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Police arrest notorious armed robbery suspect in Enugu
The Police Command
in Enugu State says it has arrested a notorious armed robbery suspect, name
withheld, terrorising residents of Holy Ghost and Rail-line axis of Enugu
metropolis.
The Command’s
Public Relations Officer, SP Ebere Amaraizu, said in a statement in Enugu on
Friday, that the suspect was arrested on June 13 by police operatives attached
to the Central Police Station, Enugu.
He said the police
also recovered phones, bag containing some amount of money and a black plastic
pistol which the suspect used to inflict fear on unsuspecting victims.
Amaraizu said that
the suspect was nabbed following a distress call received after he allegedly
robbed his victim of Infinix 5 phone on gun point.
According to Amaraizu,
the suspect is a resident of number 28 Mbanugo Street, Coal Camp in Enugu.
He said that the
suspect had been helping operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS, of
the command in their investigation into his nefarious activities.
“Police operatives
have commenced raiding of all suspected criminal hideouts within Holy Ghost and
Rail-Line axis and other black spots through its Operation Puff Adder,” he
said.
He said the effort
was to ensure that “our environment continue to remain safe and secured.“
“The raid
operations have become necessary, following the directive issued to police
operatives by the Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Sulaiman Balarabe.”
Enugu pastor for allegedly
impregnating 20 church members (Photo)
The Nigeria Police
have confirmed the arrest of a pastor for allegedly impregnating 20
members of his church in Enugu State.
Pastor Timothy Ngwu
who is the General Overseer of the Vineyard Ministry of the Holy Trinity was
arrested by officers of the Enugu State Police Command. According to reports by
church members, Ngwu claimed that the Holy Spirit commanded him to impregnate
as many female members of the church as possible.
Speaking on the
incident, the Enugu state Police spokesperson, Ebere Amaraizu said the pastor
had been charged for sexual abuse. Sources privy to the incident said Ngwu said
the Holy spirit had given him the mandate to impregnate women in his ministry
irrespective of their marital status.
The source also
said that the child delivered by every woman impregnated by the pastor is
expected to remain in the ministry with the mother for life. Trouble started
for Ngwu after his wife reported his randy behaviour to the police after the
pastor was alleged to have impregnated her (his wife’s) young niece all in the name
of obeying a ‘divine instruction’.
Ngwu who is said to
have five wives with 13 children along with other concubines said he never had
carnal knowledge of the young girl. He also said that he never had
intercourse with any of the married women except their husbands concurred to
the request of the ‘Holy Ghost’.
ESUT returns to its
original multi-campus structure
The Enugu State
Executive Council has voted to return the Enugu State University of Technology
(ESUT) to its original multi-campus structure as established by the Chief Jim
Ifeanyichukwu Nwobodo administration in 1980.
In a statement
signed by the State’s commissioner for information, Mr. Ogbuagu Anikwe, he
disclosed that three schools originally proposed for Enugu North Senatorial
Zone – faculties of Medical Sciences, Agriculture, and Social Sciences – will
be returned to the Zone, while the ESUT Faculty of Education will relocate to
Enugu West, to be domiciled at the new University of Education, Ihe in Awgu
Local Government.
He said, “Governor
Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi who chaired the meeting, noted that although the site for
Enugu North campus of ESUT is yet to be determined, the Faculty of Medical
Sciences will take advantage of the 400-bed specialist hospital currently under
construction at Igboano to serve as a teaching facility for medical students.
“Council noted that
relocating the school of medical sciences will rapidly decongest and take the
pressure off the Enugu Park Lane Hospital which has been struggling for
expansion space since its conversion to a Teaching Hospital.
“The sum of
N1.5billion was approved in the 2019 State Budget for construction of key
facilities at Igboano Specialist Hospital/ESUT Teaching Hospital, including
construction of access road, external works (fencing and landscaping), as well
as the provision of water and electricity.
“Council, however,
voted to increase the budget to N2billion, following the decision on
multi-campus structure for ESUT and additional facilities.
“For Enugu West
Zone, in addition to the ultramodern administrative building which is already
under construction at the University site in Ihe, Council also voted to
construct an access road to the University.”
The Council’s
decisions followed a proposal to restructure the Enugu State University so that
various specialist learning centres can be established for each Senatorial Zone
– Science, Engineering & Technology at Agbani (East), Education at Ihe
(West), and Medical Sciences at Igboano (North).
“These specialist
centres will not only bring tertiary education closer to the grassroots but
will facilitate rapid socio-economic development of all zones in Enugu State,”
he further stated.
2023: We have the final say
– Constituents tell Ekweremadu
Citizens of Enugu West Senatorial Zone have
declared that the decision over who would represent them in 2023 lies in their
hands.
