FG, Anambra tackle flooding, others
From Uzoma Nzeagwu, Awka

A SYNERGY designed to combat flooding and other environmental problems in Anambra State has been initiated by the federal and state governments.

Governor Peter Obi of Anambra State said the area of concentration was Okpoko in Obaru Local Council Area and environs.

Obi, who was on an inspection of drainage systems and roads in the area, said his administration was working with the Federal Government to clean up the silted Sacamori drain to open up the blocked drains.

He said the residents of the area must undertake to maintain a friendly environmental culture, pointing out that it would include desisting from dumping refuse into the drainage system and proper disposal of waste of any form.

The governor attributed the collapse of the newly constructed Obodukwu Road to blockage of the drains, noting that the development forced flood unto the road, thereby causing it tear and wear as well as total collapse.

Obi has also kicked off the first integrated waste management programme in the state with the aim of containing filth and heaps of refuse.

Performing the ceremony at the All Saints Anglican Church, Onitsha, the governor explained that the programme was being executed with the Federal Government and LAGA International Ltd.

Similar projects, he said, would be launched in other cities, including Awka and Nnewi, warning the citizenry to ensure regular and prompt payment of their taxes and sanitation levies at designated banks.
Source: The Guardian, 21^st April 2010.

Rumbles in Anambra North:
Two judgments, two senators
From Geoffrey Anyanwu, Awka

Elections in Anambra State, especially since 2003 have been subject of litigations that in some cases lasts over three years. Reason is that the political parties, especially Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) do not adhere to the outcome of its primaries and there are manipulations in the submission of candidates' list to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Worse still, is that INEC conducted elections that have been alleged to be manipulated, and in many cases against the wishes of the masses.

These fraudulent practices have however opened avenues to those who have the financial muscle or connections either with the powers-that-be in the parties, or in the judiciary to edge out those that are the peoples choice, and worse still some events, and methods that are alien in election rigging.

One of the issues above must have been responsible for the latest problem in the Anambra North Senatorial District, where the Court of Appeal in its latest judgment nullified the election of Senator Joy Emordi of the PDP and in her stead declared the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) candidate in the election held on April 28, 2007, Chief Alphonsus Obi Igbeke as the winner.

This however came after the same court has in another petition by another candidate on the same election ruled that Emordi was duly elected and returned. While the Court of Appeal's first judgement was expected to have affirmed the judgement of the lower tribunal, its second judgment has created a lot of confusion, surprise and sadness in the hearts of people of the senatorial zone who have since then been calling for a review or interpretation of the two judgements.

In petition no. EPT/AN/NAE/SE/11/2007 filed after the election and the return of Senator Emodi as the winner by INEC, Igbeke challenged the return of Emodi and prayed the tribunal sitting in Awka under the chairmanship of Justice James S. Abiriyi to determine among other things that there was no election in all the polling units/booths in the Onitsha South and Ayamelum local governments and consequently that all the votes credited to all the candidates in the two council areas be set aside and nullified.

He also prayed the tribunal to determine that Emordi who was the first respondent did not score the majority of lawful votes cast in the election and consequently that herreturn by INEC as the person elected be set aside and nullified, just as he prayed that he (Igbeke) scored the majority of lawful votes cast at the election and ought to be declared as the person returned as elected, urging the tribunal to return him as elected.

However, while the case was going on at the tribunal, Igbeke found it difficult to present his results as claimed, and at a particular sitting when he was given the last chance after several failures, his lawyer presented some results but not all, which was described at the tribunal as "baked fresh from the oven". The results were rejected as they were tagged fake.

In their final judgment, the lower tribunal said, "Consequently, we hereby validate the total valid scores credited to the petitioner and the 1st respondent by the 2nd to 4th respondents in the official results tendered in evidence as exhibits by the 1st respondent hold that the petitioner and the 1st respondent obtained the following valid total scores in the five (5) local government areas: (1). The petitioner of ANPP = 7400 votes and (2). The 1st respondent of PDP= 249, 621 votes.

"Now, adding up the results for Onitsha South and Ayamelum local government areas for each of these parties to the results for the five local government areas for each of the parties, the petitioner and the 1st respondent have the following valid votes cast in the senatorial election of April 28, 2007 in the seven local government area of the Anambra North Senatorial District: (1). The petitioner of ANPP=12, 466 votes and (2). The 1st respondent of PDP = 326, 700 votes.

"Consequently, the only issue for determination is herby resolved in favour of the 1st respondent, and we find as a fact that in the senatorial election in the Anambra North senatorial district held on the 1st respondent scored a majority of the total valid votes scores of 326,700 as against the petitioner's total valid votes of 12, 466 and the 1st respondent was thus validly returned as duly elected and so declared by the 2nd to 4th respondents.

"We hold firmly therefore that the 1st respondent was validly elected and returned as the winner of the senatorial election of 28/4/07 in the Anambra North senatorial district by the 2nd – 4th respondents. In the result, we hold that the petitioner had failed to prove his claims to all or any of the reliefs in this petition against any or all of the 1st to 4th respondents and this petition EPT/AN/NAE/SE/11/2007 be and is hereby dismissed for lacking in merit".
Emordi at the lower tribunal also won other petitions against her from Labour Party (LP) Hon. Jessie Balonwu and Action Congress (AC) Hon Ughanze.

However, after the loss at the lower tribunal, Igbeke joined others in going to the Court of Appeal and consequently appealed against the judgment of the lower tribunal, Hon Balonwu also appealed and on February 10, 2009, the Appellant Court gave judgment in her appeal.

In the judgment of the court on appeal no. CA/E/EPI/73/2008, Hon Jessie Balonwu vs. Senator Joy Emordi, the court noted that, "at the pre trial conferences, the following two issues were set down for hearing and determination namely: (1). Whether the election of 28th April, 2007 in the Anambra State senatorial district was conducted in substantial compliance with the electoral act, 2006 and (2) Whether the 1st respondent was duly returned as the winner of the said election.

"On the issue for determination 1 above, the appellant formulated the issues as follows: (1) whether the Tribunal was right to hold that the presiding officers were necessary parties who ought to have been joined as parties in the petition of the appellant. (2) Whether the Tribunal was not wrong in disbelieving the appellant and the witnesses that there was no distribution of election materials.

"In reply to issues 1, yes, the court below was right to disbelieve the appellant and the witnesses when they depose that election materials were not distributed. The testimonies of the appellant and the witnesses fail to offset the legal presumption of regularity made in an election properly conducted. See section 150 Evidence Act. See also section 44(3) of the Electoral Act in the duty of the polling agents. The election was properly conducted. Yes, the court below was right to uphold the election of the 1st respondent".

The three man panel, Justices Victor Omage, M. Ladan Tsamiya and Olu Ariwoola, therefore held that the court below was right to uphold the return of Emordi by INEC as duly elected in the said election and therefore held that Balonwu's appeal failed. With victory, Emordi and indeed the people of the zone felt that the battle was over as that was the strongest opposition, hence, they kind of underrated the ability of Igbeke who allegedly came fourth in the election to upturn the table. But he did.

And so, three weeks ago, the same court and judges ruled on Igbeke's appeal, nullifying the same election which they upheld in another appeal, and declared Igbeke winner, a judgement that has raised a lot of questions and surprises.

Though Igbeke said he has received INEC certificate of return as directed in the judgment he was yet to be sworn-in in the Senate. He complained that Emodi was using her connection in the Senate to deny him entrance to the Upper Chambers of the National Assembly, alleging that she was trying to get an order to stop him from being sworn-in.

Hon. Igbeke saw no reason in Emordi's move to get interpretation in court of the two judgments the court of appeal had given in the same matter. He told newsmen that there was nothing there to interpret as his case was different from Balonwu, insisting that he won the election.


Senator Emordi in his reaction told Daily Sun that she as a law abiding citizen would want an interpretation of the judgments. She said, "With the situation on the ground, I intend to go for interpretation because the same Court of Appeal in the judgment of 10th February 2009, between Jessie Balonwu and myself, the same Court of Appeal look at the two issues for determination.

If you look at the page four of the judgement, you will see where the same court of appeal set out two issues for determination as looked at by the tribunal. The first issue was whether the election on 28, April 2007 in Anambra State was conducted in substantial compliance with the Electoral Act 2006. Number two, whether the first respondent, meaning myself was duly returned as the winner of the said election.

"If you look at page 10, they have answers to those issues. Number three, see where they wrote that the election was properly conducted and again look at what they wrote in the same judgment, yes, the court below was right to uphold the election of the first respondent, meaning myself. This is the declaration of court and the cases were consolidated.

"You and your colleagues were in court and knew that at the tribunal all these matters were consolidated and we tendered all our results whereby the result tendered by the petitioner, Chief Igbeke were referred to as oven baked. Even the Tribunal Judges, who had the opportunity of seeing the documents first hand, said those documents were forged. He couldn't even present the result for all the polling booths we were all there.

"So, for the man now to claim that he won the election, I don't know. But all I know is that they gave judgment upholding my election on the 10th of February 2009 and then gave another judgement on the 25th of March, I think. So we have two judgments now. So, I'm going for an interpretation. So, any law abiding citizen should not panic about going for interpretation. If you are law abiding, of course you have to just keep calm and allow the law to take its course."
Emordi further said that she remains the duly elected representative of the zone, because the second judgement was silent about the first. "I am a law abiding citizen, I believe in rule of law. So since the judgement ruled in my favour has not been set aside, I stand by that judgment that returned me, because even in the second one they gave, it didn't set aside my own, they didn't set it aside, even though it is a court of coordinate jurisdiction, but even at that, they didn't even make that attempt to give reason and compare my own with his own and set it aside. They could have. They didn't even attempt to set it aside.

"So, I stand by the judgment returning me as duly elected as you have seen in the judgment on page 10, by the same Court of Appeal, Enugu returning me as duly elected, returning judgment that election held and in giving that second one, they did not even make any attempt to set aside my own. So, I remain the duly elected Senator representing Anambra North. "It is necessary for me to also add that it will be uncharitable for any individual to use the judiciary, to manipulate the judiciary to continue perpetrating acts of fraud".

The second judgment of the Court of Appeal which declared Igbeke winner was one of a shock to the people of Anambra North senatorial zone, as a cross section that spoke to Daily Sun wants a review of the judgment or interpretation of the two judgments of the same Court of Appeal.

A stakeholder in the zone, and former National Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Chief Ralph Igwah who hails from Aguleri in Anambra East local government said "My reaction to the recent judgment of the Court of Appeal in respect of the Anambra North Central district was one of shock in the sense that we have gone through elections in the zone for many, many years and the cases have always gone to the Tribunals, so we are at least conversant with Tribunal judgments and Appeal Court judgments. Besides, I'm a journalist; I can say that I'm quiet familiar with some of these things.

"I was shocked because earlier on, the Court of Appeal has given judgement in respect of the same election between Senator Joy Emordi and Hon. Jessie Balonwu. Balonwu was challenging the declaration of Emordi at the Lower Tribunal, just as in this instant case, Ubanese was challenging the declaration of Joy Emordi and the same Court of Appeal held that the election was duly held and that Senator Emordi was duly elected. As I said, it was the same election.

"Having said that, we thought that was the end of it because they were all talking about the same election and I was at the tribunal and we were told that all the matters were consolidated, which means that all the facts and evidence would be treated as one. So, in a nutshell, it was one of shock.

"Besides that, when we look at the personalities involved, there is no doubt that Senator Emordi on all count is a better candidate and has given the zone good representation. So, between the two, she is by far better candidate than Chief Ubanese who incidentally is my brother. I will say because he is from Nsugbe. But that not withstanding. I think we have reached a stage in this country where we will speak the truth. So, after all said and done, it is one of shock. We never believed it and it was even a surprise to many to be talking about Ubanese because even during the election, not many people knew he was contesting election, it was only when the matter went to the tribunal that many people started hearing about Ubanese being a candidate.

"So, I think it is very unfair to the zone. With all due respect to the Judges, I think this is one judgment that was not delivered with great deal of circumspection. It must be said here that election matters are issues that touch the ordinary persons it should be shun of legalism and technicalities who actually won the election, that's what the people what to know. So, the constituent, we are very shocked and beyond the constituent, we are talking of representing Anambra State and these are some of the isssues that bother us".

On what the zone wants done, Chief Igwah said, "Well, the Senator has said that she is going for interpretation, and I think that any law abiding citizen and person that believes in due process would support that".
Also speaking to Daily Sun, another stakeholder and a legal practitioner, Barr. Hippo Onwuegbuka described the second judgment of the Court of Appeal as a contradiction to the first one.

He said, "It is a contradiction to the first one because the first judgment was unanimous: Justice Victor Omage ruled that Senator Joy Emordi won convincingly in the election and as a matter of fact, that the election was held in the seven local government areas that constitute the senatorial district. That judgment was welcomed by the electorate because Emordi was on ground and she was the only candidate that campaigned from ward to ward, local government to local government.

"At the tribunal, the other four contenders were saying that there was no election but she was able to prove that elections were held in all the local government areas with voters' cards, and the Court of Appeal upheld that, so this is why I said it is a contradiction of the first judgment.

"In the second one, the Court of Appeal now said that election was held in only five out of seven and amazingly, very surprising, one of the Justices that sat on that appeal was Justice Ariwoola Olukayode who delivered the lead judgment in this very one, concurred that election was held in all the seven local governments in the first petition. So, actually, it is a contradiction, I can say that without any fear of contradiction.

The people of the zone and indeed Anambrarians have begun to get worried over the alleged way in which Chief Igbeke manipulates his way to positions through courts after elections.
According to Onwuegbuka, "He did this during the 1998 electioneering campaign, when he attempted to surreptitiously impose himself, when the late Chuba Okadigbo was contesting the senatorial seat. This is the same man that was pretending to be sponsoring Okadigbo. All of a sudden, he tried to make a volta-vis but the PDP leadership stopped that.

"Again in 2003, he contested on the platform of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), printed his posters and when the result was announced in favour of PDP candidate, Hon. Ralph Okeke, he condemned it, saying it was unacceptable, only to appear in election tribunal to say that he is the person that was the candidate for PDP. In fact, he manufactured the papers and before you knew it, people were taking him for granted, he manipulated his way and edged the honourable out of focus.
"Then, I will tell you convincingly that on the day the primaries were held on this particular 2007 election, he contested the primaries with Hon. Okeke, the incumbent then and one Chief Chris Carto Emeka in the Anambra East and West Federal Constituency. He lost out and went home boasting that the court is there, little did we know that he had gone to manufacture papers. In fact he perfected the act.

"This is a very dangerous trend that if it continues unchecked, there's no point conducting elections. Somebody will just stay in his house, buy the INEC forms or manufacture the INEC forms, print the results, get whoever that he wants to certify them and smuggle them in, of course the court acts with evidence before them. So, it is a very dangerous trend he is setting.

He therefore subscribed to interpretation of the judgment as the will of the people, stressing, "With the conflicting judgment, the appropriate thing will be done. I will advise that let there be an interpretation because when two equities are equal, the first in time prevails. We want our incumbent Senator, Emordi to continue until this cloud of confusion caused by the Enugu division of the Court Appeal is cleared. Because I tell you we don't move motions in the House in vernacular".
Source: Sun, 19^th April 2010.

