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Tag: Abia State

  • Govt. has paid full compensation to Abia Airport landowners – Otti

    Govt. has paid full compensation to Abia Airport landowners – Otti

    Gov. Alex Otti, on Saturday, confirmed that the State Government has paid full compensation to owners of the lands acquired for the Abia Airport project in Nsulu.

    Otti made the confirmation during a Grand Civic Reception/Appreciation Ceremony organised by stakeholders in Isiala Ngwa North and South Local Government Areas (LGAs) at Okpuala-Ngwa, in Isiala Ngwa North LGA.

    He said: “Before any construction began, we ensured that 100 per cent compensation was paid to all landowners.

    “If there is anyone yet to receive payment, it is likely due to issues like incorrect account details or disputes over ownership, not government negligence.”

    The governor also announced government’s plans to build a fully-fledged airport city, amongst other projects around the airport corridor.

    According to him, the complex would feature a three or four-star hotel, shopping plazas, markets, and a Nigerian Air Force base.

    He disclosed that access roads to the site were already under construction, with a completion deadline set for December.

    He emphasised that the siting of the airport was based on expert recommendations and strategic considerations, particularly its accessibility to both Umuahia and Aba, the state’s major urban centres.

    He recounted how many Nsulu natives have expressed gratitude to the government, with one woman reportedly saying she earned more in compensation than she ever would have made farming the land in a lifetime.

    “This is a people-oriented government and development should not be a punishment to the people, it should uplift them,” he said.

    The governor dismissed speculations that his administration intended to marginalise a particular group or region with respect to the airport project.

    “Those who doubted our intentions now know better because we are not like the old regime and we are here to serve all Abians, without discrimination,” he said.

    Otti affirmed his government’s commitment to even development across the state, highlighting ongoing projects in Ukwa, Umuahia, and Aba.

    He underscored Aba’s pivotal role in the state’s economic strategy, saying that revenue generated from Aba would help fund development in other regions.

    Otti further highlighted the success of the state’s free education policy, adding that it had led to a significant increase in school enrollment.

    In a speech, the lawmaker representing Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency, Chief Ginger Onwusibe, urged the governor to seek re-election in 2027.

    Onwusibe further declared that “there is no vacancy in Government House, Umuahia”, until 2031.

    “You have done excellently well, and we urge you to contest again in 2027.

    “We, the people of Isiala Ngwa North and South, have resolved to work together and ensure victory across all 20 wards in both LGAs,” he said.

    A Labour Party chieftain in the area, Sen. Darlington Nwokocha, commended Otti for focusing on long-term development goals that prioritise infrastructure and human capital development.

    “We are seeing tangible progress – roads, healthcare, education, and empowerment.

    “These are not just projects for today, but foundations for sustainable development that will outlive this administration and drive socioeconomic growth in Abia,” Nwokocha said.

    The Chairman of the occasion, Mr Obinna Anaba, congratulated the governor, describing his triumph as a victory for justice and good governance.

    Anaba commended the administration’s rapid strides in infrastructure development, social welfare, and economic reform.

    He pointed out that the governor had already proven that effective leadership is possible.

    Anaba, speaking on behalf of both LGAs, affirmed the people’s full support for the governor and expressed confidence he would continue to deliver democracy dividend across the state.

    In a remark, a businessman from the area, Mr Cyril Ishmael, said that the Otti-led administration had inspired renewed investor-confidence in the state through visible infrastructural projects and reforms.

    Ishmael announced that captains of industry from the area were planning to host an economic summit aimed at complementing the government’s drive to attract investments.

    Also, the President of  Ngwa National Association in USA and Canada, Dr Ugochukwu Agu, expressed satisfaction with the governor’s performance, particularly in the education sector.

    Agu said that the Ngwa Community abroad had launched support programmes to align with the administration’s developmental goals.

    “Our people are pleased with what you are doing.

    “We have introduced scholarships for students and undergraduates, and launched a skill acquisition programme.

