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In response to the impending nationwide strike called by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) over the removal of fuel subsidy, the Senate took a significant step to prevent the industrial action from taking place. The Senate directed its leadership on Monday to engage in discussions with the Federal Government and the NLC to find a resolution and avert the strike. The NLC had issued an ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding a reversal of the fuel subsidy removal, and threatened to commence the nationwide strike on Wednesday, August 2, 2023. The Labour body was actively mobilizing its affiliate unions to ensure a successful and complete industrial action. Senator Sulaiman Kawu (NNPP-Kano South) sponsored the motion titled: "Urgent need to avert impending nationwide strike being called by the Nigeria Labour Congress over the removal of fuel subsidy," during which he emphasized the severe impact the strike could have on the nation's economy if allowed to proceed. The r...

In a passionate appeal to Governor Mbah of Enugu State, Udaya Henry Obinna, a concerned citizen and writer from Igboeze North LGA, has called for the inclusion of Comr. Peter Andy in the ongoing nomination of commissioners. The article highlights Comr. Peter Andy's exceptional leadership qualities and his ability to connect with the people. Comr. Peter Andy, the immediate past commissioner for transportation in Enugu State, is described as an alluring personality who has won the hearts of the people of Enugu North senatorial district. His early leadership experiences as a student union leader at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and later as the caretaker committee chairman of Igbo Eze South LGA showcased his creative, brilliant, and innovative approach to governance. During his tenure as council chairman, Comr. Andy demonstrated a deep understanding of the needs of the people in the grassroots and lived among them, making him relatable and approachable. He carried out various imp...

The Nkanu East Constituency and Enugu State is in mourning following the untimely passing of Mrs. Vivian Nnajiofor, the beloved wife of former State Representative Rt. Hon. Paul Nnajiofor (Ononenyi). Mrs. Vivian Nnajiofor, a devoted wife, a caring mother, and a cherished friend, breathed her last at the Memphis Hospital in Enugu after a brief illness. The news of Mrs. Nnajiofor's passing has left the Nnajiofor family devastated and plunged into profound grief. A delectable and loving woman, she was not only the backbone of the family but also a well-respected and exceptional friend in the community. Rt. Hon. Paul Nnajiofor, expressed his shock and deep sorrow over the loss. "I am devastated, deeply saddened, and in a sorrowful mood as a result of my wife's death," mourned Hon. Nnajiofor. "In fact, I am confused and can't believe that my lovely wife is no more. Vivian was not only a great woman and wife, but also a wonderful friend to me and to many. Her loss ...

In a touching display of gratitude and admiration, the Concerned Enugu State Youths (CESY), a prominent youth group in Enugu State, recently paid a special 'Thank You Visit' to former lawmaker Hon. Ikechukwu Ezeugwu, PhD. Hon. Ezeugwu had served with distinction for 12 years as the representative of Udenu Constituency in the Enugu State House of Assembly before honorably stepping aside from partisan politics. During the visit, he was lauded for his exemplary leadership during his tenure and his significant contributions through The Ikechukwu Ezeugwu Foundation. Led by Comr. Kingsley Ekeh, the leader of CESY, the youths expressed their deep appreciation for Hon. Ikechukwu Ezeugwu's outstanding service to the state and the southeast region. They highlighted his pivotal role in the legislative processes and governance systems while serving as a member of the Board of Trustees and National Treasurer of the Conference of State Legislatures of Nigeria (COSLON). Additionally, they...

The Enugu State Chapter of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and Student Union Government (SUG) presidents from various higher institutions in Enugu State held a joint press conference to address the concerning issue of the Monday sit-at-home order and to call for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. Comrade Prisca Okeke, Chairman of NANS Enugu State Chapter, expressed their stance and concerns regarding the impact of the ongoing sit-at-home protests in the region. The continuous detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, a prominent figure in the Igbo nation and a leader in the Biafra separatist movement, has been a matter of immense concern for many Nigerians, particularly in the southeastern region. As students, they acknowledged their deep connection to their heritage but also highlighted the adverse consequences the sit-at-home order has on education and the future of the younger generation. Comrade Prisca Okeke emphasized that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu's love for the Igbo nation wa...