VC laments dangers of collapsing Niger Bridge

From Uzoma Nzeagwu, Awka

THE Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Prof. Boniface Egboka, has lamented the dangers posed to pedestrians and commuters plying the Niger Bridge, just as he tasked the Minister of Environment, John Odey, on the development.

Besides, Egboka blamed the police, customs, immigration and local council authorities that check vehicles at the Asaba and Onitsha end of the bridge, saying that this was contributing to the problems of the bridge.

Egboka who is a hydro-geologist specialist pointed out that the bridge was on the verge of collapsing, stressing that the heavy human and vehicular traffic on the bridge was severe that it could no longer carry the weight. According to him, the bridge was not constructed to carry the amount of load, which it carries currently, adding that the heavy loads carried by vehicles plying the bridge has contributed to its bad state.

He said that it was gratifying that the minister was coming and that he expected the new helmsman in the environment Ministry to re-award the contract for the construction of the bridge without losing sight of its maintenance on a regular basis.

According to the UNIZIK VC, the bridge is the only major means of transportation available to majority of the people in the South-East geo-political zone. "The bridge is the only gate way into the hinterland and the interior of the Eastern region,...the authority concerned should fast-track reconstruction process in order to avoid cutting off the states from other Nigerians."

Egboka noted: "If reconstructed, the new Niger bridge would serve the socio-economic interests of not only the nine South Eastern states, but in general all the people living in Nigeria."

He added: "The construction of the new bridge will open up the Onitsha market axis which serves the West African region,...and the economy of the sub-region stands to gain from the exercise".

Egboka, who is a fellow of the Nigerian Mining and Geo-Sciences Society, added that gully erosion was another monster threatening the economy of Anambra State, stressing that all the above posed great challenges to the state and the Federal Government.
Source: The Guardian, 15^th April 2010.

3 union leaders arraigned over N.7m fraud in Onitsha

Alphonsus Nweze, Onitsha

Three former leaders of Onitsha Patent Medicine Shop Dealers Association (OPMSDA) were yesterday arraigned before Onitsha Magistrate Court for conspiracy and stealing N.7m being the union's money.

The accused persons who pleaded not guilty were Moses Madu, 50, Mbah Raymond, 42 and Mbaegbu Modestus, 40.

They were said to have at various times conspired among themselves to steal, which is an offence punishable under Section 195(a) of the Criminal Code of Anambra state, 1991.

Madu was said to have on May 2, 2008 stolen N175,000 cash, being amount of money released at the association's meeting for a condolence visit to late Christopher, Edeh.

He and others were said to have on May 30,2008 at Fin Bank Onitsha conspired and stolen N350,000 from account No 333452011601 without the consent and authority of the account name being the property of the association.

Madu and two others were said to have on June 2,2008 at Fin Bank, Onitsha , without the consent and authority of the account name conspired and did steal the sum of N175,000 from account 333452041601 being property of the association

Mr. B.U Igwe, the defence lawyer, however urged the Presiding Magistrate, V.I. Udedike to grant the accused bail on liberal terms , since the matter was a union dispute which resulted in creation of factions among them.

He said the accused will not jump bail given their status and age, stating that they were served paper on Tuesday and they came to court the following day.

The Prosecuting Police officer, Inspector Lawrence Ede, while not opposing bail insisted on stringent bail conditions so that they will not jump bail.

The Magistrate granted the accused bail at the sum of N200,000 with one surety each in like sum, who must have national identity card, three years tax clearance and resident within the court jurisdiction. The matter was adjourned to May 25, 2010.
Source: Daily Champion, 15^th April 2010.

Anambra monarch laments erosion menace

ODOGWU EMEKA ODOGWU, Awka

Traditional ruler of Ifite Dunu in Dunukofia local government area of Anambra State, Igwe Dr. Emeka Ilouno, has raised alarm over the erosion menace that is threatening to sack the inhabitants of Obieze Village in Ifitedunu.

Ilouno also hinted that the erosion is prone to attack an Electric High Tension mast in Obieze which according to him contributes in providing electricity to states like Anambra, Enugu , Ebonyi, Imo, Benue and others.

The monarch stated that the erosion menace is currently giving him and the entire people of Obieze nightmare as the rainy season is fast approaching.

He noted that if nothing was done over the issue the villagers are likely to be refugees elsewhere even as he drew on the attention of State Government to the village.

He pointed out that the aforementioned states are going to face problem in electricity supply if the high tension mast is affected by erosion.

On the measures taken so far, he said he had written the state government and mandated the villagers on tree planting but lamented that the efforts were not enough because the government had not yielded to the letter just as tree planting is a long-term measure.

Igwe Ilouno said the erosion threat was causing widespread apprehensive in the community.

He said administration of Gov. Peter Obi had uplifted the two secondary schools in Ifitedunu even as the town union had executed tangible projects courtesy of government largesse, describing Gov. Obi as kind-hearted Governor.

Speaking further on his vision for the community, he said that he is currently embarking on dual projects of establishing a cassava processing plant and a sewing institution to provide jobs for the teaming youths in his domain.

While explaining that the cassava plant and sewing institution would provide jobs for over 200 persons, he hoped that the projects should be ready for commission by Governor Obi by the end of May 2010.

Contributing, the President General of Ifitedunu town union, Mr. Anthony Udedibia said that they were ready to partner with the government for the development of the town, noting that the union had made proper use of government goodwill.

"We make adequate use of whatever government brought here. For instance last week, the Governor brought 50 laptops for our Secondary Schools and our traditional ruler provided Desk for the use of laptops on the spot" he maintained.

The town union leader however called on Governor Obi to come to the aid of Ifite Dunu General Hospital which he said is in horrible condition.
Source: Daily Champion, 15^th April 2010.

Anambra: Police parade 14 suspected kidnappers

ODOGWU EMEKA ODOGWU, Awka

ANAMBRA state police command has paraded 14 people suspected to be kidnappers.

Also paraded is a fake police officer in full regalia , 40 years-old Paul Madubuko claiming to be an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP).

DCP Agboola Oshodi Glover who briefed newsmen, warned all criminals in the state to change their ways of life and join hands in making Anambra state better.

He said the suspects would be charged to court once investigation is concluded.

A corps member was linked to the series of kidnap in the state , as he allegedly participated in the kidnap of a man from Awkuzu that paid ransom of N6 million . Kidnap of Skye Bank Awka Manager that paid N3 million and that of one Chief Linus Mgbakogu from Obosi that later escaped as well as attempt to kidnap a lawyer in Awka .

This is coming as a 31-year-old man, Chibuzor Udeoji, was ,arraigned before an Awka magistrate court for impersonating the State Security Service (SSS) and duping a businessman of N6.4 million.

The Prosecutor, Mr. John Bawa told the court that the accused person duped his victim, Mr. Sam Obika, N6, 469, 050 million between 2007 and February 2010 at Bejoy Hotel, Awka.

The accused person, who hails from Ihiala in Ihiala local council area of Anambra State, however, pleaded not guilty to the two-count charge.

Counsel to the accused, Mr. Ikenna Uzokwelu, who applied for the bail of his client, told the court that his client was innocent of the charges.

The magistrate, Mrs. Ngozi Okolonji, granted the accused person bail in the sum of N500, 000 with a surety in like sum, deposed to an affidavit of means and an evidence of tax payment.

The matter was adjourned till April 30 for hearing.

Mr. Ekpeyong Ita, the State Director of SSS had said the accused alleged that the amount was used in settling the SSS director and Zonal Director, even when there is no nomenclature as SSS zonal director.

"He has also been acting as a clearing house and a go between kidnappers and their victims," Ita said.

In another development , the Anambra Police Command has launched a full scale investigation into the killing of one Kennechuwku Eze, a 200 level student of Marketing Department, Buckingham Polytechnic, Ogidi, Anambra State.

Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Emeka Chukwuemeka, has said that the victim was murdered by unknown gunmen on Easter Sunday in Awka. He said the 25-year-old victim, while seeing-off his girl friend, was attacked and shot at a close range on his head with a locally made gun. The family members at Umuzocha village Awka collaborated the story.

"The victim was reportedly rushed to the hospital where he eventually gave up.

"The police have swung into action and I want to say that in no distant time, some arrest will be made.

"We have also contacted the vigilante group and all the people who could give us information that will lead to the arrest of the suspects," he added.

The victim's younger sister, Chioma Eze, said "I don't exactly know what happened, but some people came at about 12 midnight to tell us that my brother had been shot."

"When we got to the Regina Caeli Hospital where the police had rushed him, we were advised to take him to University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, for treatment, but there was no vehicle then," she said.
Source: Daily Champion, 15^th April 2010.

Anambra Police And Harvest of Kidnappers

Okey Maduforo

Awka — The diary at the police force Headquarters Abuja has some states as the major flash points of all forms of brigandage. Among these states in question is Anambra, the most populous state in the South East Zone.

A conservative report has it that a total of 746 persons have been victims of kidnapping and other violent crimes in Anambra in the last two years. It got to a level that the state witnessed an exodus of people who fled the state for fear of being guests to kidnappers or playing host to armed robbers.

When our correspondent visited Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mr. Agboola Oshodi Glover, who is acting for the commissioner, Mr. Philemon Leha, he told a story of how the command had battled violent crimes to a near stand still in Anambra state.

Though Glover and other men could not guarantee zero level of violent crime in the state, the command, no doubt has so far painted a picture of an organisation that is posed to ensure that the proactive steps taken would continue to yield fruitful results at all times.

According to him; "The command had witnessed an avalanche of kidnappings and killings of policemen and dispossessing them of their weapons. The command rose up to the occasion through pragmatic crime fighting strategies and intelligence gathering, some of the kidnappers were arrested, some of the victim rescued from their claws and again some of police arms were equally recovered to show the determination and doggedness of the officers and men of the command, who in spite of all odds have sworn to make Anambra State command safe for everybody.

"While acting on information from one Ifeanyi Monua, chairman of Awkuzu Central Vigilante, operatives of SARS stormed a criminal hideout at Awkuzu and arrested one Uju Enwani, aged 23 years of Umuota village Obosi with one locally made pistol and a cartridge. The suspect confessed to being an armed robber and named other members of his gang who are still at large. Investigation is in progress.

He added that one Ifeorah Tochukwu of No 271 Obodoukwu Road, Okpoko and one Chukwuebuka Nnoka of Franobi Estate, Owerri Road, Onitsha, who were alleged to have participated in various armed robbery operations within Onitsha and it's environs were arrested after robbing one Isiocha Eucharia of No 1A Ontisha/owerri Road of her Nokia handset valued about N6,000.00 and a cash sum of N16,000.00 at gun point. According to the police officer, during interrogation, the two suspects confessed to the crime and incriminated one Oschor, now at large as their gang leader and also the owner of the locally made pistol used for the armed robbery operation.

"On the 18 of February, 2010, acting on information, operatives of Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) arrested one Franklin Obinna Onwuekwe of No 7 Udodi Crescent, Omaba phase II Onitsha, a native of Otulu village, Ahiazu Local Government Area of Imo State, with one English Barretta pistol and 23 rounds of 9mm live ammunition. Suspect denied being an armed robber but admitted to have procured the arm for secret cult activities. A graduate of the University of Calabar and a member of "Clans cult" confraternity also known as "KK"," said the Acting Police Commissioner.

Glover said that the police, acting on information from one Ikechukwu Azubuike of No 7 Mbaise Street Okpoko, arrested one Abel Leonard of No 72, Ogwuta Road Onitsha, who sent a parcel containing a threat letter and two AK 47 live ammunition to the said Azubuike, ordering him to pay the sum of N500, 000.00 by way of recharge cards through phone number 07031065658 or stand the risk of being dealt with. He added that Leonard, working for the Azubuike at Plaza Hotel has been arrested and on interrogation the suspect confessed to the crime and incriminated Ekponi Michael, Sunday Benjamin and Legba Alex now at large as members of his gang.

Continuing, the Deputy Police Commissioner narrated while parading the suspects that; "following an information from one Blessing Enemuo, aged 60 years from Umunneoka Village, Awka, who is a staff of Skye Bank Limited Awka branch, operations of SARS led by Inspector, Omeng ELogbo stormed the hideout of the suspects at Awka and arrested one Amaluzor Anthony Ikechukwu also known as Igbo of Agulu, Anambra State and one Obinna, popularly called Obaino Navy."
Source: Daily Independent, 13 April 2010

Obi pledges Face-lift for Onitsha Roads

AWKA—GOVERNOR Peter Obi yesterday promised that massive rehabilitation of roads in the commercial town of Onitsha would begin in the next 10 days, saying that his administration was prepared to end the nightmare being faced by commuters and inhabitants of the town.

Obi who spoke to reporters after inspecting the failed Upper Iweka portion of the Bridge head – Awka federal highway, said that he had held useful discussions with the contractors handling the road, adding that a situation whereby lives were lost on the road which is the gateway to the South East and South South would no longer be tolerated by his administration.

"If we do not do something urgently on this road before the rains set in, our people will be in trouble. I will be inspecting the road on a regular basis until we are satisfied with the condition. It does not matter to us that this road belongs to the federal government because what is important to us is for work to begin in earnest," Obi said.

During the inspection, Obi came face to face with an accident at the Upper Iweka road involving two trailers, a mini- bus and three motorcycles which claimed two lives, with some others admitted in hospital.
Source: Vanguard, 12^th April 2010.

Anambra Women Lament Emordi's Removal
By Lilian Chukwu

ANAMBRA women under the auspices of the South East Women Network (SEWNET) have rejected the recent ruling of the Court of Appeal sitting in Enugu that nullified Joy Emordi's election as a senator representing Anambra North Senatorial District.

The women group represented by the National Coordinator, Mrs. Eunice Okeke, said that the court ruling had further marginalized women politically in the state.

She regretted that Nigerian female politicians especially in Igboland had not been given an equal opportunity in political participation.

According to the Anambra women leader, "For us we are seeing a trend in Anambra. And we hope it is not gender bias or conspiracy against women that had been elected. It was one of the states rated highly in the past after the 2007 elections in terms of women elected into the Parliament and now we are seeing two women being dropped. The first was Hon. Lynda Ikpeazu and now senator Joy Emordi."

She added: "Though the independent judiciary must not be compromised, and the rule of law must be obeyed this is a big loss to women movement, and at this critical time the constitution is being amended."

The SEWNET leader later called on the Federal Government to consider Emordi, the former chairperson of the Senate Committee on Education as candidate for a ministerial appointment for the sake of continuity because according to them, "as a chairperson of the educational committee in the National Assembly, she has contributed immensely in the last five years in the educational reform sector and will be in a position once appointed to continue in her dynamic ways of doing things."
Source: The Guardian, 10^th April 2010.

'Even If Attempts Were Made, It Would Have Been Very Difficult To Get The Onitsha Monarch, Especially During Seclusion'

CHAIRMAN of Anambra State Council of Traditional Rulers and the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, who marked his 8th years on the throne, spoke to GODWIN IJEDIOGOR on the challenges of modern monarchy, his efforts at reconciling with those initially opposed to his ascension to the stool, innovations he has brought to the people's customs and tradition, the recent governorship election in Anambra State, and the alleged attempt to kidnap him last October, among other issues.

