Metro
Appointment of Mayor: Ex-Commissioner tells gov Otti not to set Abia on fire
***Says ‘Aba na Ohazu’ indigenes are owners of Aba
The recent comment credited to Abia State Governor, Alex Otti regarding appointment of a non-indigene as the Mayor of Aba City may have generated some controversy capable of stoking crisis in Abia that is known for its peaceful disposition, the immediate-past Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Abia state, Chief Eze Chikamnayo has cautioned.
Governor Otti had announced the appointment of consummate Industrialist, Ide John Udeagbala as the Mayor of Aba city.
Udeagbala who hails from Ozubulu in Ekwusigo local government area of Anambra State is an economic nationalist, and graduate of Harvard University.
The said appointment may not have gone down well with some indegwnes of the State hence the words of caution from the former commissioner.
Making the announcement at a stakeholders meeting at the weekend, Governor Otti said in the viral video) that the era of indigenes and non-indigene is gone in Abia state.
Reacting to the development through a statement released to newsmen on Monday, Chief Chikamnayo urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all the security agencies to quickly call Governor Otti to order to avoid turning a peaceful state to crisis zone.
According to the former Commissioner, For the avoidance of doubt, Aba as we know it today, belongs to two related Communities known as ABA NA OHAZU. It is not a no man’s land as is being painted by Alex Otti and can never be.
The statement titled “stop Alex Otti before he sets Abia on fire”, said for the avoidance of doubt, Aba city belongs to two related communities known as “ABA NA OHAZU,” adding that “It is not a no man’s land as is being painted by Alex Otti and can never be.”
The statement reads in part: “It is therefore preposterous and mischievous for anyone, no matter his position to arrogate to himself the Non existing powers to mangle this irrefutable fact of history because of temporary political advantage.
“Non indigenes from other parts of Abia State and or Igbo land like old Bende, Anambra, Enugu, Imo State or Ebonyi, regardless of their wealth or status should never allow themselves to be deceived by Mr Alex Otti to assume that they can mutate into the owners of Aba.
“By recklessly declaring that Aba is a NO MAN’S LAND, Mr Alex Otti is inadvertently setting Abia on fire and instigating avoidable unrest in that peaceful city. For reasons best known to him, he is ostensibly trying to stoke this fire of indigene – nonindegene dichotomy to futher insult the Ngwa Nation and polarize the polity.
“Maybe because of his inert desire to assuge his own internal contradictions that has made him a bipolar element with identity crisis hovering between Nvosi and Arochukwu, Otti is now drawing Abia State into needless ‘Katakata’ that will lead to loss of lives and property if not nipped in the bud.
“Since assumption of office, Mr Alex Otti penchant for playing to the gallery is legendary. If he truly wants to patronize his fellow big men like Bourdex, Udeagbara and Co, he must not reduce them to canon fodders thereby setting them up against the people.”
While condemning the statement credited to the Governor, the former Commissioner said Chief Udeagbala has built a name for himself in Aba and has lived peacefully with the people, hence he shouldn’t allow himself to be messed up by any dimunitive conman.
“Aba people, Abians everywhere and all peace loving people everywhere should shun devilish instigation and embrace peace. They should not succumb to the whims and caprices of a confused and rudderless sinking despot clowning in the name of governance.
“Can Mr Alex Otti go to Umuahia and tell Ibeku and Ohuhu people that Umuahia North is a no man’s land? Can he go to Owerri, Onitsha , Porrt Harcourt or Warri and make such inflammatory, nonsensical statement?
“I know that the revered members of Aba Sports Club will not allow Mr Alex Otti to gleefully destroy the harmony and conviviality in Aba by his reckless political gymnastics.
“Anything that will destabilize the peace in Aba will destabilize trade and investment in the entire South East and Nigeria.
“I, therefore wish to alert His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu and all the security agencies of this seed of discod which is being sown in Abia so that they can act quickly to prevent the consequences of Mr Alex Otti ‘s thoughtless policy of divide and rule. A stitch in time saves nine.”
Metro
Peter Obi at Late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah Burial calls for Reflection on Leadership, Legacy
Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi,
joined political leaders, industry captains, and Nigerians from all walks of life in Nnewi on Saturday to bid farewell to the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.