Enugu State, known for its abundant coal reserves and vibrant tourist attractions, is facing a growing crisis as the cost of accommodation, particularly in Enugu metropolis, has reached alarming heights. Residents are burdened by exorbitant agent, legal, and rent fees, prompting widespread concern and discussions about the underlying factors responsible for this concerning trend. One of the residents, Mr. Ik Okechukwu, expressed his dismay over the overwhelming fees and squarely placed the blame on house agents for driving up house rents. He argued that their practices have made it increasingly difficult for individuals and families to find affordable housing options in the state. Mrs. Ezeama Unice, another resident, revealed that her rent was hiked in January, and she attributes the increase to the overall poor economic situation in the country. The inflationary pressures and economic challenges are affecting both tenants and property owners alike. Mr. Michael Chidera highlighted the ...

Dear very esteemed and distinguished Senator Engr. Osita Ngwu, on behalf of my family, and the entire good people of Aninri, I want to deeply appreciate you for the appointment of our son Engr. Okoro Emmanuel whom we all know as Elder Statesman.  As the Chairman of Aninri, I have come to realize from every waking hour of my day, that there is no downside to putting the people first. You have put Aninri first by this singular gesture therefore from one public servant to another, I can assure you that Aninri will always put you first in everything we do.  Elder Statesman Engr. Emmanuel Okoro is a young man that typifies humility, doggedness, adaptable, and acute loyalty. His commitment to good governance, vision, clear headedness, and adeptness in grassroots mobilization was part of what you saw when you made him the Aninri DG of your campaign organisation during the electioneering process. Our great party the PDP also saw all that sterling quality in him and made him PDP Aninri...

In a move that has stirred controversy and concern among parents and guardians, the Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a significant increase in the school fees for new students entering Federal Government colleges, commonly known as Federal Unity colleges. The fees have been raised from ₦45,000 to ₦100,000 per student, as revealed in a circular issued by the Office of the Director of Senior Secondary Education Department of the Federal Ministry of Education on May 25, 2023. The circular, titled "Approved fees/charges for Federal Unity Colleges (1st Term) for new students," was addressed to all Principals of Federal Unity Colleges. The decision, signed by the Director of Senior Secondary Education, Hajia Binta Abdulkadir, has raised concerns among parents and stakeholders in the education sector. According to the circular, the ₦100,000 fee covers various aspects and activities within the schools, including tuition and boarding fees, uniform, textbooks, deposits, exer...

This followed public criticism of the policy with organised labour saying it falls far from the level of intervention required to ease the pains of vulnerable Nigerians.Those at the meeting are the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume; Group CEO of the NNPCL, Mele Kyari, Acting Governor of the Central Bank, Folashodun Shonubi, Acting Accountant-General of the Federation and Permanent Secretaries of the Ministries of Petroleum, Agriculture and Budget and National Planning. Also present are the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State and the Chairman of the Progressives Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodinma of Imo State. The Governors of Gombe, Katsina, Lagos, Nasarawa, Ogun, Kaduna, Kebbi, Yobe, Delta, Bayelsa, Abia, Zamfara, Anambra, Bauchi, Jigawa, Cross River, Plateau, Edo, Benue, Akwa Ibom, and Sokoto are also present. While Enugu, Oyo, Rivers, Adamawa, and Kano states are represented by their Deputy Governors. Vice President ...

The House of Representatives at plenary on Thursday took steps to stop the planned electricity tariff hike by Distribution Companies (DISCOS). Consequently, the House urged the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) not to approve any increase in electricity tariff in Nigeria. This followed the adoption of a motion moved by Hon. Aliyu Sani Madaki from Kano, who recalled that DISCOS recently alerted customers of a planned electricity tariff hike hinged on the Multi-Year Tariff Oder (MYTO). Madaki noted that the circular issued by DISCOS stated that effective July 1, 2023, there would be an upward review of the electricity tariff influenced by fluctuating rates. The lawmaker said under the MYTO, 2022 guidelines, the previous exchange rate of N441/$1 may be revised to approximately N750/$1 which would have an impact on the tariffs associated with electricity consumption. He explained that: “under the planned hike, consumers within ‘B’ and ‘C’ with supply hours ranging from 12–1...