Eight years after, how challenging has it been on the throne?

It has been very challenging, but also very fulfilling. We set some goals for ourselves and there have been quite some expectations also from the community and society at large, and we have tried to meet them as well.

When I came on the throne over eight years ago, my people were very despondent and were going through difficult times and there was confusion in people's minds. There was not a sense of togetherness any more.

So, my first challenge was to restore a sense of pride in the people and make them believe in themselves and to come together to transform the community the way we wanted it. We have achieved quite a lot along that path, as we now have a much more homogeneous community and all the constituent groups are alive to their responsibilities to the community at large.

We now have a much more working community where each segment contribute their own quota in moving the community forward. The biggest step has been creating a new sense of belonging among Onitsha people and reminding them that they are part and parcel of a bigger Anambra State, a bigger Igboland and a bigger Nigeria.

In our traditional governance, we have the traditional council in place that is very functional and effective in addressing community issues. The traditional court meets once in a week to address matters arising from and between families and communities, which minimises the resort to the Customary, Magistrate and High Courts.

In some aspects of our tradition, we have tried to bring about some sanity and reforms. Funeral ceremonies, for instance, has been cut to just one day; from morning to evening, not three or four days any more, whether Christian or traditional. There are significant benefits from the decision.

A little over a week ago, we proclaimed what we called General Amnesty, to mutually forgive one another whatever wrongs might have been committed so as to address and resolve all issues that divided families and individuals.

What informed the decision to cut down the number of days of funerals?

We looked at all aspects. The biggest consideration was for the daughters of respective villages, who traditionally are the real mourners. Usually, they would spend two nights at the funeral places and sometimes sleep in very difficult conditions.

So, we considered the issues of security, health conditions and cost. The wake-keep, which involves overnight eating, drinking and dancing has been eliminated and everything simplified.

In any case, it fits into modern times, considering that people also have to go to work to earn a living. If you spend three days at a funeral and since people are dying frequently, we might end up at funerals most of the time.

I think it is working very well and everybody is happy about that.

Was there any form of resistance to the change?

Oh yes! The biggest challenge was convincing the daughters of the villages, who were our major consideration, that the change is still in line with our customs and tradition, but being made to be in tune with the 21st Century. Once we were able to convince them and they fell in line, then it was easy to convince other sections of the community.

I must say that there were a lot of consultations. From my own background, there are far more satisfying results when you consult with every part of your community. You carry everybody along and it becomes a community decision, rather than an imposition by the monarch.

But being the main beneficiaries, one would have expected the least resistance for the daughters of the villages?

They see themselves as the custodians of that aspect of our tradition. Their mothers, grandmothers and great-grandmothers mothers did it, so they felt it would be a break in the tradition if they don't do it.

But we had to convince them that it was all for the good of the community.

How have you been able to marry tradition with modernity?

As a true Onitsha man, even in my sojourn around the world in the oil industry, I was never out of touch with Onitsha tradition. I visited home regularly and stayed close to my (late) father, uncles and other relations.

But now that I live in Onitsha, I am also in touch with the world, thanks to modern technology. With the cell phone, and Internet facilities, I am in touch with my people wherever I am and on top of what goes on in my domain and the rest of the world. I never leave the domain without my laptop, even for one day.

So, balancing between the traditional and modern worlds fit in naturally for me. I have so most of my life.

Initially, one of your concerns was the idea of having to sit for most of the days at the palace. Have you overcome that?

(Laughing) I still have to sit for so long. When you are in the palace holding court and meetings, you have to sit all the time, as a monarch.

But I get up in the morning and walk around the garden. I do a lot of gardening myself and I get lots of exercise by so doing. Being in the garden helps me to meditate also. Every opportunity I have, I move around.

Sitting most of the time is a challenge and part of the burden of the position.

The upward mobility of modern day monarchs seems to have attracted more enlightened people to the throne?

Oh yes! The role of the monarchy in Nigeria and even Africa has become dynamic. Monarchs nowadays visit one another, hold consultations, and compare notes.

I think in the ancient days, our ancestors lacked mobility and basically their responsibilities were restricted to their domains and they protected only the interests of their domains. Many of their contacts with other domains were through warfare, trade and inter-marriages.

But now, we have to build bridges, being part of a bigger society. We now meet at the state level under the state traditional rulers' council and even at the national level, there is a forum, where we meet and discuss issues of national interest.

It is very good also that educated people, who have had successful careers, are coming in, like professors, retired senior military and administrative officers, business executives and other professionals. I think that will help to elevate the institution and make it more relevant to the respective communities and the country.

It is a good and welcome development that could also help to elevate as well as demystify the institution.

With this, do you think there should be a constitutional role for the monarchs?

I think that has been on the front burner. Previous constitutions, even in the colonial days, recognised the roles of the traditional institutions. But this got expunged for reasons not understood or explained.

The truth of the matter is that whether anything is written in the constitution or not, the traditional institution plays an active roles in the lives of the people, some of which I have explained earlier. Whether it is in the constitution or not, the traditional institutions contribute significantly to the governance of the country. My own perspective is that there is the need to recognise these roles that we carry out.

The second challenge is the empowerment of the institution. We are part of the effort in building the Nigeria community and should be empowered, materially, financially, etc to carry on our roles.

A lot of people feel that unless it is put in the constitution, the empowerment cannot come. I think that is the issue now. After all, the constitution is a document that provides a framework for Nigeria to govern itself. And if the traditional institution is part of that governance, then it ought to be recognised in the constitution.

But has there been any push for that formal recognition, especially now that the National Assembly is undertaking a review of the 1999 Constitution?

The national forum of traditional rulers in the country presented a memorandum to the National Assembly committees reviewing the constitution. In 2005, during the national political reform conference, of which I was a member, there was a committee on traditional institutions and cultural affairs reforms. That committee made very positive recommendations, which were unanimously adopted by the conference.

That document is also there for the constitution review committees of the National Assembly to look at.

What is your relationship with other monarchs? Apart from these usual fora, are there any other avenues where you meet and discuss issues of common interest?

Oh yes! The most important opportunity is one-on-one meetings and bilateral relationships, including visits. For instance, in January this year, we were at Ile-Ife to felicitate with the Ooni of Ife on his 80th birthday. But then, I go to Ife privately also and the Ooni has visited me Onitsha too.

Since Alhaji Saad Abubakar became the Sultan of Sokoto, he has visited me in Onitsha twice, and I have visited him in Sokoto twice too to discuss issues of common interest. Sometimes, we speak on the telephone.

If there are challenges, I call to seek his intervention, like assuring the Hausa/Fulani community in Onitsha that my domain will provide them adequate safety and security during crisis periods, and vice versa. This had saved the situation on many occasions.

The Asagba of Asaba is across the river from me and both of us spend quiet times together sharing thoughts on a wide range of issues.

I have exchanged visits and am in regular contact with a good number of traditional rulers around the country. I am not unique in this because other traditional do likewise.

It is important also that we get together once in a while at state and national levels for a much more formal sharing of ideas and proffering advice to the government on topical issues.

It would appear some of the indigenes don't heed the counsels of the monarchs any more. If not, why do we keep having ethnic crises?

In any situation, there are people who benefit from trouble. There are historical situations too that have become engrained in some communities.

It takes courage, leadership and sustained efforts by all concerned to change the situation and create a more amicable environment. If two communities are at war with themselves and they see their monarchs together in a friendly atmosphere, I think they will see the need for peaceful co-existence. There are no clean line divides; there are inter-marriages between the communities. They have trade relationship; maybe land is often the contentious issue.

It is the responsibility of the leaders of both sides to find a solution to whatever misunderstanding that there is between their people. So, leadership is important.

Being honest and truthful is very important. Why should I fight for something that doesn't belong to me, apart from greed? So, being contented is important.

These are qualities we traditional rulers have to keep emphasising to our people, and we have to lead by example.

Some travelers still feel unease passing through cosmopolitan Onitsha, because of criminality and disorderliness. What are you doing to erase that phobia?

Onitsha has had that image of recent. Some of it is true, but some overblown, exaggerated. To a certain measure, this is due to unemployment, because some people don't want to stay in the rural areas again and farm. They come into Onitsha, and the Upper Iweka area, which has become notorious, has turned into a haven of motor park touts, pickpockets and other criminals.

In makes news when things like this begin to happen in a city like Onitsha that has had a good image in the past, and sometimes the news is exaggerated. These chaps also easily become political thugs during election times.

But having said that, it is important also to make the point that looking at the statics of crime in the country, Onitsha is probably on the lower side among comparable cities.

We just had an election in Anambra State in February and there was hardly any report of violence, unlike in some other places. And except for the mayhem during the Dr. Chris Ngige era and one other occasion, Onitsha has been basically peaceful.

We are working with the state and local governments to improve the situation, as well as the stakeholders group, including the transport owners. We are also working with the chamber of commerce and organisations like churches to bring about sanity in Onitsha and make it a better place.

As for employment, we are trying to re-establish a mindset that there is dignity in being gainfully employed, even in a mundane job, rather than attacking people. Education is very important, because most of the touts and criminals are school dropouts.

There are efforts from all directions to address the issues of crime, joblessness and adult delinquency generally. But at the end of the day, our challenges in Onitsha are not what some people think it is.

Is it true that there was an attempt to kidnap you last year shortly before your Ofala festival?

We have been digging to the bottom of the matter, and the police, rose gallantly to that occasion, because they saved the situation.

In their investigation, they discovered that it was more of a coincidence than being specifically directed at me. The young men involved had kidnapped a businessman at Alor, who was in the booth of their vehicle when all these things were happening.

Getting into Onitsha, they took another vehicle, had the first confrontation with the police guarding the main palace and started running away. I think the police report appears true, because when they came to the ancestral palace, where I was in seclusion, there was a speed-breaker and there was a road barrier, which they had to break through because the police was already pursuing them. I think that was what happened. It's very unfortunate, but I think it is important we all get to the bottom of it.

So, the police did their investigation and at the community level, we did own investigation too, and it was discovered that it was more of a chance event. The police made some arrests and three of the criminals lost their lives in the confrontation. Unfortunately, a stray bullet hit my cousin's wife and we lost her also.

Were they indigenes of Onitsha?

No! But they said the mother of the one who is supposed to be the kingpin is from Onitsha. That is the only connection; he wasn't living at Onitsha.

One of the boys who died is not an indigene, but he grew up in Onitsha; on the cosmopolitan rather than the inland part of the city.

At a point people were not too sure if the Ofala was going ahead or not. What came to your mind when you got wind of the incident?

When I heard the first gunshot, I thought it was a police warning shot, because at the time leading to the Ofala, there were New Yam festivals going on and sometimes masquerades get unruly and police tried to control them.

But of course, another followed almost immediately and I enquired what was going on. I was told it was not police warning shots but armed robbers on the rampage.

Naturally, there were concerns among the people. The first feeling was that I was the target. But then, the way we arrange the period of seclusion, which is a custom we have had since the ancient time, (and am not going to disclose it to you), it is very difficult to get hold of the monarch during that period.

Any Onitsha indigene would not have done it, and notwithstanding modern times, it would have been the greatest abomination for an Onitsha indigene to be involved in that sort of situation. That was why we had to dig to the bottom of it.

But even if attempts were made, it would have been very difficult to get the monarch, especially at that period.

That having happened, I was resolved in my mind, as were the Onitsha people, that the Ofala will not be interrupted. That particular festival was my most successful Ofala, because indigenes from different places came out, there were dance groups and we had a wonderful festival.

Life has continued since then, though I am a little bit more cautious in my movements.

There is a copycat syndrome and other monarchs or their relations have been abducted in different other place. So, one just has to be very careful. It is a reflection of the times that we are living in. These are challenges for all of us Nigerians to address, especially in the areas of creating employment and counseling the young ones to be more humble, as well as be industrious.

Eight years after you mounted the throne, how has the process of reconciling with your opponents been?

The community withdrew the titles of three chiefs, who became aggrieved and bitter when I was chosen as the monarch and acted to destabilise the community. One of them has taken advantage of the general amnesty for peace in the domain and is back to the fold. Although his chieftaincy title has not been restored, but I think it is a mater of time. That is a very major step for us in Onitsha.

Only three contestants refused to fall in line. One of them has withdrawn his court case and gone abroad. If we see ourselves on the road tomorrow, we will say hello to each other, because we are all cousins anyway.

The second one lives in Onitsha and is very quiet and doesn't act in any manner to distabilise the system.

The third one, honestly, I don't know where he is, and he doesn't act in any manner to distabilise the system too.

So, the truth of the matter is that Onitsha is united and peaceful. But it is probably better if you go around and questioned the indigenes directly.

I make the point that if anybody has any grudge against me personally, he should not use that to distabilise the monarchy, because the monarchy belongs to all of us Onitsha people. It was there before we came, and it will remain there after us. People can bear grudges against me personally, but they should please not distabilise the monarchy.

However, Onitsha today, is together and hanging together.

How would you assess governance in Anambra State?

I always told people that the apparent discontinuities that we have been experiencing, right from the era of Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju through that of Dr. Chris Ngige to where we are now under Governor Peter Obi, was really a situation of Anambra people putting democracy to test, and that we are going to come out of it stronger. This is because democracy, by definition, is an untidy mode of governance, which works in the end if everyone keeps to the rules.

So, it is that untidiness that we are going through, and by so doing, we learn from one another. And this last governorship election was a proof of it; it was a genuine and credible election, where everybody played a role, including the candidates, who ran clean and violence-free campaigns, as they ought to be.

So, we are very happy with the outcome, in the sense that somebody has to win the election. By outcome, I mean the process, the spirit and the way most people accepted the result of the election, notwithstanding one or two flaws, especially the voters register, but which affected all the candidates in one way or the other. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has to explain what happened, because if you put garbage into the computer, it brings out garbage. I think those that feed the computers with data should put in the right data, so that things can be better organize in future.

The challenge now is to carry that forward; to make the process of election better and better. The challenge for the other parts of the country is to try to emulate what has happened in Anambra State in subsequent elections.

Don't you think this could be a one-off 'success,' considering incidents of violence, ballot stuffing and ballot snatching in past elections in the state?

Elections in Anambra State in the past were not different from what they were in other parts of the country; some parts of the country were usually even more volatile than Anambra State.

My submission, along with that of the Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha, regarding the 2007 election, which tends to have become the benchmark, was that there were no elections in Onitsha. The polling booths never opened, but results were announced. The only violence was that INEC office in Onitsha was burnt, because people just got fed up.

Indeed, there are a lot of things that people imagine to be happening in Anambra State, which are not actually happening.

What would you want to see the re-elected governor to focus on?

He is on a journey, as he told us, of transforming governance itself; making governance for those being governed, rather than for those governing them. He said he is on a mission to transform the state, in terms of development, touching every community and local government area with basic amenities.

