Sen. Nwebonyi Attributes Nigeria’s struggle to Bad Leadership

By Chinwe Imo-Eze Onwosi

The Senator Representing Ebonyi North senatorial zone, Ebonyi State at the National Assembly, Barr Onyekachi Nwebonyi has identified bad leadership as the root cause of Nigeria’s struggles since independence.

Nwebonyi while interacting with newsmen on the occassion of Nigeria at 63 and Ebonyi State at 27 expressed optimism that president Bola Tinubu will change the country economically and otherwise.

He maintained that: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a man with plan. He did it as the Governor of Lagos State, today Lagos State is the leading state in Nigeria economically because of him. He has set Lagos State on auto pilot economically to the extent that the successive government in hundred years will have focus, will have a mission, this is a development plan. So, we are happy that we have such a man as President of the country.”

Furthermore, Senator Nwebonyi took the opportunity to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary approach to national development. He emphasized that achieving progress in the country necessitates not only this vision but also a collective spirit of patriotism and unwavering support from all Nigerians toward the federal government’s initiatives.

“63 years of Independence is not 63 years and I must tell you that politically we have made progress, economically, we have made progress. The only area we need to make progress and more meaningful progress is on the area of leadership.

“Nigeria has all it takes to be the leader of the world but our challenge is bad leadership. But now, we have a President that understands the economy that he wants to run, a President with the understand as to how things work, a President that has a vision for his nation.

” At times people want to be President for the sake of being a President but Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a man with plan. He did it as the Governor of Lagos, today Lagos State is the leading state in Nigeria economically because of that same man.

“He has set Lagos State in auto pilot economically to the extent that the successive government in hundred years will have focus, will have a mission, this is a development plan. So, we are happy that we have such a man as President of the country.

“Loot at the bold step he has taken so far on assumption of office including the removal of fuel subsidy. We all know this was a conduit pipe to siphon all our resources to the detriment of ordinary Nigerian but he came on board and removed it. Now, our credit is growing, our revenue is growing.

“The government can now embark on meaningful project and I commend him on the hand in terms of his team , going by the Ministers he appointed to help him work. They are men of capacity, they are men of proving integrity ranging from the Minister of Works. You can see his steps so far; moving from site to site, checking the jobs to make sure it is done according to specification and you can see the revelation he is making, a job of N40bn has been jacked to over N100bn.

Subsidy: You can’t go on strike, FG writes NLC, TUC

The President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Federal Government, on Thursday, asked the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, and the Trade Union Congress, TUC, to shelve their plan to embark on a nationwide indefinite strike action on October 3.

Government maintained that the proposed industrial action by the labour unions would amount to a gross violation of a subsisting court injunction.

It stressed that issues bordering on fuel subsidy removal, which informed the decision of the NLC and the TUC to declare the strike action, are already pending before the National Industrial Court, NIC.

According to FG, it was due to the willingness of the unions to enter into a negotiation over the issue that it was persuaded to withdraw a contempt proceeding that it initially instituted against them.

Therefore, the government, through the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), wrote to the head of the legal team of the two unions, Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), urging him to persuade his clients to abort the planned strike action.

The letter, dated September 26, a copy of which Vanguard obtained, read: “The attention of the Ministry has been drawn to media reports on the proposed nationwide strike action by the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, and Trade Union Congress, TUC, scheduled to commence on 3rd October 2023.

“You are kindly invited to recall the antecedence of previous steps/actions on this matter, particularly the exchange of correspondence between this office and your firm, before and after the nationwide ‘action/protest’ declared by the NLC on 2nd August 2023.

“Whilst your clients had maintained that the nationwide protest by NLC is in furtherance of its constitutional right to embark on protests, the Ministry has repeatedly advised on the need to advise your clients to refrain from resorting to self-help and taking actions capable of undermining subsisting orders of a court of competent jurisdiction.

“It is also to be recalled that based on the conduct of the said nationwide action/protest, this Office instituted contempt proceedings against the labour leaders.

“However, upon the intervention of the President and National Assembly, coupled with the decision of the labour unions to discontinue their action/protest, the contempt proceedings were not prosecuted further.

“This was advisedly done to enable the government and labour union engage in further negotiations without any form of encumbrances.

“However, in its Communique issued at the end of its National Executive Council meeting on 31st August 2023, NLC resolved to embark on a total and indefinite shutdown of the nation within 14 working days or 21 days from 31st August 2023.

“Also on 26th September 2023, the Presidents of NLC and TUC, jointly issued a communiqué stating that organised labour had resolved, ‘to embark on an indefinite and total shutdown of the nation beginning on zero hours Tuesday, the 3rd day of October, 2023.’