    “We have also built a facility, called the Unity Complex, where these empowerment programmes will be administered,” he said.

    No fewer than 100 members of the Peoples Democratic Party and Accord Party formally announced their defection to the Labour Party at the event.

  • Umuahia, Enugu standstill as IPOB enforces Biafra day

    Umuahia, Enugu standstill as IPOB enforces Biafra day

    Commercial and public activities were grounded across some eastern states, this includes, Enugu State, Umuahia, the capital city of Abia State on Friday as residents adhered strictly to the sit-at-home order issued by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPoB) in commemoration of fallen Biafran heroes.

    TheNewsGuru reports that Biafra Day, observed annually on May 30, commemorates the 1967 declaration of the defunct Republic of Biafra by the late Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu.

    Although not officially recognised by the state or federal government, the day has taken root among many in the South East as a solemn remembrance of the Nigerian Civil War and its aftermath.

    In Enugu metropolis, TNG observed the closure of banks, markets, fuel stations, and schools. Public servants were seen briefly signing attendance registers before promptly returning home.

    As for Umuahia, the usually bustling streets were largely deserted, with the only signs of life being sporadic movements of tricycles and a few vehicles. 

    Shops along major roads remained shut, with markets and motor parks also following suit in compliance with the order.

    Banks across the city kept their doors closed to customers, and educational institutions, both public and private, remained closed, with students and pupils staying at home.

    Despite the lack of commercial activities, some youths were seen occupying the empty streets, engaging in a friendly game of soccer.

    Elsewhere, small groups of people gathered at the entrances of their homes, discussing the latest political and security developments in the country.

    The spokesman for IPOB, Emma Powerful, confirmed the lockdown, stating that the day has been set aside specifically to commemorate the sacrifices made by those who fought for the Biafra cause.

    Interestingly, the usual presence of security forces was not observed on the streets, and, as of the time of reporting, there had been no reported clashes between security agents and those enforcing the sit-at-home order.

  • Abia govt doles out N40bn in payment of salaries, pension arrears

    Abia govt doles out N40bn in payment of salaries, pension arrears

    Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has said his administration has committed over N40 billion to clearing arrears of salaries and pensions in the past two years.

    Otti said this on Thursday during an event organised to mark his administration’s two years  anniversary with the theme “Transformative Governance: Sustaining the Momentum”, in Umuahia.

    The governor said that this move was aimed at restoring dignity and financial stability to the state’s workforce and retirees.

    He said that prompt salary and pension payments had become an integral part of the system with workers now paid by the 28th of every month.

    Otti added that pensioners now receive full monthly payments, ending the era of partial disbursements experienced by retirees.

    He also announced the full renovation of the previously abandoned Nnamdi Azikiwe Secretariat, now housing nearly 1,000 civil servants.

    The governor revealed efforts to digitise government operations and phase out manual filing systems through the provision of computers.

    He also said that an agreement with MTN would  ensure full network coverage across the state by Dec. 31, 2025.

    Otti said that the state would  also be  witnessing the development of the first Aba Digital Mall by MTN, aimed at boosting e-commerce and local trade.

    Otti reiterated the sustained resolve of Abia Government to allocate 20 per cent of the state’s budget to education, and confirmed that smart schools were under construction across all 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs).

    According to him, the state’s free basic education policy had increased enrolment, prompting the transparent recruitment of 5,300 new teachers earlier this year.

    He also disclosed that another 4,000 teachers would be recruited to match the growing student population across public schools.

    The governor assured equal opportunities for all, regardless of state of origin, ethnicity, or religion during the exercise.

    On health, he said that over 100 Primary Healthcare Centres(PHCs) had been renovated, with commissioning set to begin on June 1.

    Otti also said that renovations were ongoing at ten general hospitals and two specialist centres to improve healthcare delivery in the state.

    Otti revealed plans for a medical village to tackle outbound medical tourism and position Abia as Nigeria’s healthcare hub.

