By Dorcas Achi 

Bishop Geoffrey Okoroafor of Egbu Diocese, Anglican Communion, has formally expressed his ardor to collaborate with the Social and Integral Development Centre (SIDEC) in championing the Reserved Seats Bill, thereby propelling the advocacy for women's legislative representation in Imo State and beyond.

The Bishop made this commitment during a visit by a SIDEC delegation to the Anglican Diocese of Egbu in Owerri, Imo State, on Friday, 13th March, 2026, as part of efforts to garner support for the bill under the organization's Project Impact initiative in Anambra and Imo States.

The Executive Director of SIDEC, Mrs. Ugochi Agalaba-Ehiahuruike, announced that the organization, in partnership with the Nigeria Civic Society Situation Room, is spearheading an initiative aimed at redressing the imbalance in women's representation across Nigeria's governance structures.

She decried the prevailing underrepresentation and marginalization of women, highlighting the absence of an enabling environment. The proposed bill, she noted, seeks to establish 37 reserved seats for women in the Senate, an equivalent allocation in the House of Representatives, and 3 seats in each House of Assembly. She solicited the clergy's support and collaboration in mobilizing stakeholders to endorse and vote in favour of the bill when presented to the National Assembly, emphasizing that securing the requisite two-thirds majority vote hinges on concerted efforts.

She conveyed optimism that the bill's passage is attainable, citing the success of similar initiatives in Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya, where women have demonstrated exceptional governance capabilities. "If the Reserved Seats Bill has yielded positive results in these countries, there's no reason why it cannot be replicated in Nigeria," she remarked.

Responding, Bishop Okoroafor expressed gratitude to SIDEC for their commendable efforts thus far and affirmed his readiness to collaborate with the organization in advancing their shared objectives.

"I am very much willing to collaborate with you. Nigerian women have achieved remarkable success globally, often surpassing expectations. I fully endorse your endeavour, acknowledging that women are equally capable of leadership.

"I also blame the women for undermining one another. Despite being the numerical majority, women have failed to utilize their voting power because of bags of rice shared during elections, often prioritizing short-term gains over long-term benefits. It appears some of us have lost our sense of reasoning."

He observed, however, that Nigerian male politicians are often driven by self-interest, which may hinder their willingness to allocate reserved seats to women. He drew parallels with past instances, noting the initial enthusiasm when a woman was first appointed as a Vice-Chancellor in Nigeria, which was met with widespread acclaim. He expressed optimism that Nigeria's trajectory could shift positively, envisioning a future where a female president could catalyze lasting change in Nigeria.

He pledged to undertake strategic steps to contribute to the advancement of women's representation in governance, thereby ensuring they are accorded reserved seats and a position of prominence in decision-making processes.

By Dorcas Achi 

Prominent Muslim Cleric, Barr. Suleiman Njoku, Imam of Imo State, has affirmed his unwavering commitment to supporting the Special Seat Bill for women in the state. 

He made this known during an advocacy visit by a delegation from SIDEC to the Imo Central Mosque on Friday, 13th March, 2026. The visit aimed to discuss the Reserved Seats bill for women, as part of PROJECT IMPACT - Inclusive mobilization for participation, advocacy and civic transformation, a collaborative initiative between SIDEC and the Nigeria Civic Society Situation Room, funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

The organization is undertaking an inclusive mobilization drive in Anambra and Imo States, engaging diverse stakeholders across religious, traditional, legislative, and political spheres to garner support for the reserved seat bill, aimed at addressing the existing imbalance in women's representation in Nigeria's legislative bodies, particularly at the national and state assembly levels, as well as promoting women's active participation in Nigeria's governance framework.

 In her speech, the Executive Director of SIDEC, Mrs. Ugochi Agalaba-Ehiahuruike decried the glaring gender disparity within Nigeria's corridors of power, citing the stark statistics of only 4 female senators, 16 female federal representatives, and approximately 55 female lawmakers across the 36 state houses of assembly. 