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State has been hit by the resignation of its secretary, Alhaji Rasaq Lawal. Lawal officially announced his decision to step down from his position and also withdraw his membership from the party in separate letters addressed to the PDP state chairman, Hon. Babatunde Mohammed, and the PDP chairman in Badari ward of Ilorin West local government area. In the resignation letter sent to the state chairman, Lawal cited personal reasons as the motivation behind his departure. He expressed his belief that every endeavor in life has a beginning and an end, and according to his Muslim faith, he sees his resignation as part of his destined path. Lawal thanked the party leadership for their understanding in his decision to move on. Lawal's resignation of his party membership, addressed to the PDP chairman in Badari ward, also emphasized personal reasons as the basis for his departure. He expressed gratitude for the understanding of the party members ...

The Department of State Services (DSS) has concluded its screening of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's ministerial list, which was submitted to the agency approximately two weeks ago. The list of ministerial nominees underwent final security checks by both the DSS and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) before being forwarded to the Senate for screening. Barring any unforeseen changes, President Tinubu is expected to send the finalized list of his cabinet to the National Assembly tomorrow. The Clark of the Senate and the Principal Officers have already been informed of this development through a letter from the Presidency. According to the law, the President is required to submit the list of ministerial nominees to the National Assembly within 60 days of taking the oath of office. President Tinubu's administration was inaugurated on May 29, when he assumed leadership from former President Muhammadu Buhari. With approximately 10 days remaining until the constitution...

In a remarkable display of generosity, Prince Engr. Arthur Eze (Ozoigbondu), a renowned philanthropist and human empowerment czar, has donated the sum of N100 million to Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, the apex Igbo Socio-cultural organization. The donation was confirmed by Dr. Alex Ogbonnia, the National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. Prince Eze made the pledge during a gathering of Ndigbo at the Imo State Government Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, on July 10, 2023. Expressing his concern for the funding of Ohanaeze activities, Prince Eze acknowledged the significant contributions of Chief Engr. Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, CFR (Ahaejiagamba), a highly revered figure among the Igbo and a prominent business titan in Nigeria. He commended Chief Iwuanyanwu's visionary development agenda for transforming the Igbo land and pledged the generous sum of N100 million to support Ohanaeze Ndigbo. Dr. Ogbonnia further revealed that Prince Eze fulfilled his pledge on July 11, 2023, when he visited Ch...

Comr. Ikechukwu Emmanuel Obi The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) 2023 Convention held in Imo State on July 15th and 16th has concluded with the election of Comrade Ikechukwu Emmanuel Obi as the new Deputy Coordinator of NANS Zone F South East. Comr. Ikechukwu, who previously served as the NANS Chairman of Enugu State and the NANS Secretary of Enugu State, has been greeted with resounding joy and celebration from the Enugu student community. His victory at the 2023 NANS Zonal Convention held in Imo State on Sunday has been met with great enthusiasm. Notably, Comr. Emmanuel hails from Enugu State and has now risen to the position of Deputy Coordinator, while Comr. Nwigwe Favour emerged as the Coordinator of NANS Zone F South East. This zone comprises Anambra State, Imo State, Ebonyi State, Enugu State, and Abia State, encompassing a significant number of students under the purview of NANS. The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) is the foremost umbrella body...

In a bid to combat the illegal imposition of sit-at-home orders in the South East region of Nigeria, a prominent global women group called Women Support Women Community Network (WOSCONET) has taken a stand against these unauthorized directives. Joining forces with the Enugu and Anambra State Governments, as well as other stakeholders, WOSCONET highlights the adverse economic implications and loss of revenue caused by these prolonged restrictions. WOSCONET, renowned for its commitment to women's empowerment, has called upon other women groups such as the Catholic Women Organization (CWO), Women Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (WOWICAN), Market Women Leaders, various youth and student groups and other sister bodies to join the campaign against these illegal sit-at-home orders.  Recognizing the influential role of mothers in families, the organization urges them to encourage their husbands and children to resume their daily business activities on Mondays and every other d...