    On security, he credited the government’s security intervention code named ”Operation Crush” for reclaiming territories in Umunneochi and Isuikwuato from criminals, restoring peace and safety.

    He praised security agencies for their sacrifice and commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.

    Otti stated that several roads in Umuahia, Aba, and other parts of the state were ready for commissioning starting June 1.

    He stressed that good governance, accountability, and prudent spending of public funds remain his administration’s core principles.

    Otti reaffirmed the state’s private-sector-driven economic strategy and commitment to creating a conducive business environment.

    He highlighted the government’s ₦1 billion empowerment of 10,000 nano-businesses to support entrepreneurship and reduce financial hardship.

    On electricity, he confirmed that Geometric Power now generated 141 megawatts, with the fourth turbine expected to boost capacity further.

    He revealed discussions with Enugu DISCO to isolate Umuahia as a power island, following the Aba model.

    Otti said the move aims to ensure stable electricity across Umuahia, Bende, Umunneochi, Isuikwuato, Ohafia, and Arochukwu.

    He also noted the installation of nearly 7,000 solar streetlights, part of efforts to improve security and drive a 24-hour economy.

    On sanitation, he celebrated the state’s transformation from one of the dirtiest to among the cleanest in Nigeria.

    He praised citizens for embracing cleanliness and environmental responsibility as a collective lifestyle.

    Otti commended civil servants, appointees, healthcare workers, and cleaners for driving the administration’s achievements.

    He  attributed his administration’s success to divine guidance and the unwavering support of the people of Abia.

    The governor also expressed deep gratitude to the citizens for their support before, during, and after the 2023 elections.

    He further reaffirmed his commitment to building a functional, safe, and prosperous Abia for all.

    In their good will messages, the lawmaker representing Abia South Senatorial District, Sen. Enyinnaya Abaribe, and the lawmaker representing Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency, Chief Ginger Onwusibe, commended the governor for his transformational leadership style.

    They urged the people of Abia to continue to support the programmes and policies of the state government.

    Also, in their remarks, the Speaker of the Abia House of Assembly, Chief Emmanuel Emeruwa, and his deputy, Mr Austin Mmeregini, passed a vote of confidence on the governor.

    They expressed the resolve of the legislature to continually give the governor all the legislative support required to execute his rebuilding agenda.

    The event was attended by the former deputy governor, Chief Ude Oko-Chukwu, former Chairman of Ohafia LGA, among other dignitaries.

  • Abia govt releases update on giant billboard accident

    Abia govt releases update on giant billboard accident

    The Abia State Government has released an update on the giant billboard that collapsed in Aba and said it will offset the hospital bills of the billboard accident victims.

    Mrs Victoria Onwubiko, Managing Director, Abia State Signage and Advertising Agency (ABSAA) made this known on Thursday in Aba at the Salad Market entrance, the site of the accident.

    The giant billboard fell on some passengers in five tricycles in Aba on Wednesday, following a boisterous wind, killing one person and injuring seven others.

    Onwubiko said the governor had given the necessary approval for procedures regarding the victims’ treatment without hindrances.

    “So, we are glad there are not going to be any more deaths; from what we have seen, the victims in the hospital are recovering and doing well.

    “We understand that about eight persons were involved in the accident; five are at the Abia University Teaching Hospital, two have been discharged and one is died,” she said.

    Onwubiko added that the governor had sent his Chief of Staff to the hospital for the proper management of the victims at ABSUTH, Aba.

    According to her, there is no hoping that any one of them will go to the court as the state government is doing everything to take care of them.

    He said ABSAA would ensure such accidents did not reoccur noting that henceforth the agency would inspect every advertising site in the state.

    “We are going to ask the owners of sites like this to give us the technical drawings with which they built their sites.

    “If we don’t see them, the bill board will come down for them to redo it to ensure safety,” she said.

    The ABSAA MD said every site, whether high or low, which is not sound, will go down.

