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Prof Chidiebere Onyia: Celebrating the Unrepetant Technocrat with a Difference

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File Photo: Secretary to Enugu State Government, Professor Chidiebere Onyia

Writing in the popular British Financial Times on March 17, 2017, Tim Harford, in a piece he titled, “Somethings are best left to the technocrats”, drew a remarkable contrast between democracy and technocracy in considering how decisions that affect the general well-being of the society are made. These are broad questions affecting the economy, healthcare delivery, infrastructure, development, security, digital skills, education among other critical spectrums.

Harford had argued that while voters are more interested in the politics of who lead them in the name of democracy and freedom of choice, they eventually fail to look beyond the colouration and aura of going to the polls to the aftermath of their decisions. Behind the fanfare of politics is the biggest elephant that must be contended with—policies—that will shape the wellness of the people. Policies are often an intentional course of action set out by the leadership of a country, state or organisation. Getting it right entails that any policy output must be validated by conscious, sound and critical reasoning among the competing alternatives. On this note, Harford shrugged that for any piece of policy, the typical voter does not understand what is at stake.

He quite submitted that many democratically elected politicians and even voters themselves were not placed at a vintage point to attend to technical issues and where politics appears to falter, we turn our searchlight of redemption to technocracy, albeit, indirectly. Employability of technocracy is not the herd mentality of the general public but the elected leader who had recognised either himself being a technocrat, or the need for technocrats. In spite of the lengthy argument, the defeatist approach of the FT editor capped his submission: “Ultimately, democracy must trump technocracy, and it does”.

This sheds light on the intrigues that played out during the election of Dr. Peter Mbah as governor of Enugu State. Events that accompanied the electioneering period are important to make inference to. Among the top contending issues being considered by the electorate and analysts deduced from opinion sampling or vox populi were the issues of professionalism, technocracy, sphere of influence, and sadly, clannishness. While it was also a consensus ad idem that Governor Mbah had the first three qualities against others that were feeding basically on politics, the issue of clannish interest crept in. This beclouded sound judgement and almost knocked out rationality on its face value. That’s democracy and freedom. However, it’s the weakest link of democracy or politics where the decay is noticeable.

Raced up, technocracy knitted in democracy, like an enigma, triumphed. Governor Mbah, it would be recalled, had campaigned vigorously and unrepentantly about his disposition to disrupt the convention of political considerations in governance and administration. That should be the last forethought on the pyramid of decisions. People did not appreciate or were slow to understand what the message signposted until the complexity of his decision began to rip off the norm—the old order that had sunk the state into comatose.

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The governor started with the appointment of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG)—Professor Chidiebere Onyia. His announcement was a chill pill. “From where?,” was the question blistering the political atmosphere. For some of us with a quick tap on the google button, we simply gave a terse reply: “Onyia is from the development space working with different world bodies, and consulting with the most civilized or developed nations”. That was the genesis of technocrats dominating the administration of Governor Mbah. It takes not just a technocrat but a complex, versatile, multi-talented and distinctive technocrat to discover and reach out to other technocrats.

The governor often tagged a quote on his mission to making the state the best or the most outstanding in terms of security, investment, tourism, standard of living and eradication of poverty as being a leader who should take the people to where they ought to be rather than where they wanted to be. To achieve the above, there are far-arching implications. Taking the economy from a wobbling $4 billion to $30 billion; constructing a 10 thousand kilometers of road; eradicating poverty; training and upskilling thousands of youths on a yearly basis; making the state attractive to investors; getting the world to see Enugu as the next tourist attraction; digitisating the state’s services, etc, are not just a thing for political settlement, or as Harford called it, for democracy to determine, instead, they are core technocratic decisions. That informed the rational behind the governor assembling a world-class team to drive the mission. On the operational level, the SSG is now piloting it. A quick glance from the SSG’s quote: “Gentlemen, do not allow the His Excellency to descend from the Executive Level of decision-making to Operational Level. We must drive this together”. Indeed, the executive level is no cruise; it’s no envy; it’s no smile. Every day at that level entails making hard, demanding decisions just to advance towards the goals.