This is coming in reaction to the statement
by the Senator representing the zone, the Deputy Senate President, Ike
Ekweremadu that
he would end his stay in the Red Chamber by 2023.
He dropped the hint during his birthday
celebration in Enugu last Sunday.
But in a statement signed by stakeholders
from the zone, among whom are Hon Alex Ogbonna, Rt. S.K.E Udeh Okoye, Hon.
Chigozie Akalusi, Rt. Hon Donatus Uzogbado, Hon. Ralp Onovo, Hon Mike Chukwu
and Hon. Princess Chioma Chiaha, they said the constituents reserved the right
to determine where Sen. Ike Ekweremadu’s services were most suitable.
The statement read, “Our attention has been
drawn to a remark by His Excellency, Sen. Prof. Ike Ekweremadu, Ph.D, CFR,
Deputy Senate President during his 57th birthday celebration recently in Enugu
State to the effect that he will not be seeking re-election into the Senate
come 2023.
“While our respect and admiration for the
Distinguished Senator remains unshaken, we are minded to state that Senator Ike
Ekweremadu is a product of our collective mandate and to that extent answerable
to his constituents in all matters relating to his services to our people;
including his decisions concerning his political future in 2023.
“As a people, we reserve the right to
determine where Sen. Ike Ekweremadu’s services are most suitable for the overall
interest of our people. At the appropriate time, we will decide if we are best
served by his continued stay in the Senate or otherwise.
“We are certain that in his meteoric rise to
prominence in Nigeria and the world at large, he has had little or no control
in determining his choice of service to his people. For instance, it was
members of his age grade in Mpu that collectively decided to entrust him with
the chairmanship of the age grade at a time he least expected it at the tender
age of 10.
“The same is true about the decision of the
entire Mpu community to elect him as the President-General of the Town Union.
His election as the Executive Chairman of Aninri LG was also the outcome of the
collective decision of the Leaders of Thought of Aninri LGA.”
They added that “his becoming the Chief of
Staff to former Governor Chimaroke Nnamani and later the Secretary to the Enugu
State Government was also a fortuitous interplay of forces involving the former
governor and other major stakeholders in Enugu State at that time who wanted
him to serve in such capacities.
“The same is true of his election into the
Senate in 2003, which was a collective decision of the people of Enugu-West.
“Of significance is the fact that in his
recent re-election into the Senate for a record 5th term, the decision was not
his but a collective resolve of the people of Enugu-West who themselves bought
the nomination form for him.
“We also make bold to state that his
emergence as the Deputy Senate President for a record third term was not of his
own volition but by the collective approval of his colleagues in the Senate who
saw in him an uncommon trait and capacity to serve in that position.
“In essence, Sen. Ike Ekweremadu’s political
trajectory could be likened to the wind, which you can hear but cannot tell
where it comes from or where it is going. In the same vein, no one can actually
explain how Ike Ekweremadu got to where he is today; but one thing that is
certain is that he did not ascend to any of the aforementioned positions by his
own volition or decision but by the Will of God and the consent of his people.
“In truth, His Excellency, Sen. Ike
Ekweremadu is a man of history whose destiny is intertwined with the yearnings
and aspirations of his people. In real term, we, his people have the final say
on where he goes to on our behalf in 2023. In real terms, whereas His
Excellency, Sen. Ike Ekweremadu has a right to his opinions, we, his people,
have the final word, as always, in his political decisions, now and in the
future.
“Thus far, we are satisfied with his
stewardship since he emerged on our political horizon as a leader. He has
represented us effectively and has attracted numerous democracy dividends to
our people.
“We, therefore, charge him to raise the bar
on his performance in the 9th Senate, which will soon be inaugurated and keep
the flag of his illustrious performance aloft. Presently, let us concentrate on
the task ahead essentially because we know that emerging events will define our
preferences in 2023.”
Enugu Lawmaker, Nwamba Gives Kudos To Gov. Ugwuanyi For His Transparency
A member of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Chinedu Christian
Nwamba, weekend, gave kudos to Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of the State over “his
transparency and due process” in governance.
Nwamba is representing the people of Nsukka East constituency and is the
Chairman of the House committee on Public Accounts and anti-corruption.
The lawaker, who is also the South-East coordinator, Peoples Democratic
Party, PDP, Youth Alliance, spoke to journalists during a town hall meeting he
organized for his constituents.
The town hall meeting was attended by a former Secretary to the Enugu
State Government, Dr. Dan Shere, a former Chairman of the PDP in the State,
Engr. Vita Abba, Prof. Damian Opata of the University of Nigeria, government
officials, Party leaders, among others.