    Mr Chinedu Nwibo, an eye-witness and a vulcaniser for tricycle operators, said there were seven persons at the entrance of the Salad Market on that Wednesday when the accident occurred.

    “We were inside a little makeshift shop I had set up for my work when the rain started on Wednesday.

    “The wind was very boisterous and some of the tricycle operators went into their tricycles to stay for the rain to stop.

    “No sooner had they ran into their tricycles than a big iron pipe used to hoist a billboard fell on them.

    “One Destiny Uguru, 27, from Izzi in Ebonyi state died from the accident while seven persons sustained injury,” he said.

    Nwibo called on the government to come to the aid of the victims especially by replacing their tricycles.

    “The man that lost his life has an expectant wife and two children,” he said.

  • I will borrow when absolutely necessary- Gov Otti vows

    I will borrow when absolutely necessary- Gov Otti vows

    Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has said his administration will only borrow money to run the state when it is absolutely necessary.

    The Governor made the vow in Umuahia on Wednesday during a lecture series to mark his two years in office.

    Otti, while responding to some of the issues raised by the lecturer, Dr Idika Kalu, a onetime Finance Minister, said borrowing was not to be done recklessly adding that he would only borrow when necessary.

    The governor said he had to inculcate financial discipline and responsibility in the system to get the state to a greater level.

    He said he had been paying workers and pensioners having found that it made more economic sense to pay than to keep the money at the bank.

    “We shall commit the remaining two years of this term to institutionalizing the reforms that have been initiated.

    “Collectively, we shall make Abia the hub of transformational ideas; we shall not be tired of listening to new ideas, for that is the path to continuous growth and progress,” Otti stated.

    The governor thanked Dr Kalu for accepting to deliver the second anniversary lecture of his administration.

    Otti said the state put the lecture together to “talk to ourselves honestly and evaluate how far we have come, what we have done right, and what we can do better.”

    In his lecture, the one-time Minister of Finance, urged the governor to borrow to expand the projects that would create value for the state.

    The octogenarian maintained that such borrowing was not bad once it was done in the interest of the state.

    The lecture was titled : Two years of transformation; Sustaining the momentum”.

    Kalu also urged Otti to use the media in major roles in his development efforts because of their powers to cause change.

    “The media can help this nation get back to life so don’t give them minor roles but give them key roles,” Kalu said.

    Kalu commended Otti for his numerous projects some of which he said he had seen delivered while some are still ongoing.

    He urged the government to always abide by the rule of law and to show examples of how things should be done rightly and uprightly.

    Kalu harped on the need to punish errant persons who instilled impunity in the society noting that a society where impunity reigned was not modernized.

  • Police rescue 12 children from illegal home in Abia

    Police rescue 12 children from illegal home in Abia

    Abia Police Command has rescued 12 children from an unregistered motherless babies’ home located at an apartment on Ikot Ekpene Road, Aba.

    The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Maureen Chinaka disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen in Umuahia on Monday.

    She said that on May 19, at about 11: 45 hrs, detectives from Abia State Police Command, using credible intelligence, apprehended one Blessing Emebo, 49, female and Sunday Emebo, 42, male.

    Chinaka said the duo were apprehended for operating an unregistered motherless babies’ home in their apartment at Ikot Ekpene Road in Aba.

    She said 12 children from different villages in Arochukwu LGA, whose ages were between two months and 14 years were found in the custody of the duo, Blessing and Sunday Emebo.

    “Nine male children were found with the duo which include Ojiugo Caleb 14, Christian Okoro, 12, Samuel Okoro,13, Clinton Nkemakolam, 9, and Godwin Emmanuel, 10.

    “Others are Osinachi Nkemakolam, 6, Marvelous Emmanuel, 5, David Emmanuel, 7 and Testimony Emebo, 2 months old.

    “The females among the children are Ogechi Nkemakolam, 9, Chinaza Okoro, 9, and Anointing Okoro, 7”, she said.