Above all, Anambra State is a hub for industrialists and traders, so he is on a mission to transform Onitsha, Nnewi and Awka and make them better environments for business, working closely with development agencies. He has used the United Nations agency, Habitat, to produce a master plan for the physical development of these three cities.

He is addressing the issue of graft in public office to ensure that the common man feels the impact of governance at the end of the day, which has made him very unpopular in certain quarters. He has brought humility into governance. He is very accessible to the people he governs, not sitting in an ivory tower.

We just pray that after his second term, he will have put the state on an irreversible course that his successors can carry forward, irrespective of party affiliation.

Was there any time in the last five months you had fears for Nigeria as an entity, following the long absence of President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua?

National leadership is a big challenge, because things keep evolving. So, when the helmsman is suddenly incapacitated, it calls for concern. And of course, when the arrangement, even for the time being, appears not clear, then it becomes more worrisome.

In some countries, even when the President is going into the hospital for a small operation lasting 24 hours, he hands over to his deputies, because so much can happen with 24 hours. Twenty-four hours is such a long tome in the life of governance these days. The recent case of Hosni Mubarak of Egypt is another clear example.

I think it was not the illness per se, but the uncertainty that shrouded the health of our leader that made people to get worried. After all, health belongs to God, and anybody can take ill at any time.

So, the fact that our leader was or is ill calls for sympathy, understanding and prayers for his recovery, as well as some privacy for him and his family.

On the public side, there should be a system in place for immediate filling of the void. That was where the National Assembly had to intervene eventually, and that is what we have to adequately address, as a country.

What would you want the Acting President to focus on in the remaining part of this administration?

You have to look at how far we have come in the past years. Our leader, not being in good health, I don't believe his dream for Nigeria has been pursued with zeal and realised.

But you can't address the full range issues in just about one year, so the Acting President should choose a few sectors he wants to concentrate on and go ahead to leave a legacy.

It is important that the coming elections are organised in a manner that Nigerians begin to have confidence in our electoral process and governance. The current perception of Nigerians regarding the electoral process and governance is not good for the country, and has to change or be changed.

He can also do a lot in the power/energy sector, especially laying a solid foundation for the improvement of electricity supply in the country for both domestic and industrial purposes. Improved power supply in an environment of the right fiscal and monetary policies will also open up the economy and minimise hardship on the citizens.

The situation in the Niger Delta has to be resolved. We need peace in the area and have to build the people's confidence in Nigeria; we have to make them feel part and parcel of this country by ensuring development in the area.

It is only then that the law enforcement agencies can address the aspect of criminality in what is going on there. Criminality there and other parts of the country are now operating under the cover of the Niger Delta challenge.

These are doable and he should focus on them in the remaining part of this administration.
Source: The Guardian, 3^rd  April 2010.

I Won't Tolerate Laxity, Laziness, Obi Warns New Commissioners
From Geoffrey Anyanwu, Awka

Governor Peter Obi of Anambra State yesterday inaugurated his new cabinet with the swearing in of 16 commissioners and four special advisers with a stern warning against non-performance.

The swearing-in ceremony which took place at the Governor's Lodge without the usual fanfare associated with such activities followed the clearance of the 20 cabinet members by the State House of Assembly.
Addressing the cabinet members who were all returned from the first tenure cabinet, Obi stated that he was impatient to actualise the vision of the government, hence he would not tolerate laxity, laziness and complacency.

He, however, gave any member of the cabinet the opportunity to quit if he or she was not ready for the job as anyone that performs below expectations would be shown the way out without hesitation.
The state chief executive while thanking them for the services rendered to the state in the first tenure, urged them to be of good cheers and love their ministries.

He also charged them to be at peace with themselves, their ministries and local government areas, insisting that now was time for reconciliation and not for hostility. "No ministry is better than the other. It depends on what individual Commissioners make out of it. This calls for creativity and ingenuity on the part of the Commissioners. At the end of the day, you will not be judged by how rich or poor your ministry is, but how you used it to serve the people of Anambra State and humanity," he said.

Responding on behalf of the cabinet members, the Commissioner for Lands, Barr Peter Afuba expressed gratitude to the governor for the renewed opportunity given them to work with him in his "undoubted vision of transforming Anambra State."

Afuba noted that Obi scored another first by being the first governor to return his cabinet, stressing that the gesture was a vote of confidence in them which he pledged on behalf of others to strive at all times to justify.
"Our return by the Governor is a mark of recognition that we worked well with him and a challenge to even do better. We shall not let you down, whatever we did well, we will do better. Whatever we did not do well we shall amend. We are bound with you in your desire to transform the State," he assured.

Speaking shortly after the swearing-in on why the occasion was without fanfare, the Commissioner for Information, Chief Maja Umeh said it implied "that work has started in earnest and that there is no room for partying or epicurean indulgence," adding that all the commissioners were retained in their former ministries.
The commissioners are Professor Chinyere Okunna (Economic Planning And Budget), Mr. Calistus Ilozumba (Works), Lady Chinwe Anowai (Youth And Sports), Mr. Dubem Obaze (Local Government And Chieftaincy Affairs), Mr. Emeka Nwankwu (Public Utilities), Chief G. C. Ezenagu (Agriculture And Natural Resources), Dr. Michael Egbebike (Environment), Chief Maja Umeh (Information) And Mr. Alloy Egwuatu (Science And Technology).

Others include Mr. Emmanuel Chukwuma – Attorney General And Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Eze Echesi (Finance), Mr. Chima Okafor (Commerce And Industry), Dr. Kay Onyechi (Education), Mr. Peter Afuba (Lands And Survey), Professor Amobi Ilika (Health) And Dr. Ego Uzoezie (Women Affairs And Social Development).
The Special Advisers are Mr. Chuks Iloegbunam (Communication), Chief Sylvester Nwobualor (Parks and Markets), Chief Law Chinwuba (Housing) And Mrs. Victoria Obi (Internally Generated Revenue).
Source: Sun, 2^nd April 2010.

Tenure Expiry: VC Gets Court Order to Sit Tight

ODOGWU EMEKA ODOGWU, Awka

VICE-Chancellor, Anambra State University, Uli, Prof Paul Orajaka, has dragged the Anambra State government to court to stop his removal as VC at the expiration of his tenure of office. His five- year tenure expired yesterday (March 31) having been appointed in 2005.

But he has refused to vacate office, having obtained an injunction from an Ihiala High court presided over by Justice F.C Nwaizu stopping his removal and replacement.

The injunction has been granted him restraining his removal or replacement as VC of Anambra State University, Uli.

Justice Nwizu granted Orajaka an injunction on suit number HIH/2/2010 in motion number HIH/MISC.14/2010 in accordance with the relief sought by the plaintiff that status quo remains .

The order of the Justice Nwizu read thus,'' that in interest of justice and in exercise of the Honourable Court's discretion –the defendants should be put on notice for their reaction.''

"That meanwhile , still in the exercise of the court's discretion, both parties are to maintain status quo ante belum pending the hearing and determination of the substantive motion on notice which is fixed for 12th day of April ,2010.

Orajaka had through his counsel Emeka Ajaegbo sought for a motion exparte to restrain the defendants Governor Anambra state and the University jointly and severally or through their agents , servants or privies or staff or use force of any kind from disturbing the plaintiff or interfering with the plaintiff or stopping the plaintiff in any way or manner from performing or continuing to perform the duties and functions of the Vice Chancellor pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.

The plaintiff counsel had also sought for injunction restraining the defendants from replacing or threatening to replace the plaintiff as the Vice chancellor of Anambra university Uli and any other the court may deem fit.

Daily Champion reports that before Orajaka was appointed the tenure of office of a VC in the University then known as Anambra state University of Science and Technology law 13 of 2000 was four years and entitled for a renewable of another four years but the laws were amended by 26th January,2006 for a term of 5 years.

The Vice Chancellor is now demanding to know whether the amendment of the law was in retrospect of prospect because the renewed law states that a VC stays in office for a period of 5 years .He is also asking if the law is in retrospect and would it affect vested rights without expressly stating that the law is retrospective and to the detriment of the plaintiff.

He further argued that if the law is in prospective which he subscribes to his tenure of office would not start again from his appointment in 2005 but from the day the law was amended to meet the justice of re-appointment of the plaintiff for a second term of 4 years in the law appointing the plaintiff as VC.

The VC is arguing that his tenure would end on 31st March 2011 and not 2010 and that the amended law cannot be in his detriment while he would not be qualified for another term of four years .

In a reaction a source from the Ministry of Education Awka who chose to be anonymous informed that the action of Orajaka was stunning to the Ministry of Education who confirmed receipt of the court order.
Source: Daily Champion, 1^st April 2010.

Obi Has Taken Anambra State High—Groups

JOHN SHIKLAM, Kaduna

Association of Anambra State Development Unions, Lagos State has expressed confidence that the second tenure of Governor Peter Obi will enable him set a standard that will be difficult to attain by future leaders.

In a congratulatory message signed by the President, Mr. Emmanuel Anyadike and Secretary, Mr. Emeka Nwosu, the association said that his re-election had for the first time enabled the State to enjoy continuity in governance.

The Anambra State Association of Town Unions, Ayamelum Chapter in its message said that the governor has within his first tenure demonstrated that public resource could be used for collective welfare of the people as well as shown that it is possible to use limited resources to develop all sectors simultaneously.

In a similar vein, the Awka North Leaders of Thought said the governor's reelection was a testimony of his positive revolutionary work in the state and expressed the hope that the unique election that brought his second tenure becomes a stepping stone to the realisation of permanent free and fair election in the country.

The Umuoba Anam Development Council in its message described the governor as an embodiment of vision and success, noting that his second tenure will enable him complete and consolidate on the solid foundation he has already laid.

The traditional ruler of Achalla, Igwe Alex Nwokedi reminded the governor that he is the father and guardian of the entire state and urged all parties in the election to work jointly to promote peace, progress and development of the state.

Also the Achalla Youth Foundation Lagos Branch said the governor had touched the lives of the people in a special way and urged him to sustain honest and transparent leadership.
Source: Daily Champion, 31^st March 2010.

Cancer: Onitsha Soroptimist Embarks On Multimillion Naira Mammogram Centre
From Chuks Collins, Awka

Worried by the rising cases of cancer, the Soroptimist International Onitsha-Niger chapter has initiated efforts to provide a fully equipped mammogram centre at the Onitsha General Hospital. The project, according to the chapter president, Dr. Adaku Aniebue, would cost more than nine million naira.

The chapter, which was formally inaugurated at the weekend by the federation President of Soroptimist International of Great Britain and Ireland, Mrs. Jackie Mosedale, was set up in 2007.

With a formidable membership comprising of professionals and business executives, they had recorded a long list of success in humanitarian services, including Tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns, visits/presentation of gifts to prison inmates, motherless babies centres, among others.

Aniebue, on behalf of the chapter, presented five wheelchairs to the disabled and promised further assistance to alleviate their conditions.

The International President, Mosedale, described the organization as a bridge among nations, peoples and continents with humanitarian services. She charged the Onitsha-Niger chapter to "go and excel. Always remember that from now on, whenever you go, you are not alone."

National President, Mrs. Theresa Odogwu, urged the new chapter to keep up the lofty tradition of the club, among which is to maintain high ethical standards in all aspects of life, strive for human rights for all and to always work to advance the status of women. She further challenged members to develop the spirit of friendship and unity.

An expert, Dr. Nkiru Agu, urged women to maintain a disciplined and healthy lifestyle, pointing out that 1/8 of all women (about 12 per cent) would get the ailment in their life time. The figure, she added, puts every woman at risk and that early detection remains the best approach to cancer.
Source: Guardian, 28^th March 2010.

Anambra Poll: Ojukwu Backs Iwu's
Re-appointment

Chima Ogbuji

Ikemba Nnewi, and leader of the All Progessives Grand Alliance (APGA), Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu yesterday in Enugu expressed his desire for the reappointment of the National Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Maurice Iwu for another term, provided he would replicate the success of the February 6, 2010 governorship election in Anambra state in the coming general elections in 2011.

Ojukwu who was speaking when he received Iwu at his residence in Enugu praised the conduct of the Anambra guber election which saw the candidate of APGA, Mr. Peter Obi emerging victorious, saying that Anambra people and  in general were happy to be part of what he described as open, transparent and peaceful election which was still being applauded by not just the participants,  but the entire world.

Ojukwu who said he was speaking for "" congratulated Professor Iwu for giving Nigeria its first credible election, noting "We have now a pattern and we pray God to maintain that pattern for ever".

He said that it was not unusual to have few dissenting or contrary voices, but "I assure you Mr. Chairman that i personally applauded your action over the election; I welcome your conduct of the election. The only point I would like to make is this; the election was watched by the entire world so anybody who is not satisfied or wants to check, please I would ask the complainant to consider the percentage of those who criticize against the world and then tell me if they can do any better.

"Speaking for I acknowledge the goodness of the election, speaking for I say you did well, speaking for  I add that if we continue along which you have mapped out, you will not have any problems in the future".

The APGA leader Leader of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and Ikemba Nnewi, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu yesterday in Enugu gave his support for the reappointment of the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Prof Maurice Iwu for another term in office.

The Ex-Biafran war lord maintained that having recorded such resounding success in Anambra state, the INEC under Iwu's watch had the potential of conducting elections that represent the true wishes of Nigerians in future.

"I've made it very clear that I was welcoming Iwu to my residence and conveying to him the gratitude of . At no point did I enter the battle for endorsement but because I've never been looked upon in Nigeria as a coward, if you want to know, do I endorse Mr. chairman, what I say to you immediately is that if he continues this way, I endorse him," he noted.

He used the forum to state his reason for joining politics, explaining that his mission into the murky waters of Nigerian politics was for the interest of the people of .

"According to him, "I've no apologies for anybody. I'm in politics for the interest of  and nothing else. If there was no need for tribe, God would not have created us with different languages and specifically made me an Igbo man".

Speaking earlier, Iwu stated that he was on a working tour of the south east with specific purpose of inspecting the ongoing Electronic Voters' Registry in Abia state to access the level of its completion.

"The voters' registry project is very important for democratisation project in Nigeria and that is why it is important that I visit the registry which is located on a site on Enugu-Umuahia expressway. To make sure that the registry functions optimally, we have back-up centres in Abeokuta and Jigawa. Both of them are nearly completed to be able to back up what we have in Abia state. The idea here is that as a nation we want to be able to have a registry that would be able to meet the dictates of now and also will be able to pursue the development in the technology in the future.

"The other leg of my visit is to come to you to thank you most sincerely on behalf of the commission and a grateful nation for the role you played to make sure that the election we had in Anambra state was the most peaceful election this country has ever had. Not many people who are not part of the system will know your personal interest in that election.

"The statement you made helped to douse the tension in the place. The election that people said was going to be an acid test for the commission happened to have come out to be one of the best anywhere in the world that it captured the intent of the people of that state and also made it possible for the first time since I can remember that losers openly congratulated the winner which shows that that election did capture the will or intent of the people," he stated.

The INEC Chairman was accompanied on the visit by the residence electoral commissioners of Imo, Maria Owi, Enugu Dr. Hunphery Nwangene and Abia, Jacob Nwakpa.
Source: Daily Champion, 28^th March 2010.