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has distanced itself from the illegal sit-at-home order and condemned the ongoing killings in the South East region of Nigeria. The group called for the release of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, in order to address the activities of criminals responsible for the violence and disruptions in the area. Speaking through its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, IPOB emphasized that it had no connection with Simon Ekpa and his group, whom they accused of enforcing the sit-at-home order through criminal means. The group clarified that Ekpa and his followers were not members of IPOB and did not represent Nnamdi Kanu. They also pointed out that IPOB had previously disassociated itself from Ekpa's activities, as evidenced by a recent demonstration held by IPOB members in Finland. IPOB maintained its commitment to peaceful agitation and denied responsibility for the sit-at-home orders and enforcement that have resulted in the halt of economic and social activities in ...

Gov. Charles Soludo  Anambra State, Nigeria - In response to the recent threat issued by Simon Ekpa, the factional leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to enforce another sit-at-home protest in the South East geopolitical zone, the Anambra State government has made it clear that it will not succumb to the demands of non-state actors. In a statement released on Thursday by Christian Aburime, the press secretary to Governor Chukwuma Soludo, the state government denounced Ekpa as a fugitive and called for his complete disregard. The government emphasized that Anambra State, under Governor Soludo's leadership, would not yield to the illegal sit-at-home order imposed by non-state actors. Aburime reiterated that the imposition of sit-at-home orders by unauthorized individuals or groups is a direct violation of the law. Anambra State firmly declared its commitment to keeping markets, schools, businesses, and other social activities open, regardless of the threats. The governm...

  Tiv Youths, represented by the Tiv Youth Organisation (TYO) Abuja chapter, have strongly criticized recent calls for the Nigerian government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, to consider granting amnesty to bandits, terrorists, and armed herdsmen. The condemnation was made during the address of the newly inaugurated President of TYO, Chief Joseph Saater Undu, in Abuja over the weekend. The calls for amnesty came from prominent figures such as former Zamfara State Governor Ahmad Yerima and Senator Diket Satso Plang, who suggested that engaging in dialogue with bandits could help address the security challenges in the North-West region of the country. Undu, however, expressed his disapproval of these proposals and called on the government to take decisive action against identified security threats. He urged President Tinubu, through the National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to direct security chiefs to clamp down on these threats and neutralize them in order t...

When it comes to women who are making significant strides in Nigeria, Stella Okotete stands out as a resounding name and an enigma to reckon with. Honorable Stella Okotete is deserving of celebration, as her achievements and leadership scorecards make her a rare gem among men and women. Honorable Stella Erhuvwuoghene Okotete currently serves as the Executive Director of Business Development at the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM). She was appointed to this role by His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on April 20, 2017. NEXIM Bank, established in 1991, is an export credit agency in Nigeria. It focuses on the development and expansion of the non-oil sectors of the Nigerian economy, aiming to reduce the country's over-reliance on oil exports. Under Stella's leadership, NEXIM Bank has experienced a transformation from a non-performing institution to an over-performing one. Her vision and determination have brought about positive cha...

If you know how busy, enterprising and boisterous the people of the Southeast could be on working days, you will know the tragedy this indiscriminate and monstrous sit at home order has brought to Ndigbo,  Click on the link below for a wake up-call Video : 👉  https://youtu.be/sT4vwETYUEc If you know how much the Igbo Nation loses on a Sit at Home day in terms of billions of naira, you will quiver to a breaking point. If you acknowledge how many innocent souls(professors, doctors, teachers, traders, students, farmers , pregnant women and children) that have been wantonly killed in the most bizarre and gruesome manner on Sit at Home days in Igboland you will cry inconsolably…. If you know the number of persons dying untimely in the hospitals on *Sit at Home* days because doctors, nurses and other staff can’t make their way to the hospitals, clinics and health centers, then you will be totally dumbfounded and eclipsed by fear. If you know the irreparable damage done to the psyc...

