Enugwu-Agidi Forum Fires Back at Open Letter, Defends Chairman in Leadership Row

 

By Chidalu Ikwuama 

ENUGWU-AGIDI, Anambra State – The Enugwu-Agidi Stakeholders Forum (ESF) has slammed an open letter accusing its chairman of bias in the town's festering leadership crisis, branding the claims "malicious lies" and demanding a public retraction.

The sharp rebuttal, issued Thursday by ESF's Executive Committee, targets Prince (Dr.) Chinedu C. Ikeanyi's October 9 missive to Anambra's Commissioner for Local Government, Hon. Tony Collins Nwabunwanne. Ikeanyi's letter, headlined "Rescue Enugwu-Agidi from the Bondage of President-General Ebuka Onuorah," had praised the community's history while blasting ESF Chairman Amb. Prince (Dr.) Emeka Egwuekwe as "compromised."

ESF leaders hailed Ikeanyi's historical recap but ripped his attack on Egwuekwe as "unbalanced, uninformed, myopic, and unwarranted." They touted the chairman's decades-long push for peace, including his global role as Ezumezu Umunri worldwide head.

At the heart of the feud: bitter clashes between President-General Ebuka Onuorah of the Enugwu-Agidi Brotherly Union (EBU) and Igwe Michael Okekeuche (Okpalariam III). ESF says Egwuekwe self-funded cross-country and overseas probes, delivering reports that won praise and fueled reconciliation drives.

Government axed prior peace panels amid lawsuits, but ESF persisted, roping in heavyweights like billionaire Prince Arthur Eze, Commissioner Nwabunwanne, tycoon Sir Emeka Offor, and Njikoka LGA boss Hon. Barr. Chinedu Ononiba.

The forum debunked Ikeanyi's charges point-by-point:

- Egwuekwe's police and statehouse shuttles for both PG and Igwe were pure peacemaking, not self-serving.

- Rumors of the chairman eyeing the throne? "Malicious lies," ESF fumed.

Shock rippled through ESF ranks over being painted as impotent brokers—especially after the Central Executive Committee tapped them post-Offor mediation and a signed Memorandum of Understanding.

"Retract and apologize to salvage the chairman's honor," ESF demanded, vowing "balanced dialogue for enduring peace."

Unfiltered Truth: Hon. Ebuka David Onuorah Counters Accusations and Outlines Path to Unity

 

INTERVIEW: 

In the midst of mounting controversies and political turbulence in Enugwu-Agidi, Hon. Amb. Ebuka David Onuorah offers a candid conversation to clarify pressing issues concerning his leadership, personal background, and vision for the community’s future. Known for his unyielding stance on transparency and service, Onuorah addresses the accusations, challenges, and rumors that have clouded his tenure. 

Here, he responds directly to key questions shaping public discourse.

1. Clarifying Your Lifestyle and Success

Q: Critics often question the source of your visible success, such as your motorcade and police escort, suggesting it is unexplained or suspicious. Can you share the real story behind your achievements and resources before and during your public role, and how these reflect your guiding values?

A: I come from a family deeply rooted in responsibility and Christian discipline. These principles have shaped every facet of my life, including my education and professional career. I hold a degree in Political Science from Ebonyi State University and established Davy Luxury Home Limited, a reputable business grounded in excellence and due process. My life has always been one of service; to God, to humanity, and to Enugwu-Agidi. 

The security measures, including escorts, are necessary following threats due to my unwavering commitment to integrity and transparency. My success reflects dedication, hard work, and a responsibility to serve, not convenience or privilege.

2. The Truth Behind Court Cases and Legal Battles

Q: With reports of 34 court cases involving police arrests, vigilante petitions, and disputes with community leaders, many perceive chaos. What is the truth behind these legal battles from your perspective, and how have they revealed your commitment to justice?