For those that have been following the trend in Nigeria and Enugu State in particular, Prof. Onyia has not had it so rosy. He often admits that the space where he formely played sharply contrasts with the present political space where members of the public, used to politics, defined everything from the lens of politics and politicking—this could be the murky waters of politics that has become a toga in the lexicon of our socio-political sphere. Regardless, the journey to take the people to where they ought to be must continue. That determination is no apology. Enugu State must get it right this time, and time, being the ultimate verdict of human affairs, is ticking against odds in favour of a new dawn in the State.

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One thing cannot be wished away; Governor Mbah started on a wise and, arguably, the best note. His operational team, often brandished by him, has been on the ground driving the core policies and programmes. In the past 8 months, transformation in the state has taken a new shift; a new definition most acceptable from all indicators of development. We’ve got the SSG passionate about the mission and vision, frontally and vigorously pursuing the course. It is not surprising.

When the state cancelled the illegal sit-at-home orders by some faceless non-actors which had badly hurt the economy and people of the state, it took a strong willed people, including the SSG to stand firm and weather the storm of blackmail, threats, fake news and false campaign sponsored by the enemies of the state to reassert the primary responsibility of the government—to protect life and property of the citizens. It was even baffling that most of these victims of sit-at-home orders and the accompanying consequences of diferring such orders did not appreciate that the government was fighting to protect them from the scourge of the bloodthirsty hoodlums. I guess they are now seeing reasons to appreciate the government for sticking to its gaunlets.

Although not attached or close to Prof Onyia because of the different spaces at which we play, I have had the opportunity, in recent times, of working with him. My role has increasingly tilted me to his space for directives and meetings. Having worked with him and understood his orientation, drive, passion and traits, I could submit of him that a vista of hope, reinvigoaration and narration in the state are only possible because of people like him.

Prof Onyia has never shied away about his staunch discipleship of Governor Mbah’s school of thought and governance philosophy. He preaches it and tries to make disciples of us in the system. He warns against deviation from the governance philosophy and insists every of the governor’s pronucements in terms of projects to execute or what to achieve must be accelerated by field workers. It is a standing mandate since he believes, as the governor also does, that everyone that made it into his cabinet and team was selected out of competence, competitiveness in capacity and informed technocracy. This places a burden of expectation on every member of the team to work as a family with superior intellectual and practical capabilities.

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Should I also be surprised? No. Prof. Onyia has proved, even beyond any shadow of doubt, that his technocratic prowess is tested and proven in different spheres. It was no politics that his choice of appointment was made. Heading sectoral clusters in the development space is no Pavlovian response by the critical bodies that had always engaged him. His operational excellence transcends his professorial fields in education, sciences to development and capacity building. He should as well be called a Professor of Development and Human Capacity Building!

I’ve been fascinated by the restlessness of the Professor to achieve those things set out by the governor in his Social Contract with the people. Every day counts in the calender of the government. Every day measures individual’s outputs and every day is significant in the journey to achieving a modern Enugu State. This caps the mission of Governor Mbah Administration.

Even as we were at today’s weekly Strategic Meeting, a reiteration reminding us of our Key Performance Indicators (KPI) by the SSG were the following words: “Gentlemen, His Excellency, Governor Peter Mbah, is in a hurry to deliver, and we must also be in a hurry to ensure all he promised are delivered before time”. If the principal is in a hurry delivering, keeping sleepless nights in the office, inspecting already executed and other ongoing projects, querying contractors on job specifications, what less is expected from the field workers! Courage!

I will leave with these few words; meritocracy of idea, team spirit, respect, evaluation, traceability, transparency, discipline, accountability, optimal performance and disruptive innovation, are all the governing philosophy hanging like an almanac on the wall of our office and bedroom, reminding us like Andrew Marvell’s “To His Coy Mitress”, “But at my back I always hear time’s wingèd chariot hurrying near”. Glad the administration has achieved in areas of water, security, infrastructure, education, empowerment, poverty eradication, youth training, technology, healthcare delivery, agriculture, sanitation, tourism and others. It is possible because the right people were involved.

In love and in respect, I am more than glad; superlatively glad that a day like this where some of us could celebrate an epitome of technocracy knitted with workaholism is afforded. Dear Professor Onyia, even though you’re too serious, bullish and unapologetic about delivery, you remain a good man. Your heart is full of compassion and love. More strength. Congratulations! Happy Birthday

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Senator Uche Ekwunife Attends Soludo’s Second Term Swearing-In, Calls for Unity and Progress (See Details)

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It was a moment of significance in Anambra State as Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo was officially sworn in for a second term in office alongside his deputy, Onyekachukwu Ibezim.