To address this imbalance, she advocated for the allocation of 37 reserved seats for women in the Senate (one per state plus the FCT), 37 seats for women in the House of Representatives, and 3 seats for women in each House of Assembly. This proposal, she emphasized, does not preclude women from contesting other elective positions alongside men. She underscored the viability of this approach, citing the success of similar initiatives in countries such as Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania, where women have demonstrated exceptional governance capabilities.

 Ehiahuruike criticized the disparity, citing the anomaly of a male chairperson leading the Gender Committee at the Imo House of Assembly, emphasizing the pervasive marginalization of women, and argued that women's inclusion is essential for accelerated development at all levels.

She urged the Imam to leverage his esteemed position to advocate with lawmakers, urging them to endorse the bill upon its presentation at the national assembly.

The Imam applauded SIDEC for it's efforts and affirmed his unequivocal support for the Special Seat Bill, underscoring the Islamic principle of gender parity, which accords women equal rights and opportunities as men, particularly in the realm of governance. He supported enhanced representation of women, citing the profound impact of maternal empowerment on national development, as women play pivotal roles in shaping their children, families, communities, and the nation at large.

He pledged to vocally champion the bill and augment his efforts with fervent supplication, predicated on his conviction that prayer possesses the efficacy to sensitize and incline the hearts of incumbent male politicians towards endorsing this progressive legislation.

Extols FCC Executive Chairman On Reforms

By Dorcas Achi 

The esteemed Honourable Commissioner representing Imo State at the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Abuja, Hon. Jerry Alagbaoso Asiwaju, has pledged a comprehensive transformation of the FCC office in Imo State. This assurance was conveyed to the personnel of the Imo State FCC office, signaling a new era of revitalization and reform.

He articulated this commitment on March 5th at the Commission's premises at Port Harcourt Road, Owerri, during his inaugural official visit, marking a significant milestone as the newly appointed Honourable Commissioner representing Imo State.

Responding to the challenges presented by Mr. Okolorie Valentine, Director of the Imo State office, Alagbaoso reaffirmed the Fifth Commission's unwavering dedication to collaborative efforts. He highlighted the exceptional leadership qualities of Hon. Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, Executive Chairman of the Commission, describing her as a seasoned, empathetic, and receptive leader committed to driving transformative progress and achieving outstanding results for the Commission.

The Imo State office faces several pressing challenges, as outlined by Director Okolorie Valentine, including intermittent electricity supply, inadequate office equipment, insufficient operational funding, deteriorated infrastructure, staff marginalization, and stagnant career growth. 

The Director appealed to Hon. Alagbaoso to facilitate infrastructural revitalization and provision of essential resources, augment funding for statewide monitoring initiatives, champion equitable career advancement opportunities for state office personnel, and foster seamless coordination between the headquarters and state offices.

The Director on behalf of the Imo commission, conveyed his confidence in Alagbaoso's ability to usher in a new era of transformative change, reinvigorated optimism, unwavering integrity, and enhanced stature for the Imo State commission, ultimately yielding a more profound and lasting impact on the state. The personnel presented a gift of appreciation to Alagbaoso.

Upon acknowledging the concerns raised, Alagbaoso provided assurances that the prevailing challenges would be relegated to the past. He underscored the imperative of a conducive work environment, citing the indispensability of reliable power supply, functional equipment, and adequate amenities. Alagbaoso highlighted the sweeping reforms instituted by Hon. Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, emphasizing the Commission's commitment to ensuring equitable distribution of resources, infrastructure, and opportunities across states, local government areas, ministries, and institutions.

Alagbaoso stated that the newly appointed Executive Chairman, having earned her credentials, is poised to initiate transformative interventions in state offices. He assured that he would escalate the concerns to both the Chairman and Governor Uzodimma, ensuring a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges.

Alagbaoso enjoined the Imo State commission personnel to adopt a proactive stance in enhancing their office environment, emphasizing that complaints must be accompanied by involvement. He underscored the collective responsibility inherent in the FCC's narrative, advising that, with requisite approvals, they should undertake remedial initiatives. "Autonomy in action is key," he stressed, "you must not rely solely on government support for every endeavour."