“From a review of the contents of the above communiques and available media reports, the proposed strike action is premised principally in furtherance of issues connected with the removal of fuel subsidy, hike in fuel price and consequential matters of making provisions for palliatives and workers welfare.

“These are undoubtedly issues that have been submitted to the National Industrial Court for adjudication.

“Therefore, the proposed strike action is in clear violation of the pending interim injunctive order granted on 5th June 2023 restraining both Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress from embarking on any industrial action/or strike of any nature, pending the hearing and determination of the pending Motion on Notice.

“We wish to reiterate that a court order, regardless of the opinion of any party on it, remains binding and enforceable until set aside.

“It is the expectation of the public that the labour unions would lead in obedience and observance of court orders and not in its breach.”

The Minister of Labour and Employment, Chief of Staff to the President, National Security Adviser, Inspector-General of Police and the Director-General, State Security Services, DSS, were copied.

Recall that the labour unions had vowed to enforce an indefinite nationwide strike action from October 3, following Federal Government’s failure to address the economic hardship that Nigerians are currently facing owing to its unplanned removal of fuel subsidy

Ebonyi First Lady Congratulates Gov Nwifuru On Tribunal win

By Judith Eze

The wife of the Ebonyi State Governor, Mary-Maudline Uzoamaka Ogbonna Nwifuru, has congratulated her husband the Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt Hon Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, and the Deputy Governor, Princess Patricia Obila, on their victory at the election petition tribunal held in Abuja, on Wednesday.

In a statement signed by the press secretary to the first Lady, Nnenna Oshibe and made available to The Voice stated that their victory not only reaffirms the trust and confidence that the people of our state have in their leadership but also serves as a testament to the integrity and resilience of our democratic processes’.

The statement reads : “I extend my warmest congratulations to you my dear husband, His Excellency, Rt Hon Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, on your recent election petition victory. This is a significant milestone, and I am delighted to join the countless others in celebrating your success”.

The first lady explained that the victory affirms the support and trust of the good people of Ebonyi state towards the Governor and the credibility of the 2023 Governorship election in Ebonyi state.

‘Your victory not only reaffirms the trust and confidence that the people of our state have in your leadership but also serves as a testament to the integrity and resilience of our democratic processes’.

Mrs Nwifuru extolled His Excellency’s commitment to the people of Ebonyi, especially during the process of the election petition process, and his ability to remain focused on delivering the mandate of the people of Ebonyi state.

She further stated that she has no doubt that The Governor’s administration will continue to make significant strides in driving positive change and progress in the state

“Throughout this challenging journey, you have exhibited unwavering dedication, steadfast commitment, and the highest level of statesmanship. Your ability to navigate the complexities of the electoral process while maintaining a focus on the well-being of our state is truly commendable”.

“As you continue your tenure, may your leadership continue to be marked by transparency, inclusivity, and a steadfast commitment to the welfare of all our citizens. Your vision for our state is inspiring”. Mrs Nwifuru said.

Tinubu’s Aide congratulates Ebonyi Gov over Tribunal Victory

By Chinwe Imo-Eze Onwosi

The Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Community Development, South East region, Mrs. Chioma Nweze, Wednesday congratulated the Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru for his victory at the Ebonyi State election petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja.

Nweze said the victory was for democracy as she tasked the opponents; Prof. Benard Odoh of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA and Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to drop all further litigations and actions and join hands with the governor Francis Nwifuru for the purpose of enhancing good governance in the state.

This was contained in a statement signed and issued to newsmen in Abakaliki, capital of Ebonyi State.

According to her; “I commend the resounding victory of governor, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru at the election petition tribunal sitting in Abuja. The judgement of the tribunal has again put a judicial seal on the populist mandate freely given to you by Ebonyi people in the March 18 governorship election.

She noted further that; “the victory validates the decision of majority of Ebonyians as expressed in their overwhelming votes six months ago. Indeed, the confidence of Ebonyi people in your capacity to lead the state towards its manifest destiny of greatness, is not misplaced.

The Senior Special Assistant to the President, Nweze, however urged the contenders to support Nwifuru’s administration for the purpose of the Development of the state.

“It is therefore no surprise that the frivolous petitions challenging it were torn to shreds by the impartial sword of justice. I most passionately urge all contenders to your victory to swallow the humble pie and team up with you to enable the state enjoy many more years of progressive governance” she stressed

Election Tribunal: Ebonyi Information Commissioner Congratulates Gov Nwifuru

By Chinwe Imo-Eze Onwosi

Ebonyi Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Engr Jude Chikadibia Okpor has Congratulated the State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru on his victory at the Governorship Tribunal Sitting in Abuja.

