In continuation of its community awareness campaign on the 3rd National Action Plan (NAP) for Women, Peace, and Security, Alliances for Africa (AfA), with support from the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), has intensified sensitization efforts across Imo State to strengthen women’s participation in peacebuilding and decision-making.

On August 18, over 100 women in Umuokanne Community, Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area, were trained as agents of peace and security to help improve safety and community development. 

Participants were introduced to the National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (NAP-WPS) and the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 with discussion around the five (5) pillars. The team emphasized the need to establish conflict early warning measures which can be used to prevent conflicts and disputes in the community.

Speaking at the training, Catechist Nwosu, Woman Leader of Umuokanne Autonomous Community, decried the continued subjugation of women and exclusion from security dialogues and other decision-making processes. She urged women to rise against gender-based violence and appealed to men in community councils who display patriarchal and discriminatory behavior against widows and other women to desist from such acts.

Echoing her view, Chinonso Okpara, leader of the Odouka Women’s Meeting in Umuokanne, described the programme as an eye-opener. She noted that it reinforced their commitment to seeing women as equally valuable as men in families and communities especially in issues of security in the community. She further emphasized the need to dismantle discriminatory cultural structures, particularly those that deny women inheritance rights which is usually a conflict trigger. “Women must unite within communities and speak against their own subjugation, including harmful practices perpetuated under Umuada structures,” she said.

The AfA team, led by the Project Officer Ms. Ifeoma Obinwa, alongside Ms. Juliet Okeiyi, Ms Amarachi Ekeocha from the Imo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare and the Media Team, before the engagement, paid a courtesy visit to His Royal Majesty, Eze Dr. M.C. Nwokoma (KSC, JP, MPA, FIBAKM), Okaa-Omee IV of Umuokanne Ancient Kingdom, Ohaji/Egbema LGA.

Receiving the delegation, Eze Nwokoma welcomed the initiative and assured the team of his continuous support. He commended the visit, noting that it coincided with the August Meeting, a period when women gather in large numbers to deliberate on community development. He stressed that the training would deepen women’s understanding of their roles in sustaining peace in the community.

In her remarks, Ms. Obinwa said the visit to the palace was to inform the traditional ruler of their presence and to seek his royal blessings and support for the programme. She also called for greater support to encourage women’s participation in community security dialogues and decision-making.

It will be recalled that during a consultative meeting in Owerri, AfA and women leaders from rural communities resolved to use the annual August Women’s Meeting as a platform to train women to act as “community security agents,” equipping them to speak against harmful practices and contribute to sustainable peace.

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By Dorcas Achi

 Prof. Innocent Akujobi Eleazu, the National President of Nigeria Association of Economics (NAE) and renowned Emeritus Professor of Economics on 8th August, 2025 bade a final farewell to his cherished wife, late Ezinne Fidelia Ngozichukwu Eleazu in a posh funeral ceremony that reflected her remarkable life and enduring legacy. 

The solemn requiem mass, held at Christ The King Catholic Church Ogbeke Obibiezena in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State, drew an impressive array of dignitaries from diverse backgrounds, all united in paying tribute to the deceased matriarch.

In his eulogy, Prof. Eleazu lavished praise on his late wife, describing her as an extraordinary individual, a paragon of moral integrity, and a beacon of character and decency. He extolled her exceptional qualities, highlighting her profound impact on his life, their family, and the countless lives she touched. His words, "She embodied the essence of motherhood, a disciplinarian, and a pillar of strength, while being unassuming, industrious, generous, compassionate, honest, dependable, and faithful to our union. Her unwavering commitment to the Catholic Church and her deep devotion to her faith were truly inspiring," served as a testament to her remarkable character.

The funeral ceremony was a poignant reflection of the strong family bonds and the outpouring of support from friends and associates who gathered to pay their respects. It was a fitting tribute to Late Ezinne Fidelia's life, marked by moments of mourning, remembrance, and celebration of her numerous achievements.

The late Fidelia Eleazu was a trailblazer in education, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless students within the Owerri metropolis. Her illustrious career as a teacher and school headmistress spanned several decades, during which she played a transformative role in shaping the minds of future generations. Her tenure as a school headmistress was distinguished by exceptional leadership, visionary administration, and an unwavering commitment to educational excellence.

Beyond her achievements in education, Late Fidelia Eleazu was a pioneering entrepreneur and community development czar, whose progressive initiatives created employment opportunities that lifted many out of poverty and empowered them with financial independence. Her legacy serves as a testament to the profound impact one individual can have on their community.

As the funeral ceremony drew to a close, many mourners paid tribute to the late Fidelia Eleazu, confessing that the impact of her life and work will be felt for generations to come. Her selfless dedication to education and community development has left an enduring legacy, one that will continue to inspire and motivate future generations. As her family, friends, and community continue to celebrate her life and achievements, her memory will remain an indelible part of their collective consciousness.