A: There is a painful trend to drag my name through the mud with false accusations including terrorism and gun-running. I have never been indicted in any legitimate court proceeding because the truth always prevails. These cases are political weapons deployed by those whose power is threatened by my transparent administration. I challenged those who believed they owned Enugwu-Agidi’s conscience and life. The threats against me and my petition against Chukwudi Tansi are evidence of my resolve to pursue justice through due process. These legal struggles underscore my dedication to rooting out corruption and restoring safety in the community.

3. Responding to Smear Campaigns on Employment and Qualification

Q: Accusations claim you lack formal employment or qualifications, which your supporters say are smear tactics. How do you respond, and what early experiences shaped your work ethic and leadership?

A: Those attacks are groundless attempts to undermine my leadership. My Political Science degree and my success in building Davy Luxury Home Limited are verifiable. More than that, my early life was one of Christian discipline and responsibility—values instilled by my family that guide me today. I have never sought shortcuts but earned everything through diligence and standing firm on principles. My journey is a testimony to hard work and integrity, not the opportunism suggested by detractors.

4. Addressing Rumors on Levies and Intimidation

Q: Protests allege you impose unauthorized levies and act dictatorially through intimidation or questionable land deals. How do these stories misrepresent your efforts to improve Enugwu-Agidi, and how do you feel about the divisions they cause?

A: I want to make it clear that I did not introduce any new levies. What existed was a corrupt system where levies paid by shop owners were pocketed by individuals instead of benefiting the community. My administration revamped levy collection with transparency and accountability to ensure funds serve public good. Elections for village chairmen whose terms expired are part of restoring democracy, not intimidation. It pains me that misinformation is causing disunity in the very community I strive to unite. Progress requires confronting outdated power structures, and this has stirred resistance, but I remain committed to justice and honest governance.

5. Correcting Misunderstandings and Leaving a Legacy

Q: Since your PGship role began in 2021, tensions with the Igwe and village chairmen have painted you as divisive. If you could correct one major misunderstanding about your character and intentions, what would it be? How do you hope to strengthen Enugwu-Agidi despite the challenges?

A: The biggest misunderstanding is that I am a divisive figure or a self-serving leader. In truth, I am committed to service, transparency, and the democratic will of the people. I refuse to bow to those who see Enugwu-Agidi as their private fiefdom. My goal is a community governed by due process, where justice and accountability prevail. 

Despite the political storms, I hope to leave Enugwu-Agidi stronger; a place where collective progress is possible and where no one is above the law. My legacy will be one of courage, integrity, and tangible development, not fear or factionalism.

Amb. Karen James: “I Learnt to Be Beautiful and Carry Myself High” — A Powerful Message of Self-Worth and Faith

 

By Pechilly Editor 

Ambassador Karen James has shared an inspiring message of self-worth, resilience, and faith, encouraging individuals—especially women—to embrace their inner beauty, carry themselves with confidence, and never allow emotions or challenges to define their worth.

In her heartfelt words, Amb. Karen said, “I learnt to be beautiful and carry myself high. No one owes me my emotion. Because too much of everything is bad.”

She emphasized the importance of emotional balance and self-control, noting that true beauty is not only in appearance but in strength, dignity, and self-respect.

“I, Ambassador Karen James, say no to belittling of self but to start high and go higher than I ever expected for myself,” she stated. “Because one with God is the majority.”

Her words echo a deep understanding of purpose and divine confidence—reminding everyone that no matter the circumstance, faith in God and belief in oneself are the greatest foundations for success.

Amb. Karen’s message serves as both motivation and reflection—a call to rise above self-doubt, embrace one’s worth, and walk in purpose with unwavering confidence.

Mr. Project Strikes Again: Enugwu-Agidi Celebrates New Drainage and Road Initiative

 

 A wave of excitement swept through Enugwu-Agidi community in Njikoka LGA of Anambra State as Hon. Amb. Chukwuebuka Onuorah, the dynamic President General (PG) of the Enugwu-Agidi Brothers Union, launched the transformative Mpete/Ifite Iruobieli Drainage and Road Palliative Works on Saturday, October 25, 2025. 

