Reports
Peter Obi Washes Hands Off Obiano’s Scandalous, Failed Gov’t
The former governor of Anambra State, Mr Gregory Peter Obi has excused himself from the failed governance style of the state government under the leadership of Governor willie Obiano.
Mr Obi said this in a short essay titled “Leave Obi Out Of Obiano’s Matter”, written by his personal aide Mr Valentine Obienyem.
Mr Obienyem in the essay reacted to the charges posed by Civil Liberties Organization of Nigeria (CLO) in the state demanding explanations on some policies paraded by Governor Obiano.
He said: “What you will read after this explanatory paragraph from me is the publication from the Civil Liberties Organization of Nigeria (CLO), asking, from the nature of the questions, Mr. Peter Obi and Chief Willie Obiano to explain questions 1 to 12.
“It is better you read those questions to the end.
“As a matter of fact, Obi handed over to Obiano and had his detailed stewardship in paper and ink. Those questions are better directed at the man in office now.
“If the man in office raises questions that affect Obi, that is when Obi should be called for further explanation.
“I therefore think it is wrong for some of the questions to be pointedly directed at Obi,” he posited.
He then reproduced the CLO publication for perusal of his readers as follows:
CIVIL LIBERTIES ORGANISATION (CLO) SOUTH EAST ZONE MEETS IN ANAMBRA, APPRAISES SITUATIONS IN THE ZONE AND RAISES 12 SALIENT QUESTIONS BORDERING ON ACCOUNTABILITY DEMANDING PUBLIC ANSWERS FROM THE PAST AND PRESENT GOVTS IN ANAMBRA
Members of the Zonal Management Committee (ZMC) of the Civil Liberties Organization (CLO), South-East Zone met in Awka, Anambra State during the weekend .In attendance, were Chairman and Secretaries of the CLO in the five states of the South East with the Zonal Chair who presided the meeting. In our tradition during our quarterly meetings, several issues affecting the zone in the areas of good governance, human rights and socio-political developments were discussed.
We reaffirmed our commitment to raising the quality of governance in the South-East through promotion of truthfulness, transparency and accountability amongst public office holders.
The CLO called the attention of the Federal Government to the continued brazen marginalization of the South East Zone in the allocation of human and material resources in Nigeria against the provisions of equity, fairness and Federal Character Principle.
We also rejected the present deployment of security forces and militarization of the south east most especially Abia and Anambra States by the FG under the guise of checkmating the excesses of pro Biafran groups.
We also condemned the killings, torture, invasion of private homes and other degrading treatments meted on citizens in Abia State.
The CLO also urged the Governors of the South East to thread with caution over the proscription of IPOB activities in the Zone.
The Governors should explore options of dialogue with any agitating group while they should show serious commitment to the welfare and development of the region.
The CLO also condemned in strong terms the demolition of the ancient Ekeukwu market, Owerri by Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State despite a subsisting court order. Most painfully was the attendant loss of lives that trailed the exercise.
In the area of political developments, Anambra State whose governorship election is slated for November 18, 2017 is in the front burner.
The CLO called for peaceful, free, fair and credible election and urged all gladiators to do the right things at all times. Let campaigns be issue based and not mudslinging.
The CLO is also closely monitoring governance in the South East and before the next election in Anambra State, we deemed it very necessary to raise Twelve (12) critical questions bordering on accountability which both serving and former administration in the state need to answer and clarify to the public.
As we ask these 12 questions which are in the public domain, may other Governments and administrations in the South East Zone have it in mind that we are also monitoring their performances and shall come up too with appropriate questions for them at the appropriate time.
1. FUND REALEASED BY FG FOR OKO-NANKA EROSION CONTROL:
One of the most devastating erosion sites in Africa today is the Oko-Nanka Erosion menace, which is presently threatening to sweep away the Igwe’s palace and other houses around the area.
This dangerous terrain drew the official visits of President Shehu Shagari and subsequent heads of governments.
Under President Goodluck Jonathan, the Federal government, working through the APGA government of Anambra State, decided to award a contract to effectively control the environmental hazard. This contract was valued at between 18 and 20 billion Naira.
The FGN went further to release a 10 percent of the total contract take-off, amounting to 2 billion Naira, with firm promises to follow with releases of the remaining 90 percent on commencement and subsequent progress.
Till date nobody can account for this 2 billion and the contract has neither been procured nor awarded.
Can the former APGA governor Mr. Peter Obi and present APGA Gov. Willie Obiano tell the public, whereabouts of this money as well as the stage of this contract?
