The clarion call is waxing by the day. Nigeria needs rebirth in all sectors, in all ramifications. The men seem to take to be taking the spotlight and the women seem to be sidelined but the affirmative action breeze is blowing fast and verse.

The recently commemorated International Women's Day provided an ample opportunity to demonstrate this. Women need to be carried along in the scheme of things. Their voice need to be heard even at the highest level. Someone needs to propagate the ideal at the highest level. Anyim is the man.

Anyim, Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON) Former Senate President and a Frontline presidential hopeful in a message to women during the occasion, urged the National Assembly to re-consider the rejected gender bills aimed at promoting their wellbeing.

The ebullient former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) hailed women for their various contributions in nation building pledging that his presidency will put them in the exalted pedestal of the national sphere.

"I give you a message of solidarity and support, pledging to correct the your under-representation in politics and governance.

"I call on the NASS to re-visit the rejected bills on women and gender related issues with a view to passing them into law. Women are pivotal to societal existence and I
promise to champion women inclusiveness if I become president of Nigeria in 2023.

"I join the world in standing up for women on this auspicious occasion and several other occasions and join all men of goodwill to celebrate our women for all they do to maintain the balance of the human society.

Women can help in providing the elixir needed to resucitate a flagging society such as ours.

The father of the nation expressed sadness that women in Nigeria celebrated this year’s International Women's Day with a deep feeling of disappointment and anger, arising from the rejection of the women/gender related bills at the constitution amendments hearings of the National Assembly.

" I understand that the normal legislative processes were duly followed and the outcome was that the bills did not receive the required number of votes for their passage. However, it is very unfortunate that those bills were rejected. I urge NASS to give a consideration to those bills because our women deserve the best.

“I urge in that matters that are critical to the peace, development and harmony of our country, like giving our women a sense of worth, belonging, confidence and inclusiveness, we must look beyond processes and procedures and take actions and decisions that will engender stability and progress in the society. Our women must be made happy in the face of prevailing uncertainties and travails in the country".

He noted that with an estimated population of over 104 million – (49.32% of Nigeria’s population, 2021 estimate), Nigerian women have only 29 out of the 469 members of the Nigerian National Assembly.

"This is grossly inadequate to represent the views and put the voice of the women on the table when dealing with national issues, especially as they affect women and children”.

“Without inclusiveness, we will not make the desired progress in our efforts at nation building. The matter of gender balance and women inclusiveness in governance is one area we must resolve by deliberate actions and policies.

"I therefore stoutly stand with Nigerian women on their demand for a more equitable and fair representation in government at all levels.

“As the president of the country, I will ensure that modalities are put in place to ensure that women are equitably represented and given their rightful place in the scheme of things.

"To demonstrate our love for and appreciate the invaluable contributions of Nigerian women to the peace, progress, development and stability of our country, the NASS should as a matter of urgent national importance, revisit the rejected women/gender related bills to give our women the confidence and sense of belonging they require to continue to serve our country and humanity at large.

"We do not have to wait for women to occupy the NASS before we do the right thing.

"Let me assure our hard working and patriotic Nigeria women that I recognise the important role they play in stabilising the society. I appreciate their invaluable contributions to the development of our country, and above all, I value them as indispensable partners in nation building.

"By the grace of God and the will of all Nigerians, If I am given the opportunity to serve our great country's as president, Nigerian women will have their deserved place of pride in the administration I will superintend,"

.....Our hope in 2023 has spoken.

Ebonyi State Governor, Engr David Umahi, says the judgment sacking him and his deputy over defection to the All Progressives Congress Party, APC, by Justice Inyang Ekwo in Abuja high Court  is null and void, lacking constitutional powers to sack him.




It would be recalled that a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Tuesday, sacked the Governor and his Deputy for defecting to the All Progressives Congress Party, APC, while serving a mandate given to the People's Democratic Party, PDP in the State.



"I am still the Governor of Ebonyi State and he has no powers to remove me," Umahi said.

"I have listened to the judgment of Ekwo and it's very obvious that he was on a mission,

"He was making all efforts to upturned the rulling of the supreme and appeal court on issues like this."



Umahi's reaction comes hours after the judgment, and said in a press conference in Abakaliki that there is no constitutional provision to remove him, saying "there are three ways whereby a Governor can vacate his seat, is either by death, resignation or impeachment by the house of Assembly."

He said there's already a judgement of a high court in Abakaliki in his favor, and another one in  Zamfara state, which has ruled that a Governor and his Deputy cannot be sacked from office on account of defection to another political party




Umahi, alleged that the judgment was influenced to embarrass the All Progressives Congress Party, APC, as well as the Federal Government of Nigeria, noting the presiding judge has been purchased and described the situation as a trouble to the judiciary and the Nation.



"I feel sorry for the judiciary, the executives and legislatures may have problem but the moment justice is purchased, then we are in trouble in this country and the rulling this afternoon is a clear evidence that this country is in trouble,


"Let me say to the Nation, that there is a need to look at the integrity of our judiciary because if they begin to rule against constitutional matters that are well laid down, then the citizens of this country may decide not to obey such jungle justice." Umahi said.

The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has pledged to protect all agricultural facilities, schools among others in Ebonyi as part of its mandate to secure lives and properties.

The State Commandant of the Corps, Terrumun Gbue made the disclosure while addressing newsmen on the occasion of the International Civil Defence Day, 2022.

Gbue said that the command in the state has been galvanized to ensure that lives and properties of the citizens were secured at all times.

"The agro rangers squad in the state has proactively mitigated the effects of the farmers and herders issues and ensured that they live harmoniously.

"They have also adequately protected agricultural facilities in the state to boost food production and generally enhance agriculture in the state.

The state commandant said that the female special squad has also adequately provided security in school s in the state in the wake of incessant attacks on educational facilities across the country.

"They also visit schools to sensitise them on ways of ensuring security in and out of their environment.

Gbue read the address of the Secretary General of the International Civil Defence Organization (ICDO) Yap Mariatou which was read to all actors in the civil defence chain across the world.

In the message, the director general invited all civil defence actors to focus on the involvement of volunteers in prevention of the displacement of people.

"They should also focus on providing care to Internally Displaced Persons and Refugees in a context of the COVID 19 pandemic and weakning of the economic fabric.

The message also noted that the world of civil defence is confronted with managing the pandemic which has begun its third year in existence, fortunately in a more serene environment.

"The ICDO choose the following theme to celebrate the day, 'Civil defence and management of displaced populations in face of disasters and crises: role of volunteers and the fight against pandemics.

Highlights of the celebration in Ebonyi include a road walk to sensitise the public about the event, thanksgiving service at the NSCDC headquarters Chapel in the state, demonstrations by the agro rangers and female special squads, among others.

Reflection of good governance

Chairman of the Association of Local Government Of Nigeria, (ALGON) Princess Inkechinyere Iyioku, who doubles as the Executive Chairman of Ohoazara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State is no doubt replicating the giant strides of the State Governor, Engr David Umahi in areas of Keen interest towards ensuring the welfare of her people.




In a journalists sight seeing tour of her numerous projects in Ohoazara Local Government Area, her midas touch in infrastructures, education, health, human empowerment, security and good governance is a reflection of the fact that she governs her people with the fear of God.




While Interacting with the former leader of Ohoazara legislative council, Hon. Ogbonnaya Okorie Ekpe, who is currently serving as the supervisory councilor for works to Ohoazara Local Government, he said; "she has taken the blueprint of His Excellency, the Governor of Ebonyi State, Engr David Umahi."



IN EDUCATION

"One of the basic thing She did was to set up a committee for monitoring the educational activities in the Local Government, which has proven Excellent because our students are coming out with good results." Ekpe said.


He noted that back in 2017 when she resumed office as the Executive Chairman, the education system wasn't as much enticing as it is at the moment, but with her experience as a former education supervisor, she has been able to change the narratives.


Epke, disclosed that Princess Inkechinyere Iyioku has built class rooms at Obiagu, Igwebuike and Ugwulangwu Primary school respectively as well renovated secondary schools in the LGA and equipt them with modern facilities to improve learning for her people.



INFRASTRUCTURES


While observing her achievements in the area of infrastructures, journalists observed she has constructed and completed a 1Km road from the council headquarters leading to brass filling station in Obiozara.

The ALGON chairman, has also built and furnished a modern lodge facility for the council as well as constructed a modern police station with perimeter fencing, in collaborations with the State Government.