Recall that the Governorship Election Tribunal sitting in Abuja on Wednesday upheld the victory of Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru in the April, 2023 gubernatorial elections and dismissed two separate petitions filed against him by the candidate of All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA, Prof Ben Ifeanyi Odoh and his counterpart of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

Engr. Okpor described the Tribunal’s Verdict as Victory for Democracy stating that the trust in the ability of Nigeria’s Judiciary to stand firm in defense of the ballot box sanctity has never waned as mandate of the majority has prevailed.
He maintained that Governor Nwifuru’s Victory at the Tribunal was not only a victory for the collective will of the people but also a vocal expression of people’s goodwill.

The Information boss maintained that the Tribunal’s position is a victory for all who repose confidence on His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, and what he can achieve for the state and humanity as Governor of Ebonyi State.

According to him : “When God ordains, no man dares cast down! This victory holds answers for doubting thomases who question your avowed position that power belongs to God. No man is God. The judgement equally puts such a distraction aside.

“I congratulate the judiciary for standing as the hope of the people; by rising to their constitutional mandate, democracy has today been defended. Our trust in the ability of the Nigerian Judiciary to stand firm in defense of the sanctity of the ballot box at all times has never waned. The mandate of the majority has prevailed.

“I hereby call on our well-respected brothers; Dr Bernard Ifeanyi Odoh, the AGPA candidate and Chief Ifeanyi Odii of the PDP who have ventilated their legitimate rights in the tribunal thus far to exhibit sportsmanship by accepting the well-researched judgement of the revered Justices in the interest of peace and development of our dear state. Ebonyians expect them to demonstrate patriotism by joining hands with our people-oriented and purpose-driven leader to take Ebonyi State to greater heights”he stated.

5 injured in Ebonyi Communual Clash, as Council boss Sues for Peace

The Voice Reporters

Five persons have been reportedly injured in an unprovoked crisis between the people of Isophumini Mbeke- Ishieke and the indigenes of Ezza Effuim residing in Ebonyi Local government area of Ebonyi State.

The Voice gathered that on Thursday night, a disturbing incident unfolded at Nwori Ishophumini, Mbeke-Ishieke Market.

A group of armed individuals arrived at the village square, firing shots into the air and causing extensive damage to property worth millions of naira. Several people sustained injuries during this tumultuous event.

These armed individuals were allegedly from the Ezza Effium community, wielding firearms, machetes, iron rods, and sticks as they targeted people on ground.

It was further scooped that the root cause of this tension can be traced back to an earlier incident when a vehicle, supposedly transporting timber, was subjected to a ‘stop and search’ operation by the National Union of Road Transport Workers and the local security team.

The driver resisted the search, and allegedly called the owner of the goods, and within minutes, a group of armed men arrived, launching an attack on the villagers.

This resulted in heightened tension, with five individuals sustaining injuries and the loss of six motorcycles and two mobile phones belonging to villagers.

Among the injured were Nkwuda Obinna, Nwali Kenneth, Nwife Chibuike, Oluchi Nwori, and Mattew Nworie. Those who suffered property losses included Chidi Nwangele, Sunday Nwebonyi, and Anyigor Sunday.

In response to the crisis, community stakeholders ordered all Ezza individuals seeking refuge within the community to vacate immediately, in an effort to prevent further turmoil. This directive led to an exodus of Ezza refugees, fleeing the village in fear.

Chairman of the Council, Hon.Chinedu Uburu immediately took proactive steps to address the situation. He mandated that the Ezza people return the stolen motorcycles, replace the looted properties, and cover the expenses for damaged goods and medical bills incurred by the injured individuals.

He further stated that Ezza residents temporarily residing in Izzi should not be evicted, emphasizing that the village would continue to accommodate them.

Chairman Uburu assured both Izzis and Ezzas that they could conduct their business without fear of harassment.

Additionally, Chairman Uburu called for a meeting on Tuesday, January 26, 2023, with members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Nwori Mbeke Chapter, and the local security team in Isophumuni village to further address the situation.

Meanwhile, Ezza stakeholders, led by Hon. Chinedu Awo, condemned the situation, distancing the Ezza people from the crisis. They pledged their commitment to ensuring the return of all looted properties to their rightful owners.

By Judith Eze

The Wife of the Governor of Ebonyi State,  Uzoamaka Nwifuru, Tuesday,19th September2023 flagged off a day fresher course for Adult Education and Mass literacy Facilitators at the Council Headquarters, Ikwo Local Government Area.

The Special Assistant to Governor on Adult Education,Barr Stella Nwagu who Represented Uzoamaka Nwifuru said that the State Government under the administration of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru has mapped out modalities to enhance educational system in Ebonyi State.

She enjoined the facilitators to put in their best after the training and ensure that they extend the knowledge they gain to their various wards.