The flag-off ceremony wasn’t just a ribbon-cutting event; it was a vibrant celebration of a community reborn, fueled by a leader whose vision has turned despair into hope.

Picture this: a once-impassable road, plagued by erosion and neglect, now on the cusp of renewal. 

Hon. Onuorah, with his trademark hands-on approach, took the stage to share why this project matters. “We wanted to rebuild the bridge, but when we heard a senator planned to take it on, we didn’t sit back,” he declared, his voice resonating with conviction. 

“We pivoted to drainage and roadworks to ensure our people can move freely.” 

He stressed the need for a PG who lives among the people, not one governing from afar, as was common in the past. “I feel your pulse, and I’m here to deliver,” he said to cheers.

Onuorah’s administration is rewriting Enugwu-Agidi’s story. When seven electric poles collapsed, plunging the town into darkness, his team restored power in a lightning-fast 48 hours. Robbery was once a scourge here, but within a week, CCTV cameras were up, turning the tide against crime. 

The community secretariat? Now a gleaming state-of-the-art hub, hailed as Anambra State’s finest. A dilapidated girls’ secondary school lab? Revived and equipped. A 2.8 km road? Delivered. A bridge battered by rains? Rebuilt with over 180 million naira. This PG doesn’t just promise—he delivers.

The crowd buzzed with gratitude as stakeholders took turns celebrating Onuorah’s relentless drive. 

Hon. Obinna Okafor, Councillor for Enugwu-Agidi Ward 1 and Speaker of the Njikoka Local Government Legislative Council, called the drainage project a “game-changer.” “Without proper drainage, roads wash away like dreams in a storm,” he said, his words painting a vivid picture. 

He hailed Onuorah as a towering figure among PGs, boldly endorsing him for a second term. “Let those eyeing his seat wait; the constitution grants him two terms, and he is earned them.”

The Councillor for Ward 2, Hon. Osita Nnamdi shared a tale of frustration turned triumph. “This road was a nightmare. We begged the federal government, but they ignored us. Then our PG stepped in,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. 

He prayed for divine protection over Onuorah, urging him to keep pushing as Ward 2 pledged unwavering support for his re-election.

Comrade Chinedu Onwurah, an Ifite-Enugwu Agidi stakeholder, didn’t hold back. “This man ended police intimidation and got our youths working,” he said, revealing that the PG personally funded another 100-million-naira bridge before now. 

“Ifite will give him a consensus vote,” he vowed.

Mrs. Constance Okeke, Chairperson of Ifite Women, doubled down, promising the women’s full backing, while youth leader Comrade Jekwu Ibebuilo, known as Anaegbuachala, marveled at Onuorah’s heart for the people. “It takes a special kind of leader to notice a broken bridge and fix it,” he said.

The eldest attendee, blessing the kola nut, captured the community’s sentiment: “This PG is working wonders. Let him keep going.” 

Ozo Engr. Chiedozie Onuzulike, the town union’s PRO, added historical weight. “Enugwu-Agidi was stuck; herdsmen attacks, robbery, stagnation. Then Ebuka Onuorah arrived, and the narrative changed,” he said, urging voters to re-elect him to cement these gains.

The air crackled with chants of “Oluatuegwu 1 na-Enugwu Agidi!” and “Mr. Project Enugwu-Agidi!” as the Iyom Etiti dance troupe, led by Mrs. Maria Okeke, lit up the event with electrifying performances. 

Dignitaries like Chief Sunny Duaka, Chief Obi Nwabueze, and Obiorah Kingsley, Assistant Secretary of the Enugwu-Agidi Brothers Union, joined the celebration.

This wasn’t just a flag-off; it was a declaration that Enugwu-Agidi is on the rise. With Hon. Chukwuebuka Onuorah at the helm.