Other projects she has executed includes a 70% completed Admin block with 10 offices at the Local Government headquarters, an admin block for the Department of State Security Service, (DSS) as well as the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, (NSCDC) and a Customary Court.


Princess Iyioku, has also renovated and equipt the corpers lodge at the LGA, renovated the Ebonyi State Independent Electoral Commission, (EBSIEC) office as well built a pavilion for schools and community sporting activities.


IN HEALTH


"She dug a new borehole at the urban health center in Okposi and built a functional health center in the area,

"As I speak it has been completed, she has also created an enabling environment for workers to attend to people with medical needs." Ekpe explained.


IN SPORTS


Journalists have learnt that Princess Iyioku has been organizing an annual sports tournament to unite youths of the three communities of Uburu, Okposi and Ugwulangwu, within the LGA.


"She has been sponsoring the sports tournament and provided the necessary materials needed such as thier custumes and welfare to encourage them." He said.


EMPOWERMENT


Her numerous empowerment projects ranges from distribution of materials such as motorcycles, tricycles as well mini buses and sienna cars to encourage the people into transport business.


It gathered She has also empowered the youths and women with industrial sewing machines and equipt them with the necessary start up funds to enable them operate business comfortably.


"Last year, virtually all the wards in the Local Government Area have received cash sums of money depending on thier various areas of passion, vision and dream, she always channel her empowerment inline with the people's passion and talents, she believes in adding value to people." Ekpe told the media.


SECURITY


According to the work supervisor, She has supported the State Government and empowered over 100 youths to aid the security agencies in protection of lives and properties of the people.

Notable amongst which includes the distribution of motorcycles and other paraphernalia in collaborations with the Police and other security agencies towards the safety of the LGA.



Princess Inkechinyere Iyioku has no doubt established her feet in gold and her numerous achievements cannot be overemphasized or contained in a single write up hence, she is replicating the giant strides of the State Governor, Engr David Umahi in all ramifications, as if to say like Governor like ALGON chairman, like Ohoazara Council boss.

His Excellency, Senator Chief Anyim Pius Anyim Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON) recently visited Ebonyi his home state alongside members of the National Assembly from the state and other bigwigs of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Such visit was necessary to assure the home front that recapturing power from the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2023 was a task that must be accomplished.

The visit was also to prove that the former Senate President and one of the foremost statesmen of the country, is the father of PDP in Ebonyi. He is the rallying point of the party in the state and has consistently shown that aside from pursuing his divine presidential bid, the affairs of the party in the state was close to his heart and the task of liberating Ebonyi from the bondage of misrule was paramount.

The burning issues niggling the party in the state and which were being tackled headlong by the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and other stakeholders were the issues of the purpoted removal of the Deputy Speaker of the State House
of Assembly, Chief Obasi Odefa by a cabal membership of the House. The other was the continued incaceration of the state's Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr Chika Nwoba for allegedly violating the state government's cybercrime law.

The Odefa issue is mind-boggling. Just for his refusal to decamp to the APC, a letter of his purpoted resignation from the House and subsequently, as the deputy speaker was read at the floor of the House by the Speaker, Hon Francis Nwifuru. He was immediately replaced as the deputy speaker while the seats of two other PDP members: Oliver Osi and Ngozi Eziulo, were also declared vacant also for their refusal to defect to the APC.

Odefa and the PDP in the state have maintained that the purpoted resignation letter was forged and they would explore all legal means to seek redress against to such grievious act.

Anyim while addressing party faithful during its stakeholders meeting assured that the APC/ Ebonyi government's innocuous game plan was dead on arrival and this was a monumental nail in its coffin.

"By next month, more lawmakers of the state APC will defect to the PDP and I am saying this it with utmost optimism.
The PDP will go further than that and soon take over the leadership of the House of Assembly.

"Without the nine lawmkers, there will no 2/3rd majority in the Ebonyi House of Assembly for the APC lawmakers to do anything.
The 15 lawmakers of the APC cannot be allowed to control the affairs of the House as I urge party faithful to remain committed to the sole agenda of the party.

The issue of the incaceration and recent bail given to Nwoba Chka Nwoba, state Publicity Secretary of the PDP, also attracted the attention of the ebullient presidential hopeful. Anyim in his message to party faithful and generality of Ebonyi people, said that though Nwoba's release called for celebrations, it should also elicit deep thoughts about the danger in which democracy was running into in Ebonyi.

In his admonition, he recalled that Nwoba was abducted in a commando-style on January 9, 2021, by known officers and agents of the Ebonyi government under the dreaded Ebubeagu security outfit. The swift intervention of the state PDP deputy chairman, who invited the police to the scene, saved Nwoba from being killed by his abductors.

"However, to the bewilderment of all, rather than arresting the culprits, the police turned round to detain Nwoba until January 26 when he was arraigned in court; citing the following offence:

“That you Nwoba Chika Nwoba “M” on the 23rd day of September 2020 at Ikwo L.G.A. within the jurisdiction of this honourable court did knowingly and intentionally publish and circulate message via your Facebook Profile (known as Nwoba Chika Nwoba) and falsely credited it to David Umahi, which is a statement, grossly offensive and likely to disturb public peace knowing or having reason to believe that such statement, report is false which statement reads,"

Anyim noted that the truth remains that the people in Governor David Umahi’s government are not happy. They have a lot of vital information to leak to the public and their problem overtime has been who will have the guts to air it out and the source not uncovered.

"The offence for which Nwoba was charged brings to the fore, the fact that any fair comment on Ebonyi State government talk less mentioning the name of the governor is certain to be punishable by either death or torture or unlawful incarceration or indefinite detention via the instrumentation of a subdued magistrate under a charge that has no place in a democratic society," .

Anyim noted that the celebration of Nwoba's release was not just because Nwoba has been granted bail but because he is alive and that the PDP state Deputy Chairman was available and intervened to disrupt the abduction.

"Nwoba’s abduction is only one of the cases of intimidation of the opposition or any person that holds dissent opinion in Ebonyi since the governor defected from the PDP to the APC in 2020,".

He noted that in another bizarre development, the governor on January 25, 2022, without reason or cause, directed that Linus Okorie, a former member of the House of Representatives, be declared wanted.

"As a leader of a party built on the rule of law and a defender of democracy, I remain resolute in conjunction with other aggrieved victims of the nefarious activities of the state government.
If the House of Assembly members of the APC and their master cares, they can declare the whole of House of Assembly vacant; that will however, not change the resolve of the 9 out of 24 members that have vowed to remain in PDP.

"In the same vein, no amount of torture or abduction will change the resolve of all well-meaning citizens of Ebonyi state from remaining in the party of their choice--the PDP," .

He however urged all Ebonyi citizens to remain steadfast; even in the face of intimidation and suppression, as all necessary actions are being taken to ensure that the state is rescued and made greater in 2023.

"The will of God and the minds of the people working together, are stronger than the combination of guns rampaging the state.

"I welcome Nwoba back to freedom and the warmth and love of his immediate family that has been truncated by a government we all worked hard to install in the hope that it will ensure our welfare and security.

"He must not be intimidated into silence because of this experience for success always comes after much struggles.
Let me reassure all that. We shall overcome.

The presidential hopeful has spoken. The people have been re-assured. The coming days though challenging, ushers new hope of redemption for Ebonyi state and Nigeria.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) in the Ebonyi State University (EBSU) has denied reports of alleged victimisation of some lecturers in the university by its management.

The union in a statement signed by the Chairman of its Caretaker Committee, Dr Godfrey Nwambeke and Secretary, Dr Douglas Nnachi, said that National Executive Committe (NEC) of ASUU goofed by including the university among institutions which academic staff were victimised.

Nwambeke in the statement, said that such inclusion was done without recourse to ASUU-EBSU congress as it remained a surprise to the union.

"It is our view that ASUU-NEC should foremostly concentrate on helping ASUU-EBSU hold its election which is overdue since the present ASUU-EBSU Caretaker Committee was formed.

"This was sequel to the sack of the former Acting Chairperson, Dr. Ikechukwu Igwenyi by the congress as ASUU-NEC should not be misled by anyone masquerading as representative of ASUU-EBSU apart from the duly constituted Caretaker Committee".

"Ebonyi State University is very peaceful and calm with all staff both academic and non-academic going about their normal businesses and responsibilities without molestation or threat,".

He noted in the statement that though there might be administrative actions against erring staff by the management, such were purely administrative matters which does not require action of the union.

"Where there is no discipline and order, anarchy takes over as administrative breaches are handled administratively and labour matters, handled by the labour unions respectively.

