yusuf’s achievement stands as a powerful inspiration to teachers...

The Ogbe-Ozoma community of Okpanam in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State has petitioned the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, and the Minister of Defence over what it described as the unlawful deployment of police and military personnel to invade its ancestral land. In separate petitions addressed to the IGP and the Minister of Defence, Lt. Gen. Christopher Musa (Rtd.), and signed by the community’s solicitor, Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor, the Ogbe-Ozoma people alleged a violent and bloody invasion of their land by Chief Chinedu Okeke, also known as “Ekwe-Ogidi,” allegedly aided by more than 40 armed policemen and soldiers. The petitions, titled “Violent and Bloody Invasion of the Ancestral Land of Ogbe-Ozoma in Okpanam Community, Oshimili North LGA, Delta State… Request for Urgent and Decisive Intervention,” accused Chief Okeke and his collaborators, including some individuals from the Issele-Azagba community, of persistent tre...

From Uchenna Ezeadigwe  Awka The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Anambra State Chapter has frowned at the deliberate act of the Commissioner of Youths Development, Hon. Patrick Aghamba to impose or determine the leadership of the NYCN in Anambra State Ag. State Chairman, NYCN Anambra State, Comrade Godwin U. Okoye who disclosed this in a statement made available to this reporter on 12th December, 2025, said "Our attention has been drawn to the public statement issued by the Hon. Patrick Aghamba the Commissioner for Youth Development Anambra State regarding the leadership of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Anambra State Chapter". "It is important to clearly state that there is a fundamental difference between the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) A National statutory youth body and any other Youth organization created by Anambra State Government or its affiliate". "The Honourable Commissioner cannot single handedly impose...

By Chigozie Igbo Jr The Supreme Court on Friday nullified President Bola Tinubu’s decision to commute the death sentence of Maryam Sanda, ruling that the President acted outside his constitutional powers by granting clemency while her case was still pending before the courts. In a split decision of four to one, the apex court affirmed the death sentence earlier imposed on Sanda by the Federal Capital Territory High Court and upheld by the Court of Appeal. Sanda was convicted in 2020 for the murder of her husband, Bilyaminu Bello, during a domestic altercation at their Abuja residence. The Supreme Court dismissed her appeal, holding that the prosecution had successfully proved the charge of culpable homicide beyond reasonable doubt. Delivering the lead judgment, Justice Moore Adumein faulted the executive intervention, insisting that the presidential pardon was improper given the subsisting judicial process. “It was wrong for the Executive to seek to exercise its power of pa...

…Moves to Chart a New Leadership Path for Nigeria The former Minister of State for Education, Hon. Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, PhD, has met with the leadership of the New Nigerian Patriots (NNP) and Young Nigerian Voices (YNV) in Abuja yesterday to discuss pathways for strengthening national leadership, democratic participation, and citizen-driven governance ahead of the country’s next political cycle. The strategic meeting, held on Thursday, brought together youth leaders, policy advocates, and emerging political stakeholders committed to building a more accountable and progressive Nigeria. Speaking during the engagement, Nwajiuba emphasized the urgent need for a new form of leadership one that prioritizes national unity, merit, and long-term planning over political rivalry and short-term gains. He said Nigeria must begin to “harness the energies of its young population” if the country is to break free from persistent economic, political, and social stagnation. “The future of th...

From Ijeoma John, Nnewi  In a time when our constituency urgently needs purposeful, visionary, and competent representation, Amb. Ikebunwa Lotanna stands out as a rare blend of experience, courage, intellect, and grassroots credibility. His journey, shaped by years of service, activism, legislative exposure, and community engagement, positions him as arguably the most qualified youth to represent Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency at the Federal House of Representatives come 2027. A Fearless Student Leader With a Record of Integrity, Amb. Ikebunwa’s leadership journey began early. As a student, he emerged as one of the most vocal and principled voices in student unionism while serving as the Chief Judge of the Student Union Government (SUG) at Federal Polytechnic Oko between 2010–2011, he demonstrated extraordinary courage. Despite threats and intimidation, he spearheaded the implementation of strategic reforms that ensured transparency of govern...

The Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, has received five academic staff of the institution who recently returned from a TETFund-sponsored “Research for Impact Initiative” training held at Innovate Hub, Abuja. The two-week programme, which ran from November 17 to 28, 2025, brought together academics, technologists and researchers from science and technology-related disciplines across the country. Facilitated through the efforts of the Rector, the training was designed to deepen participants’ capacity to conduct research with direct societal impact and potential for commercialisation. Speaking during the visit, a member of the team, Mr. John Ibeh, said the Oko Polytechnic delegation identified a critical gap in the teaching of science subjects between urban and rural schools. He noted that the absence of functional laboratories and the shortage of qualified science teachers in many rural communities continue to hinder students’ performance, especiall...