Afamation Movement Champions Youth Empowerment in Strategic Meeting with Aguata Mayor

 

By: O'star Eze 

In a spirited show of unity and progress, the Afamation Movement World Wide, led by the dynamic Hon. Afam Victor Ezenwafor {Ebubedike}, paid a landmark visit to the Mayor of Aguata Local Government, Dr. Chibueze Ofobike {Ezeakunne}, at the Local Government Secretariat. 

The delegation, including key leaders such as the Director of Operations, Deputy Women Leader, Youth Coordinator, and Deputy Director of Media, Information, and Communications, came with a shared vision for community transformation.

Hon. Afam Victor Ezenwafor applauded the Mayor’s administration for its remarkable strides in youth inclusion, governance, and community development initiatives. 

He spotlighted the need for robust collaboration in entrepreneurship and human empowerment as pillars for sustainable growth in Aguata. 

The Leader also expressed profound satisfaction with the administration's delivery of democratic dividends, affirming confidence in the positive trajectory of the Local Government.

In response, Mayor Dr. Ofobike warmly welcomed the delegation and reiterated his commitment to enhancing the welfare of Aguata residents. 

He expressed enthusiasm about partnering with the Afamation Movement to accelerate societal progress, pledging to build a community that flourishes beyond current achievements.

Concluding the visit, Hon. Afam Ezenwafor reinforced the Movement’s unwavering support for the APGA government, voicing strong advocacy for Governor Soludo’s return for a second term to sustain the impactful development agenda underway in Anambra State.

Anambra Police Launch High-Tech Situation Room to Boost Election Security Ahead of November Polls

By: O'star Eze 

The Anambra State Police Command has set up a cutting-edge Situation Room at its headquarters in Awka, marking a new era in election security as the state prepares for the governorship election on November 8, 2025. 

This central hub will enable security agencies to monitor events in real time, coordinate responses instantly, and share critical intelligence to guarantee a peaceful and orderly election.

On October 22, 2025, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police CP Ikioye Orutugu and represented by Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Ibrahim Ezekiel, the Command hosted a strategic Situation Room meeting with representatives from key security agencies. 

The session aimed to review and align security strategies across the Nigerian Army, DSS, NSCDC, FRSC, NDLEA, NIS, Fire Service, and Correctional Services as part of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) directives.

DCP Ezekiel emphasized the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful election through professionalism and solidarity among agencies. 

The collaborative pledge from all security bodies reaffirms their readiness to protect voters and maintain public order before, during, and after election day.

The Situation Room’s real-time monitoring and rapid response capabilities represent a proactive step toward election security, showcasing innovative measures in safeguarding democracy at the grassroots level.

Enugwu-Agidi’s Remarkable Transformation: From Insecurity to Sustainable Development

By Chidalu Ikwuama

For years, Enugwu-Agidi struggled under the weight of widespread insecurity and infrastructural neglect. 

Illegal land grabbing disrupted the community’s peace, with earth-moving machines altering ancient landmarks without regard for tradition or authorization. 

Community members lived in fear as kidnapping incidents became almost daily occurrences, shaking the very foundation of town life.

Former President General Hon. Ndubisi Obijiofor recalls those difficult times characterized by reactive measures that failed to quell the escalating violence. 

“Back then, there was no formal system in place to check illegal land sales or effectively curb banditry,” he reflects. 

Although there were attempts at maintaining order, the lack of institutional frameworks meant the town was vulnerable to land dispossession and security breaches.

Then came a turning point in 2022, with the emergence of President General Ebuka Onuorah. His administration swiftly addressed these problems with a seriousness that hadn’t been seen before. 

A landmark reform was the creation of a Land Committee designed to oversee and validate all land transactions. 

This ensured that property sales went through proper family and village approvals before the committee’s final vetting, effectively halting unlawful land grabs that once devastated families and communal heritage.

