In a shocking move that has sent tremors through the Imo State political landscape, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has lost a significant number of its members to The Mazi (Gburugburu) Organization (TMO).

The mass defection, which was made official on Thursday, March 6th, 2025, saw prominent politicians from various parties in Imo State join the ranks of TMO. The defectors, who were received warmly by the organization's leadership, cited the APC's failure to deliver on its promises and the organization's commitment to grassroots development and humanitarian work as reasons for their decision.

Among the notable politicians who have joined TMO are Okenze Engr. Paul Opara, immediate past APC Zonal Chairman of APC, Owerri Zone; Hon. Udo Agoha, former Commissioner for Agriculture and State Coordinator Big Tent, Imo State; and Hon. Titus Anyanwu, Okenze Henry Unegbu, Hon Chinenye Ezurike, immediate past Chairmanship Aspirant in the just concluded Local Government Council election, Ezinihitte.

Others include Princess Julieth Anyanwu, Engr Fred Kamalu, Dr. Uzor Mmezi, ADP State State Chairman, Engr. Paul Ejiogu former and the APC ward Chairmen from Ngor Okpala LGA.

The Mazi (Gburugburu) Organization, led by Dr. Chima Matthew Amadi, has welcomed the new members and assured them that their decision to join the organization will be a worthwhile one. With the influx of these seasoned politicians, TMO is poised to mobilize the people to craft the Imo of their dream.

The organization has called on all Imo citizens to join them in their quest for a better future. With a focus on inclusivity, transparency, and accountability, TMO is committed to providing a platform for all Imo citizens to participate in the decision-making process and contribute to the development of the state.

The mass defection is seen as a significant blow to the APC's stronghold in Imo State, and it remains to be seen how the party will respond to the loss of its members. One thing is clear, however: The Mazi (Gburugburu) Organization is a force to be reckoned with in Imo State politics.

As the world marks International Women's Day with the theme " Accelerate Action: calls for rapid advancements in gender equality", a Non Governmental Organization (NGO) in Imo, Dorcas Foundation for Women and Girl child has unequivocally condemned discrimination, sexual harassment, domestic violence and all kinds of abuse against women and girl child.

Speaking to newsmen in Imo, the founder, Dorcas Samson Achi stated that sexual harassment and domestic violence against women is on the increase, giving instance with the trending Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Uduaghan's sexual harassment saga and the several domestic violence against women resulting to murder and heinous injuries on wives and concubines especially in the southeast.  

She noted that the Senate's quick suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan over alleged sexual assault by the Senate President is unacceptable, partial and an attempt to silence women's voice against abuse at all levels, adding that thorough investigation on the matter ought to be carried out before decisions are made. 

The Woman Advocate stated that women should be given a pride of place and an equitable environment to maximize their full potentials in education, work places, corridors of power and different parastatals, adding that the significance of the Women's day celebration is the need to accelerate action in support of women to ensure their education, empowerment, health and safety.  

She vehemently condemned sex for grades in schools, saying that the school being an academic environment should offer a safe atmosphere for growth and learning, not for sexual harassment, abuse of women nor taking advantage of poor performance of female students.

"What is a lecturer teaching his student by demanding for sex to manipulate or upgrade her grade? This evil has gone a long way in damaging the dignity and integrity of these students as well as given them a bad orientation. When a student can sleep with different lecturers to pass out from school, she would believe she can get a job, an appointment and a headway by sleeping with the employers and men in different positions of authority to get what she wants. This further imbibes a negative culture culture in her which may be transferred  to other people including her children".

Achi challenged patriotic individuals who seek for development of every nation to join forces to creat a gender equal world, a world free from discrimination, marginalisation, bias, stereotypes and push for a diverse, equitable and inclusive world. 

She advocated for gender equality in the family, community, work space and politics, arguing that difference should be valued and celebrated as we make conscious efforts towards collective advancement. 

The Feminist urged government and political leaders to raise awareness about women's discrimination, sexual harassment, domestic violence against women and invest in women's advancement as well as take urgent actions to forge gender parity.  

She utilized the opportunity to Extol women's achievements in the educational, political and socioeconomic development of the nation, saying that Nigeria as a nation has benefited immensely from the impacts and inputs of women towards human capital development, nation building at the grassroot, state and national levels.

The New Owerri Youth Organization (NOYO) comprising of World bank Housing Estate, Imo Housing Estate, Federal Housing Estate, Area A, I, M, N and Federal Sites and services, has given Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) two weeks window to respond to their demands as clearly stated in the letter delivered to their office in Owerri during a peaceful deliberation by the group on the 18th February, 2025. 

Speaking during the meeting, the president of the organization, Mr. Kenneth Ozioma Nzeocha highlighted the demands made by the organisation which includes :

1. Immediate improvement on the supply of power to all the areas of New Owerri Ward 1(World bank Housing Estate),

2. Mandatory installation of transformer meters to all power transformers within the new owerri ward 1, to initiate and enable accurate reading of power consumption and billing. 