From Chinwe Onuigbo, Awka  Tansian University, Umunya, in Anambra State, Nigeria, has formally inducted its pioneer cohort of Nursing graduates into the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), marking a major landmark for the young institution. The maiden induction and oath-taking ceremony was held at the university’s Oba campus auditorium under the theme “Building a Professional Legacy in Nursing: The Journey Begins.” Delivering his address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Eugene Nwadialor, congratulated the inductees and encouraged them to represent the institution with pride wherever their careers take them. “Do not forget where you started,” he told the new nurses. “Today, you are reaping the fruits of your dedication.” Chair of the occasion, Professor Chinyere Okunna, also commended the graduates, urging them to touch lives through excellence and integrity. She cautioned them never to misuse the professional licenses they have earned. In her key...

The Federal Polytechnic Oko, Anambra State, has announced the dismissal of two of its staff members, Mr. Anthony Ogochukwu Umeozor, a former Deputy Registrar, and Mr. Ekene Olugburu , a former Principal Technical Officer, following separate cases of serious misconduct established against them. In an official statement, the institution disclosed that the Governing Council approved the dismissal of both officers with effect from October 28, 2025. According to the polytechnic, Mr. Anthony Ogochukwu Umeozor was dismissed after a duly constituted disciplinary committee confirmed that he falsified his age, an offence categorized as serious misconduct under Chapter 10, Section 4, Rule 100402 of the Public Service Rules. The rules prescribe dismissal as the ultimate sanction for such violations, in line with Rule 100407. Similarly, the Governing Council dismissed Mr. Ekene Olugburu after he was found guilty of conspiracy, sabotage, stealing, and the illegal sale of a polytechnic tr...

On the evening of December 3, 2025, the grand hall of Merit House, Maitama, Abuja, glowed with excitement and celebration. It was the African 3G Grassroots Good Governance Awards,an annual gathering that recognises excellence, innovation, and credible leadership at the grassroots level across the continent. But this year, one name dominated conversations long before the first award was announced, Hon. Barr. Casmir Chukwunonso Nwafor, the Mayor of Orumba North Local Government Area in Anambra State. By the end of the ceremony, he was not just a winner, he was the undisputed star of the night, sweeping the most coveted honours: Best Local Government Chairman in Rural Infrastructure. Overall Best Local Government Chairman in Nigeria (African Mayor of the Year 2025) For a leader who has spent barely a year in office, the achievement was nothing short of extraordinary. And for the people of Orumba North, it was the ultimate validation of a rising political and developmental rena...

The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, mnips, PhD, has strongly condemned the attack carried out by armed criminals at a church in Lilu, Ihiala Local Government Area, on the morning of December 7, 2025. The incident led to the death of one person, left several others with serious injuries, and resulted in partial burning of the church building and destruction of other property. Describing the attack as heinous and abominable, CP Orutugu said the assault on innocent worshippers represents not only a crime against the Lilu community but also a direct affront to the shared values of peace, sanctity of life, and freedom of worship. The Police Command extended its condolences to the families of the victims and the entire Lilu community, assuring residents that security operatives will relentlessly pursue the perpetrators until they are apprehended and brought to justice. According to the Commissioner, no community in Anambra State should be subjected t...

The Mayor of Orumba North Local Government Area, Hon. Barr. Casmir Nwafor (Rtd.), has continued to draw widespread recognition and admiration following his recent double honours from the African Stride International Media Group, as well as an additional commendation for his outstanding achievements in rural infrastructure. Hon. Nwafor was conferred with the “Mayor of the Year” award and named Best Mayor in Infrastructure Development and Inclusive Governance on December 3, 2025, acknowledgements many describe as a clear endorsement of his visionary leadership, administrative excellence, and commitment to transformative governance. In addition to the honours, he also received the Best Mayor Award in Rural Infrastructure, a recognition that further affirms the bold strides made in his first year in office. According to community leaders and observers, the recognition “captures only a fraction” of the impact Hon. Nwafor has made in Orumba North, where he has laid a strong found...

