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.

As 1,000 Widows, Others Benefit From Cash Donations, Scholarships, Sports Tournaments 

Encomiums have continued to trail the kick off #200M intervention project of Dr. Chima Amadi on the 1st of December, 2024 in Ngor Okpala Local Government Area of Imo State.

 Launched under the Jude and Juliana Foundation, the initiative is redefining philanthropy in Owerri zone with an array of groundbreaking events and interventions designed to uplift lives and foster unity.

The highly anticipated football tournament, which began on December 1st at the iconic Comprehensive Secondary School, Umuekwune, has already set the region abuzz. This year’s competition features 25 local teams from Ngor Okpala battling for glory and substantial prizes of ₦3 million for the champions, ₦2 million for the runners-up, and ₦1 million for third place. Individual awards of ₦100,000 for the Best Player and Highest Goal Scorer, ₦50,000 for the Best Goalkeeper, and#100,000 support received by every team to aid preparations all added an extra layer of excitement to the event. 

This year’s project also introduced a dedicated women’s sports event, marking a bold step toward gender inclusivity. Women from across the Owerri zone are showcasing their athleticism and teamwork, competing for prizes that mirror the men’s tournament. This new addition reflects Dr. Amadi’s unwavering commitment to empowering women and inspiring future female athletes.

The month-long festivities will reach their pinnacle on December 31st with a series of unforgettable events. The day is expected to begin with the much-anticipated 10km Marathon, bringing together athletes and fitness enthusiasts from across the region in a test of endurance and determination.

The excitement will seamlessly transition into an End-of-Year Party, a vibrant celebration of community, featuring live entertainment, cultural displays, and a festive atmosphere that unites people from all walks of life.

Crowning the day’s events is Dr. Amadi’s extraordinary act of generosity: ₦50,000 cash donations to 1,000 widows, providing them with renewed hope and dignity as they step into the new year. This generosity is further amplified by scholarships for hundreds of deserving students, comprehensive health insurance for vulnerable families, and grants for small business owners—initiatives designed to empower individuals and build stronger communities.

Earlier this year, Dr. Amadi garnered widespread acclaim for his contributions to the August Meeting, an annual gathering of women in southeastern Nigeria that promotes development and unity. His continued commitment to grassroots development, as seen in this year’s philanthropy, underscores his deep investment in the welfare of the Ngor Okpala community.

While the football tournament and women’s sports events have taken the spotlight, the ripple effects of Dr. Amadi’s interventions are being felt across all sectors. Local businesses are thriving from the influx of visitors, young talents are gaining exposure, and families are benefitting from health and education programs. By integrating entertainment with empowerment, Dr. Amadi is crafting a model of philanthropy that transforms lives on every level.

From its kickoff on December 1st to the grand finale on December 31st, the Owerri zone has become a hub of activity, joy, and transformation. Dr. Amadi’s ₦200 million Yuletide Philanthropy is not just a seasonal celebration but a movement that inspires hope, opportunity, and unity across Imo State.

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".