By Dorcas Achi

Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, the  Representative of Ideato Federal Constituency, has urged the Local Government Area (LGA) Officials of Ideato North and South to judiciously utilize federal allocations to provide paramount security measures and essential amenities to the citizenry. This charge was delivered on August 19th, when the lawmaker disbursed a substantial sum of 61 million naira to the bereaved families of the recent tragic attack in Arondizuogu/Umualaoma and Osina communities of Ideato North LGA, Imo State.

Through an emergency fund sourced from benevolent friends and associates, Ugochinyere provided succor to the families of the 26 victims, allocating specific funds for education, entrepreneurship, and other vital needs. Notably, Obinna Onyebuchi's family received N2 million to support his widow's business and care for their young children. Similarly, Hyacinth Nwosu's son was provided with funds to complete his secondary education, while his aunt received N1 million to augment her small-scale business and support the boy.

Furthermore, the lawmaker donated N3 million to each affected community to facilitate their recovery from the devastating attack. To bolster security measures, Ugochinyere allocated 2 million naira to vigilante groups and provided funds to the police and parishes to support their efforts in the affected communities.

Emphasizing the need for enhanced security, Ugochinyere stressed that local security and policing are the primary responsibility of state and local government areas. He urged the LGA to judiciously utilize its funds to protect citizens and equip communities with necessary resources, asserting that "our communities must be safeguarded."

Highlighting his commitment to exceeding legislative responsibilities, Ugochinyere cited notable achievements, including provision of basic amenities such as water supply, renovation of schools, and installation of solar-powered street lights. He expressed gratitude to his friends and associates who contributed to the emergency fund, describing them as selfless and charitable individuals concerned with the welfare of citizens.

The beneficiaries expressed profound gratitude to the lawmaker for his intervention, with Miss Perpetual Mbaoma, a Federal Polytechnic Nekede undergraduate, appreciating the support that has enabled her to continue her education despite the loss of her sponsor.

 Renowned Public Affairs Analyst Lawrence Opara from Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State has faulted the recent statement by the State Commissioner for Information, Declan Emelumba, that Imo State's maternal mortality ratio is 163 deaths per 100,000 live births, citing Kingmakers.com.ng as his source.

In a release, Opara questioned the authenticity of Emelumba's source, maintaining that the website lacks credible references, transparency, and verifiable methodology. He stated that the website's claims about maternal mortality rates in various states, including Imo, appear to be fabricated.

Opara revealed that according to a Dataphyte 2023 report, the actual maternal mortality rate in Imo State is approximately 1837 deaths per 100,000 live births, which is almost double the Nigerian average of 993 deaths per 100,000. 

He noted with disappointment the visible contrast between the government's claims and the actual numbers, doubting  the government's commitment to providing accurate data and addressing the healthcare crisis in the state.

His words, "This shameless reliance on hoax numbers is more than just incompetence. It is chronic negligence and mindless wickedness dressed up as governance. It tells every Imolite that the people in charge are not only incapable of doing something as basic as collecting real data, but also more willing to put out fake statistics than introspect and try to bridge this data gap. If the state’s health statistics are sourced from fantasy websites, then I don't even want to think about how bad it is in other sectors.

"The lives of mothers and babies in Imo State are not a PR prop for the governor's ignorant lapdogs to play stupid politics with. It is an issue too sacrosanct to be twisted for political convenience. Every single death is a human tragedy, because this is someone’s daughter, sister, or wife gone because the system failed them. Until we have a government that confronts reality instead of hiding behind hoax websites, the tragedies will continue.

"So yes, Dr. Amadi’s numbers are on-point, and they force us to face the ugly truth that we have to sit up and save the lives of women and children in our state. 

"And to those in charge: please stop treating us like fools. This is the digital age. You can't just cook up tales of rainbows and sunshine and expect us to swallow them happily, while the reality burns the skin from our bones. You are barely 2 years into your second tenure but you are more focused on politicking for the next election than on delivering any actual governance. It is our brothers and sisters that suffer and die while you fiddle. Get back to work!"

Opara argued that the government's reliance on fabricated statistics is not only incompetent but also negligent and wicked. By using fake numbers, the government is avoiding the reality of the healthcare crisis in Imo State and failing to address the root causes of maternal mortality, he asserted.

He demanded the government takes immediate action to address the healthcare crisis and provide accurate data on maternal mortality rates, adding that until the government confronts reality and takes concrete steps to improve healthcare, the tragedies will continue.

Renowned Public Affairs Analyst Lawrence Opara from Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State has faulted the recent statement by the State Commissioner for Information, Declan Emelumba, who claimed that Imo State's maternal mortality ratio is 163 deaths per 100,000 live births, citing Kingmakers.com.ng as his source.

In a release, Opara questioned the authenticity of Emelumba's source, maintaining that the website lacks credible references, transparency, and verifiable methodology. He stated that the website's claims about maternal mortality rates in various states, including Imo, appear to be fabricated.