2. MILLENNIUM DEVELOPMENT GOALS (MDGs) ACCOUNT:
At the beginning of 2014, Millennium Development Goals, MDGs Anambra State Account had a set aside sum of over 4 billion Naira for MDG projects, especially for Secondary School education and improvement of health facilities, including those of the Missionary.
Can both former Gov. Peter Obi and the incumbent Gov. Willie Obiano enlighten and disclose to the public what this sum was used for?
3. UNIVERSAL BASIC EDUCATION (UBEC) ACCOUNT:
By the end of 2013, Anambra State had over 1.7 billion Naira and over 2 billion Naira respectively in UBEC Account 1 and UBEC Account 2. Releases since then to schools and churches show a very significant shortfall, implying either or both APGA governments misappropriated the funds.
Can both former Gov. Peter Obi and incumbent Gov. Willie Obiano disclose to the public what happened to these funds?
4. THE SUBSIDY REINVESTMENT AND EMPOWERMENT PROGRAMME (SURE-P) ACCOUNT:
Under the administration of Mr. Peter Obi, the Federal Government, via SURE-P, released about 5 billion Naira as Subsidy Funds to Anambra State.
This was to be used strictly for developmental purposes. Subsequent subsidy funds were equally released to the Gov Willie Obiano administration for development of the State.
There is no trace of such SURE-P-aided developmental projects in the state.
Can both former Gov. Peter Obi and the Present Gov. Willie Obiano explain publicly what happened to these funds meant for development?
5. 75 BILLION NAIRA HANDED OVER:
APGA government under Mr. Peter Obi claimed to have left 75 billion Naira in cash and investments. Part of this money include a specifically mentioned156 million dollars (presently over 56 billion Naira at official rate).
More significantly, this amount was understood to have been made as future savings for the state at a minimum rate of 6 percent.
As at the end of August 2017, analysts say the state has received a total coupon so far of 41 Million Dollars (15 Billion Naira), while total accrued Coupon is 2 Million Dollars (827 Million Naira), and the entire portfolio value is now 199 Million Dollars (73 Billion Naira).
There has been denials and secrecy surrounding this handover and savings so far.
We challenge both former Gov. Peter Obi and present Gov. Willie Obiano to tell the public the true positions of these claims
6. SECURITY VOTES:
Since 2006, APGA governments in Anambra have claimed over a billion Naira (12 billion Naira annually) as Security Votes for their Governors and over 200 million Naira (2.4 billion Naira annually) for the First Ladies’ office.
Both amounting to 14.4 billion Naira annually and representing over 20 percent of the annual budget and in relation to income, the highest in Security Votes of all the states in the country.
Significantly, Health and Education combined receive about 50 percent of this Security Votes sum. Recently, Lagos State government that receives over 50 billion Naira as monthly revenue showed it spent N15 billion per annum as security votes, the highest it has spent in her history.
Yet from calculations, it means Mr. Peter Obi collected about N100 billion Naira, while Gov Obiano has so far collected over 50 billion as Security Votes.
Can both former Gov. Peter Obi and present Gov. Willie Obiano explain these huge collections/investments on Security?
7. 5 MILLION DOLLARS VEGETABLE EXPORT:
APGA government in Anambra state widely publicised to Nigerians and the whole world that in efforts to generate extra revenue, it exported vegetables (ugu) worth over 5 million dollars (1.55 billion Naira at official rate) and the proceeds have assisted the finances of the state.
Can both former Gov. Peter Obi and present Gov. Willie Obiano show the public where these vegetables are being cultivated if it is true, show them the export proceeds and most importantly how the money realized was used for the good of the people of the State?
8. FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENTS:
APGA government under Mr. Peter Obi claimed that investments of over 1 billion dollars became operational during his eight-year tenure, while APGA under Gov. Willie Obiano claims that over 7.5 billion dollars became operational in less than 40 months.
Can both former Gov. Peter Obi and present Gov. Willie Obiano state these investments clearly and how operational they are.
This has become necessary considering the classification of some states, including Anambra, in the recent report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) as having not attracted any foreign direct investments in the last one year?
9. FGN CONTRACT REFUNDS:
It is in line that in order for any state government to get contract refund from the Federal Government, it is required that an approval before embarking on such projects must be got from the FG. (Gov Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State refused the commencement of the re-construction of the popular Airport Road in Lagos, dutifully waiting for the FG approval.
Lagos has far more sources of revenue to have risked non-refund by going ahead without the approval).