He pledged his unwavering support and open-door approach, emphasizing that his office remains accessible for any concerns pertaining to the commission's welfare, growth, and sustainability within the state.

...says Poverty Alleviation, Wealth Creation, Human Capital Development his Top Agenda

Dorcas Achi 

Prominent businessman and philanthropist, Hon. Chibuike Anthony Ilokwe, popularly known as Ike-Imo, has thrown his hat into the ring by officially declaring interest to run for Ideato North Constituency Seat come 2027.

The grassroots politician made this resolute declaration on January 9th in his hometown Akokwa, Ideato North, while addressing a gathering of devoted supporters and esteemed stakeholders from the Constituency.

The event, preceded by a complimentary medical seminar, health screenings, and pharmaceutical donations generously sponsored by Ike-Imo, drew considerable attendance from the Ideato North constituency.

Addressing the mammoth crowd, Ike-Imo reaffirmed his dedication to enhancing the welfare and livelihoods of his constituents through initiatives centered on empowerment, civic engagement, and legislative advocacy. He pledged to champion bills and implement projects that catalyze transformative progress within the communities.

The Graduate of Environmental Sciences and CEO of Onono Master Oil and Gas described himself as a public servant driven by a desire to deliver democratic dividends to his constituents, rather than personal aggrandizement. He highlighted his track record of community-focused business practices, philanthropy, and civic engagement as testament to his commitment to serving the people.

He stressed that his declaration is not a mere formality but a call to collective action, united efforts, underscoring the imperative of unity and collaborative endeavour to propel Ideato North towards progress. The office he seeks, he noted, necessitates unwavering capacity, competence, courage, and unshakeable integrity. Accordingly, he is undertaking requisite preparations to effectively represent, enact people-centric legislation, and safeguard the constituency's democratic entitlements.

Ike-Imo pledged to differentiate himself through:

1. Engaging deeply with his people by holding regular town halls, listening to concerns, and providing actionable feedback.

2. Focusing on grassroots development by prioritizing projects that benefit the majority, like schools, healthcare, and infrastructure.

3. Transparency: Being open about his plans, funding, and progress.

4. Ensuring youth empowerment by creating opportunities for young people through education, skills training, and job creation.

5. Maintaining accountability by regularly reporting back to constituents on his  achievements and challenges.

Supporters lavished praise on Ike-Imo, highlighting his altruistic endeavors. Mrs. Perpetual Ugosimba lauded his compassionate nature and humanitarian spirit, evident in his philanthropic initiatives. Notably, she stated that Ike-Imo sponsors over 600 individuals from Ideato North and South in educational pursuits and vocational training. Furthermore, his gas station provides complimentary gas to constituents during festive periods, exemplifying his commitment to community welfare.

Chidiebere Chima Okoli lauded Ike-Imo as a capable, humble, and courageous leader poised to effectively represent Ideato North and deliver democratic dividends. He expressed unwavering support, stating, "I'm backing Ike-Imo because I don't support evil. I support whom the cap fits. I urge our youths, men, and women to rally behind the rightful candidate"

Inspires Youths To Take Action

The Mbano Big Family, a community-based youth development organization in Imo State, celebrated its 5th anniversary with the Mbano Youth 5.0 Summit, a vibrant gathering of young leaders, educators, and development advocates held in Owerri, Imo State.

This year’s summit, themed “The 21st Century Mbano Youth – A Reflective Action Plan,” reflected on the organization’s five years of impact and its ongoing mission to educate, enlighten, and empower young people across Mbano.

The convener of the initiative, Mr. Magnus Agbake, described the event as a platform for young people to discuss practical ways to build a better future for themselves without waiting for government support.

“This is a call for young people to help themselves and others, no matter how small their beginnings,” Agbake said. “You don’t need to wait for sponsors or elders. Start with what you have people will support you when they see your consistency. Not everyone started big; some began from scratch and grew into great success stories.”