3. Provision of affordable prepaid meters to inhabitants of new owerri ward 1 or  proper arrangements should be made to bill the inhabitants of New Owerri Ward 1 through community billing by using the transformer monthly energy consumption reading accurately.

Mr. Nzeocha emphasized that NOYO being an association known for promoting peaceful coexistence, community development and individual support or collaboration for good living around the Owerri municipality cannot keep mute when the any system is unfavorable to the people of New Owerri. 

A member of the Board of Trustees of the organization, Mr. Nnamdi Njoku, expressed displeasure at the irregularity of power supply in the area, stating that the inhabitants cannot boost of 48 hours power supply in a month, whereas 90 percent of them pay their bills on monthly basis. He described the situation as unacceptable, hence their demand for improvement in power supply and provision of prepaid meter to individuals, to enable everyone to pay according to consumption. 

The Secretary of the organization, Mr. Kanu Ugonna Anthony, described the power supply in the area as epileptic.

His words,

"We are here to complain of the epileptic power supply in new owerri ward 1 amid height of unacceptable monthly billing. We have come to make demands. We want to pay as we consume. We don't want over estimated billing anymore. We need transformer meter in all the transformers in new owerri so that we can either adopt individual billing or communal billing. We can't continue to pay for what we did not consume. 

The power supply is very irregular that you can rarely have power supply per hour in a day. The situation is terrible coupled with the hot weather. The heat is much this season. Some of us sleep without light considering fuel hike. Our children don't enjoy their sleep anymore, with rashes all over their body. We find it difficult to pomp water for domestic use. We need these issues to be addressed accordingly."

Addressing newsmen shortly after the deliberations, the President, Mr Nzeocha expressed satisfaction at the success of the outing, saying that he is hopeful that the agency will respond within two weeks to their important demands but where they fail to do so, the organization will be left with no choice than to take greater actions to ensure their needs are met with no further delay.

The New Owerri Youth Organization (NOYO) comprising of World bank Housing Estate, Imo Housing Estate, Federal Housing Estate, Area A, I, M, N and Federal Sites and services, has given Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) two weeks window to respond to their demands as clearly stated in the letter delivered to their office in Owerri during a peaceful deliberation by the group on the 18th February, 2025. 

Speaking during the meeting, the president of the organization, Mr. Kenneth Ozioma Nzeocha highlighted the demands made by the organisation which includes :

1. Immediate improvement on the supply of power to all the areas of New Owerri Ward 1(World bank Housing Estate),

2. Mandatory installation of transformer meters to all power transformers within the new owerri ward 1, to initiate and enable accurate reading of power consumption and billing. 

3. Provision of affordable prepaid meters to inhabitants of new owerri ward 1 or proper arrangements should be made to bill the inhabitants of New Owerri Ward 1 through community billing by using the transformer monthly energy consumption reading accurately.

Mr. Nzeocha emphasized that NOYO being an association known for promoting peaceful coexistence, community development and individual support or collaboration for good living around the Owerri municipality cannot keep mute when the any system is unfavorable to the people of New Owerri. 

A member of the Board of Trustees of the organization, Mr. Nnamdi Njoku, expressed displeasure at the irregularity of power supply in the area, stating that the inhabitants cannot boost of 48 hours power supply in a month, whereas 90 percent of them pay their bills on monthly basis. He described the situation as unacceptable, hence their demand for improvement in power supply and provision of prepaid meter to individuals, to enable everyone to pay according to consumption. 

The Secretary of the organization, Mr. Kanu Ugonna Anthony, described the power supply in the area as epileptic.

His words, "We are here to complain of the epileptic power supply in new owerri ward 1 amid height of unacceptable monthly billing. We have come to make demands. We want to pay as we consume. We don't want over estimated billing anymore. We need transformer meter in all the transformers in new owerri so that we can either adopt individual billing or communal billing. We can't continue to pay for what we did not consume. The power supply is very irregular that you can rarely have power supply per hour in a day. The situation is terrible coupled with the hot weather. The heat is much this season. Some of us sleep without light considering fuel hike. Our children don't enjoy their sleep anymore, with rashes all over their body. We find it difficult to pomp water for domestic use. We need these issues to be addressed accordingly."

Addressing newsmen shortly after the deliberations, the President, Mr Nzeocha expressed satisfaction at the success of the outing, saying that he is hopeful that the agency will respond within two weeks to their important demands but where they fail to do so, the organization will be left with no choice than to take greater actions to ensure their needs are met with no further delay.

A Non Governmental Organization(NGO) that promotes the rights and welfare of girls and women in Nigeria, The Dorcas Foundation has vehemently condemned Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), saying that the practice has no health benefits for girls and women instead has overtime resulted to severe issues such as bleeding, urinating problems, psychological problems, menstrual difficulties, infections, painful sexual intercourse, as well as complications in childbirth and increased risk of newborn deaths.