FG Combats Erosion in Anambra, 4 Other States
From Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Federal Government has intervened to check the rampaging erosion in Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi, Taraba and Benue States by awarding contracts for the reclamation of the affected areas.
Permanent Secretary, Ecological Fund Office, (EFO), Mrs. Ibukun Odusote, said following the incidence of gully erosion disaster that is threatening lives and property in the areas. The federal government has approved the reconstruction of the areas affected by the erosion in Ifite-Duwu, Dunukofia Local Government in Anambra State.

She said if urgent steps were not taken to arrest the situation, the affected states would have been thrown into total darkness for over six months going by a report from the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN).
"Not only that, it has affected lives and properties and that particular pylon supplies power for six states in the federation and if it falls there would be a break in transition for about six month," she said.

THISDAY learnt that the gully which is about 2.4 kilometers had earlier resulted to the collapse of some buildings in the area and people in the area are finding it difficult to access the road to their homes.
The project consultant and the Managing Director, BAL Engineering, Mr. Bashir Lawal, who described the situation of the areas as terrible said "some people hardly have access to their houses, so there is need for us to reclaim it."
Managing Director of the contracting firm, Ronasco International (Nig) Limited, Mr. Guido Maldini, assured the government and people of the areas of a satisfactory work.
Source: This Day, 28^th March 2010.

Etiaba Urges Support for Obi, Sibeudu

By Charles Ajunwa

Immediate past Deputy Governor of Anambra State, Dame Virgy Etiaba, has called for support for Governor Peter Obi and the state Deputy Governor, Emeka Sibeudu.
According to her, a new and rejuvenated All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) team has been sworn-in to once again pilot the affairs of the state, and urged the people to be proud that a once politically unstable state has now found its feet in Nigeria's new democratic culture.She said, "our journey has been very chequered and long winded.

The swearing-in marks a remarkable advancement in that journey and while congratulating our re elected governor and new Deputy Governor, I extend the same sentiment to our party, our Leader, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, all other political gladiators in our state and most of all, the good People of Anambra State."I came into office in March 2006, under a politically-charged environment and today, I go back to Madubugwu Villa, Inyaba, Umudim, Nnewi, under a more stable political climate.

I do so with a great deal of satisfaction that I came, saw and did my best towards the upliftment of our people, especially during a turbulent and traumatic period for our state.
"It has really been a roller coaster ride of an experience for which I will always remain grateful to the Lord that I did not betray the trust reposed in me by our people."
Source: This Day, 23^rd March 2010.

Challenges, as Obi mounts saddle for second term
By Kodilinye Obiagwu (Lagos) and Chuks Collins (Awka)

ON Wednesday March 17, Mr. Peter Obi began his second term as the Governor of Anambra State. As he was sworn in by the state Chief Judge, Justice Paul Obidigwe, at the Alex Ekwueme Park, Awka, Obi promised to achieve more for the state. He harped on fulfilling the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and thanked the people for believing in him; assuring that he would consolidate on the gains of the last four years.

The event capped Obi's victory in the February 6 governorship election, as he became the first governor to win a second term in Anambra. He commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and observer groups that contributed in various ways to the success of the election, which "has recognised Anambra people as having the abilities to perform in a peaceful way, despite all shortcomings." While thanking those "who have in one way or the other made it possible for us to reach this point in our history, he said that Anambra is "indeed, the light of the nation."

Expectations and challenges are high in this second term. In his inaugural speech, Obi reflected on the journey since he assumed office in 2006, and noted that, "it was one mingled with hope and despair." He recollected the "three years of legal battles," the impeachment saga, and attempted tenure abridgment, which was saved by the Supreme Court, and is the reason Obi became the first governor to hold a stand alone' governorship election. The Supreme Court had interpreted that a governor's tenure started on the day he took oath of office.

Most of the dignitaries at the inauguration described Obi's second term as both historic and unique. Senate President David Mark in a message presented by Senator Joy Emordi said that the February 6 election has signposted that the nation's democracy is actually developing and growing. He prayed that subsequent elections in the country would also be so peaceful.

Obi recognised the challenges of developing the state through the policy of Anambra State Integrated Development strategy (ANIDS). He promised that his administration would tackle the menace of erosion, inadequate housing, urban renewal, falling standard of education and poor health delivery system.

"We still have in our midst people who desire to work, but there are no jobs, those who still live below the poverty line, those who are not sure of where their next meal will come from. Each day brings further evidence that we are in a decline, and we must act fast to reverse the trend. Some towns and communities are still without potable water, the energy situation is still unsatisfactory, while security is still problematic."

He however noted: "There is no sector that has not benefited from this government in one area of development or another."

Harping on the need for all hands to be deck, Obi stated that, "we must therefore work hard to improve our internally generated revenue (IGR) profile. We plead with the workers to ensure that revenues accruing to the state are collected to enable us pay attention to these issues, pay workers and pensioners more than they are paid today and fulfill other financial obligations, which will propel our state to greater heights. We are determined to work with corporate organisations, development partners (donor agencies) and international bodies for the benefit of our people."

Even as he invites "all those that contested against me to unclench their fists of contest and join hands with me as we aspire on one end to restore our state to its pride of place," some of them might not listen.

Obi's victory is being contested at the election tribunal. One of those challenging him is the former governor of the state and governorship candidate of the Action Congress (AC) Dr. Chris Ngige. Despite the peaceful conduct of the February 6 election, Ngige claims that the election was rigged.

Ngige had said, "I will stop at nothing in correcting the injustice meted out to me by INEC during the election, and if I allow it to go like that, how will the ills in the society be corrected." He said that he was petitioning against INEC to conclude the election in accordance with the relevant sections of the constitution. He said that the electoral commission "was supposed to conduct a run-off between myself and Obi, as he didn't win 25 per cent of votes cast in two-thirds of the 21 councils in the state going by the official statistics of the result released by INEC.

"We are also urging INEC to bring a proper voters' register and let the people elect their governor. A governor cannot be elected by 97,000 people as against 1.8million voters. There is nowhere in the world where just 16 per cent of all the voters would be described as credible, while 84 per cent of our voters were disenfranchised. My major suit is against INEC, but there are some people who would be entangled in it as a consequence."

Second Republic Vice President Dr. Alex Ekwueme, who almost didn't vote in the election, described the election as "hi-tech administrative rigging." According to him, those who voted were only 16 per cent of the 1.8 million registered voters. Ekwueme said that Obi did not meet the constitutional requirement to be declared winner.

"Before any person becomes governor, he must have superiority of votes and spread as enshrined in the constitution. Only 16 per cent of registered voters were opportuned to vote and you cannot rate that kind of an election as credible anywhere in the world," Ekwueme said.

Outside the courts, Obi is faced with the challenge of rebuilding APGA. The party has been in the courts since 2004 largely on the question of leadership. Obi almost missed the party's ticket. It took eleventh hour schemes and maneuverings to snatch a ticket for him. George Ibezimakor Ozodinobi had got the APGA ticket before it was given to Obi. The governor will be facing that matter in court to straighten if he is the rightful candidate of APGA; it is a pre-election issue. The APGA leadership question is presently in the Supreme Court. The contention is who is the National Chairman of APGA between Chief Chekwas Okorie and Chief Victor Umeh. Obi supports the Umeh faction in APGA. A few days to the election, following its recognition by INEC, the Okorie faction held the ace in the emergence of Obi before late negotiations and interventions forced Okorie to ease off.

The other challenge is the conduct of the council polls. Will Obi hold the polls or won't he? If he is thinking of restructuring APGA and giving it a foothold in the state, he will need to entrench APGA in the grassroots and the councils. It is in Obi's hands to ensure that the party grows beyond him, Umeh, Okorie and Odumegwu-Ojukwu.

Another challenge for Obi is the task of picking the next political leaders and deciding the next legislators in the 2011 polls when the members of the state House of Assembly and the National Assembly go for re-election. Will Obi be able to break into the PDP dominated House of Assembly and lead APGA to secure more than one seat in the National Assembly? How well Obi deploys or utilises his powers of incumbency and what his second term will look like, will be tested in the 2011 polls.

It is not certain how long the Odumegwu-Ojukwu factor will continue to come into play in future elections. He has had his singular wish fulfilled. "Return my son, Peter back to Government House. That is my last wish. You would have made me proud if you vote Obi in the election so that he will continue with the good work he is doing for our people. Obi's voice is the only voice you will hear at the government house in the next four years," he had said. He reminded the people that Obi had indeed taken good care of him at his old age. And the people obliged him and returned Obi to power. What would APGA and the people of Anambra ask of Obi in the next four years?

APGA opponents, especially the PDP is sure to pile pressure thus forcing the party to paper its cracks and close ranks.

The peaceful conduct of the polls has also meant more support for Obi. In the meantime, some groups like the Anambra State Good Governance Forum (ASGGOF) led by Dr. Obiora Okonkwo; Anambra North People's Assembly led by Chief Joseph Okeke; The Intersociety Group led by Emeka Umeagbalasi; the Anambra Salvation Movement led by Okey Ojibe; the Coalition for Good Governance and Fair Politics in Anambra State led by Innocent Obi; the Anambra Rebirth and the League of Anambra Professionals have called for transparent governance.

The Speaker of the state House of Assembly Anayo Nnebe has expressed the readiness of the lawmakers to support the executive to ensure the state progresses.

Prof. Charles Soludo, the PDP candidate, who came third in the election, congratulated Obi and opted not to go to court although some petitioners have joined the party in the suits at the election tribunal.

Almost all the other candidates like Andy Uba of the Labour Party (LP), Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu of the Hope Democratic party (HDP), Mrs Uche Ekwunife of the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) have congratulated Obi. Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led a coalition of 12 other candidates to send a message of felicitation to Obi.

Ekwunife had said that she was supporting Obi, "in the interest of the state and the citizens. I don't want to be misunderstood after all the state is bigger than any single individual, or the person's ambitions."

The Nwosu led coalition claimed that the coalition has above 750,000 members but that they only got about 2,000 votes. They opted not to contest the election because they want to believe that Obi would learn to consider other peoples' ideas, other than his own this time around.

Chief Mike Ejezie of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) urged Obi to accommodate other peoples' opinion and suggested that he should look into the various manifestos and pick the good things therein to move the state forward.

The Africa Liberation Party's (ALP) Mike Nwafor claimed that the election was fraught with irregularities occasioned by massive disenfranchisement of greater percentage of the voters, but "for the sake of Anambra, which is bigger than all of us, we concede."

Some of the candidates had suggested that Obi reject the election result, "if he really loves the state." They said that it was a sad reflection of things if only 97,000 voters out of the register 1.8 million voters voted him back to office.

The Igwe Promise Eze of Umunze urged the governor to extend the dividends of democracy to the 177 communities in the state this time. He believed that the votes he received from the people were an indication of their confidence in his abilities.

QUOTE

Expectations and challenges are high in this second term. In his inaugural speech, Obi reflected on the journey since he assumed office in 2006, and noted that, "it was one mingled with hope and despair." He recollected the "three years of legal battles," the impeachment saga, and attempted tenure abridgment, which was saved by the Supreme Court, and is the reason Obi became the first governor to hold a stand alone' governorship election. The Supreme Court had interpreted that a governor's tenure started on the day he took oath of office.
Source: The Guardian, 19^{th March 2010.}

Obi's second term begins
* Assures of better days ahead

AWKA—AT exactly 12.22 pm yesterday at the famous Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, Governor Peter Obi took the oath of office for a second term in office as Governor of Anambra State, making him the first to achieve the feat.

Governor Obi, who arrived the venue of the colourful ceremony at about 11.58 am in a convoy of black jeeps and cars, in his inaugural speech, said the journey ahead would be tough, even as he called on opposition parties to join hands with his administration to move the state forward.

"The journey of this administration, right from my first tenure to this day has been historic and chequered. It was one mingled with hope and despair. When you recall our three years of legal battles in the courts, the impeachment saga and attempted tenure abridgement, which eventually led to the Supreme Court's interpretation of the tenure of the Governor, you will appreciate the trials we passed through. God, in His infinite mercy, through the judiciary, has always seen us through.

"Notwithstanding the above constraints, we began the simultaneous rebuilding of all sectors of the state's economy with the vision of achieving the Millennium Development Goals, MDGs, by the year 2015, working through our delivery strategy of Anambra Integrated Development Strategy, ANIDS. As we look back today, there is no sector or community in the state that has not benefited from this government in one area of development or another, be it in the area of healthcare delivery, education, urban development, control of erosion, reconstruction of roads, sports, among others.

"But a look around the state will show that challenges still abound. Some towns and communities are still without potable water supply, the energy situation is still unsatisfactory, while security is still problematic. We still have to battle the problems of inadequate housing, erosion menace, urban planning, deplorable standard of education and poor healthcare delivery, among others.

"In this second tenure, the journey will be tough, the challenges enormous, involving time, huge resources and effort. However, they will be confronted in accordance with the high expectations of our people," he said.
Source: Vanguard, 18^th March 2010

Obi begins second term in office, promises reforms

From Lawrence Njoku and Uzoma Nzeagwu, Awka

WITH pomp and pageantry, Mr. Peter Obi was yesterday sworn in as the Governor of Anambra State for a second term, with a promise to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by the year 2015.

Those present at the ceremony held at the Alex Ekwueme Park, Awka, were the Chairman, Board of Trustees, All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Odumegwu Ojukwu, the Acting President, Goodluck Jonathan represented by Governor of Abia State, Chief Theodore Orji; Deputy Governors of Imo State, Lady Ada Okwuonu, Kaduna State, Patrick Dokowa; Deputy Governor Enugu State, Sunday Onyebuchi; Anambra State former Deputy Governor, Dame Virgy Etiaba, National Chairman, APGA, Chief Victor Umeh and South East PDP, Vice Chairman, Chief Olisa Metu.

Others are the former President General, Ohanaeze Ndi-Igbo, Dr. Dozie Ikedife, former Minister for Health, Chief Tim Menakaya, Commanding Officer, 302 Field Artillery, Onitsha, Col. Patrick Miri; Director, State Security Service, Anambra State, Mr. Ekpenyong Etta, Governorship candidate ADC, Mr. Ralphs Okey Nwosu, executive members of APGA, several representatives of other political parties among others.

Governor Obi who arrived the venue of the ceremony in company of top government officials was later administered the oath of office by the Anambra State Chief Judge, Justice Paul Obidigwe.

Delivering his inaugural speech, Obi explained that the journey had not been an easy one so far, right from ascending to office in 2006, but he took courage to wade through obstacles littered on his way. Said Obi, "It was one mingled with hope and despair... recall our three years of legal battles in the courts, the impeachment saga, and attempted tenure abridgment which eventually led to the Supreme Court of Nigeria's interpretation of tenure of the governor." He expressed confidence in the judiciary which made his emergence as governor come through.

Pointing out that challenges abound despite efforts to touch all sectors through the policy of Anamba State Integrated Development Strategy (ANIDS), Obi assured that his administration would do all it takes to tackle the problems of erosion, inadequate housing, urban planning, deplorable standard of education and poor health delivery system, among others.