The lawmaker said unlike some governors who spent public fund with
impunity, Governor Ugwuanyi had continued to make due process the hallmark of
his administration.
According to him, such attitude towards public finance made it possible
for the Governor to record giant strides barely three years in office.
He urged all those on voting age to ensure that they obtained their
permanent voters’ card, which he said was the only way to vote back a good leader
like the Governor.
He said, “The Governor has done well beyond the expectations of many
people considering the meagre resources that have come into the State within
this period.
“The way he manages the resources is something other governors should
emulate. For instance, this is the first time projects are going on
simultaneously in all the communities in Enugu State; I’m not talking about
wards but communities.
“This is possible because of his prudence and due process in management
of resources. He does not spend any fund without getting approval from the
House of Assembly, unlike some governors who think they can do whatever they
like. So, we have in Governor Ugwuanyi, an efficient management of resources.
“Few days ago, I was a witness when he empowered over 500 residents of
this State after one year of free training in skill acquisition. It is in
following after this footsteps that I have also decided to empower 40 persons
from my constituency to enable them start life.”
When asked to comment on news in the media that he was interested in
running for the position of Nsukka/Igbo-Eze South Federal Constituency, Nwamba
said, “I am not old, I am still very young; I am ready to serve my people in
whatever capacity they ask me to.
“However, I have never told anybody that I am running for the position of
House of Reps or any other position for that matter, but I believe because of
my performance that is why they are saying it.
“My interest for now is to deliver on the mandate given to me by our
people; when the times comes, if there is vacancy in that position and they call
on me, I will answer them.
“I will abide by the decision of the leader of the party, His Excellency
the Governor and the party. Our party is family and I am a core party man. The
party will discuss these issues when the time comes, and if the party says
there is vacancy and that I’m the person to go, I will not disappoint them.
“You don’t just stand and say that you are contesting for anything. The
decision of the party remains supreme. The party made me what I am, and based
on that I remain a core party man.”
20 Ladies Allegedly Raped At Flavour's Concert In Enugu
The Enugu State Police Command said it has commenced investigation into
the alleged rape of several ladies at a musical concert, which featured
popstar, Chinedu Okoli, popularly known as Flavour on Saturday.
The concert was held at the Michael Okpara Square, Enugu.
The social media is buzzing with the allegation that over 20 ladies were
raped, while some left the show naked with their dresses torn by some
criminals.
Though the police only mentioned a case of attempted rape and stealing of
phones and other crimes, witnesses lamented the rate ladies were raped.
The concert attracted a large crowd such that the venue could not contain
the number of music fans who turned out for show.
This was mainly because the show allowed free entry for residents.
Another reason was that Flavour, the major attraction of the show, grew
up in Enugu, where he has a large fan base.
The Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, in the state, Ebere Amaraizu,
said in a statement on Sunday that the police had commenced investigation into
the matter.
He said that already, a suspect was in custody for attempting to rape a
lady at the concert.
He said, “The Enugu State Police Command, through its operatives at the
Independence Layout Division, has commenced investigations into the alleged
conduct of some people, ranging from attempt to gang rape a victim, as well as
other offences, during a musical concert at the Michael Okpara Square.
“One person, who is already helping operatives in their investigation,
has been nabbed for his alleged role in the attempt to gang rape a victim at
the Square yesterday during the musical concert of a popular Nigerian
musician.”
The PPRO, added that three others were arrested for allegedly stealing
mobile phones during the event.
“Those arrested will be made to face the music in line with various
provisions and specifications of the law after investigations,” he said.
2019 Election: Gov. Ugwuanyi Is A Caring Leader, Deserves Second Term - Nwodo
The former Governor of old Enugu State and
ex-National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Okwesilieze
Nwodo has extolled the leadership virtues of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu
State, describing him as a “fantastic manager” of the state’s resources to
positively touch the lives of the people.
Dr. Nwodo also said that Gov. Ugwuanyi is a leader
who fears God and cares for the people especially the lowly and
less-privileged, stressing that he deserves a second term in office.
The PDP former national chairman spoke on Saturday
during the well attended civic reception organized in honour of Gov. Ugwuanyi
by the people of Uzo Uwani local government area in recognition of peace and
good governance in Enugu State, and inauguration of Gburugburu Movement in the
council area.
Nwodo, who listed the remarkable achievements of
Gov. Ugwuanyi in Enugu State in spite of meager resources of the state,
maintained that there is every reason for the governor’s re-election in 2019,
saying: “We have a good export not only to Enugu State but also to Nigeria”.
He therefore, urged the people of the area and Enugu
State at large to take the message to their domains for them to continue to
enjoy more dividends of democracy.