The Founder, Dorcas Samson Achi speaking to Journalists in Owerri on February 5, during a sensitization road match in commemoration of the FGM day, described FGM as a total violation of the human rights of girls and women, including their rights to health, security and life. 

 It is appalling, she said that some health workers are greatly involved in the practice believing that it is safe when medicalized. 

Dorcas  joined the World Health Organisation (WHO) to urge health workers all over the globe not to perform FGM, instead to war against FGM and contribute their quota towards ending the heinous practice.

"Health Care Providers should be advocates for FGM abandonment within the hospital environment, their families and communities. It has been proven that FGM has no health benefits, instead it harms girls and women in many ways as it involves removing and damaging healthy and normal female genital tissue, interfering with the natural functions of girls' and women's bodies. This year's awareness creation is to ingrave the dangers of FGM in the hearts of mothers, fathers and every member of the society. Let's say NO to FGM".

She further argued that the sociocultural and varying religious reasons behind FGM practice are not valid, maintaining that FGM which is erroneously often considered a necessary part of raising a girl, and a way to prepare her for adulthood and marriage, including controlling her sexuality to promote premarital virginity and marital fidelity, has done more harm and no good to the women involved, their husbands and the larger society. 

Dorcas applauds WHO for actions taken so far to eliminate FGM medicalization  as well as their partnership with organizations and countries to ensure its implementation in the world.

The Four House Unions of Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education comprising of Academic Staff Union (ASU), Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Non Academic Staff Union (NASU) and National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) have passed vote of confidence on the newly appointed Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Stella Ngozi Lemchi, describing the appointment as one done with unanimous approval, due diligence, due process and with the support of the university community.

Speaking during a press conference on Monday, January 27 at the school premises, Dr. Jovita Ogu, the chairman of the Academic Staff of the university, stated that Prof. Lemchi's appointment was conducted with utmost transparency and adherence to established guidelines. 

"The Governing Council of the institution, under the able leadership of distinguished Senator Joy Emodi,  meticulously followed all procedures outlined by the Federal Ministry of Education" she reiterated and listed the steps taken which are : advertisement for application, constitution of a search team, shortlisting/screening process, interview and final selection. 

Ogu vehemently faulted claims made in publications circulating on media spaces, doubting Lemchi's credentials and qualifications. She revealed that the new Vice Chancellor's academic and administrative track records are exemplary, adding that her leadership qualities are widely recognized within and outside the academic community. 

She urged the general public to reject misinformation and blackmail imported by "self seeking individuals and detractors whose aim is to sow discord and undermine the progress of the institution" 

Ogu revealed that the entire Alvan community is satisfied by the process leading to the appointment of Lemchi as evident in the massive heralding reception of the VC on the day of her appointment. She expressed hope that Lemchi's appointment shall usher in a new era of growth and development for the institution.

Dean Faculty of Arts, Prof. Chinenye Udeze described Lemchi as a woman of capacity, full of experience, knowledge and energy required to bring about more academic dividends to the citadel of learning. 

She maintained that the ongoing campaigns of calumny are sponsored by the opponents or rivals of the new VC who wished to occupy the exalted position but were grossly disappointed. She added that the entire Alvan community is solidly behind Prof. Lemchi.

Prof. Ngozi Ebemuche, former deputy provost of the institution thanked God for the appointment of Lemchi and appreciated Alvan community for the heroic welcome extended to her on her arrival into the university after her appointment.

He expressed gratitude to Senator Joy Emodi for the transparent and rigorous process she embarked upon to arrive at Lemchi's appointment, extolling her administrative acumen, skillful reasoning and expertise. 

Dignitaries at the conference were Comrade Kizito Uzoma, Chairman, Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Comrade Dr. Eze Maduakor, chairman, Non Academic Staff Union (NASU), Comrade Martin Chieke, chairman, National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT), Comrade Emma Nwachukwu, president, Students Union Government amongst other members of various councils of the university.

Express gratitude for the Walking Aids, Cash Gifts they received from him

The Special Citizens of Imo State has expressed profound gratitude to Hon. Kyrain Uchegbu, the NDDC Commissioner representing Imo State, for gifting the Persons Living With Disabilities some wheelchairs, clutches, walking sticks and fat envelopes on Friday January 31, 2025. 

Speaking to newsmen on Saturday in Owerri, Hon. Charles Ebonuma (Onyeze), the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Imo State Governor on Special Citizens appreciated Honourable Uchegbu for hosting the special citizens in a very remarkable way and helping those who have locomotor dysfunction by gifting them walking aids. 

According to Ebonuma, Hon. Uchegbu's noble initiative has redefined philanthropy with an array of interventions designed to uplift lives and foster wholeness.