The ceremony, which drew dignitaries and political stakeholders from across party lines, witnessed the presence of the APC Deputy Governorship candidate in the last election and a prominent APC party leader in the state, Distinguished Sen. Uche Ekwunife.

Senator Ekwunife, who graced the occasion, also took to her official Facebook page to extend her goodwill message to the Governor, emphasizing unity, development, and collective progress for Anambra State.

In her words:

“I warmly congratulate His Excellency, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, on his successful inauguration for a second term as Governor of Anambra State.

I am confident that this renewed mandate will usher in a smooth, impactful, and people-oriented administration. This second tenure offers a valuable opportunity to further improve the livelihoods of Ndi Anambra and accelerate infrastructural development across our dear state.

I call on Ndi Anambra to unite and rally behind the Governor in the interest of peace, progress, and sustainable development. Now that the elections are behind us, our collective focus must be on advancing the common good and building a stronger Anambra State.

I also pray that God grants Governor Soludo divine wisdom, guidance, and protection as he embarks on this new phase of leadership.”

Her presence and message reflect a call for post-election unity and a shared commitment toward the growth and stability of Anambra State.

See some of the pictures captured in event below

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2027: Isi-Uzo Youths Back Egbuogu for Assembly Seat

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Chidi Egbuogu

A coalition of youths from Eha-Amufu community in Isi-Uzo Local Government Area of Enugu State has expressed support for Chidi Egbuogu amid ongoing discussions on representation in the Enugu State House of Assembly ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The position was contained in a statement signed by C. J. Nnamani, who said the group’s stance followed consultations among youth leaders and community stakeholders on individuals considered capable of contributing to legislative representation in the constituency.

According to the statement, Egbuogu’s background in public service, as well as his involvement in grassroots mobilisation, informed the group’s position.

The youths noted that Egbuogu, a former Special Assistant to the immediate past Governor of Enugu State on Drugs and Narcotics, has maintained consistent engagement with community development initiatives and civic issues affecting residents of Isi-Uzo.

They described him as a leader with a measured understanding of local challenges and a track record of participation in community-oriented programmes.

“Following consultations among youth leaders and other stakeholders, we consider Chidi Egbuogu to be among individuals who have remained engaged in community development and grassroots mobilisation. His experience in public service reflects continued involvement in issues affecting our people,” the statement read.

The group further highlighted the importance of sustained civic participation, noting that inclusive dialogue and responsible leadership remain critical to strengthening democratic processes at the grassroots level.

They added that ongoing conversations within the constituency have increasingly focused on issues such as infrastructure development, youth empowerment, security, and social welfare.

Chidi Egbuogu was born on August 23, 1982, in Ihenyi, Eha-Amufu, Isi-Uzo Local Government Area of Enugu State. He is the son of the late Hon. Wilfred Egbuogu, a teacher and farmer, and Chief Hon. Josephine Egbuogu, a retired nurse.

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He attended the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, and later the University of Nigeria.

Egbuogu has held various leadership roles, including serving as Secretary-General of the Students’ Union Government during his student years. He is also the founder of Isi-Uzo G-20, a grassroots mobilisation platform focused on community engagement.

He served as Secretary-General of the Ihenyi Town Union and later as Special Assistant on Drugs and Narcotics to the immediate past Governor of Enugu State, where he was involved in advocacy and public awareness initiatives on drug abuse prevention.

He is married with three children and has interests in sports, particularly table tennis and football, as well as reading.

The youths expressed the view that increased participation of young people in civic and political processes could contribute to broader inclusion and development within Isi-Uzo constituency.

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Ani Salutes Mbah at 54, Credits Him with Redefining Governance in Enugu

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The Executive Chairman of Enugu South Local Government Area, Dr. Caleb Onyema Ani, has felicitated with the Executive Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, on the occasion of his 54th birthday, lauding his visionary and transformative leadership.

In a goodwill message personally signed and released through the Enugu South LGA Media Unit, Dr. Ani described Governor Mbah as “a rare gift to Enugu State, a leader whose vision has redefined governance in our time.”