From Head Bridge, through Upper Iweka, Boromeo Roundabout, Nkpor flyover to Umunya, APGA under Mr. Peter Obi claims to have spent 15 billion Naira reconstructing the Federal Onitsha-Enugu Road.
Similarly, the three flyovers in Awka under Obiano was said to have cost 15 billion Naira.
Can both former Gov. Peter Obi and present Gov. Willie Obiano state clearly the actual contract sums and if they got the Federal Government approval, which is the only guarantee for a refund, before embarking on those projects?
10. GODFATHERISM:
APGA’s Governor Willie Obiano allegedly has about 1000 aides, which he allegedly said that over 30 percent of the aides were from Mr. Peter Obi, the former APGA governor.
Can the former APGA Governor, Mr Peter Obi and present Gov. Willie Obiano tell the public the rationale for such number of appointments at huge cost to the State and also make a detailed public clarification on this?
11. BILLION NAIRA CAMPAIGN FUND
In line with same godfatherism, the APGA government of Gov Obiano claims his predecessor, Mr. Obi is demanding 7 billion refund as the campaign fund used to install him as governor.
This has been further attributed as a source of dispute between both Excellencies.
Can both former Gov. Peter Obi and present Gov. Willie Obiano clarify to the public, the issue of 7 Billion Naira refund?
12. UMUERI AIRPORT PROJECT:
APGA government of Gov Obiano claim the 2.5 billion dollars’ worth of the Umueri Airport project already flagged off is keeping to the CONTUITY mantra since the APGA government of Mr. Obi had procured the approval from the FG before handing over the baton.
Can both former Gov. Peter Obi and present Gov. Willie Obiano clarify the need for this airport?
There is an urgent need to provide answers to these questions to the public while we shall ask more questions, all geared towards ensuring accountability and transparency in governance for the benefits of the people. We believe that public office holders and leaders should not be celebrated when they have questions to answer, bordering on their conduct while serving the people.
For the CLO South East Zone
Comrade Aloysius Attah Comrade (Barr) Pedro Azuogu
Chair CLO Southeast Zone Treasurer CLO Southeast Zone
Chair Abia State Branch
………………………… ……………………………
Comrade Paschal Oziri Comrade Vin Ezekwueme,
Chair , Imo State Branch Chair, Anambra State Br0anch
Vice Chair CLO Southeast Zone
……………………… …………………….
Comrade Chidi Mbah Comrade Ralph Eze
Sec. Anambra State Branch Chair, CLO Ebonyi State Branch
Comrade Zulu Ofoelue
Chair, CLO, Enugu State Branch
Comrade George Nwovu
Sec. CLO Ebonyi State Branch
Comrade Ogechi Uzoma
Sec. CLO, Imo State Branch
Comrade Ralph Odo
Sec. CLO, Enugu State Branch
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(DDM) – A dramatic scene unfolded in Aku community, Imo State, as a family burial turned chaotic over allegations of financial settlement demands by the deceased’s first son.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the first son, identified as Uzoma Nwawere, reportedly blocked the burial of his late mother, insisting that his married sisters and their husbands must “settle” him before interment could proceed.
The incident occurred at the family compound where a large crowd gathered for the ceremony, only for the event to descend into confusion.
Eyewitnesses said Uzoma argued that his late mother and sisters had allegedly disrespected him while she was alive, depriving him of the recognition traditionally accorded to a first son.
A retired police officer at the scene narrated in Igbo that the deceased’s husband, Godwin Nwawere, had passed away earlier, leaving behind Uzoma as the first son and several daughters now married into different families.
The officer alleged that Uzoma had lived in the family compound for years, claiming he was left to fend for himself “on credit” while his sisters enjoyed better treatment.
He accused the daughters of conspiring with their late mother to undermine Uzoma’s status as heir to the family property, a situation that allegedly fueled tensions even before her death.
Reports indicated that Uzoma insisted the burial could not hold in the family compound, which he now claims as inheritance, unless his in-laws complied with his demands for settlement.
A viral video from the scene showed mourners and family members exchanging heated words near a freshly dug grave as light rain drizzled over the area.
In the footage, relatives and sympathizers were seen pleading with Uzoma to allow the burial to proceed, but he reportedly stood his ground.
The argument quickly attracted onlookers, causing embarrassment for the family and disrupting what was expected to be a solemn ceremony.
Cultural analysts say disputes over inheritance and burial rites are common in parts of Igbo land, particularly when tensions exist between sons and married daughters.