 He maintained that Uchegbu's continued commitment to bettering lives and causing positive change, as seen in his epoch-making reception of the Special Citizens, underscores his deep love, concern and investment in the welfare of the Persons Living With Disabilities.

 He applauded him for crafting a model of philanthropy that transforms lives on every level, inspiring hope, opportunity, and unity across Imo State, while praying God to grease his elbow and ease his path to greatness just as he eased the stress of walking for the special citizens who can not walk on their own. 

Ebonuma also acknowledged his financial assistance to special citizens amid unpalatable economic situation and solicited for God's continuous provisions and supplies for him in every ramification.

 describes Lawmaker as a beacon of sincerity

Chima Mathew Amadi a renowned scholar Cum Transparency advocate , paid a solidarity visit to the Representative of Ideato Federal Constituency, Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere on 31th December, 2024 in his home town, Akokwa in Ideato South LGA of Imo State. 

The occasion, which took place on a crisp December day, was marked by a massive turnout of over 10,000 people, who gathered to listen to Dr. Amadi's words of encouragement and praise for Ikenga.

Dr. Amadi's visit was a testament to his unwavering support for Ikenga, whom he described as a "strong pillar of support" and a beacon of sincerity in a political landscape dominated by desperation. He thanked the people of Ideato for standing by Ikenga in his time of need, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to his cause.

"Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere is a man of unimpeachable character, who has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the well-being of our people," Dr. Amadi said. "His sincerity and integrity are qualities that we should all emulate, and I am proud to stand with him in solidarity."

The highlight of the visit was Dr. Amadi's generous donation of ₦50 million to support the development of the Ideato nation. This gesture was met with widespread applause and appreciation from the crowd, who saw it as a testament to Dr. Amadi's dedication to the well-being of the community.

Dr. Amadi's solidarity visit to Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere sends a powerful message about the importance of unity and support in the face of adversity. As a respected figure in Imo State, Dr. Amadi's endorsement of Ikenga is a significant boost to his reputation and a clear indication of his commitment to the values of sincerity and integrity.

The visit has been hailed as a major milestone in the political landscape of Imo State, and its impact is expected to be felt for a long time to come. As the people of Ideato and beyond celebrate this historic moment, they are reminded of the power of unity and solidarity in achieving greatness.

Visits Cheshire Home, Orthopedic Centre; Distributes Food to mammoth crowd*

The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Imo State Governor on Special Citizens, Hon. Charles Ebonuma  on 24th December, celebrated Christmas with Imo Special Citizens, aged men and women, children, his friends and well wishers in Orlu. 

The epoch-making event was held in his home after his visits to Cheshire Home and the orthopedic centre orlu where he gave out food and other items to the inmates there. 

Responding to the kind gestures of Hon. Ebonuma, Ezinna Obioha Mercel, Chairman of the Cheshire Home Orlu and Nnaoma Ignatius Unachukwu, the Coordinator, Cheshire Home Orlu appreciated Hon. Ebonuma for regularising the visit and provision of food and other items to the inmates and urged him to maintain his humanitarian feats, trusting God to crown his efforts with success.

They unanimously requested for the intervention of the government, civil society organizations and well meaning individuals to the serial challenges posing threats on the survival of the inmates there especially their lack of sufficient food, conducive environment, good health care services and funds to aid their education. 

Ebonuma's visit to the Orthopedic Center Orlu popularly known as Nwanyi Aguneri's place was trailed with accolades and praises on Hon. Ebonuma for his annual visitation and show of genuine love to the inmates who are receiving treatments there. 

Speaking at the event in his home,  Ebonuma revealed that he started embarking on the charity project 15years ago and has made it compulsory to host the special citizens, children, old men and women and others every 24th of December to give out food items and other gifts to the people  to celebrate the Christmas season. 

Emphasizing on his motivation, he stated that he has an unusual passion to help people and put smiles on their faces.

His words, "I like seeing people happy. When you get into the rural areas you will find out that many people are really suffering. If you find yourself in any privileged position by virtue of hard work or luck, use it to touch lives and impact the society. I urge everyone to use any position you occupy no matter how little to serve humanity. I don't have much but I don't fail to make people around me happy". 

Ebonuma reinstated that the project is not politically motivated, adding that he began carrying out this annual project with his personal resources before even joining politics.

He described Christmas as a time to express love in deeds not in words and urged everyone to share whatever they have with others in their families, neighbourhood and society at large. 

Furthermore, Ebonuma announced that henceforth he will start giving another Person Living With Disabilities (PWDs) monthly stipend in addition to the two that has been on his payroll since his appointment. 

The special citizens applauded him for providing hope, succour, help and comfort to them especially during every yuletide season, describing him as a man whose life is characterized by impacts, positivity and genuine love for humanity.

They prayed God to bless, keep and elevate him in all ramifications.