Opara revealed that according to a Dataphyte 2023 report, the actual maternal mortality rate in Imo State is approximately 1837 deaths per 100,000 live births, which is almost double the Nigerian average of 993 deaths per 100,000. 

He noted with disappointment the visible contrast between the government's claims and the actual numbers, doubting  the government's commitment to providing accurate data and addressing the healthcare crisis in the state.

His words, "This shameless reliance on hoax numbers is more than just incompetence. It is chronic negligence and mindless wickedness dressed up as governance. It tells every Imolite that the people in charge are not only incapable of doing something as basic as collecting real data, but also more willing to put out fake statistics than introspect and try to bridge this data gap. If the state’s health statistics are sourced from fantasy websites, then I don't even want to think about how bad it is in other sectors.

"The lives of mothers and babies in Imo State are not a PR prop for the governor's ignorant lapdogs to play stupid politics with. It is an issue too sacrosanct to be twisted for political convenience. Every single death is a human tragedy, because this is someone’s daughter, sister, or wife gone because the system failed them. Until we have a government that confronts reality instead of hiding behind hoax websites, the tragedies will continue.

"So yes, Dr. Amadi’s numbers are on-point, and they force us to face the ugly truth that we have to sit up and save the lives of women and children in our state. 

"And to those in charge: please stop treating us like fools. This is the digital age. You can't just cook up tales of rainbows and sunshine and expect us to swallow them happily, while the reality burns the skin from our bones. You are barely 2 years into your second tenure but you are more focused on politicking for the next election than on delivering any actual governance. It is our brothers and sisters that suffer and die while you fiddle. Get back to work!"

Opara argued that the government's reliance on fabricated statistics is not only incompetent but also negligent and wicked. By using fake numbers, the government is avoiding the reality of the healthcare crisis in Imo State and failing to address the root causes of maternal mortality, he asserted.

He demanded the government takes immediate action to address the healthcare crisis and provide accurate data on maternal mortality rates, adding that until the government confronts reality and takes concrete steps to improve healthcare, the tragedies will continue.

By Dorcas Achi

In a bid to foster credible elections, PAACA, a renowned Non-Governmental Organization dedicated to enhancing governance in Nigeria, convened a pivotal One-Day Town Hall Meeting in Imo State on July 23rd. The gathering, which brought together a diverse array of stakeholders, including revered religious leaders, esteemed traditional rulers, security agencies, civil society organizations, and the National Orientation Agency, provided a platform for in-depth discussions on electoral reforms.

The Executive Director of PAACA, Ezenwa Nwagwu, elucidated that the Citizens Dialogue was designed to augment public awareness and comprehension of electoral reforms, facilitate inclusive discourse among citizens from varied backgrounds on electoral reform and constitutional amendments, and compile citizen-driven recommendations for submission to the National Assembly and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Nwagwu revealed that Imo State marked the 17th state where PAACA had organized the town hall meeting to popularize the Electoral Act and gather citizens' input. Based on his extensive experience, he noted that a significant challenge in Nigeria's electoral process stems from the public's limited understanding of electoral laws, processes, and tools. He emphasized that many citizens remain unfamiliar with INEC guidelines and the Nigerian Constitution, leading to uninformed discussions about elections.

He expressed optimism that the initiative would enhance public knowledge of electoral innovations and improvements ahead of the 2027 elections and subsequent polls. "When electorates are informed, politicians can no longer manipulate them with misleading talking points," he asserted. He added that PAACA's effort aims to demystify the electoral process, expose relevant laws, and curb electoral manipulations.

Stella-Maris Oparaugo, State Director of the National Orientation Agency in Imo State, echoed Nwagwu's concerns, stressing that many Nigerians are unaware of key electoral reforms. She pledged that her office would intensify efforts to educate citizens about their voting power, emphasizing that the real power lies with the people, not INEC. "The polling unit is where change happens," she stressed.

DSP Henry Okorie, Police Public Relations Officer of Imo State Police Command, representing CP Aboki Danjuma, assured that the police are committed to providing a secure environment for citizens to exercise their franchise. He emphasized the police's dedication to ensuring a peaceful atmosphere for free, fair, and credible elections.

His Royal Majesty Eze Dr. Matthew Chiedozie Nwokeoma, traditional ruler of Umuokanne Ancient Kingdom and Chairman of Security, Peace, and Conflict Resolution Committee in Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers, highlighted the crucial role traditional rulers play in effective electoral reform. He noted that, as custodians of their communities, they are well-positioned to manage crises and ensure peaceful elections.

Barr. Ndidi Anike Val-Ukaoma, a legal practitioner and human rights activist, emphasized the need to adhere to the law governing elections. She noted that electorates' discontent stems from disparities and urged INEC and relevant agencies to listen to the people's voices in this democratic setting.