    Chinaka said the rescued children have been safely handed over to the Ministry of Women Affairs in Abia for custody.

    “Meanwhile investigations are still ongoing. The suspects are currently undergoing interrogation at the State CID, Umuahia and will soon be arraigned in court at the conclusion of investigation.

    “The Command is committed to ensuring the reduction of crime and criminality in the state and so we advise the public to stay security-conscious and ensure children’s safety”, she said.

    Chinaka warned parents not to leave children with unfamiliar persons and to report suspicious persons who have children in their custody to the Police.

    The PPRO urged residents to use Abia Command’s hotlines: 08035415405, 08079210004, 08079210003, 08079210005, to pass information in order to nip crime in the bud.

  • Ex-Abia Finance Commissioner faults Gov Otti on payment of N9.8bn to Hartland for Aba-Port-Harcourt Road project

    Ex-Abia Finance Commissioner faults Gov Otti on payment of N9.8bn to Hartland for Aba-Port-Harcourt Road project

    …asks Abia govt to show proof of payment

    Ex- Commissioner for Finance in Abia State, Mr Obinna Oriaku has faulted the claim by the State Governor, Dr Alex Otti that N9.8 billion was paid by the administration of former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu to Hartland Construction company for the construction of Aba-Port-Harcourt Road.

    Otti reportedly made the claim during a celebration at Umuagbia Secondary School, pointing out that his predecessor paid the entire N9.8 billion, being the contract sum, to the company and that “the road was not done.”

    In a riposte to Governor Otti’s claim, published by #NwokeukwuMascot blog on May 21, 2025, Oriaku said that the claim represented another attempt by the governor to defend the “monumental fraud” perpetrated in the award of the same road project to Julius Berger at a revised whopping cost of N36.5 billion.

    According to Oriaku, “This assertion [payment of N9.8bn] is not only misleading but a calculated attempt to divert attention from the ₦36.5 billion [at which the road project was] awarded to Julius Berger, a company that shares a board chairman with his Signature Bank, raising serious concerns over conflict of interest and financial propriety.

    “As the then Commissioner for Finance in 2017, when the original contract was awarded, I am compelled to clarify the facts and sustain a truthful narrative around this contentious project.

    “It is also worthy to note that in 2017, when the Port Harcourt-Aba Road was awarded, the process adhered strictly to the public procurement guidelines, including advertisements in three national newspapers.

    “The entire bidding process was transparent, with reputable firms such as Dantata & Sawoe, Gitto, and Hartland Construction participating competitively for the project.

    “Contrary to Governor Otti’s claim, Hartland Construction is currently executing a federal road contract in Abia State, a testament to its competence. The current administration, however, forced Julius Berger onto the Port Harcourt Road project, disregarding due process and the existing scope of work already done by Hartland.

    “It is important to state that from 2017 to 2023, only ₦3.2 billion was paid to Hartland Construction. The previous Abia State Government had expected the African Development Bank (AfDB) to assume funding responsibility for the project, as it was listed among the roads slated for AfDB’s intervention.

    “Ironically, the very individual, Alex Otti now celebrating the road’s completion was instrumental in frustrating the AfDB loan process.

    “Hartland Construction, an A-rated contractor in Nigeria, had already executed extensive earthworks on the road, including the removal of unsuitable materials, backfilling with laterite and white sand, and the complete construction of dual-side drainage from Umuagbia Pond to Uratta.

    “Stone base laying had already commenced before their work was halted In fact, drainages were already completed in 2023.

    “Upon assuming office in 2023, the then Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works, Engr. Ememe, recommended an ₦8 billion payment to Hartland to facilitate project completion.

    “Instead, the government, driven by vested interests evident even before the 2023 elections, hastily handed the project to Julius Berger without advertising or undergoing any transparent procurement process.

    “It is precisely because Julius Berger did not begin from scratch that they were able to complete the road within the stipulated timeframe. Most of the groundwork had already been accomplished by Hartland, eliminating the need for duplication.