 Visits Cheshire Home, Orthopedic Centre Orlu 

The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Imo State Governor on Special Citizens, Hon. Charles Ebonuma  on 24th December, celebrated Christmas with Imo Special Citizens, aged men and women, children, his friends and well wishers in Orlu. 

The epoch-making event was held in his home after his visits to Cheshire Home and the orthopedic centre orlu where he gave out food and other items to the inmates there. 

Responding to the kind gestures of Hon. Ebonuma, Ezinna Obioha Mercel, Chairman of the Cheshire Home Orlu and Nnaoma Ignatius Unachukwu, the Coordinator, Cheshire Home Orlu appreciated Hon. Ebonuma for regularising the visit and provision of food and other items to the inmates and urged him to maintain his humanitarian feats, trusting God to crown his efforts with success.

They unanimously requested for the intervention of the government, civil society organizations and well meaning individuals to the serial challenges posing threats on the survival of the inmates there especially their lack of sufficient food, conducive environment, good health care services and funds to aid their education. 

Ebonuma's visit to the Orthopedic Center Orlu popularly known as Nwanyi Aguneri's place was trailed with accolades and praises on Hon. Ebonuma for his annual visitation and show of genuine love to the inmates who are receiving treatments there. 

Speaking at the event in his home,  Ebonuma revealed that he started embarking on the charity project 15years ago and has made it compulsory to host the special citizens, children, old men and women and others every 24th of December to give out food items and other gifts to the people  to celebrate the Christmas season. 

Emphasizing on his motivation, he stated that he has an unusual passion to help people and put smiles on their faces.

His words, "I like seeing people happy. When you get into the rural areas you will find out that many people are really suffering. If you find yourself in any privileged position by virtue of hard work or luck, use it to touch lives and impact the society. I urge everyone to use any position you occupy no matter how little to serve humanity. I don't have much but I don't fail to make people around me happy". 

Ebonuma reinstated that the project is not politically motivated, adding that he began carrying out this annual project with his personal resources before even joining politics.

He described Christmas as a time to express love in deeds not in words and urged everyone to share whatever they have with others in their families, neighbourhood and society at large. 

Furthermore, Ebonuma announced that henceforth he will start giving another Person Living With Disabilities (PWDs) monthly stipend in addition to the two that has been on his payroll since his appointment. 

The special citizens applauded him for providing hope, succour, help and comfort to them especially during every yuletide season, describing him as a man whose life is characterized by impacts, positivity and genuine love for humanity. They prayed God to bless, keep and elevate him in all ramifications.

Mbaise Nation was  abuzz with excitement on Saturday December 22nd as Dr. Chima Mathew Amadi inaugurates the leadership of The Mazi Organization (TMO) in the Three Local Government Areas of Mbaise Bloc.

During the inauguration, which held at Ife Primary School, Ezinihitte Mbaise LGA, Mazi emphasized the importance of the new leadership being good ambassadors of TMO, reaffirming the organization's core objectives.

Dr. Chima Amadi emphasized the importance of people taking control of their destiny by rejecting monetary inducements that can compromise their values and autonomy. This message is particularly relevant in today's society, where financial incentives can often sway individuals to make decisions that may not align with their long-term goals or the greater good.

As a seasoned activist, development advocate, and scholar, Dr. Amadi's words carry significant weight. His experience in promoting grassroots development and advocating for transparency and accountability make him an authoritative voice on issues related to empowerment and social change.

Dr. Amadi's vision for TMO is to galvanize the minds of Imo people towards wanting and working towards a better future for their communities. He described TMO as a movement that embodies hope, empowerment, and collective action, seeking to uplift local communities, support those in need, and create sustainable change from the ground up.

The inauguration is the latest in Dr. Amadi's efforts to empower communities . Recently, he launched a ₦200 million Yuletide philanthropy initiative in Owerri Zone, which includes a football tournament, women's sports events, and cash donations to widows.

In a display of cultural reverence and respect for tradition, Dr. Chima Amadi, accompanied by his entourage, made a brief but significant stopover at the palace of the traditional ruler of Ife Autonomous Community before continuing his journey into the community.

The visit, which was a highlight of the day's events, afforded Dr. Amadi the opportunity to pay his respects to the monarch and seek royal blessings. This gesture underscores Dr. Amadi's commitment to honoring the rich cultural heritage of Imo State and his recognition of the important role traditional institutions play in the community.

The traditional ruler, in turn, bestowed his blessings on Dr. Amadi, wishing him success in his endeavors and expressing his support for Dr. Amadi's vision for the development of Imo State.

This symbolic visit serves as a testament to Dr. Amadi's dedication to community engagement, cultural preservation, and grassroots mobilization, further solidifying his connection with the people of Imo State.

 By COMR GERARD OKALLA

It was a harvest of praises and gratitude as beneficiaries and some of their respective Parents/Guardians could not hold back their emotions as the Ikenga Imo Education Committee doled out Scholarship grants to successful applicants.