Beyond land issues, PG Onuorah took direct action against crime by actively participating in patrols and deploying security cameras throughout the town. 

These hands-on efforts have paid off, reducing kidnappings and community hazards to manageable levels. 

A community stakeholder, Hon. Nebolisa Amaku, describes it as a complete shift from past approaches. 

“What we see now is proactive, deliberate security governance, not just reaction when trouble arises,” he says.

In infrastructure, Enugwu-Agidi had long depended on external funding for development projects, a situation lamented by leaders like Hon. Barrister Clem Aguiyi, Mayor of Njikoka LGA. 

“Previous administrations could not launch major internally funded projects. We relied on goodwill and donor projects, which limited our ability to grow sustainably,” Aguiyi explains.

PG Onuorah changed this narrative by completing and modernizing the long-abandoned Community Secretariat Complex, a landmark effort that signals a broader commitment to good governance. 

There was also the upgrading of critical roads, such as the stretch from Enugwu-Agidi Junction to Ugwu Ogwu, facilitating smoother transportation and commerce. 

New additions like the Mkpasalaku Bridge and the city gate have become symbols of the town’s progress and unity.

Administrative reforms have followed suit. 

While earlier leaders struggled to keep governance structures viable, Onuorah revitalized the Secretariat and town halls, providing updated, functional spaces for community affairs. 

Amaku notes that this modernization is essential for transparency and deeper civic engagement.

Social welfare, often overlooked in the past, has received fresh attention. 

Prior to 2022, systematic support for vulnerable groups; especially widows displaced by land encroachment, was virtually nonexistent. 

Onuorah’s introduction of monthly stipends for indigent community members marks a first in Enugwu-Agidi’s communal history, offering a vital safety net and showing genuine concern for those in need.

Looking back, there is recognition among stakeholders that previous leaders made important contributions, especially in maintaining some level of peace under difficult conditions and attracting external funds. 

However, these efforts often went unnoticed or undervalued.

Today, the community sees PG Ebuka Onuorah’s leadership as both transformative and resilient. 

Despite facing over 34 fabricated petitions and court cases aimed at undermining his administration, his government continues to deliver tangible results and push the town forward. 

Aligning with Governor Soludo’s youth empowerment initiative by launching a skills acquisition state of emergency, Onuorah is securing the future for Enugwu-Agidi’s younger generations.

The story of Enugwu-Agidi is no longer one of crisis, but of purposeful development and hope. 

As the town’s infrastructure strengthens and social programs deepen, its residents look forward to lasting peace and prosperity under committed and visionary leadership.

Tension Erupts in Omalima Layout, Oze Nkwelle-Ezunaka Over Alleged Land Theft, Armed Invasion

 

By Karen James

Tension has gripped residents of Omalima Layout, Oze Nkwelle-Ezunaka in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, following a disturbing case of alleged land theft involving individuals reportedly linked to certain government departments.

Huge panic spread across the area on Tuesday when armed men allegedly acting on “government orders” invaded the community, preventing landowners from accessing their properties. The situation escalated into a massive protest, as residents demanded immediate government intervention to stop what they described as an “illegal land takeover.”

The Acting Chairman of the Estate, Evang. Abalogu Moses, whose property was also affected, lamented the destruction and intimidation landowners have endured in recent days. He revealed that many property owners have been left helpless, calling on Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo to intervene urgently.

“Our people are crying; their houses and fences have been destroyed. We bought this land legally and have all our documents intact. We are begging the state government to come to our rescue,” Chief Moses said.

During an on-site investigation, a correspondent from Pechilly Investigative Media was reportedly attacked by some uniformed men who claimed they had orders “not to allow anyone” into the disputed area.

One of the men present, identified as Mr. Sunday Ogaazi, also known as “One Man 30”, claimed he and his team—five in total—were acting on instructions linked to the ownership of the land.