"Look around the state, you will see that challenges still abound, some towns and communities are still without potable water supply, the energy situation is still unsatisfactory, while security still problematic".

Obi invited all those that contested against him "to unclench their fists of contest and join hands with me as we aspire to restore our state to its pride of place. We are determined to work with corporate organisations, development partners (donor agencies) and international bodies for the benefit of our people."

He commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and observer groups, saying that they had contributed in various ways to the success of the governorship election which, according to him, have conferred on Anambra people abilities to perform in a civilised and peaceful way, despite all shortcomings.

Immediate past Deputy Governor Virgy Etiaba in her address noted that "our journey has been very chequered and long-winded. Today's event marks a remarkable advancement in that journey, I call for support for their Excellencies, the governor and the deputy as they will need and do indeed deserve our full support and co-operation."

A mammoth crowd from all walks of Anambra State and beyond had started gathering as early as 8.00a.m at the venue.

Ceremonial guards from the Police mounted guard of honour, while traditional dancers drawn from various communities in the state entertained guests.

Many unions and associations dressed in various attires including world Igbo women congress, commuter drivers welfare association, Akwa Ibom State Central Union, Anambra Indigenes Association Overseas, Onitsha United Aluminium dealers, PMAN Anambra Chapter, all added colour to the occasion.
Source: The Guardian, 18^th March 2010

FG Commends Progress At Onitsha Port

Project May Be Completed This Year

From Nkechi Onyedika In Onitsha

THE Federal Government has expressed satisfaction with the pace of work at the N4.5 billion Onitsha Port rehabilitation project and urged the contractor to intensify efforts to ensure that the project is delivered within the next seven months.

The port was constructed and commissioned in 1983 by the then Shehu Shagari's administration but was never put to use; a situation that had led to dilapidation of the structures and facilities at the site.

However, the Federal Government, in December 2009, awarded contract for the rehabilitation and completion of the port to Inter Bau Construction Ltd at the cost of N4.5billion, with a completion period of nine months.

Speaking after an inspection tour of the project site, Minister of Transport, Alhaji Isa Bio, regretted that the project, which has huge economic and social benefits, was abandoned for so long.

The Minister noted that government, in an effort to dredge the lower Niger and create all year round navigable Channel from Warri to Baro, discovered that the quickest way to achieve a successful dredging exercise was the rehabilitation and completion of Onitsha port.

He said: "The first time I visited the port, it was an eye sore; the project was conceived and commissioned during the Shagari's administration in 1983. Almost 26 years of abandonment, we discovered that the warehouses were vandalised. All the gadgets, apart from being old model, were also vandalised.

Bio, who observed that the Federal Government has so far paid only 15 per cent mobilisation fee to the contractor, described the level of progress made at the project site as impressive, adding that the contractor has demonstrated technical and financial capacity to do the job.

The Minister stated that the Federal Government approved the construction of eight river line ports along the channel so that each of the eight states will have at least a port, adding that one that would easily be achieved within one year is the Onitsha port.

According to him, the scope of work includes rehabilitation of the port and supply and installation of cargo handling equipment. Others are rehabilitation of roads and drainages, transit shade, fire and water treatment buildings, Guest house, Police building, Administration building, and Staff quarters. The idea is for the port to be as ready as possible within nine months.

President of the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, Mr. Okechukwu Akaneme, said his members had desired a completion of the project which was awarded more than 15 years ago by the then Shagari Administration, so that the port could be put to use to the benefit of all Nigerians, especially South East traders operating at the Onitsha main market, said to be the biggest market in Africa.

"We are optimistic that this project would be completed within the stipulated time. We want to be able to clear our goods by January 2011. This is a project that is after our heart."

Chairman of Inter Bau, Nath Okechukwu, said that the company has attained 35 per cent completion of the project, which scope includes rehabilitation of the transit warehouse, dismantling of the building cranes and replacing them with new ones.

He assured that the company would hand over the project well ahead of time.
Source: The Guardian, 14^th March 2010.

Anambra Election Most Credible —Ojukwu

Ikemba Nnewi and former Presidential candidate of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the 2007 general elections, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, yesterday said the February 6 governorship poll in Anambra State was the most credible election ever conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the country.
He called on politicians in the state who were dissatisfied with the outcome of the poll to go to the election tribunal instead of hiding under the exercise to cause problems in the state.
Daily Champion recalls that Governor Peter Obi of APGA was declared winner of the poll by INEC. While other contestants have accepted the verdict, the candidate of Action Congress (AC) Dr Chris Ngige has rejected the election results, calling for a run off between him and Obi.
Speaking for the first time after the victory of Governor Obi, Dim Ojukwu said he was absolutely elated that the people of Anambra State heeded his call to give APGA's candidate a second mandate to continue with his developmental strides.
Giving INEC a pass mark for the successful conduct of the election, Ojukwu said he was very proud of the general conduct of the Anambra election which had set a pattern that would guide the nation in conducting future elections.
He said: "The Anambra election was exceptional. It is the best I have ever seen in Nigeria. Though I haven't been to too many countries but certainly it was good, it was disciplined, it was orderly and what I am looking forward to is that this has produced a pattern we are looking for, something we can always point at and say do it like Anambra.
"I am absolutely elated by the decision of Anambra people to elect Obi for a second term. Let me take this opportunity to thank the people of Anambra State for their loyalty, for their diligence and really for their support. Anambra, you will not go wrong. They followed me to the last pace and they produced a result which is so resounding that even now people are still talking about it.
"I am actually elated and I feel very good about it. I feel justified in most of other things I have done in life that at the end of the day I am where the people are. Anambra people and indeed all others, because the type of congratulatory messages I have been getting show that it wasn't just Anambra. I regret that wasn't a national election; it would have been wonderful if the results were the same as reflected here.
"I asked my people to stand by me and the result clearly indicates that my people stood by me and are still standing by me. I thank God also for finding me worthy of such a manifestation of his goodwill. I feel very proud."
Responding to criticisms of the election by few contestants, Ojukwu said: "What do you expect them to do, to say we support APGA for beating us. It is not possible, we are Nigerians after all. I say we did very well. Everything that has been done can be verified and in any case you and I know that if you go into an election and you don't get the result not which you wish but the one that you think you deserved you go to the courts."
"I am inviting those who don't feel that the election was fair to please not to hesitate, no matter their ranks in our society, please, the courts are open, go and get the result that you deserve," he added.
The APGA leader however, challenged Governor Obi to justify the support given to him by the people by ensuring rapid development of the state, assuring that he would continue to give the governor the support he needed to succeed in his second tenure.
He said: "I am not saying Governor Obi is good or bad, I have supported him; I will support him tomorrow, I haven't seen anything that will stop me from supporting him even a day after tomorrow. But he is a human being, I urge him to seek further glory on his election field. I would like him not to rest on his oars.
"He should give to our teeming supporters the justification for their support. I would like to see him develop Anambra even more rapidly like he has done before. There is nothing better for a ruler to know that his people appreciate him and that is what Anambra has said to Governor Obi. He should feel now liberated and he should go forward and develop Anambra."
Source: Daily Champion, 3^rd March 2010.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu Wants Anambra Election Model Replicated Nationwide
From Lawrence Njoku, Enugu

FORMER Biafran leader and national leader of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, said yesterday that his only regret about Anambra State election held on February 6, 2010, was that the exercise was not a national election.

Speaking for the first time on the conduct and outcome of the exercise, which was won by his partyss candidate, Governor Peter Obi, he stated that the country could have been wonderful if the kind of exercise held in Anambra was reflected all over the country since the inception of democracy.

He declared: aI regret that that exercise wasnst a national election. It would have been wonderful if the results were the same as reflected in other elections. The conduct of that election was very exceptional, the best I have ever seen in Nigeria and what I am looking forward to is a repeat of this pattern, what we can point out to for people to say, do like Anambra".

He continued: aI asked my people to stand by me and the result clearly indicated that my people stood by me and are still standing by me. There are very few people on earth given this privilege. I thank God also for finding me worthy of such a manifestation, I feel very proud. Absolutely elated and before I say anything, let me use this opportunity to thank the people of Anambra State for their loyalty, diligence and support. Anambra people followed me to the last day and they produced a result, which is so resounding that even now, people are still talking about it. I feel justified about it as one thing which I have done in life, that at the end of the day, I am where the people are. The congratulatory messages I have been getting show that it is not just Anambra, but the world over".

Addressing journalists at his residence in Enugu, Ojukwu insisted that for the first time, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) conducted an exercise that was widely accepted, urging a repeat and reflection of such in future elections in the country.

On criticisms by the Action Congress (AC) that the election was rigged in favour of APGA, Ojukwu said: aWhat do you expect them to say? Do you expect them to say we support APGA for beating us? It is not possible, we are Nigerians. I said we did very well and I have expected them to say odd things, but everything that was done can be verified. In any case, you and I know that if you go into an election and you donst get the result, not what the people wish but the one that you think you deserved, you go to the court, isnst it?"

He continued: aI am inviting the AC, which does not feel that the election was fair not to hesitate but to go the courts and get the result they deserved. We will be willing to follow them".

The APGA leader, who though agreed that there are imperfections in every human endeavour, stated that the mere fact that 23 out of the 25 political parties which participated in the election had accepted the outcome and in fact, congratulated the party and its candidate for the victory ,was a clear signal that the exercise went as the most transparent ever held in the country.

Giving resounding pass mark to the INEC led by Prof. Maurice Iwu for the orderly and peaceful conduct of the election, he advised the AC and its candidate, Dr. Chris Ngige, not to pull down the state over the loss in the exercise.

Ojukwu, however, called on Obi to justify the mandate by ensuring rapid development of the state and avoid any move that could discriminate any part of the state.

aI have supported him and I will continue to support him. I havenst seen anything that will make me not to continue to support him. But he is a human being, I would urge him not to rest on his oars but to set out to prove to the Igbo in Anambra and others the justification for their support. I would like to say to him, develop Anambra even more rapidly than you have done before. He should move further to entrench democracy virtues in the state", Ojukwu added.

On the 23 candidates that participated and praised the outcome of the election, Ojukwu described their position as agentlemanly", stressing that it was actually the spirit of the game.

aI am particularly happy that good phenomenon has manifested itself in Anambra. We went in like sportsmen to a contest, the result became very clear at the end of the contest and those who were beaten accepted defeat. All I can say to them is thank you very much and I open my arms to receive them because they are my brothers and sisters. Nothing has changed, it is just that we didnst think the same way and I will urge the new government of Anambra not to discriminate against them, to remember that we went into this contest as gentlemen, let us get out of it as gentlemen too. That is the way the game should be played", he stressed.
Source: The Guardian, 3^rd March 2010.

Anambra guber: Ojukwu Satisfied with Outcome
From PETRUS OBI, Enugu

Former warlord and Ikemba Nnewi, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, has expressed satisfaction with the February 6 governorship election in Anambra State, describing it as the most credible election ever conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) in the country.

The National Leader of All Progressives Grand Alliance, (APGA) who openly campaigned for a second term for Governor Peter Obi, also urged those who were not satisfied with the outcome of the election to seek redress in court.
Speaking for the first time after the historic victory of Governor Peter Obi in the Anambra election, Ojukwu said he was absolutely elated that the people of Anambra State heeded his call to give APGA's candidate a second mandate to continue with his developmental strides.

He said he was very proud of the general conduct of the Anambra election which, according to him, had set a pattern that would guide the nation in conducting future elections.
Said he, "the Anambra election was exceptional; It is the best I have ever seen in Nigeria.
Though I haven't been to many abroad but certainly it was good, it was disciplined, it was orderly and what I am looking forward to is that this has produced a pattern we are looking for, something we can always point at and say I do like Anambra.

"I am absolutely elated by the decision of Anambra people to elect Governor Peter Obi for a second term. Let me take this opportunity to thank the people of Anambra State for their loyalty, for their diligence and really for their support. Anambra, you will not go wrong. They followed me to the last pace and they produced a result which is so resounding that even now people are still talking about it.

"I am actually elated and I feel very good about it. I feel justified in most of other things I have done in life that at the end of the day I am where the people are. Anambra people and indeed all others, because the type of congratulatory messages I have been getting show that it wasn't just Anambra. I regret that, that wasn't a national election; it would have been wonderful if the results were the same as reflected here."
"I asked my people to stand by me and the result clearly indicates that my people stood by me and are still standing by me. I thank God also for finding me worthy of such a manifestation of His goodwill. I feel very proud."

Reacting to some criticisms trailing the election, Ojukwu, who was the presidential candidate of APGA in 2007 election, said: "What do you expect them to do, to say we support APGA for beating us? It is not possible, we are Nigerians after all. I say we did very well. Everything that has been done can be verified and in any case you and I know that if you go into an election and you don't get the result you think you deserved you go to the court."
"I am inviting those who don't feel that the election was fair to please not to hesitate, no matter their ranks in our society, please, the courts are opened, go and get the result that you deserve," he added.

Ojukwu, however, urged Governor Obi to justify the support giving to him by Anambra people by ensuring rapid development of the state, assuring that he would continue to give the governor the support he needed to succeed in his second tenure.
"I am not saying Governor Obi is good or bad, I have supported him, I will support him tomorrow, I haven't seen anything that will stop me from supporting him even a day after tomorrow. But he is a human being, I urge him to seek further glory on his election field. I would like him not to rest on his oars.
Source: The Sun, 3^rd March 2010.

Anambra 2010: Soludo Has no Moral Right to Challenge Obi in Court – Akunyili

By EMMANUEL OBE

The Minister of Information and Communications, Prof. Dora Akunyili, has said that it would be morally inappropriate for Prof. Chukwuma Soludo to go to the tribunal to challenge the election of Mr. Peter Obi in the February 6, 2010 governorship election in Anambra State.

Soludo, the immediate past Central Bank of Nigeria governor was the Peoples Democratic Party standard bearer, while Obi was the candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance.

Twenty-three other candidates including a former governor of the state and Action Congress standard bearer, Dr Chris Ngige, participated in the election.

Akunyili who spoke in Awka on Saturday while reconciling aggrieved PDP members in the state, said having congratulated Obi on winning the election, Soludo had lost the moral right to challenge the outcome of the poll.

She said, "If somebody loses election, whether rightly or wrongly, it is better to study what happened before making a statement. But if that person makes the mistake of saying, 'Congratulations for winning the election,' no matter what happened after that, it is more honourable to stop.

"If you say congratulations and go to court, that is damaging for your integrity. So, we needed to tell ourselves the truth. But some people are not telling themselves the truth. That is the crux of the matter."

The meeting attracted hundreds of PDP faithful including former state chairmen of the party like Chiefs Frank Oramulu, Pandola Okwuosa, Frank Oduah, Dan Ulasi, and Tony. There were also former and present members of the house of assembly and former commissioners.

But national officers of the party from the state, National Assembly members, Soludo, and other key stakeholders in the last governorship election that defected to other parties were not in attendance.

The parley was disorderly as supporters of Soludo at intervals kept heckling the speakers who they accused of working against the party in the February 6 poll.