EASTERN NEWS SUNDAY SPORTS The Enugu youth community is filled with excitement as the Kings Care Foundation announces the upcoming Echeribe Enugu East Senatorial Zone Football Tournament. Organized by Dr. Afam Atu (Echeribe), the tournament aims to uncover hidden football talent within Enugu State and provide young players with an opportunity to showcase their skills on an international stage. With the goal of promoting individual talent and elevating the reputation of Enugu State's football scene, this tournament promises to be a transformative initiative. The primary objective of the Echeribe Enugu East Senatorial Zone Football Tournament is to identify exceptional players who will be given the chance to participate in football trials in Europe. Dr. Afam Atu, the founder of the Kings Care Foundation, firmly believes in the immense talent present in Enugu State and aims to enhance the skills of selected players through exposure to international football standards. To recognize th...

Vice-President Kashim Shettima, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd.), and Aliko Dangote were a few of those who paid their last respects to the Founder of First City Monument Bank (FCMB), the late The funeral service for the late philanthropist was held at the Cathedral Church of Our Saviour in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, said a statement by the Director of Information, Office of the Vice President, Olusola Abiola. Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu, said Balogun was an institution in the Nigerian banking sector and a model for generations of bankers and lawyers, among other professionals. He also described the late FCMB founder as a banking icon “who was everything our ailing world desired.” Speaking further about the deceased virtues and impact, the Vice President said the late Balogun was “a philanthropist extraordinaire and departing from this world at age 89 is a gift that only a few have benefited from.” In his remarks, the Governor of Ogun State, Mr Dapo Abiodun, said the late Balog...

Enforcers of the illegal seven-day sit-at-home order have again shot a Keke rider and a pedestrian dead at Akwakuma junction in Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State. The gunmen, according to reports, attacked the area on Saturday while enforcing the sit-at-home order. An eyewitness said that the gunmen stormed the area in a Sienna bus and started shooting sporadically in the air, causing people to scamper for safety. The tricycle rider, whose name was yet to be known, was said to be scouting for passengers at the junction when the gunmen took him unawares and shot him on the chest. This is coming few hours after part of Orie Amaraku popular market was set on fire alongside some parked vehicles, allegedly done by same enforcers of the sit-at-home order. A tailor at Akwakuma junction, who pleaded anonymity told the newsmen that another pedestrian was also hit by stray bullet during the attack. According to her, “it was terrible, the junction is currently deserted because of th...

The Network of Water Rights Initiative (NEWARI), a coalition of 23 civil society organizations committed to addressing water poverty, held a productive meeting with the Executive Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency Barr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah. The gathering, which took place at the Government House in Enugu, focused on shared objectives and the vital role of civil society organizations in achieving water-related interventions in the state. Amb. Mrs. Amaka Nweke JP, the Coordinator and Board Secretary of NEWARI, expressed her appreciation to Governor Mbah for his willingness to collaborate with civil society organizations and other stakeholders across various sectors. She emphasized the importance of their support in bringing about significant improvements in water access and related interventions in Enugu State. NEWARI, as a task team member organization of the End Water Poverty Coalition based in the United Kingdom and a member of the Pan-African Network, Africa Water Justice Networ...

By Obeta Chioma   The Enugu State House of Assembly (ENHA) has appointed Hon. Mrs. Princess Obiajulu Ugwu, the representative for Enugu South Rural Constituency, as the Deputy Chief Whip of the State Assembly. The announcement was made by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Uche Ugwu, during the plenary session held on Tuesday at the Legislative Complex in Enugu. In addition to her appointment as Deputy Chief Whip, Hon. Princess Obiajulu Ugwu has also been selected as one of the ad-hoc committee members tasked with recommending the formation of various committees within the House. These committees play a vital role in the legislative process and contribute to the efficient functioning of the Assembly. Hon. Princess Obiajulu Ugwu's new position as Deputy Chief Whip comes with great responsibility, as she takes over from her predecessor, Rt. Hon. Onyinye Ugwu, who held the position for the duration of her eight-year tenure in the Assembly. This appointment reflects the confidence and ...