“This land belongs to Ndi Onitsha. We were told to come here and take over what belongs to us,” Ogaazi stated.

Ogaazi further alleged that the individuals behind the operation include Chukwuma Okpolaezeukwu from the Office of the Special Adviser Department and Ben Chiobi of the AVM Department, claiming they were acting “on government directives.”

However, his claims have sparked outrage among residents, who accused the alleged officials of using government influence to intimidate private citizens and destroy legal property.

One of the affected landowners, identified simply as Chidi, fought back tears as he described the ordeal:

“Why will some people use the name of the government to intimidate others? They said they were sent by Governor Soludo and the AVM office to take over our land. Even the All Saints Anglican Church’s property here was demolished. This is wickedness.”

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from community members, church representatives, and civil rights advocates, all of whom have called on Governor Soludo to launch an immediate investigation into the matter and ensure justice is served.

Residents fear that the invasion could lead to further unrest if not swiftly addressed, warning that such actions could tarnish the image of the Soludo administration.

Meanwhile, the Pechilly Investigative Department has called for a full-scale probe into the situation, demanding accountability and recovery of the allegedly stolen properties.

As of the time of filing this report, no official statement has been issued by the Anambra State Government regarding the allegations or the escalating tension in Omalima Layout.

Community leaders have urged the state government to restore calm, verify ownership records, and ensure that peace returns to Oze Nkwelle-Ezunaka before the situation spirals out of control.

Omalima Layout, Oze Nkwelle-Ezunaka Boils: Government Officials Fingered in Shocking Land Theft Scandal

 

By Our Correspondent 

Tension is currently high in Omalima Layout, Oze Nkwelle-Ezunaka, Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, following a shocking case of alleged land theft involving individuals purportedly linked to government officials.

According to eyewitnesses and affected property owners, a group of men who identified themselves as representatives from the Office of the Special Adviser (SA) to the Governor on security under the AVM Department in the Anambra State Government reportedly invaded plots of land belonging to several legitimate owners and tenants in the area.

The men, alleged to include Hon. Chiejina Obieze, Sunday Ogaazi, Izuu (popularly known as “One Man 30”), Chukwuma Okpolaezeukwu, and Ben Chiobi of the AVM Department, claimed to be acting on government orders. Their arrival sparked outrage as residents accused them of trespassing and intimidation under the guise of official authority.

One of the affected landowners, who spoke on condition of anonymity, expressed shock over the incident.

“Why will some people use the name of government to intimidate others in this state? Can you imagine what is happening here — they said they were sent by the AVM office in the old government house to take over our land. Even All Saints Anglican Church’s properties here were demolished,” the source lamented.

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from the community, with many calling on Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo to intervene urgently and bring those responsible to justice.

Residents fear the invasion could lead to further unrest if not promptly addressed, warning that the actions of the alleged government personnel risk tarnishing the image of the state administration.

The community insists that the land was legally purchased from recognized owners in Oyi and that all relevant documents are intact. They are therefore demanding an immediate investigation and recovery of their properties.

As of press time, no official statement has been released from the Anambra State Government or the AVM Department concerning the allegations.

Community leaders, church representatives, and civil rights advocates have urged Governor Soludo to personally look into the matter to restore peace and public confidence in governance.

IPC, CEMESO Wrap Up EU-Funded Forum on Media Accountability, Inclusivity in Anambra Election

 

By O'star Eze

The International Press Centre (IPC) and the Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO) wrapped up a two-day forum on enhanced reportage, inclusivity, and accountability for the Anambra governorship election on October 15 and 16, 2025. 

The event was funded by the European Union under component 4: Support to Media, targeting media empowerment to strengthen democratic processes.

Mr. Lanre Arogundade of IPC opened the forum by highlighting the media's vital role in ensuring credible elections and democratic accountability. 

He explained that the forum involved consultations with key stakeholders including INEC, NOA, media organizations, and security agencies to promote voter participation and professional election coverage.