"We therefore called on ASUU-NEC to stop being indifferent to issues concerning ASUU-EBSU which they ought to have resolved to strengthening the union.

"We appreciate our members for believing in ASUU-EBSU by conducting their normal official duties and other academic activities," .

According to the statement, the union resolved to work with the university management and the state government to move the university forward.

"It is our desire to make the institution, a citadel of learning to be proud and where rights of staff especially the academic ones, are protected,".

The Ebonyi government has commended the International Fund for Agricultural Development-assisted Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP) for adding value to the wellbeing of farmers in the state.

Chief Moses Nome, State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources made the commendation in Abakaliki during an IFAD-VCDP pre-season training for field workers and lead farmers drawn from the benefiting Local Government Areas of the state.

Nome said that with such training, IFAD-VCDP has made farmers in the state approach farming as business thereby generally enhancing their livelihood.

"Regular training of farmers enables them to adequately apply improved technologies on the farm to to increase crop yield.

"In this era of general economic downturn, such trainings and their practicability should be sustained to make farming, a veritable means of livelihood.

He described IFAD-VCDP as the engine of agricultural development in the state as it supplements the government's untiring efforts to enhance the sector.

"IFAD-VCDP constructs rural farm roads,markets, distributes input and agro-chemicals among interventions.

Alhaj Bala Garba, National Programme Coordinator of IFAD-VCDP said that the exercise was among the three training programmes conducted for farmers in every farming season.

Garba represented by Dr Chika Unamma, IFAD-VCDP Agricultural Producition Advisor, said the trainings include the pre-season, in-season and post harvest trainings.

"The pre-season training is the most important because it precedes other trainings and is the foundation for the success of the farming season.

"The training signals the commencement of the farming season, as we review performances of the preceding season and how to apply the new technologies on the farms among other activities.

"We however commend the Ebonyi Governor for his relentless support to IFAD-VCDP and the state commissioner for agriculture for his commitment towards attaining our set goals.

Mr Sunday Ituma, State Programme Coordinator of IFAD-VCDP, said that the field officers and lead farmers would step-down contents of training to benefiting farmers across the participating councils.

"We would redouble efforts in discharging our obligations towards benefiting farmers in developinge agriculture in the state.

Mr Darlington Onele, the IFAD-VCDP Agricultural Production Officer in state, said that the participants have been adequately motivated for effective participation.

Mrs Nkiru Eze, one of the participants, thanked IFAD-VCDP for the training and pledged to effectively utilise the knowledge ganered from it.

Rarely in this clime, will one see a leader, opinion moulder or political stakeholder, appear on televison for or in any form of talkshow without drawing lines of controversy or engaging in outbursts that would stir or heat the polity.

For His Excellency Anyim Pius Anyim, Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON) Former Senate President; his appearance on Channels Television programme tagged: “Politics Today” on Saturday, February 19-incidentally, the day he turned 61 in a most fruitful sojourn on earth; shows a lot about the disposition of a political genius, avid nationalist and the hope for a revamped Nigeria.

The interactive characteristical of him, was devoid of name calling or mudslinging but rich in planned policies and programmes which would form the base of revamping Nigeria in all sectors when he hopefully assumes its leadership on May 29, 2023.

He spoke on a variety of llissues:

On the main reason of acceptability for the position, he said he was eminently qualified as he was a true nationalist who believed and had worked assidiously for the unity of the country.

“Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo from the South West became the President not because South-West supported him, they actually support him but Nigerians chose him.

"President Buhari ran for Presidency three times and each of those three times, he had winning votes in major catchment areas in the north but he did not win until he teamed up with the south. He then ran and won.

"This means that for anybody from the South East who wishes to run, it is not the south east that will make you the President. You are not going to be a president of the south east. You are going to be the President of Nigeria," he said.

These are noble words as he concluded that it was his desire, effort and target to be acceptable to all Nigerians.

Continuing, he said that he will aspire for the presidency as somebody who has become whatever he is in life because he is a Nigerian.

“I will aspire to intervene in the affairs of the country at a time I think my services are needed most as I have intervened before even outside office. The Senate if we can recall, was turbulent but when I became its President, I stabilised it. I am a full-fledged Nigerian with experiences across board and I want to be accepted as the President of Nigeria across board.”

The Ebullient former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) described the problems facing the country as hydra-headed, pointing out that poor leadership was its root.
My knowledge of the country with the vantage positions I held in the past gives a clear understanding of the challenges and I can profer solutions.

“The problems have huge political, economic and social dimensions. People will say individually that the problems are insecurity, lack of infrastructure among others but in my view, the greatest challenge is poor leadership.”

Outlining how he will solve these problems, the "expected messiah as being touted in several quarters' said that he will refocus the Nigerian economy to fit into the new world economic direction. He said that he will take into consideration the fourth industrial revolution and articulate an economic agenda that will stand on industrialisation, talent and innovation, science and technology. He said that with the nation's vast, huge agricultural potentials, he would revolutionalise the sector with mechanisation.

"In my first to second week in office, I will set up the structure of governance. I should make the necessary appointments so that work starts immediately.

“The process will be segmentalised. From the political angle, I will build consensus on critical areas and use them as a foundation for launching into the future. I will build consensus on the political processes, governance issues and frameworks, political participation and inclusiveness.

“We would expand our industrial base- engage in agriculture to produce for local consumption and industrial purposes. I will redirect our economy to generate a lot of diversification to make the private sector run the economy," he said.

Consensus is a vital tool to achieve an egalitarian society. On it rests the attainment of peace, justice and equity. With it, people will have their say and be represented equitably in the polity. By it, agitations will be moderated and violent extremism checked or reduced to the barest.
To achieve this, Anyim says he will foremostly involve the people in decision making so that when convinced, they will identify with the policies and programes. Government is not just about the leader or a few people, it must be the responsibility of everybody.

"People should be given stakes to elicit patriotism and make policies successful," he said.

The burning issue within the ranks of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) currently is how to wrestle power from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Anyim expressed optimism that the PDP will sweep the 2023 polls, the same way it swept the recent Abuja Area Council polls.

“I hope you watched the test run of this certainty with the Abuja Area Council polls. Right before the nose of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, PDP was sweeping the polls and this will happen across the country.
PDP is a national party and not a south-east party. All through my political life, I have always played at the national level and not regional. I have been the head of the Senate right here in Abuja; I have been Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, right here in Abuja. I have made several interventions at the national level. The one you mentioned when this country was at crossroads, over the issue of the President being sick and not transmitting a letter. And you also know that even with the rising insecurity at a point, I wrote an open letter to the President.

“There are people from the north, west, east and all, that are aspiring to pick the presidential ticket of the PDP. I am putting my credentials on the table alongside theirs. I believe that I have the right credentials, experience and capability to contest with anyone.

The appearance on channels TV afforded the elder statesman, the opportunity of clearing the air, an age-long held misconception about his supposed rift with former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

The grandmaster of the nation's politics held that the Owu Chief was an outstanding president who focused on all he wanted to do.
He disclosed that they had a disagreement on an issue which involved the National Assembly and the Executive arm of government.

"The disagreement was due to a motion moved by Senator Idris Abubakar from Gombe state and not moved by me.
It was the action taken in the senate that the former president reacting to which was a friction between the national assembly and the executive.
As the head of the legislature, I could not run away from it; I was leading the legislature and Obasanjo was leading the executive so there was nothing personal.

The former senate president also used the interactive to prove that the long held perception about him not driven by inordinate ambition and being someone with high penchant for self esteem, was no fluke.
On the reason for not seeking a return to the Senate after 2003, he opined that it would had been seen as hunger for power if after leading the upper chamber, he returned to it as a floor member.

"I had been President of the Senate and Chairman of the National Assembly which meant I had gotten to the peak of that career.
If I returned and not elected the senate president, I will be at the floor of the senate.
Even if I came back, I should not expect to be elected the senate President because it should rotate. When I was leaving, I said that I believed in rotation. So, my not returning was not because of anybody.

“The election to return me was in my zone and not the national assembly, so, I wouldn’t have come back after being senate president to sit on the floor. That will translate to hunger for power which I did not have," he said.

He earlier said that he had the credentials to become president. The facts speak for themselves. Nigeria needs a man who does not monger for power. Anyim is it.....

On Saturday, February 19th, one of the fathers of the nation celebrated his 61 years earth, crested with unparalleled service to God and man. Eulogies have poured from far and near, across continents, seas, oceans, mountains and valleys. As a point of contact, the eulogy from Chief Ali Odefa, National Vice Chairman PDP South East will suffice.