    “We challenge Governor Otti to publicly present any evidence that Hartland Construction received more than ₦3.2 billion for the Port Harcourt Road project which represents 32.6% of the total contract sum.

    “If such evidence exists, I am ready to apologise. If not, the Governor must refrain from peddling falsehoods to justify what is fast becoming an indefensible scandal.

    “We further call on the Governor to institute an independent panel to investigate and verify the actual amount paid to Hartland Construction Company. Such an approach would be more honourable than his now-familiar tactics of deceit and diversion.

    “It is only in Abia that fraud is legitimised using the U.S. dollar as though the state is engaged in stockfish importation. While other states are delivering quality roads through Julius Berger using naira, or even Zimbabwean dollars as metaphorically stated, Abia prefers to inflate costs under the guise of foreign currency justification.

    “If truly ₦9.8 billion was paid to Hartland for no work done, the Governor known for his aggressive media stunts would have already gone after the contractor. A government that could falsely accuse Ferotex Construction (a company it still contracts) cannot be expected to spare Hartland if any wrongdoing had occurred.”

    Oriaku, in the published opinion in which he laid bare the true narrative of what transpired as a witness and strategic member of the immediate past administration, stated: “No matter how many public events are staged or press releases issued, the truth remains that the Port Harcourt Road project in Abia State reeks of manipulation, deceit, and a staggering level of financial opacity.”

    He said: “For the people of Abia and concerned Nigerians, this entire episode proves yet again that in Otti’s Abia, the more you look, the less you see.”

    The red arrow shows drainages already constructed by Hartland before Gov Otti hastily rewarded the Aba-Port-Harcourt Road contract to Julius Berger im 2023 at a whoppimg N36.5 billion up from N9.8bn it was awarded to Hartland Construction Company in 2017 by the immediate administration of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu.
  • Nigerian man detained for setting wife, 3 children ablaze in Abia

    Nigerian man detained for setting wife, 3 children ablaze in Abia

    A 40 year old man has been arrested by operatives of the Abia State Police Command for murdering his daughter after locking her, her two siblings and his wife at his house before setting his house on fire located in Asa Umudim community, Osisioma Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.

    Confirming the tragic incident, the state’s police spokesperson, Deputy Superintendent (DSP) Maureen Chinaka, disclosed that the man was arrested on Monday, May 19 after he was rescued from being lynched by an angry mob.

    Chinaka noted that his wife and two other children are currently receiving medical treatment and are in critical condition following the incident.

    She mentioned the man, whose name has not yet been disclosed, poured a flammable substance around the house and set it ablaze, accusing his wife of infidelity.

    He also accused her of frequently answering phone calls from individuals he suspected to be her lovers.

    Tragically, one of his daughters died in the blaze, while doctors are working to save the lives of the wife and the remaining children.

    Chinaka also stated that the corpse of the deceased daughter have been taken to a mortuary.

    She finally stated that investigations are currently ongoing and urged residents to avoid taking laws into their hands.

  • Minimum wage: Abia workers yet to enjoy – Organised Labour

    Minimum wage: Abia workers yet to enjoy – Organised Labour

    The Organised Labour in Abia has appealed to Gov. Alex Otti, to ensure the implementation of the new minimum wage of N70,000, for some categories of workers in the state.

    The Organised Labour, comprising the Nigeria Labour Congress(NLC) and the Trade Union Congress(TUC), made this appeal on the occasion of 2025 May-Day celebration on Thursday in Umuahia.

    The state NLC Chairman, Mr Ogbonnaya Okoro, delivered the joint address prepared by him and his TUC counterpart, Mr Ihechi Enogwe.

    Okoro listed the people affected to include environmental health officers, health workers in the ministries and Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Aba.

    According to him, also affected are veterinary officers in the Ministry of Agriculture and local government areas, Ministry of Social and Women Affairs and Secondary Education Management Board.