“On behalf of the people of Enugu South Local Government Area, the council leadership, and my family, I rise today to celebrate an exceptional man — our Governor, our leader, our brother, Barr. Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah — on his special day,” Dr. Ani said.

Highlighting the Governor’s achievements, the Council Chairman noted that Mbah’s administration has made significant strides in economic development, infrastructure, education, and youth empowerment, with tangible impacts felt in Enugu South.

“In Enugu South, your transformative influence is evident. From improved roads to the optimism in the conversations of our traders, students, and artisans, people are now inspired to dream bigger because their government dares to act boldly. That, Your Excellency, is the mark of a true leader,” he added.

Dr. Ani also prayed for continued divine guidance for the Governor, wishing him strength, wisdom, and good health to continue his service to the state.

“As you mark another year, may Almighty God renew your strength, sharpen your wisdom, and keep you in excellent health to complete the great work you have started. Enugu State is on the move, and you are the engine behind that movement. We are proud of you. We stand with you. And we celebrate you today with all the love and loyalty Enugu South can offer,” he said.

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He called on citizens across Enugu State to join in honoring a leader who governs with both intellect and compassion.

Enugu South LG Media

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Mbah at 54: New Enugu Group Hails Governor as Icon of Infrastructural Revolution

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Enugu State Governor, Dr Peter Mbah

The Convener of the New Enugu Group, Barr. Henry Okeke, has extended warm felicitations to the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, on the occasion of his 54th birthday, describing him as a transformational leader driving a new era of development in the state.

In a statement made available to journalists on Tuesday in Enugu, Okeke extolled Mbah as a symbol of “infrastructural revolution,” noting that the governor’s leadership style has continued to redefine governance and accelerate development across the State.

According to him, the New Enugu Group joined well-wishers across the state and beyond in celebrating a leader whose vision and commitment have set Enugu on a path of sustainable growth and modernization.

“We celebrate an icon and visionary whose leadership has ignited a new wave of progress, repositioning Enugu as a beacon of purposeful governance,” Okeke said.

He observed that within a relatively short time in office, Mbah has initiated and sustained ambitious projects aimed at transforming critical sectors of the state’s economy.

These, he noted, include far-reaching investments in infrastructure, security, education, and healthcare, tourism and hospitality and revampment of moribund industries that had bolstered the state economy.

Barr. Okeke highlighted the administration’s emphasis on road construction and rehabilitation, stressing that improved connectivity between urban and rural communities has become a central pillar of the governor’s development agenda.

He added that such interventions were not only enhancing mobility but also stimulating economic activities across the state, which has made the state one of the fastest growing economies in the country.

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The group further commended the governor’s investments in smart schools and modern healthcare facilities, describing them as strategic steps toward strengthening human capital development and improving the quality of life for residents.

On security, Okeke noted that the introduction of advanced surveillance systems and other innovative measures has significantly enhanced the protection of lives and property, thereby creating a more conducive environment for business, investment, tourism and living.

He also pointed to the administration’s economic initiatives, including efforts to attract both local and foreign investments, promote agribusiness, and expand the state’s internally generated revenue base, as clear indicators of a deliberate strategy to reposition Enugu as a leading economic hub.

According to him, Governor Mbah’s vision of transforming Enugu into a preferred destination for business, tourism, and comfortable living is gradually becoming a reality, driven by consistent policy implementation and strong political will.

“As he marks his 54th birthday, we celebrate not just his life, but his bold vision, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the progress of Enugu State. He is, indeed, recreating the Enugu of our dreams,” he added.

The New Enugu Group further wished the governor good health, wisdom, and continued success in his efforts to deliver democratic dividends and sustainable development to the people of Enugu State.

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Tinubu Mourns Uche Nnaji’s Mother, Praises Her Legacy of Sacrifice

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed condolences to former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, following the death of his mother, Mrs. Monica Nnenna Nnaji.

In a statement issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President sympathised with the Nnaji family and paid tribute to the late matriarch for her resilience and dedication to raising her children.

Tinubu noted that Mrs. Nnaji lived a life defined by sacrifice, discipline and commitment to family, adding that her values were reflected in the achievements of her children.