At a point, many people seated in the hall had to leave because of a choking smell of teargas in the hall dropped by unknown persons.

But the minister said the meeting, a sequel to an earlier one held in Abuja on February 15, was successful to the extent that members of the party had agreed to reconcile their differences.

She said, "I am happy that the meeting held because people that could not pay their transport to Abuja were able to come here. Let us settle with one another because too many people are aggrieved; people that wanted to run election and did not succeed.

"We are telling everybody that if we keep dwelling on yesterday, we will never have a better tomorrow. At the end of this meeting I see that many people are getting converted and because I am a very busy person, I have already asked the elders of the party to take off from where I have stopped today because I don't really have the time."
Source: Punch, 28^th Feb 2010.

'Anambra Governorship Election Has Been Won And Conclusively Lost'

All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) National Chairman, Chief Victor Umeh recently spoke to a group of journalists on the fallout of the February 6 Anambra State governorship election, insisting that apart from winning outright majority in 13 councils, its candidate, Governor Peter Obi, scored up to 25 per cent of the valid votes cast in 15 councils. GODWIN IJEDIOGOR was there and reports.

What is your reaction to allegations by some political parties that they were short-changed in the recent governorship election in Anambra State continue to attract allegations that some parties were short-changed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)?

The governorship election has been won and conclusively lost, because its results have been accepted by all and sundry, except one political party, Action Congress (AC) and its candidate, Dr. Chris Ngige.

In a contest where 25 parties and candidates took part and the result is not being challenge by 23 parties and their candidates, but have accepted the results and congratulated the governor, you don't need any further proof that the election was credible, free and fair. Otherwise, many people would have been heading to the Election Petition Tribunal to challenge its outcome.

The fact that AC and Ngige continue to insist that the election wasn't credible goes to show that they are not ready for democracy in Nigeria. The essence for going into an election is to win or lose. Once the election is credible, free and fair, anybody who loses should accept defeat and concede victory to the winner. That is what grows democracy in any country. So, the attitude of AC and Ngige should be condemned by true democrats.

We had always had many petitions arising from past elections in the state, challenging their outcome. In 2007, for example, apart from the then Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that was declared winner, all the other political parties and their candidates went to the tribunal to contest the outcome, and they were all united in calling for its cancellation. No other candidate claimed to have won the election; the contention was that there was no election at all.

But in this case, we had more candidates than in the previous elections, yet only one is challenging the outcome. All the other candidates and local and foreign observers accepted the election as being credible, free and fair.

The votes used to determine the winner of that election were genuine votes casted by the people of Anambra State. There was no case of manipulation of figures, apart from the failed attempt Ngige to smuggle in about 10, 000 votes into his home local government area, during which the returning officer was caught in the process. There were no cases of ballot box snatching, joggling of figures or crediting votes to the wrong candidates. That is why everybody concerned, except ac and its candidate, agreed that the election was conducted on an even ground; it was a level playing field for everybody.

So, it dangerous for our democracy for one party and its candidate condemn an election adjudged to be free and fair by over 97 per cent of those who participated or observed the election, just because they lost.

It is unexpected of AC, a party that professes to be fighting for a change and genuine democracy to survive in Nigeria. Their action shows that they have nothing to contribute in growing democracy in Nigeria.

Their action is clearly out of reality. If not for mischief making, AC should have been the first party to congratulate APGA and its candidate, since they claim to be in opposition. They lost the chance and even allowed the PDP they disparage on daily basis to take the lead.

Could Ngige be a vendetta, considering that Governor Peter Obi unseated him through the courts?

What the governor did was to get the court to pronounce that Ngige did not win the election, based on available results. Obi didn't push him just because he wanted to push him out; he won the election, which was stolen by Ngige, in collaboration with others. Obi and APGA went to court peacefully without urging anybody to demonstrate, and Ngige, through his antics kept us in court for three years until the Court of Appeal in Enugu restored our mandate. It was the court that sacked him, not Obi, because he was sitting on a seat he did not deserve.

So, no vendetta of his can be justified in the present journey of Ngige to bring the entire election to public ridicule. Out of 21 local government areas of the state, Ngige won in only four, against Obi's outright victory in 13, and 25 per cent in two others. Ngige scored 25 per cent in only five, while Obi scored at least 25 per cent in 15.

You can see the whopping gap; Ngige was nowhere set to win the election, hence one is amazed at his position on the election.

Anambra State has three senatorial zones and 21 LGAs in three senatorial zones, distributed equally. In Anambra South, Obi won outright in five out of the seven councils (majority of the valid votes casted in the LGAs) and came close second in one other, meeting the mandatory 25 per cent.

In the Anambra South, Obi won outright in five councils and scored 25 per cent in six councils. Chukwuma Soludo of the PDP, Andy Uba of Labour Party (LP), Nicholas Ukachukwu of Hope Democratic Party (HDP) all come from this zone.

Soludo did not win in any LGA, APGA defeated him in his own community, in his ward of 14 polling booths, APGA won in 12 and he won only in two.

Even Uba lost to APGA in his own LGA. Ngige won only in Nnewi North LGA. Ukachukwu proved his strength in his Nnewi South council, where no other candidate got up to 25 per cent.

In the Central zone, where both Obi and Ngige come from, Obi won majority of the valid votes cast in four LGAs, while Ngige won in three.

The North zone was a shopping ground for all the candidates, because no governorship candidate came from there. Soludo, Uba, Ukachukwu, and Peoples Progressive Alliance (PPA) candidate, Mrs. Uche Ekwunife picked their running mates from there.

But Obi won outright in four LGAs and scored over 26 per cent in one other LGA. Ngige did not win in any LGA there, Soludo won in two, and Uba in one.

Taking a general look, you would see that Obi contested the election against himself only; he had no real challenger, from available figures by INEC. He won across the three senatorial zones- five LGAs in the South, four in the Central and four in the North, apart from scoring up to 25 per cent in two others. No other candidate was able to achieve that. Ngige won in only four LGAs.

So, there was no reason for this noise about Obi not meeting the requirements. If it were a contest where Ngige came close to Obi, probably there would have been some basis to believe that may be the other person would have won if certain things were done the other way.

It was an election where the people of the state came out to make a very strong statement that they are very happy with the governor they have had in the past four years and were ready to re-elect him. His acceptability across the three senatorial zones was clearly an endorsement of his even distribution of developmental projects. Every part of the state have benefitted from his administration.

The results were not contrived, but a reflection of the way the people had assessed the candidates.

But even Soludo, who initially congratulated Obi later called for the voiding of the election?

That is the tragedy of the situation. Ngige called Soludo to retrace his steps after coming up with a jaundiced calculation and alleged that Obi did not score up to 25 per cent in 14 LGAs. I am sure Soludo did not know the basis of Ngige's calculation.

But since we came out with our own calculations, Soludo has not made any statement.

Apart from that, Soludo must have discovered the mischief in Ngige's action, that soon after calling him to join his action, Ngige started calling for run-off between Obi and himself, thereby excluding Soludo from the exercise. Soludo must have realized that Ngige was trying to use him to secure a run-off election.

But if he is still desirous of challenging the results of the election based on Ngige's calculations, he is free to go on. We assume that he must have understood the facts, hence taken them in his strides.

An Anambra indigene has gone to court to ask that Obi should not be sworn in based on the same results?

No court will hear him on this matter, even as an indigene of Anambra State. He cannot stop Obi's swearing-in because this is an election matter, which the regular courts don't have jurisdiction on.

No court in Nigeria can grant an injunction that a candidate that had won an election and to whom a Certificate of Return had been issued should not be sworn in; it is only an election tribunal that can hear matters arising from an election, and it goes to the Court of Appeal, which is the final arbiter.

And the Electoral Act is very clear on who can bring a petition before the tribunal. It is either the candidate or political party in the election. The person you are talking about was not a candidate in that election, nor did he represent any party. He has no basis or locus standi in the matter.

So, on March 17, Obi would be sworn in for a second term in office. Any person with the locus to challenge his election can go ahead.

Do you see Ngige's petition lasting as long as three years as Obi's petition lasted from the 2003 election?

Whatever path he chooses to tread, he will harvest from the prevailing conditions. In 2003, Ngige lost the election but stole Obi's mandate. He kept us at the tribunal with frivolous excuses for almost three years until he ran out of time and the court sent him packing.

I, the present case, initially he started by saying that voters were disenfranchised and therefore the election was not acceptable, as many of those that would have voted for him could not vote. But realising that he cannot use that to set aside the election, he went to discover through fraudulent calculation that Obi did not meet the requisite spread. He accepted the result of the election by calling for a run-off between him and Obi, thereby eliminating the 23 other candidates.

He is on a vain pursuit; a wild goose chase, based on his calculations, because he used invalid votes in arriving at his destination. He failed to remember that in the tribunal judgment that removed him from office, the invalid votes were set aside before any calculations were made. The same happened in the case between Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole of AC and Prof Osariemen Osunbor and that between Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko of LP and Dr. Segun Agagu of PDP.

Why should it now be different in Anambra? AC benefitted from this lawful calculation in Edo State, and election must not be credible only when a particular person has won it. It can be credible when you lose in a free and fair manner or exercise, as it happened in Anambra State on February 6.

What is your reaction to Soludo's allegation that the election was 'administratively' rigged by INEC for APGA?

He was talking about the same issue of voters' register, which made it impossible for some people to vote. But that did not affect the credibility of the exercise based on fairness.

That some people could not find their names on the register was not a new issue on the day of election. Everybody knew that the register was in a mess. Even AC claimed to have written to INEC three times before the election about it, yet they went into the election with what they saw as a faulty register. It was their choice.

So, Soludo said he accepted defeat in the election, despite what he called the flaws that characterised it, because it was obvious to him that no candidate had any advantage over the others as a result of this problem. All the candidate went into the election under the same atmosphere or condition, with the same voters' register.

Having been accepted across the state, if more people had voted, Obi's lead would have widened. It was an election where all the candidates faced the same pitfalls. No candidate was aided by the pitfalls, hence the election was adjudged credible, free and fair by even the European observers that monitored it, who went further to recommend that the issue of voters' register be addressed.

On AC's call for INEC chairman, Prof Maurice Iwu's sack, I think it is double speak, because the same AC has been benefiting from Iwu's works in the rerun elections in Edo State. You can condemn somebody when he does anything wrong, but if he does anything right, you have to commend him as well.

INEC was transparent in the February 6 election. I am not just saying this because my party won. INEC was open in its dealings before, during and after the election.

So, Iwu and INEC should be commended, not condemned for doing a good job.
Source: The Guardian, 27^th Feb 2010.

Edochie, Others Link Obi's Victory To Development
From Uzoma Nzeagwu, Umuahia

AS congratulatory messages continue to come to the Awka Government House, Anambra State, the National Chairman, Rebirth Committee, Chief Pete Edochie has attributed Peter Obi's victory at last week's governorship polls to the massive and visible developmental projects executed by his administration in the State.

Edochie, who is also a Nollywood star, has congratulated Obi on being re-elected to serve for the next four years as the Chief Executive of the state, saying it is a clear indication that he was well accepted by the people.

Fielding questions from reporters in Awka yesterday, he also congratulated Obi's opponents on accepting defeat at the polls, especially on being bold to pay him courtesy visits.

He, however, observed some lapses during the voting, which he urged INEC to address as soon as possible before the next general election in the country. "The overall conduct was peaceful and orderly, some voters complained of their missing names in the voters' register, and a lot were disenfranchised," he noted "We did not hear about cases of ballot box snatching, thuggery or those other electoral malpractices," he added, linking the general calm to the presence of what he described as intimidating presence of security agents.

"If INEC can get it right by ensuring the voter register is updated, see that those whose names did not appear in the register can be corrected and allowed to vote, then it would go a long way to improve the election process next year," he said.

In the same vein, the State Director of National Orientation Agency, Chief Geoff Ogbalu not only congratulated Obi on emerging victorious, but also on breaking what he called the jinx of not serving the second term.

Ogbalu, however, urged aggrieved candidates bent on litigation to have a rethink, arguing that it would not only be a distraction to government but also to the entire people of Anambra state.

"They should join hands with Obi and help move the state to the next level," he said, commending other governorship candidates for their maturity, patriotism and conduct throughout the campaign period. He remarked that all the candidates conducted their campaign peacefully, and controlled their supporters effectively, making it possible to record no violence and thuggery.

Ogbalu, who pledged NOA's continued support for the Obi admininistration, suggested that the governor should incorporate ideas from the manifestoes presented by his opponents into his Anambra Integrated Development Strategy, which serves as engine for development in the state. According to him, Obi's victory is "a victory for democracy, rule of law and victory to the people."

Also, the Anglican Bishop of Aguata Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Christian Efobi, declared Obi's re-election as a clear indication that the people were happy with his landmark achievement. Efobi, who spoke at a church service at St Pauls Anglican Church Umuoyinka, Ufuma in Orumba North Council Area of the state, described the election as peaceful, transparent, free and fair.

He commended INEC for discharging its duty effectively, even as he appealled to other candidates to team up with Obi in the march to move Anambra forward.

In his reaction, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Mike Udah observed that the result represented the will and mandate of the people of Anambra State.

In his words: 'The election has set the tone for the forthcoming general election in the Federation. Anambra has opened another chapter in conducting credible election, while also nurturing democracy in Nigeria."
Source: The Guardian, 13^{th Feb 2010.}

Anambra guber poll, free, fair — Obi

Awka—Governor Peter Obi of Anambra, who was re-elected on Saturday for another four year term, has described the February 6 election as free, fair and transparent.

Obi, who made the declaration while reacting to his victory at a news conference in Awka on Sunday, noted that in spite of the age-old inadequacies of INEC in terms of poor preparations, late arrival of election materials, said "this time they were minimal."

He said that vote counting, collation and announcement of results, were relatively transparent.

"I wish to commend the INEC, election observers and monitors. I accept the result of the election as declared by INEC, namely that I won this election. May I use this opportunity to thank the people of Anambra State for their massive support for me. By returning me for the second term, you have shown that you support our modest effort at transforming our dear state.

"I promise you that my team and I will do more to better your lots. As for my brothers and sisters, who contested the election with me, I commend them for their patriotism and desire to serve our people. You have no doubt put a gallant fight.

What is most important now is that we remain good brothers and sisters you have been over the years and join hands in building a better Anambra State for ourselves and our children."

The Governor commended the security agencies, journalists, the political class, the clergy and everyone that contributed toward ensuring the success of the election.
Source: Vanguard, 8^th Feb 2010.

Peter Obi begins second term in Anambra
PDP, Ekwunife, other accept defeat

Soludo, Ngige, kick, Oshiomhole greets gov
From Kodlinye Obiagwu, Lawrence Njoku, Uzoma Nzeagwu, Chuks Collins (Awka) and John-Abba Ogbodo (Abuja)

A HUGE festival of celebration got underway in many parts of Anambra State, especially the capital, Awka and Governor Peter Obi's Amatutu Village in Agulu Local Council after the Independence National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared him the winner of last Saturday's gubernatorial polls.