This event took place yesterday, 12 Dec, 2024, at  Ideato federal  Constituency Office of the performing  lawmaker  representing Ideato North and Ideato South Federal Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives, Hon Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere. The awards were  presented  to the jubilant Constituents by a variety of personalities including the Education Committee Chairman, Chief Sylvester Durukwuaku , Chief Nze Ezenwajiaku  Nwajiugonnia (Kenchez Jr), the Director of Communication GDF, Mr  Charles Okafor,  the Umueshi born Media Personality, Comr. Gerard Okalla,  and renowned Communication guru, Chief Rollings obieri (Okwuruoha),  

Before the presentation, and after the opening prayers, the DG, Grassroot DF, Hon Ernest Njesi beaming with welcoming smile had  announced the reason for the august gathering. Thereafter, the Committee Chairman welcomed the students and their parents/ Guardians and congratulated them over their success in the whole process.  He urged them to give learning their utmost attention in their chosen course of study in order to justify the purpose behind the Lawmaker's Initiative.

The  disbursement ceremony by the  Education Committee brings to 150 the number of beneficiaries captured by the  Ikenga Imo scholarship programme in the current 2024/2025  academic session.

Although the event was meant for disbursement of the grants to benefiting students in the  Tertiary Institutions but it was learnt that Supplementary List emanating from the Junior and Senior Secondary categories was also attended to.

It should be recalled that the Committee responsible for conducting the scholarship programme had in the previous year, 2023, awarded 100 constituents with scholarships. With  the  disbursements that took place yesterday, a sum total of 250 number of Ideato students  under the cover of the  scholarship scheme have now been issued with the scholarship largesse  by the influential lawmaker ever since its inception.

By Hon Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere's Scholarship gestures many Ideato families have been relieved of the economic burden which they would have borne paying for their wards'  education. This sentiment was shared during the event as the benefiting students and their parents took turns to thank Hon Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere for his magnanimity and prayed God to sustain him in delivering more quality Representation to the people. 

Reacting immediately they received their grants,  some of the beneficiaries who spoke to the Media were full of praise to Hon Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere while expressing satisfaction with  the process. Umeh Uchechi Favour,  a beneficiary from Osina Community,  conveyed her gratitude to Hon Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere for his uncommon benevolence .  She promised to study hard to prove her mettle.  Miss Nwokeji Chikaodi Helen, one of the recipients showered praises on the outstanding lawmaker for remembering the less privileged in his time as Lawmaker while promising to study hard in order to excel.  Munonye Fortune Chidindu , a native of Umukegwu autonomous community, Akokwa fought back tears as  he highlighted the impact of  Hon Ikenga Imo  Ugochinyere's uncommon intervention in the plight of students of Ideato extraction. Some parents also were profuse with words of commendation to Hon Ikenga imo Ugochinyere.

By Dorcas Samson Achi 

Imo Labour Party State Working Committee (SWC) sensitization tour in Ahiazu Mbaise and Ezinihitte Mbaise Federal Constituency on October 30, 2024 was monumental courtesy of the acting State Woman Leader, Chief Mrs. Princess Chinedu-Oleka who made an excellent mark by transforming a routine Imo LP SWC Working Visit into an electrifying fiesta.

Her innovative approach brought together about 10 cultural troupes, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Mbaise Nation where she hails from. This was strategic as many indigenes of the area, trooped out to participate in the Labour Party tour, leading to some people's public declaration of joining the party immediately.

The Chairman of the Party in the state, Barr. Calistus Ihejiagwa utilized that remarkable opportunity to reaffirm the party's Unity, Peace and Strength under the leadership of Barr. Julius Abure.

He dispelled rumors of division or crisis within the party, reassuring the party faithfuls and intending members that Peter Obi remains the Presidential candidate and leader of the party, with Barr. Julius Abure as National Chairman and himself as State Chairman.

He revealed that as a social democratic party, the Labour Party aims to promote social justice, progress and unity which are built on the ideology of social democracy. He emphasized on the party's principles of fairness, accountability, transparency and due process, stating that the labour party will reposition the political trajectory of the nation in no distant time.

Ihejiagwa reinstated the party's commitment to unity and progress, adding that the remarkable event in Ahiazu Mbaise and Ezinihitte Mbaise Federal Constituency is the beginning of greater things to come. He assured the mammoth crowd of the party's capacity and preparedness to clinch power at the state and federal level come 2027.

He extolled the State Woman Leader for her exceptional leadership capacity which he said has been proven in no small measure since she took up the position of the woman leader. He encouraged her to remain steadfast and unwavering in her dedication to duty, assuring her of enormous rewards. 

Ihejiagwa charged every party member to invest their time, resources and Ideas to ensure the sustainable development of the party especially at the grassroot level, reminding them that whatever they sow now to ensure the growth of the party, they must reap bountifully in few years coming. 