They note that first sons traditionally hold significant authority in family affairs, including burial decisions, but such authority can spark conflicts when perceived to be misused.
Social media reactions to the incident have been mixed, with some condemning Uzoma’s action as insensitive, while others argue that cultural norms were ignored by the deceased’s daughters.
As of press time, it was unclear whether the burial was eventually completed or postponed, as efforts to reach the family for clarification were unsuccessful.
(DDM) – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the arrest of thirty-six suspected internet fraudsters in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the operation was carried out by operatives of the Port Harcourt Zonal Directorate of the anti-graft agency.
The sting operation reportedly took place on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at various locations within Port Harcourt.
According to EFCC officials, the arrests followed credible intelligence linking the suspects to widespread internet-related fraud.
Authorities disclosed that the crackdown was part of ongoing efforts to curb cybercrime in Nigeria’s southern region.
Recovered items from the suspects included exotic vehicles, a Q-link motorcycle, and several high-end mobile phones.
Laptop computers reportedly containing incriminating documents were also seized during the coordinated raid.
EFCC stated that investigations are ongoing to determine the scale of the fraudulent activities uncovered.
The suspects are expected to face charges in court as soon as preliminary investigations are concluded.
The anti-graft commission maintained that no one would be spared in its fight against cybercrime and financial malfeasance.
Background of EFCC’s operations
The EFCC has intensified its clampdown on internet fraud across Nigeria in recent years.
In 2024, the agency recorded multiple arrests in Lagos, Abuja, and Benin City as part of its cybercrime crackdown.
Cybercrime, popularly called “Yahoo Yahoo” in Nigeria, has continued to tarnish the nation’s international image.
According to law enforcement data, billions of naira are lost annually to internet scams originating from Nigeria.
Experts link the rise of internet fraud to unemployment, economic hardship, and greed among youths.
EFCC has repeatedly urged young Nigerians to explore legitimate sources of income rather than resort to fraudulent schemes.
Port Harcourt under spotlight
Port Harcourt, a major commercial hub in the Niger Delta, has seen a surge in cybercrime activities in recent years.
Authorities believe the city’s thriving nightlife and influx of oil wealth make it a hotspot for fraud syndicates.
Previous raids in 2023 and 2024 led to the arrest of over 150 suspects, with many facing prosecution.
The EFCC warned that more sting operations would follow as part of its ongoing anti-fraud campaign.
Conclusion
The latest arrests signal a renewed drive by the EFCC to dismantle cybercrime networks across Nigeria.
The agency has promised to release further updates as investigations progress and suspects face legal proceedings.
News
Anambra Govt Arrests, Beats Up 18 Journalists Monitoring Senatorial Bye-Election
By Chuks Collins, Awka
The Anambra State Government has reportedly arrested eighteen journalists, who were touring electoral Wards and communities of the 7 Councils that made up the Anambra South senatorial zone where the bye-elections were held on Saturday, August 16, 2025.
Our correspondent reported that the journalists were arrested and detained at gunpoint by the operatives of the Anambra State Vigilante Service, generally known as Udo-Gachi.
The journalists had gone to Nnewi, in Nnewi North, as well as Ukpor, Osumenyi, Ezinifite, Amichi and other communities in Nnewi South LGA of the State to monitor proceedings in the bye-elections.
The journalists, it was learnt, were rushing after the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship flag bearer, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, for his remarks on the day’s process after covering the day’s proceedings.
At a spot, described as Eke Orsumenyi, they were jolted when their vehicle was forcefully stopped.
They were, thereafter, detained for more than three hours, allegedly on the orders of the State ‘s Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Gilbert Ibezim, according to the security operatives.
“Journalists are the problem of Nigeria, they write whatever they like and deceive the people.
“We will deal with you people today,” an overzealous Udogachi operative threatened the journalists.
Some of the journalists and their cameramen were arrested and detained by the vigilante goons.
The journalists include correspondents of The Guardian, Daily Independent, Authority Newspaper, Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) Arise TV, TVC, National Vision and National Daily newspapers.
The leader of the over one hundred vigilante operatives who kept surging in with about 20 vehicles said that the arrest was on the instruction of the Anambra State Deputy Governor.
As the altercations continued, the Deputy Governor, in company of Nnewi South LGA Mayor, arrived the scene and ordered a thorough search of the media practitioners.
Information of the development later got to the APC gubernatorial candidate in the November 8 Anambra State governorship election.
Prince Ukachukwu quickly arrived the scene and ensured that the detained journalists were released, insisting that they we’re merely doing their normal civic duties.