Obi who polled 97,843 ballots from a total votes cast of 301,232 has been congratulated by some rival candidates and parties while others faulted the election.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national publicity secretary, Prof. Rufai Ahmed Alkali, Peoples Progressive Alliance (PPA) candidate Mrs. Uche Ekwunife, Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole and others saluted Obi. But the PDP's candidate, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, and his Action Congress (AC) counterpart, Dr. Chris Ngige, picked holes in the conduct of the exercise.

In Obi's village, dancers, drummers and masquerades entertained the ever-growing crowd of jubilant people, most of whom abandoned early morning church services. Drapped in wrappers or posters of Obi, the young men and women shouted themselves hoarse with chants of victory. They kept singing, "Obi, governor for ever."

The incumbent governor, who was the candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), was at about 10.00 a.m. yesterday declared the winner by Resident Electoral Commissioner of Anambra State Mr. Josiah Uwazuruonye.

In the second place was Ngige, former governor of the state, who polled 60,240 votes, followed by Soludo who got 59, 355 ballots.

The total valid votes cast was 284,547 while 16,685 were rejected. Total number of registered voters in Anambra stands at 1,844,815. But only 301,232 voted at the election in which 25 political parties participated.

With his victory, Obi became the first governor of the state to win a second term. He had emerged governor after winning a protracted election petition against the election of Ngige who was then of the PDP. Obi and the APGA were declared the winner of the 2003 governorship election and he assumed office on March 17, 2006.

His election is the first in what is regarded as a one race election, where only one political office is contested for unlike in the general election where the state and federal legislative candidates run the polls on the same day.

Although the election was peaceful, it was marked by late delivery of election materials, late voting, the disfranchisement of many voters who couldn't find their names on the voters' register, a protest by policemen over unpaid allowances. There was however an isolated case of ballot snatching in Nri, and the manhandling of a female electoral officer. A day after the election some policemen were still complaining that the N2000 for the election was not enough and was contrary to what the DIG promised them.

Uwazuronye said that all established cases and acts of criminality during the election would be further investigated by the police.

Second Republic Vice President Dr. Alex Ekwueme, Olisa Metuh, Senator Ugochukwu Uba, his mother, Mrs. Andy Uba including Ngige's father were among those who did not see their names on the register.

The PDP South-East Vice Chairman, Chief Olisa Metu, described the election as a sham and blamed INEC for the failure of the logistics for the election and the disenfranchisement of thousands of voters. However, the APGA did not complain of the disenfranchisement of its members.

Obi's elder brother, Damian Obi, who missed Sunday Mass to host the throng of visitors in the family house, said: "We are overwhelmed. We worked for it, we expected it.

He added: Did you see the method they (Iwu and INEC) used to count the votes; they did it in the open."

According to the National Chairman of the Justice Party (JP), Ralph Obioha, "no matter how old and frail Odumegwu-Ojukwu may have become, his presence and support has contributed immensely to this feat by the party."

Other results are Labour Party's (LP) Andy Uba, 26,106; Nicholas Ukachukwu of Hope Democratic Party (HDP), 20, 777 and Ekwunife 9, 555.

Uwazuruonye, who addressed reporters at the INEC headquarters in Awka, said: " Obi, having satisfied all the requirements, is hereby declared winner in the governorship election." He disclosed that 284, 547 votes were valid, the invalid votes were 16,685, while a total number of 301,232 votes were cast at the polls.

Investigations by The Guardian however showed surprises at various council areas where some eminent citizens, community leaders and party stalwarts lost their strongholds. For instance, the Ikemba Nnewi, Chief Emeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, lost his Nnewi North Council Area to AC which got 3,970 votes whereas APGA received 3,234 ballots.

The same scenario was experienced at Orumba North where PDP chieftain and former Vice President, Alex Ekwueme, lost to APGA. Ekwueme's PDP polled 4,371 votes while APGA garnered 6,298 votes.

In Aguata Council area, the home constituency of Soludo and Uba, APGA polled 6,235 votes while PDP earned 5,269 votes, and LP scored 3,395 votes.

Reacting, the National Chairman of APGA, Victor Umeh, who was visibly happy, declared Obi as deserving of the victory.

He remarked: "It is the first time INEC ever held credible election in Nigeria. If the commission will continue like this, Nigeria will be a good place for all."

"No party in Nigeria could have upstaged Obi in Anambra and he will continue to win and win in any election in Anambra".

Meanwhile, the Anambra Election Monitoring Board at a press briefing in Awka suggested some recommendations to enable INEC conduct transparent and credible elections, especially in the forthcoming 2011 polls.

The chairman of the board, Ikeazor Akariwe, proffered the following suggestions among others:

INEC should make available its own vehicles to enhance movement of electoral materials to all locations on time, also review the voters register in Anambra and all other states to avoid the bottlenecks encountered in recent elections;

RECs in all states be given adequate authority to act in response to situations at hand, such as directing electoral officers and other officials to allow the electorate with valid voters card to vote, even when their names are not in the register; and

INEC should operate hotlines manned by its members of staff to facilitate communication when the need arises during elections.

Akariwe, accompanied by other members of the board, including Mike Ozekhome (SAN), Anselm Okolo, Olufemi Aduwo and Festus Okoye, among others, emphasised that despite the challenges evident on Saturday, the election represented a watershed in Nigeria.

PDP's spokesman attributed its failure to win Saturday's polls to what it described as irreconcilable differences in the state chapter of the party.

The party described Soludo's defeat as very unfortunate, just as it said it would study the entire process and come up with its position.

Alkali accused the Anambra PDP members of failing to support the party's candidate because of what he described as grievances in the state chapter.

He consoled Soludo, urging him, as well as other party members in the state, to be calm and strategise for the challenges ahead.

Alkali, who said the Prof. Maurice Iwu-led INEC did its best, noted that there were cases where people could not vote, adding that it was difficult for the party to ascertain where the problem came from.

But Soludo said in Awka yesterday that the manner of Obi's victory "portends ominous note for our democracy and adds another dangerous dimension to the rigging process."

He said that the experience of the election has "among other things revealed to me how desperately Nigeria needs fundamental electoral reforms."

Speaking to journalists for the first time since the election, he listed what he claimed were the ills of the election.

He alleged that the "voters' register was fraudulently manipulated to exclude hundreds and thousands of voters with valid voters card."

"Even people who had verified and confirmed their names during the display of voters' register could not find their names at the polling booths. "This manipulation was systematically designed to rig us out." He claimed that throughout the campaigns, "we were never under any illusion as to the breath of the obstacle on our way. INEC as an umpire never hid its hostility towards us as well as the fact that it was an interested party to stop Soludo."

Congratulating "my friend Obi," Soludo added: "The fight is not about us, but about the future of Anambra State. You will have my support."

Ekwunife also congratulated Obi and said she would not challenge the election.

However, Ngige said he would go to court. At a press briefing yesterday evening, he said: "Our party position on the issue of voters' register has been on for more than three months. The observed pattern was that all areas where AC stalwarts were strong, the names of the voters were not on the voters' register. That our earlier alarm led to the sacking of key INEC officials was enough admission by INEC that something sinister went wrong."

The National Chairman of the Justice Party, Chief Ralph Obioha, said that his party has been vindicated when it endorsed the candidature of Obi as the best for the state in the election.

He, however, advised the governor to continue with his development strides in the state as well as the sustenance of true peace and togetherness.

Obioha said that Obi possessed the spirit of an emerging Igbo leader, saying that the outcome of the exercise was an indication that he was loved by his people, and urged the governor to reciprocate the gesture.

He added that the victory of APGA was the antidote needed for the strengthening of institutions of democracy in the country, while asking the people to give him the necessary support to move the state further.

Oshiomhole, who congratulated Obi in a statement, said despite the minor imperfections observed, the outcome of the election was a victory for the campaign of one man, one vote.

According to the statement: "I wish to congratulate Mr. Peter Obi on his victory at the polls. It was a victory for "one man, one vote" where the people decided whom they wanted as their leader.

"For me, the person who emerged winner at the polls is not as important as the process, the right process, through which he emerged.

"I also wish to congratulate the Vice President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, for providing the appropriate and needed leadership in ensuring that the will of the people is not subverted. By this, he has demonstrated that he is a true democrat who would not subvert the will of the people on the altar of party allegiance.

"The leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission and the Police also deserve kudos for ensuring that the votes of the people count. This is a demonstration that the national agencies are, at last, proving that they are truly independent and not appendages of the ruling party."

"Finally, I want to congratulate the people of Anambra State for conducting themselves in an orderly manner and joining us in Edo State to send the right signal to those whose trade in stock is to rig in unwanted candidates that this is a new dawn for the campaign of 'one man, one vote' where the votes of the people must count."
Source: Guardian, 8^{th Feb 2010.}

INEC declares Obi winner of Anambra polls
* Jonathan hails Gov Obi

AWKA—AT 9.09 a.m,yesterday, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC declared the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, candidate and the incumbent governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, as winner of Saturday's governorship election, having scored majority lawful votes of 97,833.

Obi who, by this victory, has earned another four-year mandate, fulfilled the constitutional requirement by winning two-third votes in 14 out of the 21 local government areas of the state, had the candidate of Action Congress, AC, Dr. Chris Ngige who scored 60,240 votes as his closest candidate in the keenly contested ballot. Ngige scored 25 percent in three local governments.

The highly rated People's Democratic Party, PDP, candidate, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, came third winning in two local government areas with 59,355 votes. Surprisingly, the former Central Bank Governor lost in his Aguata Local Government to APGA.

Former presidential aide, Dr. Andy Uba of the Labour Party, LP, came fourth with 26,106 while former House of Representatives member and Hope Democratic Party, HDP candidate, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu polled 20,727. Both Uba and Ukachukwu won in only one local government area each. The only prominent female candidate and House of Representatives member, Hon. Mrs. Uche Ekwunife on PPA platform, got 9,595 votes.

Declaring the result of the election, the Anambra State Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, Josiah Uwazuruonye, said Obi had satisfied all the constitutional requirements to be elected for a second term of four years. He said: "I, Bar. Josiah Chukwudi Uwazuruonye, hereby certify that I was the Returning Officer for the Anambra State Governorship Election 2010 and that as the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Anambra State, the candidate of APGA, Mr. Peter Obi has satisfied the constitutional requirement and is hereby declared winner of the election."

National Chairman of APGA, Chief Victor Umeh, who was elated by the party's victory, said the outcome of the election was a reflection of the wishes of the people. While commending the electorate and security operatives,

Umeh told newsmen: "We feel so happy that after the strenuous struggle to pull the seat of Anambra State down we have been able to do it in a very spectacular way to the glory of God. Like we stated before, the only thing Nigeria needs to progress as a democratic country is a credible, free and fair election. And our party, APGA, has been in the vanguard of this struggle. We are very happy that this morning our involvement in this struggle has yielded the necessary dividends.

"Nigeria is going to move on from this election to greater glory. There is no way we can succeed as a country if we continue to deny the people their inalienable right to elect leaders of their choice and this is the beauty of democracy. "INEC has done well, not just because we have won but because yesterday (Saturday) we were allowed to vote.

Anambra State that has had traumatic experience in the past election, yesterday, did not record any incident of people writing results from their private homes and these results finding their ways to INEC headquarters for declaration. So, if INEC keeps it this way we would get out of the woods.

"I sincerely thank the Nigeria Police. Before this election yesterday, Anambra State was invaded by thugs hired by desperate candidates in this election and it was an uphill task to maintain peace. The level of security provided by the Nigeria Police made the thugs to take to their heels. That was why the election was peaceful. I also thank INEC for having this disposition at this time to allow the people of Anambra State elect governor of their choice."

Addressing a news conference shortly after the results were declared, the Anambra State Election Monitoring and Observation Board praised INEC for the successful conduct of the election. Chairman of the board, Barrister Ikeazor Akaraiwe, who spoke on behalf of the observers, also commended the security agencies for providing adequate security for the election just as he expressed concern over the late commencement of the election in most centres.

He said: "In spite of the laudable action of INEC in commencing early distribution of sensitive election materials, voting did not start early in many units. During the board's pre-election assessment, it expressed the concern on the integrity of the voters' register. Among our key concerns were the omission of names in the voters' register and the inclusion of foreign names.

The board regrets that in spite of our efforts to encourage INEC to deliver a credible voters' register, the envisaged serious challenges occurred. In many of the wards monitored by this board we observed that unacceptable number of voters did not find their names on the register."

The Board, however, recommended that INEC should make provision for its transportation during election as against the present practice where party chieftains provided transportation to convey sensitive electoral materials to voting centres. Noting that corps members used for the conduct of the election were not indigenes and could not speak the native language of the people and that they were left to operate without adequate instruction on what to do with people with valid voter's card but whose names could not be found in voters' register, the Board said there was need for a review of their operation in that regard.

Vice President Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday, congratulated victorious Governor Peter Obi of Anambra State over his re-election, saying that the success of the election and his victory were clear indications that Nigeria's democracy will succeed.

In a statement by the Senior Special Assistant, Media and Publicity to the Vice President, Mr. Ima Niboro, Jonathan applauded citizens of Anambra State for heeding his earlier advice to ensure that their votes counted in the election.

He also commended efforts of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, the Nigeria Police and other security agencies towards the successful conduct of the polls.

The statement said: "The Vice President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, has sent warm congratulations to Governor Peter Obi, over his victory in the Anambra gubernatorial election. The VP also lauded the Anambra people for the generally peaceful conduct of the election, noting that this is an indication that Nigerians are determined to make democracy succeed.

"Dr. Jonathan acknowledged the roles played by the Independent Electoral Commission, INEC, as well as the Nigeria Police and other security agencies towards the successful conduct of the polls. According to him, this was an indication that the electoral reforms of the present administration were beginning to have an effect on the nation's political culture".

The statement further noted that "the VP lauded all the contestants in the polls for conducting themselves in an exemplary manner, stating that if the Anambra polls were any guide, then the country is surely getting out of the woods in terms of elections and succession politics"
Source: Vanguard, 7^th Feb. 2010.

Obi wins Anambra guber election
By Our Correspondent, Published: Sunday

The candidate of the All Progressive Grand Alliance in Saturday's gubernatorial election in Anambra State, Mr. Peter, Obi has been declared winner.

Announcing the result on Sunday Morning, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mr. Josiah Uwazuronye, said Obi, who is the incumbent governor, polled a total 97, 843 votes to emerge winner.

Dr. Chris Ngige of the Action Congress came second with a total of 60, 240 votes while Professor Chukwuma Soludo of the Peoples Democratic Party polled a total 59, 355 votes to come third.

The candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Andy Uba came fourth with 26,106 votes, while Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu of Hope Democratic Party who was beaten to the fourth position, polled 20,77 votes, and Mrs. Uche Ekwunife of the Progressive Peoples Party polled 9,595 votes to come sixth.

The REC said a breakdown of the result showed that out of 301,232 votes cast in the election, 284,547 were valid while 14,685 were voided.

There were 1,844,816 registered voters in the 21 Local Government Areas in the state.

SUNDAY PUNCH gathered that though the polling was largely peaceful and orderly, there were still pockets of skirmishes and violence recorded during the poll.
Source: Punch, 7^th Feb. 2010.

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