According to him, the Mbano Youth Summit serves as a mentorship and empowerment forum that encourages self-employment, business innovation, and skill development among youth.

Representing the Vice Chancellor of Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri, Associate Professor Ndidi Amaka Uwazuruike, Acting Director of Career Services and Counselling, commended the initiative as “super inspiring” and praised the determination of Mbano youths to build themselves and their communities.

Uwazuruike also disclosed that the world has moved from certificates to skills, noting that today's economy values creativity from catering and fashion design to technology and remote work. Young people must develop practical skills that help them thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.

Delivering a lecture on Gender Equity in Education, Employment, and Leadership, Harriet Ijeomah, Managing Director of Harsco Global, called on the youth to champion women’s inclusion and development in leadership and governance.

She emphasized the importance of supporting the Reserved Seat Bill for Women, which seeks to increase women’s representation in political offices and decision-making spaces.

Gender equity is not a women’s fight alone,” Ijeomah noted. “It’s a collective responsibility that drives fairness, innovation, and inclusive growth. When women rise, communities thrive. Youths must support this cause by advocating, mentoring, and promoting equal opportunities for women.

Participants at the event expressed deep appreciation for the summit’s impact. Hope Bunka, one of the attendees, described it as “a life-changing platform” that motivated her to act.

We can’t keep waiting for the government,” she said. “Every youth has what it takes to start small, grow, and make a difference. This summit reminded us that we are the platform we need.”

The event concluded with a renewed call for collective responsibility and youth-driven solutions to unemployment, insecurity, and underdevelopment across Mbano communities and beyond.

Other dignitaries present are Princess Miriam Onuoha, Federal House of Representative representing Okigwe Zone, Dr. Uchenna Ekwelike, Executive secretary to Imo State Health Insurance Policy, Engr. Diala Chibukem, Executive Director IHTEF, Isikaku Ndubuisi Kingsley, a Content Creator, Bro Emmanuel Okemmadu, Gospel Musician and Others

Lauds Gov. Uzodinma For Giant Strides

By Dorcas Achi

The councillor representing Owerre Nkwoji Ward 7 in Nkwerre Local Government Legislative Council, Honourable Mac-Aneleh Tochukwu O, has presented a one-year scorecard of his achievements in office. 

Speaking with our correspondent in Nkwerre, he highlighted his legislative efforts which have culminated into laudable achievements since assumption of office. 

His legislative achievements included, *co-sponsored the bill for the Installation of CCTV cameras in the Nkwerre Local Government Council headquarters for effective Security of lives and government properties.

* Co-sponsored a byelaw for Solar street lights in the Council area and various wards to illuminate our environment 

* Moved a Motion for erecting Speed Bumps to curb accidents on the Owerre Nkwoji- Abba road. 

* Moved a Motion to curb the erosion menace around the LGA (creation of a good drainage system to curb flooding.

* Moved a Motion to improve a sustainable environment for learning and securing the lives of students in Umoke Primary School and Owerre Nkwoji Secondary School. 

* Moved a Motion for sponsorship enrollment of constituents into the Health Insurance Scheme.

In addition to his legislative duties, the councillor listed several humanitarian gestures and numerous projects he had carried out in the ward including:

* Provision of fertiliser to indigent women for farming assisted by the federal government agricultural scheme through Hon. Harrison Nwadike, the Federal House of Representatives Member for Nkwerre, Isu, Nwangele and Njaba Federal Constituency. 

*.Grading of Rural roads around Owerre Nkwoji ward 7.

* Free Christmas hair cut for Owerre Nkworji children.

* Distribution of Christmas rice palliatives to all the villages in Owerre Nkwoji ward 7 through the village heads.

* Attraction of the ultra-modern borehole sunk in Agbala Ishi Owerre village by the local Government chairman Engr. Chiedozie Chukunyere .

* Traders incentives and sharing of Aprons to aid the petty trading in Nkwoji market.

* Supplied Educational relief material such as books and utensils to the only government primary school in the ward community school Umuoke.