Arogundade stressed that elections are the foundation of democracy and pointed out the need for improved documentation of campaign promises and adherence to media ethics during all election phases. He called for open dialogue aimed at enhancing election reportage quality.

The forum also stressed the importance of strengthening professional journalism to increase transparency and accountability. 

Arogundade thanked media bodies such as NAWOJ, AOP, and ABS for their cooperation and active involvement.

Dr. Akin Akingbulu, Executive Director of CEMESO, in his remarks, recognized the challenges of off-site elections and praised the European Union’s commitment to reinforcing democracy through a free and responsible media. 

He emphasized journalists’ safety as essential and highlighted the urgent need to combat misinformation and social media disinformation around elections.

Security officials, including SP Tochukwu Ikenga, reassured participants of robust measures in place to ensure a peaceful election. Ikenga urged voters to avoid bringing weapons to polling stations and called on the media to help discourage vote buying and encourage informed voting.

Representatives from the National Orientation Agency and NSCDC reiterated their dedication to voter mobilization and protection of electoral infrastructure, emphasizing strong media collaboration.

Ambassador Jake Epelle, CEO of TAF Africa, stressed inclusion for persons with disabilities, urging security agencies and political parties to adhere to electoral laws guaranteeing their participation. 

He called on the media to highlight these efforts in election coverage.

On behalf of the Nigeria Union of journalists, Dr Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, the chairman of NUJ, Anambra State Council appreciated the groups for the initiative. He described it as the best training session the NUJ have been exposed to in recent times and encouraged the IPC to keep tabs with the NUJ to ensure a protracted mutually beneficial professional relationship.

The forum concluded with all stakeholders committing to cooperative efforts to promote transparent, inclusive, and peaceful elections in Anambra State.

Enugwu-Agidi Thrives Under Hon. Ebuka Onuorah’s Transformative Leadership - Amaku

By Our Correspondent 

Ive Dinma (CN Amaku) has hailed the leadership of Hon. Ebuka Onuorah, President-General of the Enugwu-Agidi Brotherly Union (EBU), as a transformative force, countering recent criticisms in an open letter by Prince (Dr.) Chinedu Ikeanyi to the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs. 

Ikeanyi’s letter alleged crisis and mismanagement, but Dinma argues that Onuorah’s tenure has ushered in an unprecedented era of development for Enugwu-Agidi. 

The administration has delivered major infrastructural projects, including the construction and rehabilitation of the Enugwu-Agidi Junction to Ugwu-Ogwu Road, a vital artery that has boosted intra-town mobility, commerce, and aesthetics after years of neglect. 

The Mkpasalaku Bridge, another milestone, addresses critical safety and accessibility issues, particularly during the rainy season, showcasing Onuorah’s ability to secure funding and engineering expertise. 

The transformation of the Enugwu-Agidi Secretariat Complex into a modern hub for governance reflects a commitment to professionalism, facilitating efficient administration and community engagement. 

These projects represent long-term capital investments poised to serve the town for decades, solidifying its role in the Awka Capital Territory. 

Beyond infrastructure, Onuorah’s leadership has prioritized human welfare, with consistent stipends distributed to indigent residents, providing a lifeline in a tough economy and demonstrating a compassionate, inclusive approach to governance. 

Onuorah’s political acumen and robust network have enabled him to attract external resources, amplifying the town’s self-development efforts. 

Dismissing Ikeanyi’s claims of “violence and mayhem” as unsubstantiated, Dinma urges critics to use the EBU Constitution’s grievance channels rather than public appeals that could tarnish the town’s image and distract from its progress. 

The tangible achievements; roads, bridges, a revitalized secretariat, and welfare programs, stand as undeniable proof of Onuorah’s impact. 

Dinma calls on the community to unite in consolidating these gains, resisting politically motivated attempts to derail a demonstrably successful administration that has positioned Enugwu-Agidi as a model of community progress.