The Women Leader, Mrs Princess Chinedu-Oleka while addressing the crowd, admonished the women to become assets to the party, stressing that women have a place in politics, hence must utilize the power they wield to contribute to the sociopolitical development of the nation.

 As Rep. Member, Ugochinyere Holds Annual Scholarship Award

By Dorcas Samson Achi

One hundred and thirty Ideato students on Saturday October 26, 2024 benefited from the Annual Scholarship Awards sponsored and initiated by the House of Rep. Member for Ideato North and South Federal Constituency, Barr. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere. 

The event which held at the Constituency Office, Osina, witnessed a massive turnout of all the 130 lucky awardees, their family members and leaders from the 27 wards of Ideato North and South LGAs.

Speaking at the occasion, the Member representing Ideato Nation, at the Federal House of Representatives, Barr.  Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, who was represented by the DG, Hon. Ernest Njesi, congratulated the beneficiaries of the scholarship grant who participated in the scholarship examinations and qualified for the awards. 

Hon. Njesi stated that Hon. Ugochinyere is committed to the academic success of every Ideato child, hence has resolved to support the educational programs of Ideato children through his Entrance Scholarship Initiative. 

According to him, every year Hon. Ugochinyere will be giving entrance scholarship grants to sons and daughters of Ideato Constituency who are entering into a new academic level to assist their parents/guardians in their educational pursuits. 

The Chairman of Ikenga Imo Educational Services Committee, Sir Sylvester Durukwuaku applauded the beneficiaries for their excellent performances at the scholarship examinations which he said qualified them for the grants and encouraged those who could not pass the exams to study hard and cease another opportunity. 

He commended the Rep. Member for the scholarship initiative he has embarked on with his personal resources amid other manpower and human capital development initiatives, stressing that Ideato people have not had it this way from any federal lawmaker since the inception of the constituency. 

Parents of the beneficiaries took turns to appreciate Hon. Ugochinyere for the scholarship grants given to their children. A single mother, Miss Brilliant Igwe expressed her utmost joy that her daughter was one of the beneficiaries of the 2024 Ikenga Entrance Annual Scholarship award and thanked Hon. Ugochinyere for providing financial support to families in assisting their children's education. 

Another woman from Ideato North, who pleaded anonymity for fear of the husband, who is a prominent APC leader, but whose two children benefitted from the award, invoked God's blessings on Ikenga, adding that although her family, through the instrumentality of the husband, didn't vote for Hon. Ugochinyere at the last election, she would henceforth woe all of them to support the Rep. Member, going forward.

Mrs. Ogbuka Onyekachi from Dimagu Autonomous Community in Isiekenesi, Ideato South whose two children, Ogbuka Chidimma and Ogbuka Ositadimma were among the beneficiaries of the grant, extolled Ugochinyere for his kind gesture, stressing that the grant has alleviated her financial burdens, adding that she is a prove of Ikenga's support for education in Ideato Nation.

Mrs. Precious Okeke from Arondizogu whose children were also among the beneficiaries of the scholarship grant expressed profound gratitude to Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere for his magnimity and for investing in the future of the Ideato children. 

Her words "I am grateful to Ikenga for this scholarship program which has today benefitted my children who participated and succeeded in the scholarship examinations.

"I also wish to thank the Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere Educational Services Committee for ensuring a transparent, impartial and accountable process where every student who participated, passed and qualified for the grant was given the grant. 

"I pray for God's blessings upon our honourable Representative for assisting parents to pay school fees and other things for our children in this very difficult times. We are happy for this financial support in this biting economy".

As PSN Imo State holds annual conference/pharmacy week

By Dorcas Samson Achi 

Evergreen Morning Star Pharmaceutical Industry Limited Orlu, yesterday, 17th October, 2024 received an award of honour in recognition of its profound contributions to health care in Imo state and Nigeria from the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN)

The award was well received by Mr. Declan Unogu, the Executive Director (ED) of Ever Green Morning Star Pharmaceutical Industries Limited during the Annual Conference and Pharmacy Week of PSN Imo State Branch with the theme "Pharmacy: innovating advanced universal and holistic healthcare and Leveraging mental wellbeing and technology advancements to transform the pharma industry.

Dr. Ajiero Norbert Felix, the chairman, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) Imo State Branch, in his welcome address stated that the conference is a clarion call to action for all pharmacists in Imo to strategically empower and reposition themselves for quality healthcare services, adding that the theme of the pharmacy week is deliberate in reaffirming pharmacists' commitment to the global best practices and agenda on innovating advanced universal and holistic healthcare by strengthening the professional and primary healthcare components of the healthcare system.

The Chairman of the occasion Prof. Maurice Iwu, in his opening remarks enjoined PSN not to neglect scientific processes and innovations which shall result to productivity, stressing that it is a shame that almost all the pharmaceutical products in Nigeria are imported. 