The President said, “I mourn with Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji and the entire Nnaji family over the passing of their beloved mother, Mrs. Monica Nnenna Nnaji. Mama lived an exemplary and fulfilled life, marked by resilience, sacrifice and devotion to the upbringing of her children.”

He further commended the late Mrs. Nnaji for raising her children through hard work and discipline, noting that her efforts helped shape individuals who have contributed to national development.

According to the President, “The late matriarch’s strength and commitment were evident in the way she nurtured her family. She raised four sons through hard work and discipline, and today her legacy is visible in the lives of her children who have continued to make meaningful contributions to the growth and development of our nation.”
Tinubu urged the bereaved family to find comfort in the enduring legacy left behind by their mother.

He added, “At this difficult moment, I encourage the Nnaji family to take solace in the remarkable legacy Mama left behind — a legacy that continues to live through her children and the many lives she touched. I pray that Almighty God grants her eternal rest and comforts the family she has left behind.”

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Enugu South LG Boss, Ani Congratulates Dr Chukwunweike on Emergence as APC Chairman

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File Photo: Enugu State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Martin Chukwunweike (left), in a handshake with Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah; Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Caleb Onyema Ani, Executive Chairman of Enugu South Local Government Area (right).

The Executive Chairman of Enugu South Local Government Area, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Caleb Onyema Ani, has congratulated Dr. Martin Chukwunweike on his emergence as the Enugu State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing it as a defining moment for the party’s reorganisation and future direction in the state.

In a statement issued by the Enugu South Local Government Media Office, Dr. Ani said the outcome of the state congress reflects the maturity of party structures and the growing consolidation of internal democratic processes within the APC in Enugu.

The congress, held at Michael Okpara Square, brought together delegates from the 17 local government areas of the state. Ani noted that the peaceful atmosphere and orderly conduct of the exercise underscored the commitment of party stakeholders to strengthening institutional credibility and cohesion.

According to him, Dr. Chukwunweike’s affirmation by delegates signals broad-based confidence in his leadership credentials, administrative experience, and grassroots appeal.

“Dr. Chukwunweike’s emergence represents not just a leadership transition, but an opportunity for strategic repositioning. His background in party administration and grassroots mobilisation places him in a strong position to foster unity, deepen internal consultation, and build a more competitive and issue-driven political platform,” Ani stated.

The council chairman further emphasised that healthy political competition remains essential to democratic growth, noting that vibrant opposition politics enhances accountability, policy innovation, and citizen engagement.

He expressed optimism that under Chukwunweike’s leadership, the APC in Enugu would prioritise inclusive participation, strengthen internal mechanisms for dialogue, and promote constructive engagement across party lines in the interest of sustainable development.

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Dr. Ani reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to good governance, transparency, and people-centred development in Enugu South Local Government Area, stressing that political diversity should serve as a catalyst for progress rather than division.

“Peaceful political coexistence, mutual respect, and issue-based discourse are critical to maintaining stability and advancing the collective aspirations of our people,” he added.

He concluded by wishing the new state chairman and members of the executive committee wisdom, unity, and strategic foresight as they assume the responsibility of steering the affairs of the party in Enugu State.

Enugu South LG Media

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APC Enugu South LG Congress Reflects People’s Interest, Says Caleb Ani

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Enugu South Council Chairman, Dr. Caleb Ani, addressing party members during the APC Local Government Congress

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu South Local Government Area, at the weekend, concluded its congress, an exercise party leaders say underscores internal cohesion and organisational stability.

The event, conducted at the party secretariat along Nise Bus Stop, Agbani Road, drew stakeholders, ward leaders, youths, women’s groups and members from the council’s 13 wards.

Chairman of the council, Dr. Caleb Ani, said the congress represented “a true reflection of the people’s interest,” noting that its conduct demonstrated unity among party members.

Ani attributed the atmosphere to what he described as growing cohesion within the party under Peter Mbah’s leadership, urging the newly elected executives to intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of future elections.

“This is not for them to go home and rest. The mandate given is a responsibility to mobilise, organise and prepare for greater victories,” he said.

Also speaking, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, commended the smooth conduct of the exercise and the level of participation, stressing that leadership positions within the party demanded accountability and service.

The congress was monitored by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, alongside representatives of the Department of State Services and civil society groups.

Enugu State Secretary to the Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, speaking during the APC Enugu South Local Government Congress.