Odefa in his felicitation, said that he, his family and entire PDP family, celebrate its leader and a man of divine destiny. He said that the party was so proud to identify with Anyim and excited to join his family, friends, associates and millions of Nigerians to celebrate him.

"As you clock 61 years on your beautiful sojourn on earth, you have remained a shining light in the Nigerian political firmament, a man whose goodwill crosses all boundaries.
You are a man who believes in the common good of all Nigerians, a great son of Ebonyi State and indeed Igboland.

"By dint of hard work and divine providence, you emerged the Senate President at a time when Nigeria was battling to find its feet in the annals of democratic governance.
You have since then, etched your name in the minds of Nigerians as a leader who can be trusted
You have unequivocally entrenched yourself in the minds of Nigerians as a patriot who believes so much in the unity and progress of our dear country, Nigeria," he eulogised.

The PDP--NVC south east said that through Anyim's usual calm, calculated and mature approach to issues, he has become a trusted leader, a bridge builder and purveyor of the belief in a better and prosperous Nigeria.

"As you turn 61 years, all of us in the PDP Southeast zone raise our glasses in cheers to you who has seen it all but yet remain humble.
You are a man who believe so much in God and His infinite abilities to direct the affairs of men, a man who has taught us to be loyal party men and leaders with the love of comrades and foot soldiers at heart.
As you celebrate your 61birthday, we fervently pray and wish you many more beautiful and healthy years ahead, in your service to Nigeria and humanity at large," he felicitated.

The Igbo people say that 'Anya ka-eji a ma oka chara-acha' (One identifies a ripe corn with sight).

This corn is ripe and Nigerians are waiting for the fulfilment of destiny on May 29, 2023.

Ebonyi is rising

Skylink wine palace over the weekend has opened for business in Abakaliki to satisfy the need of fun loving people in Ebonyi State with assorted drinks.


It gathered the wine shop is located opposite police junction, Ugwachara In Ebonyi Local Government Area of the State.


The Chief executive director of Skylink wine palace, Nweze Daniel, says the wine shop would enable people to make purchase of assorted drinks at affordable rates.

He noted it as a way of complimenting the works the of the State Governor, Engr David Umahi on infrastructures by investing in the State.


"I have decided to set up Skylink wine palace because I don't want to be a lazy youth,

"I decided to set it up here in Abakaliki because I am the son of the soil, I don't necessarily have go elsewhere and invest for now, when I can invest in my State,

"It's my little effort  to compliment the effort of the State Governor, Engr David Umahi, who has giving us hopes and created a business environment for us." Nweze said.


He encouraged youths in the State abroad to always return home and set businesses to empower the people.

"We have employed over ten staffs and we are looking at enlarging the place to accommodate more people,

"Ebonyians abroad should always remember that there is no place like home, they should come and invest here to prove that Ebonyi is a place to be.".


"It's our people in Lagos that developed it for instance, so we want our people to always know the importance of our development to attract more people into the State." He explained.

The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Ebonyi has paraded Mr Chibuike Ajah for allegedly vandalising railway slippers at Ivo Local Government Area of the state.

The state Commandant of the corps, Terrumun Gbue while parading the suspect, said that efforts were on top gear to apprehend other vandals.

Gbue said that the suspect covered some of the items on a motorcycle and on further interogation, others were discovered inside a bush and were retrieved.

"The suspect claimed that a man sent him to convey the items but failed to show us whom the person was.

"I am barely a month in office in the state but has discovered that the rate of vandalism is high.

"Our successes so far stem from our stance to rid the state of vandals and are still advising vandals to relocate from the state,"

The state commandant also paraded five suspects in possession of scrabs from heavy-duty equipment.

"They were intercepted on Thursday along the Abakaliki-Enugu federal highway conveying the items in two articulated vehicles.

"They engage the services of panel beaters to dismantle the equipment and could not explain where the items were being conveyed to.

"Investigations are still ongoing and the suspects would be duly prosecuted afterwards.

Mr Chibuike Ajah, one of the suspects maintained that he was asked by someone to convey the items but had realised that such act amounted to enconomic sabotage.

"I deeply regret my action having realised that it disrupts the federal government's drive to ressucitate the nation's rail industry,"

Ebonyi APC

The newly inaugurated Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi, Chief Stanley Okoro-Emegha says he has initiated peace moves to strenghten the party in the state.

Okoro-Emegha made the disclosure while addressing party faithful on his return to the state after his inauguration alongside other state chairmen in Abuja.

The chairman said that he and other party leaders in the state presently meeting aggrieved members to unite in making the party stronger.

"APC is a large family and Ebonyi currently ranks among the states where the party is sure to win elections.

"The governor has set a standard which will make his successor from the party, sustain all his endearing legacies.

He said that he will however, not be distracted by the antics of those who will still continue negating the ideals of the party in the state.

"It is clear that we did not record rancourous ward, local government area and state congresses and the national congress committee to the state placed Ebonyi as a model to other states.

"The person who called himself chairman is not even registered in his ward and should present his certificate for all to see.

Okoro-Emegha assured party faithful that he will not fail in his mandate and work in harmony with his executive to move the party forward.

"I am assuring you that the governor will emerge as the APC presidential flagbearer because the party reposes much confidence in him.

"This made it appoint him the chairman of its campaign counul for the Federal Capital Territory municipal election as lots of consultations are ongoing to ensure he gets the ticket.

Chief Chaka Nweze, a Chieftain and the Pioneer Secretary of the party in the state, congratulated Okoro-Emegha and urged him to unite party faithful in the state.

"The party should consolidate on its congress successes and the giant strides of the present administration in the state.

"The party leaders among other stakeholders are ready to collaborate with the its leadership at the state and other levels to achieve desired electoral objectives.

Mr Azubike Ukaoma, a business man based in Abakaliki, Ebonyi state has advised unemployed youths to embrace online trading business as a veritable means of livelihood.


Ukaoma who made the call in an interview in Abakaliki, said the youths should stop wasting time waiting on white collar jobs.


He said they should explore business opportunities to reduce the rate of unemployment in the nation.

He said his company, “EQUAL LEG TRADING Ltd., in Ebonyi, has been at the fore-front on training and educating unemployed youths on business investment and strategies on skill professions like Forex trading.


“The importance of skill acquisition to economic growth cannot be overemphasised because it is a veritable means of earning legitimate income.


“Online trading is very simple and easy to handle, learning of trading and other skill acquisition can go a long way in reducing crimes and criminal tendencies in the society.


“We teach online businesses like Forex in local language with methods that will demystify the concept and make it more attractive to the society.’’


He said he has engaged some youths online on Forex trading; commodity trades comprising crude oil, gold, natural gas, foreign exchange rate, index value, among other products.


“We teach how to safeguard against fraudulent practices in the industry by giving our clients comprehensive knowledge of the pitfalls in the business.


“Principally, we coach people, who have interest and passion on online trading business.


“The target here is basically on graduates because this is where the energy lies. You can invest and make money easily through Forex trading and other online businesses,”

The National Association of Nigerian Students, (NANS) on Saturday inaugurated the Joint Campus Committee, (JCC) in Ebonyi State University.


This comes following the dissolution of all standing committees of the south east and South south zones at the 58th convention of  NANS zone B,  held in December 2021.


The Coordinator, NANS Zone B South-South/South-East, Comrade Nwurukwu Olisa Alfred, charged the new committee on steadfastness, accountability and capacity in discharging their duties.

"They are therefore charged to imbibe steadfast, probity, accountability and capacity in all ramifications and above all,

"to fight without fear or favor for the welfare of Nigerian students studying in Ebonyi State and in extension,

"other tertiary institutions in Nigeria subject to the approval of the Zonal Secretariat of NANS Zone B and stakeholders of NANS in Ebonyi State," Nwurukwu said.


The  new committee is chaired by Comrade Ettu Maduabuchi Eze, a post graduate student of Alex Ekweme Federal University, Ndufu Alike Ikwo. (AE-FUNAI)

Comrade Okeh John Kingsley, a  student of Ebonyi State University (EBSU) is the vice Chairman, while Comrade Awoke Chukwuma Nwali of Ebonyi State college of Education is the secretary, amongst 17 other members of the committee.

Eye witness reports gathered the Joint Campus Committee is in charge of all the institutions of learning in several States of South South/South-East, and is saddled with the responsibility of overseeing the activities of the students Union Governments.