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced the collation of the bye-election in the seven local government areas that constitute the Anambra South senatorial zone.
(DDM) – Popular Nollywood actor Segun Remi, widely known by his stage name Chief Kanran, has passed away at the age of 72.
The news of his death was confirmed by celebrity journalist Seun Oloketuyi in an Instagram post on Friday morning, though details surrounding the cause of his passing have yet to be disclosed.
Chief Kanran was a celebrated figure in the Yoruba film industry, known for his distinctive style, sharp humor, and commanding presence that endeared him to audiences over several decades.
He was recognized for his memorable performances in numerous stage plays and films, often portraying authoritative and affluent characters, and was considered a household name in Nigerian cinema.
Segun Remi began his career in the arts in the mid-1970s and gained popularity with notable roles in Ola Rotimi’s play “Kurunmi,” and the Lagos Television drama “Aláàfin Kanran” in 1988.
His extensive filmography includes several acclaimed Yoruba films such as “Vigilante,” “Ose-Sango,” “Eri Okan,” “Itunnu,” and “Orire,” among others.
Despite his success, Chief Kanran faced significant personal challenges, including devastating fire incidents that destroyed his home, studio, and equipment, which left him struggling and at one point homeless.
His contributions to Nollywood have been widely celebrated, with colleagues and fans mourning the loss of a veteran actor who left an indelible mark on the Nigerian entertainment industry.
This news comes as the Nollywood community recently mourned other actors, adding to the list of notable film personalities who have passed away this year.
Chief Kanran’s legacy as a pioneer and beloved actor will continue to be remembered by fans and the wider film fraternity.
In a major crackdown on cybercrime, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has secured the convictions of three internet fraudsters following a sweeping operation at a hotel located within the precincts of the former President Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) complex in Abeokuta.
The operation, which initially saw 93 suspects apprehended, has shone a spotlight on the rising tide of cybercriminal activities in high-profile Nigerian locations, underscoring the agency’s commitment to combating financial crimes in the country’s digital age.
The suspects, Isaac Akinwale, Ibrahim Azeez Olatunji, and Habeeb Oladipupo Oshundairo, pleaded guilty to an array of charges linked to false pretence, identity theft, and illicit acquisition of funds, contravening provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 and the EFCC Act, 2004.
Presiding over the proceedings as a vacation judge, Justice Dehinde Dipeolu handed down measured sentences designed both as punishment and deterrence, reflecting the seriousness with which the judiciary views such offences.
EFCC operative Umar Shuaibu revealed that Isaac Akinwale operated a celebrity scam on WhatsApp under female pseudonyms, defrauding a victim of $500.
The court accepted multiple exhibits tendered by prosecution counsel Franklin Ofoma, including a 2007 Toyota Camry, a Samsung Galaxy smartphone, and a N400,000 bank draft, as proceeds and instruments of crime.
Justice Dipeolu sentenced Akinwale to three months imprisonment or an alternative fine of N1million.
Olatunji, convicted for running a romance scam, was sentenced to one month imprisonment or a N500,000 fine.
Oshundairo, who posed as an expert in service certificates and tax preparation through a fraudulent Gmail account, was ordered to perform 30 days community service.
His punishment is publicly symbolic: he must carry a banner with the cautionary message, “Cybercrime Does Not Pay. Stay Away from Cybercrime”.
In a notable twist, fourth defendant Onunoye Fawas Olamilekan entered a not guilty plea to charges of impersonating a nurse on Facebook and controlling $50 acquired via fraudulent transactions.
His counsel disputed the validity of the charges under the Cybercrimes Act, prompting the court to remand him at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre pending further trial in October 2025.
The EFCC had flagged a total of 23 suspects for arraignment, but only four were accommodated by the court during its session, indicating broadening investigations and prosecutions may follow.
This operation marks one of the EFCC’s largest anti-fraud sweeps from a single Nigerian location in recent memory.
The prominence of the Obasanjo Presidential Library as the scene of the arrests dramatically heightened public awareness, raising questions about the security and due diligence in hospitality establishments across the country.
Nigerian authorities continue to escalate efforts against cybercriminals, aiming to assert the rule of law over digital spaces.
The EFCC, empowered by the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act and other statutes, urges citizens to remain vigilant online and to report suspicious activities.
With growing internet adoption in Nigeria, law enforcement faces an evolving battle against increasingly sophisticated scams, making deterrent convictions like these a critical step in restoring confidence in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
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