He challenged them to think outside the box in order to be able to contribute scientifically to the profession, adding that they should not just be hawkers and sellers of drugs produced by others but should be innovative and creative. He urged them never to forget the economic aspect of their profession in playing their critical roles in health care sector.

The Keynote speaker Dr. Daniel O. Anabunwa, dwelt on the importance of embracing innovation for patient care, emphasizing on the importance of training and retraining of pharmacists to do better than they are doing as people who are at the center of health. 

He reiterated that Imo populace should be able to access medical treatment irrespective of where they are, adding that pharmacists should freely give the public relevant information on what to do immediately when faced with health emergencies before they can access good medical treatments.

Ever Green Pharmaceutical Industries received the award of honour alongside Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, The Chairman Southeast Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Eze Dr. Emmanuel Okeke, Bishop Ngozi Durueke, the General Overseer of He Reigns Chapel amongst others, in recognition of their pivotal roles in providing good healthcare to Imo Indigenes and their neighbours. 

Dr. Declan Unogu described the award as a challenge given to Ever Green industry limited to do more in Nigeria's healthcare system which he said has been given to people who are not supposed to be part of it while the core professionals are regrettably neglected, adding that it is their responsibility to take up the challenge and work towards saving lives and impacting meaningfully to Nigeria's economy.

He noted that the performance of the pharmacists is below expectations in the country due to lack of enabling environment and stressed on the need to invest in the pharmaceutical sector excellently so as to energize and motivate the professionals to do their work more effectively.

As NGO holds Outreach in Girls' Secondary Schools

...distributes Writing Materials, Sanitary Pads, Books to Female students*

More than one thousand Imo girls has  benefited from the school intervention project of Dorcas Foundation For Women And Girl Child held on 11th October, 2024 to commemorate the international day of the girl child with the theme "Girls' vision for the future".

The Non Governmental Organisation (NGO) which propagates the rights and welfare of women and girls in Africa, visited Girls' Secondary School Orlu and Girls' Secondary School Ubomiri in Imo State where they sensitized the female students on the essence of the global girl child day, which is to recognize girls' rights and the unique challenges girls face around the world, focusing attention on the need to address these challenges and to promote girls' empowerment and the fulfilment of their human rights.

The founder of the organization, Dorcas Samson Achi, delivered an insightful speech with the theme "Girls' vision for the future", charging the young female students to envision contributing to nation building by positively contributing to Nigeria's educational, political and socioeconomic growth.

 She conveyed the urgent need for girls to maximize their potentials and utilize the great abilities inherent in them to solve certain societal problems as well as address certain challenges in the country by creating and innovating new solutions to bordering issues.

Harriet Ijeomah, the Project Organizer and publisher of Harsco Global Media, while addressing the teeming students of Orlu Girls' Secondary School charged them to shun indecency, pornography, smartphone addiction, immoral activities and any form of social vices but instead embrace education, skill acquisition and utilize every self development opportunity available to them.

She further challenged them to glorify womanhood by maintaining their dignity and integrity against all odds. She enjoined them to emulate women who have made historic impact politically, socioeconomically, intellectually and otherwise, stressing on the need to make a proper choice of career, friends, mentors and role models as they graduate from one level to another.

The climax of the event was the lecture on puberty, menstruation, ovulation, menstrual hygiene, good diet and positive attitude which was followed by the distribution of a handbook titled "Puberty: The Girl Child Experience" written by the founder, a book which answers many questions on the minds of teenage girls, reveals facts about the challenges faced before, during and after menstruation and equip them with the necessary knowledge on how best to take proper care of themselves, bask on their feminity and appreciate womanhood. 

The students also received other free gifts from the NGO such as sanitary pads, exercise books and pens as tokens in celebration of the girl child day. 

The Senior Principal of Orlu Girls' Secondary School, Mrs. Josephine Ikekwe expressed gratitude to Dorcas Foundation for choosing to reach out to the students of Orlu Girls' Secondary school amid many Girls' Secondary Schools in Imo State and beyond.  She extolled the organization for inspiring, motivating and extending hands of fellowship to the students as she acknowledged that receiving such gifts is rare given the current economic realities. 

The Senior Principal of Ubomiri Girls' Secondary School Mrs. Rosemary Amadi appreciated the NGO for such an opportunity, saying that the visit has elevated the spirits of the students and given them a sense of belonging. She noted that the sensitization, awareness creation, moral instructions, health talks and other beneficial activities carried out by the organization have immeasurably impacted the lives of the female students and will undoubtedly bear numerous fruits in the nearest future. 

The Senior Prefect of Ubomiri Girls' Secondary School, Favour Dickson on behalf of the students thanked the NGO for celebrating the 2024 international day of the girl child with them. She emphasized that the project has implanted great visions for the future in her, adding that she has been propelled to aspire higher, dream bigger and work hard towards achieving every set goal and towards making Nigeria better.