"All the committee members have been nominated by their SUG Presidents, certified and sworn into office today to start operations," he added.


Meanwhile, the Coordinator had earlier lamented over the memo served by the registrar of the Ebonyi State University in view of the proposed increments on developmental levy.

"Other illegal dues being collected recently by the institution."

He  said the Union is working with the school management and the students Union Government towards addressing the issues.

He called on the students to resist the temptations to embark on protests and allow the student's leadership to protect their interests with all rules of engagements.

" We have started with consultations, we will consolidate, and if there's need that we should confront, we will also register that but,

"we must be able to express all our grievances known through the proper means of negotiations," he explained.

Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi has constituted a five-member committee to investigate the alleged employment in the Ebonyi College of Education in Ikwo Local Government area.

The Commissioner for information and State orientation, Mr Uchenna Orji, made this known to newsmen.

He said the governor approved the committee and directed member to submit findings and recommendations within two weeks.

Umahi on Tuesday, suspended the Provost of the institution, Prof. Benedict Mbam and the Bursar, Mrs Felicia Orisi over fraudulent recruitment without due process.

The committee, Orji said, has Mrs Elizabeth Ogbaga as Chair and Mrs Chioma Nweze Secretary.

He said other members are Mrs Obianuju Alo, Mrs Stella Nwagu and Mrs Ngozi Obichukwu.

“The committee is expected to find out all employments made in that institution from 2019 till date.

“It was also directed to find out whether due process was followed and to seek memoranda from the public on any information on illegal employment done in that institution.

“The committee will also probe all finances of the institution within the period under review including all the projects done within the period and make appropriate recommendation to the state government,” he said.

Umahi in a suspension notice said the recruitment did not follow due process stipulated by the state government.

”All employment conducted by the institution’s management from 2019 till date are hereby nullified.

”The state government is struggling to pay the salaries of the institution’s workers, yet the management of the institution is employing more people.

No fewer than 1, 300 unemployed youths and women across the 13 Local Government Areas of Ebonyi State would benefit from Dr Nnana Alias Igwe empowerment program, scheduled for Feb. 28.

This was disclosed by Dr Nweli ifeanyichukwu, Principal Partner and Lead Faculty, Ebonyi business school.

The Programme is in partnership with the Ebonyi business school, Abakaliki.

Dr Nnana Igwe, is a UK based philanthropist.

The empowerment program me would capture about 100 unemployed youths each from the 13 LGA's in Ebonyi.

The beneficiaries would acquired digital skills such as e-commerce, cryptocurrency, forex trading, ICT amongst other entrepreneurship that could enhance their productivity beyond certification.

Speaking with jouenalists in Abakaliki through Dr Igwe's represented, Dr Nweli ifeanyichukwu, Principal Partner and Lead Faculty, Ebonyi business school, said the essence of the training was to help the youths in finding fulfilment through enterprenuaship.

"Dr Nnana Alias Igwe, a good spirited citizen of Ebonyi State, who is based in the UK, decides to partner with us to organize the one day full capacity building training on entrepreneurship.

"ICT and e-commerce, crypto and forex trading in each of the Senatorial zone, we are looking at training one thousand and three hundred persons, a total of one hundred persons per LGA,

"We organize training programs to be able to empower our people and make it free of charge, as a way of giving back to the society," he said.

He called on interested applicants to identify with the various coordinators at their LGA's or approach the Ebonyi business school office at no 78 Enugu/Abakaliki express way to obtain the registration free of charge.

He admonished the youths to imbibe hard work as well goodwill.

Prof. Charlse Soludo, the in-coming Governor of Anambra state has been advised to emulate Engr. Chief David Umahi, Governor of Ebonyi state in infrastructural development.

The advice came from his namesake, Hon Charlse Akpu-Enika, an Anambra indigene who is the Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports in Ebonyi and the Leader of the urban community in the state.

Akpu-Enika while congratulating Soludo once again for his emergence as the next Anambra governor, advised that Soludo should visit Ebonyi for advice and guidance from Umahi, on how to develop Anambra infrastructurally.

"Soludo is expected to pay great attention to the construction of roads, bridges and flyovers which had posed the infrastructural challenges confronting the state.

"Most communities in Anambra are not accessible and despite the efforts of the past and the incumbent governor of the state in that regard, the challenge still persists".

The commissioner said that one area Soludo should pay great attention to, is the construction of flyovers at strategic locations of the state to ensure free human and vehicular movements.

"We expect that Soludo should construct flyovers at Nwagu-Agulu, Ekwulobia, Oye Agu-Abagana, Afor Nkpor, Afor Nnobi junction, Awkuzu junction, Afor Igwe, Nkwo Igboukwu, Amawbia government house Amansea, Eke-abatete, Nkpor, Ogidi and other strategic locations in the state.

"When flyovers are constructed at these junctions and locations, Anambra indigenes would not have their hearts in their mouths when they plan visiting the state especially during festive seasons,".

He noted that Umahi"s advice and guidance would be handy because of the way he executes mega-projects with scarce resources.

"It takes Umahi between six to eight months to construct a flyover at the most moderate rate while the project would rank among the most durable anywhere in the world.

"The govenor has turned Ebonyi into a construction site where work goes on for 24 hours with resultant projects that would transcend ages,"

Akpuenika also charged Soludo to emulate Umahi on empowerment of the people especially the youths to check crime and ensure a peaceful and productive state.

"Umahi is the most youth-friendly governor in the country as youths for instance constitute more than 80 per cent of his cabinet.

"Soludo should also emulate him on accommodating people from various parts of the country as it is being practised in Ebonyi.

"I am a commsissioner in Ebonyi but hail from Anambra and several non-indigenes occupy strategic elective and appointive positions in the state".

The commssioner assured Soludo that Anambra people would continue praying for long life, good health and wisdom upon him to tinker the ship of the state to glory.

"The incoming governor has one of the best credentials around but the onus lies with the resolve and zeal to work for the people like Umahi,"

A Frontline Presidential Aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) His Excellency, Senator, Chief Anyim Pius Anyim, Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON) has said that he would revamp the nation's ailing economy and create jobs.

Anyim, a Former Senate President said that as the country's president, he would be taking critical decisions to reposition the country’s economy and creating massive job opportunities.

The Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) said that he would pay emphasis to solving the nation’s debt and economic challenges to mitigate the untold hardship faced by Nigerians.

"I will adopt several measures which include: aggressive pursuit of industrialisation, enhancement of the manufacturing sector, talents, innovation, science and technology, among others.

"I will adopt such measures and assemble a world-class cabinet which would aim at rejiging the country’s economy to become self-sufficient and debt-free.

"The economy will be driven on industrialisation and manufacturing, talents and innovation, science and technology".

The Ebullient Statesman said that the above listed were the key drivers of economies in the second half of the 21st century as he would build on such to prepare Nigeria to fit into the fourth industrial revolution.

“This will obviously expand the economy, make it more competitive and dynamic as I will also focus on situations which promote prosperity and development.

"Though I understand the country’s debt burden among other economic challenges being faced by Nigeria, I am prepared for the job and would take no time in turning the nation’s economic fortune around.

“I understand that last year, the nation earned about N5.5trn as revenue and out of the N5.5trn, N4.2trn went into debt servicing and debt repayment, leaving just N1.3trn to run the country.

“I think that will make it more frightening for anybody coming in. But I can tell you that even at that, that does not scare me.

"The challenges are temporary and the challenges are that of leadership".

Anyim who is touted as the Messiah whom Nigerians are waiting for, has started a process which further shows his readiness to put the country in the path of orderliness and concorde.

Due to his overwhelming acceptability, several individuals and groups have identified with the noble vision of redeeming Nigeria. This has created the need to harmonise these groups to ensure effective propagation of the message of hope, orderliness in support and resultant attainment of the desired goals.

The pragmatic nationalist has unveiled a social media link with which support groups, organisations and corporate organisations that want to support his ambition could register and be officially acknowledged.

In his effervescent adress to the organisations, he admonished: "Your solidarity and support since I indicated interest to seek my party's nomination to contest has been encouraging.

"I am deeply moved by the number of groups and organisations volunteering to join our team. In order to harmimise and properly coordinate our activities, we are providing this link below for proper registration and documentation of all groups.
Folllow the link to register: https://anyimpius.org/supportgroup/registration/

The hope of the nation, Anyim, thanked the support groups for their support and looked forward to a fruitful working relationship with them.

A Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chief Chaka Nweze, has said that Governor David Umahi is on a steady march to Aso Rock as his declaration to contest the nation's presidency in 2023 was divine.