Hon. Barr. Casmir Nwafor, the mayor of Orumba North LGA in Anambra state has been honoured with the Best Mayor Award in Rural Infrastructure, a recognition widely regarded as a testament to his visionary leadership and commitment to grassroots development. The award celebrates his outstanding contributions to improving rural communities through innovative projects, strategic governance, and an inclusive approach to development. Observers say his dedication to expanding infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life in underserved areas has set a benchmark for effective rural administration. The recognition has continued to generate commendations, with many describing it as well-deserved given his consistent efforts to drive sustainable growth across local communities. The award is expected to further inspire Hon. Nwafor as he continues championing development initiatives aimed at transforming rural areas and improving the wellbeing of residents. Hon. Barr. Casmir Nwafor’s...

The Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha has celebrated a double historic event: the ordination of 44 deacons and the commemoration of 140 years of Catholicism in Igboland (1885–2025). The ceremony, a profound expression of faith across the nine dioceses of the Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province, was held at the Basilica Square of the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity, Onitsha, Anambra State. The event drew an enormous crowd of Catholic priests, religious, lay faithful, and all the bishops from the dioceses within the province. The dioceses represented were: Ekwulobia, Awka, Enugu, Nsukka, Aguleri, Abakaliki, Awgu, Onitsha, and Nnewi. The ordination of the 44 new deacons formed the climax of the celebration and was presided over by the Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Archbishop Michael Francis Crotty. In his homily before the ordination rites, Archbishop Crotty recalled the arrival of the Irish missionaries who first brought the Catholic faith to Onitsha. He noted that many of these m...

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has asked Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, to make a definite decision on whether he intends to join the party’s coalition ahead of the 2027 presidential race. The party said Obi would not be pressured into joining despite the influence he commands within the emerging political alliance. Obi had on Wednesday expressed concern that the ADC-led coalition was “faltering” due to unresolved issues surrounding zoning and the rotation of key political offices. However, he also expressed confidence in the coalition’s leadership, including former Senate President David Mark and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Responding in an interview, ADC spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi said the coalition had not reached a stage where zoning should form part of its discussions. According to him, the current focus is on building credibility and offering Nigerians a viable political alternative. “We’re not talkin...

The Arewa Consultative Forum Youth Movement (ACFYM) has declared that Nigeria needs transparent public institutions and leaders whose conduct reinforces, rather than erodes, citizens’ trust. ACFYM President, Kabiru Yusuf, made the call in Abuja on Wednesday while reacting to intensifying public demands for a forensic probe into the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). Yusuf said the youth wing of the northern socio-political group firmly aligns itself with the cause of accountability and the protection of national interest. He expressed concern over allegations raised against the FIRS Chairman, Mr Zacch Adedeji, bordering on lifestyle-related issues and the management of taxpayers’ funds under his watch. Although the allegations remain unproven, Yusuf said their gravity and the potential damage to public confidence necessitate an immediate, comprehensive forensic investigation by relevant anti-corruption and oversight bodies. “As responsible stakeholders committed to tran...

By Ukpa Ewa  Journalists in Anambra State have been urged to improve the quality, sensitivity and ethical standard of reporting Gender-Based Violence (GBV) as the menace continues to grow due to deep rooted cultural norms and weak enforcement structures. The charge was made during a one day capacity building workshop in Awka for media personnel on GBV reportage, content development and amplifying survivor voices. The training, titled “Empowering Christian Women and Women Leaders of Culture for Prevention and Response to Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria, Through the Strengthening of Grassroots Organizations " was implemented by Gender Perspective and Social Development Center (GPSDC) with support from WomenAid Collective (WACOL). Speaking at the workshop, Executive Director of GPSDC, Mrs. Eucharia Anakwe said many GBV cases collapse at the police level because the media often publicise details prematurely, enabling perpetrators to flee. She noted that improved reportage...

FirstPower Electricity Distribution Limited (FPEDL) has announced that several parts of Anambra State will experience a planned power outage on Sunday, December 7, 2025, to allow for critical maintenance and upgrade work by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN). According to a statement signed by the management of FPEDL, the interruption—scheduled to last from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.—is necessary to enable TCN engineers to install a TR13 60MVA transformer and reconfigure outgoing feeders at the Onitsha Transmission Station. To create a safe operational environment for the technical crew, the MOBITRA 40MVA and 45MVA transformers, along with the 1T1 100MVA 132/33KV transformer, will be temporarily shut down during the exercise. As a result, the following 33KV feeders will be affected: Army Barracks, Awada, Obosi, Umunya, Juddy Bolema, Nnewi Oba, Nnewi Industrial, Ossomala, 3-3, Niccus and Ogidi. Also affected are the Nwaziki 11KV and Woliwo 11KV feeders. Customers served ...