The wife of the Governor Commended the effort of the Executive Chairman of Ikwo Local Government Area, Barr Sunday Nwankwo in promoting the policies and programs of the State Government towards education in Ikwo Local Government Area. She extolled him for organizing a day fresher course for Adult Education and Mass literacy Facilitators;saying that this will help to fight illiteracy in Ikwo as contained in People’s Charter of needs of Ebonyi State Government.

Earlier, the Executive Chairman of Ikwo Local Government Area, Barr Sunday Nwankwo Commended the unrelenting effort of His Excellency, Rt Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru in improving educational Sector in Ebonyi State. He said with this training, people will be exposed and have more chances of learning.

“I welcome you all to today’s event. We are here because of our joint passion for second chance in education.They are people out there who can not read and write; but with this, they can. These people are our targeted audience for today’s event.

” Let me commend the effort of His Excellency, Rt Hon.Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru and his wife,Chief Mrs Uzoamaka Mary-Maudline Nwifuru who initiated this as part of the People’s Charter of needs.

“The facilitators are the important agents in the fight against illiteracy in Ebonyi State and I want the participants to put in their best while thiy training last”.

The participants were drawn from the 20 electoral wards of Ikwo Local Government Area. And at the end of the training, they will be able to anticipate the basic concepts of Adult Literacy,Mass education Strategy. The Facilitators will also be able to motivate the illiterate adults to attend literacy classes, motivate the volunteers to participate effectively, monitor/report on literacy programmes,etc.

By Chinwe Imo-Eze Onwosi

Wife of the Ebonyi State Governor, Uzoamaka Ogbonna Nwifuru has celebrated Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on the occasion of her 63rd birthday.

Mrs Nwifuru expressed great joy on the occasion and extended her heartfelt congratulations and warmest wishes and prayed for the fulfillment of Senator Tinubu ‘s noble aspirations in her pet project “The Renewed Hope Initiatives.

The Governor’s wife extolled the virtues of Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as an amiable mother of the Nation, whose presence and stellar contributions In the Society have had profound impact on the Nation.

She hailed Senator Tinubu ‘s passion for social causes, dedication to uplifting the lives of the underprivileged, and tireless efforts to promote quality health, education, and women’s empowerment are a true inspiration stating that her advocacy and initiatives have significantly impacted countless lives and communities.

Chief Mrs Nwifuru added the First Lady have consistently demonstrated grace, resilience and compassion, as her visionary approach to addressing critical issues, including healthcare, gender equality, and youth empowerment, is a beacon of hope for all.

She maintained that Ebonyi State admire and respect her commitment to unity and inclusivity stressing that the president’s wife support for collaborative efforts and partnerships between States and the Federal Government has contributed to collective growth and progress.

The Governor’s wife reiterated that Ebonyi people especially the women are taking significant cues from the First Lady’s tremendous work and promised her their unalloyed support.

By Judith Eze

The Newly appointed Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Development, South East, Barr Chioma Nweze, has expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the privilege and opportunity to serve under his administration.

President Bola Tinubu recently announced the appointment of Chioma Nweze and 25 other Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) and Advisors

Barr. Nweze in a statement appreciated President Bola Tinubu for finding her worthy to be appointed as his SSA  on Community Development South-East.

The statement reads in parts: ” Your Excellency sir, the opportunity to be part of your historic and transformative administration has been an extraordinary experience and highlight of my career. With utmost gratitude and humility I wholeheartedly accept this mandate”.

Nweze, therefore, appreciated Mr President’s ingenious decision to carve out a Community Development lifeline for the South East which has spelled a tale of reassurance to Ndigbo worldwide as to their inclusiveness in the current political equation.

“I reserve special thanks also to my mentor, the Hon Minister of Works and immediate past Governor of Ebonyi State, Senator Dr. David Nweze Umahi on whose wings, support, tutelage and mentorship I have soared to this height”.

Nweze, assured leaders that she will consult widely on how best to proceed with the common agenda of reform and revitalisation for Ndigbo and South East.

In her word; “My team and I will continue to lean on and count on the wisdom of present and past Igbo elites. We will listen attentively to your concerns, expectations and admonitions. We come as your servants; you, our masters and we would at all times listen to and heed your advice”

“As I take census of the individual and collective show of support, goodwill and solidarity that have greeted my appointment, particularly by my friends, family, and loyalists, I make an unswerving resolve to honour your trust.

“Indeed, Mr President, our debt to your courage and vision is immeasurable. In thanking you, once again, for finding me worthy of this appointment, I greatly look forward to supporting you and working with you, as you wisely steer our country toward the envisaged eldorado.

“I am confident that by the special grace of God and with your continuing prayers and support of the people of South East, a new vista beckons on the South East zone.

“Accept once again, Mr President and reverred Leaders of our country my undiluted gratitude” Nweze said