Nweze, the Pioneer Secretary of the party in the state said this in an interview in Abakaliki, noting that he long prophesied the governor's divine sojourn in 2020 when he was still a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The Former Executive and subsequently, Caretaker Chairman of Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi state noted that Umahi is best suited for the presidency of the country as he was one of the very few leaders who practice politics without bitterness.

"You can recall series of interviews I granted before November 2020 where I called on APC bigwigs to convince Umahi to join the party from the PDP.

"Umahi though a PDP member then, had so much respect for our dear President Muhammadu Buhari and never uttered any uncomplimentary remark against the APC.

"He was so liberal in his relationship with other leaders that Buhari on several occasions, openly called him (Umahi) his son while Umahi warned his appointees against uncomplimentary remarks against the president.

The former Vice Chairman of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) in the Ebonyi, said that when
Umahi eventually joined the APC, the fortunes of the party especially in the south east zone and Ebonyi state changed for the better.

"The governor fulfilled his pledge of connecting the south east to the central government as he personally secured appointments with the president and led stakeholders from the zone to visit the president.

"He performed this task as the chairman of the South East Governor's Forum as many issues affecting the socio cultural wellbeing of the zone has gotten due attention and solution.

"He united the party's erstwhile warring factions in Ebonyi and made them close ranks to conduct a model ward, LGA and state congresses in the state,"

Nweze said that Umahi deserves the presidency of the country to replicate at the national level, his feats in Ebonyi within seven years.

"Those who knew Ebonyi before 2015 are still in awe on the manner the governor transformed the state into an economic and infrastructural hub of the country.

"Ebonyi has been transformed into the tourist hub of the country with mindblowing infrastructure and human empowerment that cannot be rivaled in the country.

"The country needs healing at all fronts to solve the myraid of challenges confronting it constitsing of insecurity, ethnic issues economic and other related challenges".

He urged Nigerians especially leaders from the northern part of the country to support Umah's presidential bid as he can be paired with one of their illustrious sons, the governor of Borno state, Prof. Babagana Zulum as a running mate.

"Zulum has shown that he has the capacity to lead his people to glory despite prevailing challenges as he gallantly resists insurgents operating in the state and still infrastructurally develops it.

"An Umahi, Zulum combination will salvage the country, reach out to all dissident groups across the country, infrastructurally develop the country, offer the youths their rightful place in the scheme of things and make the country working again,"

It is 2022 at last and felicitations are flying about the country and entire globe. 2021 was nightmarish with tales of killings, destructions, hunger, deprivations among other negative tendencies. It was a year to forget and as the countdown to 2023 when the nation has an ample opportunity of righting the present wrongs begins, expectations are growing among Nigerians.

The harbinger of hope and the annointed one for the country's presidential seat, His Excellency Senator Chief Anyim Pius Anyim, Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON) has offered his new year message to Nigerians: 2022 offers us new hope and fresh opportunities.

The Former Senate President who blazed the trail by close knitting the Senate seat at a tender age of 39, has felicitated with fellow Nigerians for making it to 2022. He urges all to give God all the glory for his mercies and loving kindness.

"2021 was a challenging year. It witnessed a combination of natural disasters and man-made crisis which put Nigeria and Nigerians through very challenging life-tests. These stretched our capacities for endurance to the limits.

"Economic crisis manifested in inflation, unemployment, under-employment, job losses, weak Naira and general low earning capacities which brought Nigerians face to face with threat to their very survival.

"Insecurity which many citizens had wished would abate got a resurgence in 2021, compounding the already difficult life for most Nigerians".

The former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF)) in the message, noted there was the COVID-19 pandemic which made a devastating come- back in form of other variants that shrank social and economic interactions. He said it further retarded the initial modest economic recoveries made after the first pandemic in 2019.

"Indeed, we all still mourn many Nigerians who died and lament for those that got dislocated, some permanently, from these sad developments of 2021.

"From the ashes of 2021, I see hope for Nigerians in the new Year 2022. God promises us Hope in times of despair, strength in times of weakness, recovery after tragedies. Our Maker also promised that He will never forsake us in times of trouble.

"I therefore charge Nigerians to key into the promises of God in this New Year and stand strong as the overcomers as children of God. In 2022, let us demonstrate courage and determination to pull our country back from the precipice.

"One way of achieving this triumph is by taking even more seriously, our duties as citizens and obligations to be our brothers keepers. We must dedicate ourselves to building a more peaceful and cohesive society with justice and equity for all our people and neighbours,".

Anyim wished Nigerians a happier, safer, more peaceful and prosperous 2022.

Nigerians are eagerly waiting for the next president. The people of the south east extraction are watching the rest of the country with keen political interest, to see if they would be denied the opportunity of presenting a credible candidate for the position.

It is a historical fact , that of all the geopolitical zones of Nigeria, only the Igbos of the South East have not been allowed to produce the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria since the end of the Civil War .
There’s no way the Igbos would feel politically secure and integrated in the mainstream of Nigeria’s power structure, unless they are given a sense of belonging , accommodation and opportunity to bid for the Presidency of the country, like the North , South West and South South of the country.

Nigeria’s unity is in limbo and groggy , as it portends a risky gamble , if we as a nation, fail to allow justice prevail this time in the political leadership representation of the South East Geopolitical Zone of Nigeria.

Politics should be jettisoned ashore while we pick a sound political Aristocrat and Democrat to carpenter our broken system and make it functional again, for the good of all and to the greater glory of God .

Democracy is the people’s business to make their system of government work for the greater common good .

Already, we have a Moses in the waiting, ready to lead us to our elusive promised Land. Senator Chief Anyim Pius Anyim (GCON) is the man. He has all it takes to reshape our nation with fresh leadership vision .
There is no one from the South East Geopolitical Zone that has his political clout and stature to lead our nation at the moment.

He is the most suitable and credible candidate for the Presidential Job .
Everyone who has been a keen follower of events in Nigeria knows this fact like the back of one’s hands , political sentiments apart .
His sense of political sagacity and perspicacity, brought to bear on his unassailable political leadership experience, are sound track records of service and unquestionable Presidential , material credentials for the highest office in the land .

He is a political colossus , standing tallest above those warming up in the rear to run for the office of President, which is never a largesse for political favoritism and settlement.

What we are talking about is the candidate on whom the Presidential cap fits .
Other political runners , should rethink their bid and back the man who is well endowed to lead us at this crucial, critical time of our nation’s existence.

Nigerians badly need a change of leadership in the country and cannot wait to see it happen.

Senator Anyim holds the ace and political will to reshape Nigeria with his wealth of political, legislative, administrative , legal , intellectual, moral leadership experience, which would guarantee the hope forward for reuniting the country.

Senator Anyim is undoubtedly the Physician Nigeria needs at this moment of need , to gain a clean bill of health .
Our monstrous problems as a nation do not require politics of exclusion, seclusion and mudslinging.

All citizens of the Igbo nation across the world and all lovers of progressive government , should rally support for Senator Anyim , in his divinely approved Presidential bid .

Things must get a head if we want to reclaim our political identity and accept integration into Nigerian Politics of today.

We must be prepared to hand over an enduring political legacy to our children and future generations, and keep the flame of fire of political courage alive and blazing so that future generations of Ndigbo, would appreciate the sacrifice we made for their future.

It is time to back Senator Anyim solidly to represent us and lead our nation to the long elusive promised Land.

The recent declaration of support for the presidential bid of His Excellency, Senator, Chief Anyim Pius Anyim, Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON) by Senator Chief, Enyinnaya Harcourt Abaribe and a former Senate President, Senator Adolphus Wagbara have addded monumental impetus to Anyim's presidential bid.

The occasion was the recent conferement of a Chieftaincy title on Abaribe as the 'Maduforo Nde Ngwa'--(A personality is still remaining) by the people of Obingwa in Abia state.

Abaribe during the occasion, reaffirmed his stance on 2023 presidency and pledged maximum support for Anyim's presidential bid.

"My brother is the only one who has declared his intention to run for the office of the president and this shows his commitment and zeal to change the deteriorating tides of the country.

"I will give him all the support because he has all it takes to make Nigeria better again.

"I therefore encourage all Nigerians to support this noble intention."

Abaribe's support is monumentally vital. A strong voice of the Igbo cause, he is seen as a vocal defender of the Igbo race and defiantly confronts even authorities at the centre in defending the people.