* Free enrollment of some indigent constituents in the Imo health care insurance scheme.

* Facilitatation of Free chest X-ray and tuberculosis test carried out through the Imo state ministry of Health at the Owerre Nkwoji Health Centre.

* Awards for best graduating students of different subjects at the Community Central School Overre Nkwoji.

* Enrollment of over 15 people in the state local vigilante service to ensure sustainable security around the ward and community. 

* Attraction of the ongoing new health centre building alongside my colleague Councillor of ward 6 with the help of the Supervisor for Health Nkwerre LGA Hon Frank Onuoha, Executive Chairman Nkwerre LGA, made possible by our amiable Apex leader, the Chief of Staff Imo state government Barr

 Nnamdi Anyaehie.

Hon. Mac-Aneleh commended the Imo state governor, His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma, for his developmental initiatives including infrastructural transformations which cuts across the state, laudable digital youth empowerment programs, civil service reforms, health insurance packages and other developmental efforts he is making to improve the living standard of Imolites. He urged the people to continue supporting the government.

The Councillor expressed gratitude to the people of Owerre Nkwoji Ward 7 for their support and trust in him. He promised to do more for the ward to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach every corner of the community.

His words, "I'm grateful for the confidence you reposed on me. Your encouragement has been my driving force, and I remain deeply committed to serving you with integrity and purpose. What we have achieved so far is only but the tip of the iceberg — greater things are on the way.

With your continued support, I am fully ready to do even more and ensure that the dividends of democracy reach every corner of our ward.

Thank you and God bless Owerre Nkwoji Ward 7."

Comrade Achi Nnamdi, the State Organizing Secretary of the Labour Party in Imo State, highlighted the contrasting leadership styles of Senator Hope Uzodinma and Governor Alex Otti. He noted that while Uzodinma's five-year tenure in Imo State has been marred by allegations of failure and stagnation, Otti's two-year leadership in Abia State has been hailed as a success story.

According to Comrade Achi, Uzodinma's leadership in Imo State has been characterized by insecurity, economic decline, poor infrastructural development, and worker welfare neglect. He stated that the state has witnessed a surge in violent crimes, including kidnapping, armed robbery, which have claimed numerous lives and properties. The economy has continued to deteriorate, with businesses shutting down and unemployment rates skyrocketing. Ring roads in Imo State are in deplorable condition, making it difficult for residents to move around. Workers in the state have been denied promotions and salaries, leading to a decline in their welfare. Government primary and secondary school structures are ruined, and there is a shortage of teachers.

On the other hand, Comrade Achi praised Otti's leadership in Abia State, saying it has been marked by transparency, accountability, and a focus on infrastructural development. He noted that Otti's administration has been transparent in its financial dealings, with a focus on responsible governance. The state has witnessed significant improvements in its infrastructural development, including roads, schools, and healthcare facilities, and massive employment of more than 5,000 teachers within two years of Otti's administration. Workers in Abia State are paid on time, and their welfare is a top priority for the government. The state's economy is growing, with investors showing interest in various sectors.

Comrade Achi emphasized that the contrast between Uzodinma's and Otti's leadership styles is stark. While Uzodinma's administration has been plagued by allegations of underdevelopment and ineptitude, Otti's government has been praised for its transparency and accountability. The people of Imo State are yearning for a better life, while the people of Abia State are celebrating the progress made under Otti's leadership. The implications of these leadership styles are far-reaching, with the people of Imo State suffering the consequences of poor governance and the people of Abia State reaping the benefits of effective leadership.

In conclusion, Comrade Achi stated that the leadership styles of Senator Hope Uzodinma and Governor Alex Otti serve as a reminder that effective governance can make a significant difference in the lives of citizens. While Uzodinma's failures have led to widespread suffering in Imo State, Otti's successes have brought hope and prosperity to Abia State. As leaders, there is a need to prioritize the welfare of citizens and work towards creating a better future for all. The people of Imo State deserve better leadership, and it is time for a change.