    Okoro said that the Organised Labour would not be able to guarantee industrial peace in those sectors, for anything short of the minimum wage implementation.

    He expressed deep appreciation to the governor for the successful negotiation and implementation of the new minimum wage for the state and local government workers.

    The NLC chairman further thanked the governor for his outstanding work since he assumed office, especially in infrastructural development, education and agriculture.

    He further called the attention of the governor to the outstanding arrears of the minimum wage and its consequential adjustment.

    Okoro commended the governor for rolling out the contributory pension scheme for the state workers.

    He, however, urged the state government to complement the contributory pension scheme by contributing its own percentage.

    Okoro decried the arbitrary and high taxation on salaries of workers, while urging the governor’s intervention on what he described as “economic evil imposed on Abia workers.”

    Responding, the governor said he had paid careful attention to all the requests, and assured that they would be painstakingly considered.

    Otti said that his administration would continue to prioritise the welfare of workers in the state, to appreciate them for their contributions to the economy.

    He assured the workers of prompt and regular payment of their salaries, which usually comes on or before 28th of every months.

    Otti said that his administration had since assumption of office in 2023, defrayed over N30 billion salary arrears owed workers by his predecessor.

    He said that the government would continue to engage and interact with workers in building a new Abia.

    In an interview, Chief Chiemela Iroha, Chairman, Nigerian Union of Agriculture and Allied Employees, Abia chapter, expressed satisfaction with this year’s May-Day celebration, but said there was still work to be done.

    “The workforce of Abia has undergone some rigours, torture and neglect, but this is the first time we are seeing light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.

    The theme of this year’s May-Day is “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship.”

  • 2027:Deputy Speaker leads defection of PDP stalwart Chris Igwe, 13,000 followers to APC in Abia

    2027:Deputy Speaker leads defection of PDP stalwart Chris Igwe, 13,000 followers to APC in Abia

    Ahead of 2027 general elections, the Deputy Speaker, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, has received Chief Chris Odinaka Igwe into the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Umunneochi Local Government of Abia State.

    Igwe, popularly called Chris Nak is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Mainland Oil and Gas Limited.
    A former influential member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Igwe defected to the APC with over 13,000 followers who are also members of Chris Odinaka Igwe Friends Club (CFC).
    Other defectors are 27 PDP Ward Chairmen who collapsed their structures into the APC, pledging their unwavering loyalty to Kalu’s visionary leadership.
    The new members of the ruling party said that Kalu’s impactful legislative works, particularly the establishment of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) were their driving force to join the APC.
    Speaking at the reception that held in Isiochi, the country home of the oil magnate, on Monday, Kalu commended Igwe for his decision to connect with the centre, saying that the people of Umunneochi local government area will not regret the move.

    Accompanied by the Abia State Chairman of APC, Dr. Kingsley Ononogbu, the Deputy Speaker added that the defectors have automatically become members of the Renewed Hope Partners (RHP), a structure he recently unveiled for the reelection bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
    He said: “Chief Chris Igwe and I have been friends for a long time. We have been in politics for a long time also.

    “We were together in one political party before but he left for another one. But nevertheless, we have continued to be good friends since them. I like him for his sincerity and love for his people. He has a good heart. He loves God too. Whatever you give him for Ndi Isiochi must surely get to them. In fact, he will even add his own. He’s doing well in his business, well known around the country.
    “I welcome you to our great party, the APC. The decision you took is a commendable one. Chief Chris is a business man. He’s comfortable but he has taken this decision for his people to bring them into the mainstream politics.

    The people of Umunneochi will reap the benefits. So, on behalf of the national chairman of the party and the State Chairman his representing, we are handing over this broom. I welcome you to Renewed Hope Partners. You are now members of this group.

    “We have seen that the broom is not enough to go round. It shows that too many people from Isiochi are desirous of joining APC. Thirteen thousand people today are joining APC. Thirteen thousand members of CFC. We welcome all of you to this big family of APC.”