He has the goodwill and ears of the agitating groups in the south east zone and even stood as a surety for the Leader of the Indegenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) Mazi Nnamdi Kanu during his earlier incaceration by the Nigerian authorities.

Abaribe's support is key to Anyim's presidential movement. It is a boost to the strenghtening of the home front to make consulting and persuading other zones easy. It was a tactical move from the Statesman and Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF). It shows his understanding of country's nuances and idiosyncrasies and a pointer of how capable he would perform if he eventually leads the country.

The support from Anyim's successor as Senate President, Chief Adolphus Wagbara was also vital. Wagbara who was the Chairman of the occasion when Abaribe was confered with the Chieftaincy title also recommended Anyim to Nigerians.

"We have a good market in the person and personality of Anyim Pius Anyim. He deserves the support of Nigerians considering his track records".

The movement is on the right track. The consultations are gathering momentum. We can't wait for the noble ascent into Aso Rock.

FEATURE:


The ripples generated by the presidential bid of His Excellency: Sen. Chief Anyim Pius Anyim has continued to reverbate across the country. Not only has it stirred the political sphere but it has continued to gather acclaim and support from Nigerians from all works especially statesmen and leaders who know for sure, that it needs redemption presently.

The courage to declare to run for the covered seat of the country's prime position at a time potential aspirants were still weighing possible options, has seen the former Senate President who stabilised the murky waters of the national assembly at 39 years of age, elevate courage to an art form.

At the national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Anyim threw the bombshell and when many thought it was fluke, he had followed the declaration with stringent consultations and in the face of pervading apprehensions, have continued to tour the country: soliciting goodwill, seeking support and convincing stakeholders, leaders and followers to identify with the vision of redemption come 2023.

The ebullient former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) is consulting vigorously across the country over this noble mission. He recently had audience with the first republic Minister of Information, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark at this palatial home in Asokoro, Abuja.

The 95 year old elder statesman prominent Ijaw leader and Leader of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) welcomed Anyim and praised his courage and determination to seek the presidential platform to intervene in the numerous challenges confronting the country.

Clark reminded the Ishiagu Ebonyi state born political colossus that at certain points in a nation's life, patriots and leaders of proven integrity should step forward and assume a cardinal role in such society.

He advised the political colossus to to be focussed in the aspiration and expressed confidence in his ability to deliver.

"You demonstrated purposeful leadership in the past at a young age to manage the country's affairs as the Senate President. I pray that you succed and hereby urge Nigerians to share your vision .

Our fathers say that goodness begets favourable tidings. The courage to declare has swayed unimaginable support and goodwill to the the just, fair and deserved clamour for an Igbo presidency. Kiagbodo Clark lent his fatherly and passionate voice to the clamour.

"After the Buhari presidency, equity, justice and fairness demands that Igbos should be supported by all to produce a competent president for the country.

"I enjoin Nigerians to strengthen the bond of equity and fairplay as has been done to other zones since 1999. I have good relationship with with Igbo leaders especially those of the first and second republics. Igbo are passionate about the unity and prosperity of Nigeria.

The people are keying into his noble aspiration. The G64 Forum of Ebonyi state, an association of noble stakeholders of the state at its general meeting held recently at Salt Lake Hotel, Abakaliki, unanimously threw its weight behind the Ebonyi PDP's adoption of His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Anyim Pius Anyim as its candidate for the 2023 Presidential election.

The Forum's Chairman, Mr Okechukwu Ukpai, expressed the forum's gratitude to Chief Anyim for offering himself for service of Nigeria at a time of great national difficulty.

"Strong and stable characters are needed to rescue the country from disintegration and his Excellency's courage butresses his enviable pedigree as former President of the Senate and a stabilising force in the administration of former President Good luck Jonathan which he served as Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

"His Excellency quelled the turbulence in the Senate at such period which he anchored peacefully and productively throughout his tenure as Senate President.

Unveiling its campaign poster for Anyim, the forum pledged to do all in its power to support the worthy ambition of this great patriot so that Nigerians can smile again.

"Nigerians from all walks of life and other ethnic units should support Anyim in his bid to lead this country in the interest of equity, justice, fair play and for the overall unity and peace of the country.

The unity and stability of Nigeria lies in equitable distribution of our common heritage, all regions of the country should allow and support the president of Nigeria from south east region and such should be Anyim.

Courage overflows inside a man called to redeem his people. At any given point, whether in the face of upheavals, doubt or indecision, it comes to fore.

In the face of doubt that aspirants from the south east might chicken out and take lesser positions, Anyim has given an avid assurance: the presidency or nothing. The ebullient statesman reaffirmed his determination to pursue his ambition of becoming the President of Nigeria in 2023 to the end.

Responding to the pleas not to back down or play a second fiddle from a delegation of Southern Kaduna and a Coalition of Niger Delta group, Anyim assured them of his resolve to fight the battle to the end.

The groups, led by Professor Dogara Mato and Joseph Opuma respectively, had visited him in his office, pledging to swim and sink with him, only if he assures them that he would remain resolute till the end.

"I am only contesting for the office of the president and nothing else.” He said, noting that his confidence is buoyed by the enormous strides, the PDP had made in the institution of democracy in Nigeria.

He reminded the Niger Delta group that his party, the PDP, established the Niger Delta Amnesty program and ensured that it was nurtured to a very successful end. He said that majority of the Ex-militants are successful doctors, engineers, politicians etc.

"I gave my best not only to ensure the success of the exercise under Goodluck Jonathan regime but also to the over all successes of the administration. The humane approach of leadership adopted by PDP which yielded a huge result in the Niger Delta experiment will be replicated under my regime as president.

"Whenever you take your citizens as citizens and give them reasons to be resourceful, I am convinced they will surely become patriotic.”

Meanwhile, the professor Dogara group from Kaduna state had earlier told Anyim that they have not only come to pledge loyalty to him but to ask that they be incorporated into his campaign team.

Dogara, a former Deputy Speaker of the Kaduna state House of Assembly, told Anyim that his pedigree has endeared him not just to the group but to the heart of many Nigerians.

"I recall Anyim’s unifying roles in the National Assembly and Nigeria presently is in dire need of his type of leadership: “please step forward fast to come and unite us,”

The political colossus assured them that their support and that of the many others have emboldened him to sustain the struggle for the exalted office. He noted that the resolutions by southern governors that the nation's presidency should go to the south has added another impetus to his struggle. Anyim re-echoed his earlier assertions that Nigeria and Nigerians under his leadership will be united and proud.

The popular saying goes that the voice of the people is the voice of God. This saying has transcended ages and is set to manifest again as a heavily distressed nation seeks redemption to its present nightmares, in 2023.

Since the foremost statesman, former Senate President and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, His Excellency, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim (GCON) declared to run for the nation's presidency in the 2023 general elections, the ray of hope for the citizens has supersonically increased. Individuals and various groups across the country have risen in unison to join the bandwagon of endorsements coming from the north and southern horizons.

These are no ordinary endorsements but affirmation that the man being looked upon to salvage the land with his nationalistic appeal, should be supported to return Nigeria to the days of safety and glory.

Civil society groups under Arewa Concerned Civil Society Organisations of Nigeria (ACCSON) in Kaduna recently described Anyim as the best man to occupy the number one political office in the country come 2023.

These agitators of equity, fairness and justice opine that it is natural for the South-Eastern part of the country to produce the next president after the end of President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure in 2023.

The group while addressing newsmen recently at the popular Arewa House, Kaduna said through its Spokesperson, Abdulsalam Mohammed Kazeem that their settling for Anyim was based on a unanimous decision of the supporting organisations.

"These were after due diligence and wide consultations with voices of reason across the country.

"The south-east is part and parcel of the Nigerian project and they should be treated fairly just like other zones of the country.

"The zone also deserves to get what other zones have gotten because they have paid their dues in terms of economy, political and social cohesion as well as consolidation of Nigeria.

“For instance; between 1999 to 2007, it was South-west and North-east, and between 2007 to 2015 it was between North-west, South-south and North-west while between 2015 till date it is between Northwest and South-west.

“We the youths are the future and hope of the country as well as critical stakeholders in nation-building. We unanimously decided to support Anyim for his unparalleled role in nation building and great support to the upliftment of the youths.

“In consideration of our population, we will henceforth cease to be spectators but have decided to be a part of the process of mobilising/sensitising youths from our region tand across the country, to obtain their voters cards and enlighten them on candidates to vote for during election," he said.