Observers, including Hon. Emmanuel Chigbogu, Amb. Dr. Chinedu Ugwu, Hon. Kenneth Nnaji, Chioma Agbo, Odo Moses and Odo Lotanna, supervised proceedings from accreditation to final declaration.

At the end of the exercise, Hon. Freedom Nnam emerged Chairman, while Mrs. Ngozi Amugo was elected Vice Chairman.

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Hon. Gabriel Nnaji was returned as Secretary, Hon. Nkem Nnamani as Woman Leader and Hon. Ikechukwu Egbo as Youth Leader, alongside 23 other executive members.

Hon. Freedom Nnam, newly elected Chairman of APC Enugu South, speaking on behalf of the executive team after the congress.

The largely incident-free exercise has been viewed by stakeholders as a positive signal for internal party democracy within the council.

Enugu South LG Media

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Anambra: Police command addresses students on safety

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By Chuks Collins, Awka
o

The Anambra State Police command has stepped up it’s community policing teachings with interaction with schools

The package includes personal/corporate safety, and crime prevention strategies.

The Command while engaging the students and their school authorities on Tuesday, 11th February 2026, in an interactive session focused on school safety, personal security awareness, and crime prevention.

During the season the Assistant Commissioner of Police (Operations Department) Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Oruru Harrison enlightened the students of Sacred Heart Academy Ifite Ogwari, in Ayamelum Council area of the State on the dangers of cultism, drug abuse, bullying, cybercrime, and other social vices.

He emphasised the importance of vigilance, responsible conduct and prompt reporting of suspicious activities in and around the school premises.

The Command encouraged students to imbibe positive relationships with law enforcement agencies and reassured them of the readiness of the police to respond swiftly to distress calls and security concerns affecting educational institutions.

The Police command also urged school administrators to strengthen internal security measures and maintain close collaboration with security agenciesbso as to proactively address potential threats.

The Command remains steadfast in its resolve to safeguard schools and create an enabling environment for academic excellence across the State.

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Gov Mbah Pays Last Respects to Senator Ezea, Describes Him as a Patriot

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Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, on Friday, joined other well-meaning Nigerians in paying last respects to the late Senator representing Enugu North Senatorial District, Senator Okey Ezea, describing the deceased as a principled leader, who held on to his convictions till death.

Speaking during a funeral Mass in honour of the late Senator at his hometown, Itchi, Igboeze South Local Government Area of Enugu State, Mbah said Ezea’s passing was a profound loss not only to his family and constituents, but also to Enugu State as a whole.

“We have gathered to pray for the peaceful repose of our brother as he journeys into the next phase of life. The death of Okey Ezea is not just a loss to the family or to the senatorial zone; it is a loss to the entire state,” he said.

Reflecting on the late Senator’s life, Mbah said he distinguished himself early in his career in the Nigeria Customs Service before venturing into private enterprise and eventually politics, adding that he understood the value of service and remained passionate about improving the welfare of his people throughout his public life.

“I want to agree entirely with what the Bishop said. Okey was unpretentious and uncompromising in his quest to improve the welfare of his people and in service to the state and the nation.

“He demonstrated that the length of life is not what truly matters, but the impact one makes. Okey’s life was impactful. He was indeed a patriot.”

Consoling the late Ezea’s immediate family, he said, “You are not alone. On behalf of the government and people of Enugu State, we offer our deepest condolences and pray that God grants his soul eternal rest.”

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He thanked the Church for standing by the family during their time of grief, and urged the family to find solace in the life and legacies of their late patriarch, noting that their presence of dignitaries from all walks of life at the event, reflected the respect the deceased lawmaker earned across political, religious and social lines.

In his homily, the Catholic Bishop of Nsukka Diocese, Prof. Godfrey Onah, extolled the virtues of the late senator, describing him as a selfless leader, who was driven by conviction and a deep sense of responsibility to his people.

He noted that Ezea’s courage and candour defined his public life and earned him admiration even among those who differed from him politically.

Bishop Onah also lauded Governor Mbah for approving a state burial in honour of the deceased, describing the gesture as a demonstration of leadership maturity and respect for public service.

He observed that recognising leaders who served with integrity reinforces societal values and encourages future generations to prioritise service over personal gain.

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