In an emotional statement, Obi described Ubah’s passing as a “rude shock” and a profound loss to the nation.
Reflecting on Ubah’s life, Obi highlighted his contributions beyond politics. “Senator Ubah contributed to a better society through his not-for-profit organization, which cared for the less privileged by investing in their education, health, and poverty alleviation,” he noted.
Obi emphasized the brevity of life, particularly for those entrusted with leadership responsibilities. “His death should remind us… that we only have a limited time here on earth to serve the people under our care and leave lasting legacies for generations to come,” he said.
Extending condolences to the Ubah family, the Senate, and the people of Anambra South Senatorial District, Obi prayed for God’s comfort and strength during this time of grief. He also called on leaders to honor Ubah’s legacy by prioritizing service and uplifting the lives of those they lead.
As Nigerians mourn the loss of a distinguished leader, Obi’s tribute is a poignant reminder of the importance of compassion, service, and the enduring impact of a life dedicated to others.
Metro
Senator Ifeanyi Ubah Laid to Rest Amidst Tributes
***Death a Lesson to the Living – Cardinal Okpaleke
The late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah was buried on Friday at his hometown, Umuanukam, Otolo Nnewi, Anambra State, following a solemn funeral service at St. Peter Claver Parish.
His passing drew an outpouring of grief and tributes from dignitaries, clergy, family, and friends.
Cardinal Peter Okpaleke, Bishop of Ekwulobia, described Ubah’s death as a profound lesson for the living, urging everyone to strive to leave an impactful legacy.
“His demise is a lesson to us all,” said the Cardinal during his homily. “We must strive to live a life that will be remembered for good. We must touch lives, make a difference, and leave a lasting legacy.”
The Cardinal highlighted Ubah’s philanthropic acts and unwavering commitment to uplifting others, which he urged attendees to emulate.
Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State expressed deep sorrow, recalling his last interaction with the late senator earlier this year.
“I still remember when we met sometime in May, and I asked him if he was nursing an ambition for something. We spoke about his future plans, not realizing this tragedy was ahead,” Soludo lamented.
Former Senator Uche Ekwunife described Ubah as a “rare gem” and a leader whose kindness and dedication to youth development left an indelible mark.
“In you, we saw the true essence of leadership and kindness—not just in titles and positions but in words and deeds,” Ekwunife said, praising his contributions to sports and the empowerment of young people.
Ubah’s impact was evident as mourners, including political figures, clergy, and locals, reflected on his legacy of service, compassion, and excellence. His townsman, Joe Ezeike, remarked, “Ubah’s passing has left a void in the nation’s political landscape, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations.”
The funeral was marked by an atmosphere of solemnity and reflection as attendees paid their final respects to a man remembered for his selflessness, leadership, and unwavering commitment to making a difference.
Metro
Deji Adeyanju fires back at Wike over Comments, Labels Him a “Bully and a Coward”
Human rights activist and lawyer Deji Adeyanju has issued a scathing response to comments made against him by Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) minister and former Rivers State governor. Wike had recently accused Adeyanju of being jobless, noting that the activist once sought his support in a bid to become the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national publicity secretary.
During a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Adeyanju didn’t hold back, describing Wike as “a bully and a coward.”
He went on to criticize Wike’s character and political approach, saying, “Wike has never worked anywhere in his life. He is a serial betrayer. The only difference between Wike and Portable is that Portable does not betray people who have helped him.”
Adeyanju praised Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his recent actions against Wike, saying, “I commend Governor Fubara for dealing decisively with him. That’s how to deal with tyrants. Wike is nothing without politics.”
He further expressed his concerns over Wike’s influence, stating, “The reason why he is making so much noise and constituting a nuisance all over the place is because of our political patrimony that he loots. Clowns and charlatans like Nyesom Wike will open their mouths and criticize true activists.”
Adeyanju also highlighted the importance of citizens participating in politics, saying, “Wike wants everyone to leave politics to rogues like him. His idea of nation-building is where people like him control everything. All citizens of conscience should get involved in politics.”
The back-and-forth between Adeyanju and Wike highlights ongoing tensions within Nigerian political circles and has sparked discussions about the role of activists and the nature of leadership in the country.
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