He consequently urged all political parties to zone their presidential tickets to the south east for justice, equity and fairness and urged the PDP in particular, to ensure that Anyim flies its flag at the election.

"As an accomplished statesman, a legal professional, former SGF and Senate and Chairman of the National Assembly, we hereby present Sen Anyim Pius Anyim to the entire youths of Northern extraction as our candidate for 2023 presidency”, he said.

This declaration is just a tip of the iceberg as other organisations supporting Anyim presidential ambition include Arewa Youth Assembly for sustainable growth, Arewa Youth and Students Forum, Concerned Northern Forum, North East Peace Movement, Arewa Youth Council of Nigeria, Northern Youth Assembly for Tranquility, Northern Women Initiative Forum, North East Development Council.

The other organisations working towards this redemptive goal include the North Central Grassroots Foundation, Arewa Female Youth Ambassadors Peace Initiative, Initiative of Youth Advocate on Humanitarian Affairs, Arewa Youth Movement of Nigeria, Tiv Youth Initiative for Peace, Unity and Development, Middlebelt Vanguard among others

The royal fathers as custodians of the people's culture and spiritual eyes of the masses, are showing that the Anyim project is redemptive indeed. Ahead of the 2023 general election and the nationwide consultation by Sen. Anyim, he visited the palace of Hon. Justice Sidi Bage Muhammed, JSC Rtd, the 17th Emir of Lafia Barebari and Chairman Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs.

" I want to assure you that I will not be part of the people that will discuss those issues that will not matter. We shall educate our people. I wish you well in your endeavors", the royal father assured.

Our elders say that charity begins at home. This eternal saying has trascended ages and has the adulation of the physical and spiritual. At the home front-Ebonyi, the support for this redemptive bid is total. The People Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi are all in for it. The party says it will swim and sink with Anyim in his quest for Nigerian presidency.

Chairman of PDP in the state, Mr. Tochukwu Okorie said that Ebonyi state was lucky and proud to have Anyim as a citizen of the state.

“Anyim is one Nigerian who is eminently qualified on his own irrespective of his state of origin, to steer the current rudderless ship of Nigeria into a successful anchor.

Okorie stated that the resolution of the State Working Committee (SWC) of the party to stand with Anyim was not just because he hails from Ebonyi state, but because his pedigree is unassailable, noting that his past is an elegant testimony of what his future holds for Nigeria.

"At anytime Nigeria was in a perilous condition as it presently is, Anyim had always come to the country’s rescue.

"Marketing Anyim to Nigerians is very easy because he had rescued Nigeria in the past when the country was faced with similar challenges.

"Anyim played indelible roles to stabilise the National Assembly when its Senate was in the dilemma of peels during the Obasanjo presidency.

The chairman further disclosed that the state PDP decided to reach out to other states executives of the party throughout the federation to woo and persuade them in order to draw more support for Anyim.

Okorie said that the party
also resolved to appeal and persuade the national working committee and national executive committee of the party to consider seriously the zoning of its presidency to South East.
....Anyim is truly the answer

Anyim, the trojan has words for his people. He recently said that the problem of the country was that a large number of people are losing hope, feeling that they have no stake in the country.
"When I become the President of this country, you will be proud to be called a Nigerian”, he assured"

"A greater and better Nigeria will serve all of us better and I thank the groups for their support. I will count on you all when full campaigns are permitted to commence.

The youths have given their assurance. They believe in the man who in his thirties, assumed the mantle of the Senate President and turned the tide for the better. That is the 'man of the youths' they want.

Alhaji Mohamed Lawan, leader of the League of Nigerian Youth for Equity said the group was supporting Anyim’s ambition because of his track record of good performance.

Lawan also said that the unity of Nigeria is sacrosanct and non negotiable, as such, all the stakeholders i.e, major ethnic groups must have a sense of belonging in its governance and leadership structure.

“The Igbo nation forms the third leg of the tripod and they have been deliberately shut out of the leadership of the country”. The tripod should not be allowed to collapse.”

The women, the affirmative genders and mothers of the nation, also lend their voice. Chief (Mrs) Lilian Cosmos, leader of the Young Women Club said that Nigeria needs a president with open and accommodating heart like Anyim.

"We need a new leadership which Anyim represents, hence our resolve to work for his emergence as the country's president in 2023.

Anyim the statesman while addressing the Emir of Lafia expressed his desire to reposition the country to meet the future all Nigerian s would be proud of, if given the opportunity.

"In the next few years, the type of employment we will be talking about will not be the the type we are talking right now. We need to reposition this country to catch up with the future so that we can preserve the it for our children. That is what I stand for, that is what I want to bring on the table and that's why I have come.

He had further assured the Emir during the consultation that a new season was being heralded.

"We are in to a new season, a season that will set out a new future for the younger generation, a season that will refocus Nigeria, a season that will reunite Nigeria, a season we must not make mistake about, a season we must bring everybody together to have a sense of nationhood. We have no other country than this.

Nigerians are waiting for that season.

......Nigerians are waiting for Anyim Pius Anyim.

History is replete with accounts of individuals born great and those destined to be great. Such accounts are jam-packed with vivid descriptions of the interventions of such individuals to the emancipation of their people or the impact of positivity on the society. Such individuals in most cases, face distractions in form travails, challenges, among others. However, their tenacity buoyed by testimonies or vindication of and from their past deeds or actions, make the public seek them to take over their affairs as leaders, opinion moulders, etc.

His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) former Senate President, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation among other distinguished positions is definitely among such men with dates with history. One has lost count of the awards and titles bestowed on the Ishiagu, Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi-born Iroko of Nigerian and African Politics. One award however which stood out coming on the heels of glory is the one recently bestowed on charismatic statesman: The political leadership award of the 26th edition of highly esteemed ZIK prize for leadership in Lagos.

The event organised by the board and members of the Public Policy Research and Analysis Centre (PRAC) came on the heels of the Anyim’s declaration that he would contest the Presidency of the country in the 2023 general elections. The declaration which came at the iconic Eagles Square in Abuja during the national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on October 30, 2021, stirred the political nest of the country, positing the grim reality that the one whom the people were truly waiting for, had heeded to their clarion call for salvation.

Anyim has offered great service to Nigeria that the people have openly demanded that he controls their affairs. A man of high integrity, credited with empowering several youths and people across various strata of the country. This is not withstanding, their various demographical distributions. Anyim despite all odds and perceived sentiments, firmly believes in one Nigeria. It is now time for the united Nigeria to pay him back.

The erdudite scholar displayed a quality which is rare in this political clime. He belongs to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and when unauthorised posters of his presidential bid filled the social media, Anyim proved that the peoples’ belief in his integrity was no fluke. He not only dismissed the posters but opined that the time then, was not ripe for politicking in order to give the present administration at the federal level, time to concentrate on leadership. This is a character which can only be found in men who places the country above other personal interests. Unfortunately, such men are few today.

When it was however time to declare, he did it with the tact of a master and aplomb of a seer. He choose the PDP national convention in Abuja and as the party was savouring the euphoria of a successful convention, he dropped the bombshell which ‘Hiroshimaed and Nagasakied’ the nation’s political landscape. Tongues wagged, oppositions’ tempers flared, the social media was saturated and for long periods, few other news made sense, high-blood pressure was developed,…..’This man has come again’--, many wrought with fear were heard saying.

The truth and nothing but the truth remain that the man has actually come again. He has come to salvage the country, to restore sanity in a steadily distraught nation, to bring back hope, to make Nigeria great again, to secure lives and properties, to fulfil the divine Igbo presidency.

While his followers and Nigerians were licking their lips in joy and deserved hope, he gave an endearing assurance. In his speech after receiving the ZIK price for political leadership, the enigmatic father of the nation assured that he would lead the vanguard to entrench a leadership that would change the present challenges confronting the be ination to a success story.

“Such leadership must have vision and capacity, be determined and above all, be all inclusive. For Nigeria to survive and thrive in the years ahead, we must have peace at home and respect abroad. For this to be achieved, we need leaders who must connect and engage with the people especially the youths. They must be leaders who would place the youths at the centre of every nation building effort to move them from the current valley of despair to the height of potentials.

“We need leaders who can build societal consensus, repair our broken social fabrics and show deep empathy for all Nigerians suffering deprivation, poverty and want of any kind. Such leaders must be skilled in science and art of good governance. They must be visionary and ready to keep pace with contemporary social, economic and technological changes. They must be pragmatic and result-driven in dealing with security, education, health and other challenges confronting our nation,”

……Anyim Pius Anyim is such leader. The nation awaits.