Also speaking, a renowned Senior Advocate of Nigeria
from the council area, Ofodile Okafor also applauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for his
outstanding leadership qualities, saying: “I have seen a character who has
affected me”.
Okafor added that the governor has “done very well
in office” and is also “a man who is leading his people in honesty and
transparency”.
According to him, “I don’t need anything from the
government. But I m here to say the truth as it is. He (Ugwuanyi) has put
smiles on the faces of the people. Our governor is doing very well and that is
why the whole of Enugu State is behind him”.
Another speaker from the council area, Hon. Oliver
Odenigbo, who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the past,
equally commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for entrenching peace and good governance in
the state, disclosing: “Today, we are witnessing great dividends of democracy
in Enugu State and enjoying the goodness of Governor Ugwuanyi”.
Earlier in his opening address, the Executive
Chairman of Uzo Uwani LGA, Hon. Fidelis Ani, thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for his
“sterling performance” in the state, especially in the areas of peace, security
and provision of critical infrastructure.
“In the area of critical infrastructure, Your
Excellency’s caterpillar revolution has made visible impact in these
communities in Uzo Uwani – Ugbene, Abbi, Nimbo, Igga, Asaba, Ojjor and repair
of collapsed bridge at Asaba and other people-oriented projects”, the council
chairmen stated.
In his remark, the Director-General of the
Gburugburu Movement, Uzo Uwani LGA, Dr. Steve Okolo, stated that it was because
of the numerous achievements of Gov. Ugwuanyi in the state that the people of
the area “resolved to be part of this moving train – the Gburugburu Movement”.
Other speakers, such as Senator Chukwuka Utazi of
Enugu North Senatorial District, Hon. Princess Stella Ngwu who represents Igbo
Etiti/Uzo Uwani in the Federal House of Representatives, Chief Maxi Ukuta, etc,
lauded the good works of the governor in Enugu State and called for the
continued support of the people for him to render more selfless service in the
state.
Gov. Ugwuanyi who thanked God for His grace to
entrench peace and good governance in the state, also appreciated the people of
the area for their support, solidarity, goodwill and prayers.
He pointed out that the essence of the Movement was
to have peace, unity and progress in the state and appealed to the people to
sustain the existing peace in the state for them to enjoy more dividends of
democracy.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC),
has ruled out the possibility of re-opening its Enugu depot in the nearest
future.
The depot, has been out of fuel
supply for several years now, leaving marketers with the option of shopping for
the product in other areas.
However, the Corporation has said although it was
desirous to resume supply of fuel to the Enugu depot, it would not be visible
at the moment.
Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Dr Maikanti K.
Baru, who made the disclosure in Enugu, insisted that as long as vandals
continued their nefarious activities on the oil pipelines, there would be no
supply to the area.
He spoke during the NNPC Special Day at the on-going
29th Enugu International Trade Fair.
Dr Baru also spoke on the problem of ‘profiteering’
among fuel dealers in southeast zone, particularly in Enugu and its environs
where dealers sell fuel above the official price of N145 per litre, and
condemned the attitude of such marketers who make fortunes at the detriment of
the average consumer in the area.
According to him, he had earlier held a meeting with
Enugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi on how to make the Enugu depot
functional, but he explained to him that the implication of vandalization of
the oil pipelines, one of which is that “if the vandals don’t stop their
negative activities on the oil pipelines, there won’t be supply to the area.”
Baru disclosed that the NNPC has so far recorded 685
spots of vandalization of oil pipelines between the Aba and Enugu depot,
maintaining that “as long as this thing continues, there’s no way we can supply
petroleum products to Enugu depot.”
He said that Enugu depot was a very strategic one to
the corporation, assuring the southeast zone of rehabilitation of facilities
and resumption of supply of petroleum products so long as vandalization of oil
pipelines was brought to an end.
On profiteering and the shylock attitude of some oil
marketers in the zone, Baru said there was no reason people should be selling
fuel above the official price of N145 per litre while using cost of
transportation as an excuse.
“The issues are many but we need your assistance; we
need your cooperation. Talk to your members,” Baru specifically told the
President of the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture
(ECCIMA), Sir Emeka Udeze.
“It is our desire to have the depot re-opened
because it is from there that we pump fuel to Makurdi and Yola. But it will be
difficult for us to supply fuel to the Enugu depot as long as this continues.
“So, we want you to appeal to our people, especially
within Isiagu and Osisioma in Abia State and other areas,” Baru added.
The ECCIMA boss had earlier in his keynote speech,
appealed to the GMD to ensure resumption of fuel supply to the Enugu depot.