WOW Africa Urges Action for Girls’ Rights at Annual Schools Debate

By: Chidalu Ikwuama

A purposeful and impactful future for Nigeria girls is possible with decisive actions from stakeholders and prioritisation of initiatives that promote gender equality.

This formed the central focus of the event marking the 2025 International Day of the Girl and Annual Schools Debate organised by the Worldwide Organisation for Women (WOW) Africa.

The historic event, held at the ASUBEB Hall in Awka, the Anambra State capital, brought together students from sixteen secondary schools, women and girls’ rights advocates, and members of the WOW Africa team from across the country.

In her address, Chief (Mrs.) Carol Ugochukwu, Founder and CEO of WOW Africa, identified gender-based violence and gender inequality as persistent challenges confronting young girls. She urged them to pursue quality education and skills acquisition as tools for empowerment and resilience. 

"Having walked in your shoes many years ago, I understand the complexities and obstacles that come with being a young girl in Nigeria,"  she said. "This year's theme, 'The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontline of Crisis,' reflects the lived realities of Nigerian girls today. While UN agencies are working tirelessly to address these issues globally, you must also play your be part."

In a speech read on her behalf by Nwankwo Chinwendu, a student of [insert school name], Chief Ugochukwu advised girls to remain focused and avoid unhealthy dependencies. "Do not depend on any man, especially internet fraudsters. Stay in safe spaces, unleash your creativity, and trust that God will bless the works of you hands. Dream big, work hard, and you will see your dreams manifest," she added.

Chief Ugochukwu commended Attorney Amaka Ajundinobi, Executive Director of WOW Africa, and encouraged Team WOW to sustain their advocacy for girls’ empowerment and gender equality across Nigeria.

Delivering the keynote address, Professor Antonia Ezeugo of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, underscored the importance of recognising and promoting the full spectrum of girls’ rights, particularly education and protection from exploitation.

She lamented that many girls remain on the frontlines of crises, facing displacement, abuse, and neglect. 

According to her, factors such as lack of education, inadequate sex education, and economic hardship exacerbate girls’ vulnerabilities. She highlighted self-confidence and critical thinking as key dividends of girls’ education.

Earlier, in her opening remarks, Mrs. Ngozi Chukwujekwu, Secretary of WOW Africa and Chairperson of the WOW Debate Committee, described the event as an annual tradition that nurtures young voices in advocacy. She urged participants to share their ideas and contribute meaningfully to building a brighter future for girls.

The engaging debate sessions, moderated by Mrs. Amaka Anekwe and judged by members of the Anambra State Debate Team, culminated in Prince Memorial High School, Onitsha, emerging as champions of the 2025 WOW Africa Debate. Kenneth Dike Secondary School, Awka, and Community Secondary School, Oraifite, took second and third places respectively. Prizes and medals were presented to the winners, while all participating schools received honouraria.

A special artistic presentation by students of Capital City Secondary School, Awka, further highlighted the day’s theme — “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls at the Frontline of Crisis.”

The Unprecedented Era of Development Under Hon. Ebuka Onuorah

Prince (Dr.) Chinedu Ikeanyi's open letter to the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs paints a picture of crisis and mismanagement under the leadership of President-General Hon. Ebuka Onuorah. 

While the history of peace and self-development in Enugwu-Agidi is commendable, it is disingenuous to ignore the recent, unprecedented surge in infrastructural and welfare development that has genuinely transformed the town in this contemporary time.

Hon. Ebuka Onuorah is demonstrably the best thing that has happened to Enugwu-Agidi in recent memory, not because of mere rhetoric, but because of a clear, verifiable record of attracting and executing critical developmental projects.

The current leadership of the Enugwu-Agidi Brotherly Union (EBU) under Hon. Ebuka Onuorah has focused relentlessly on solving long-standing infrastructural deficits, which form the bedrock of community progress.

The construction and rehabilitation of the road from the Enugwu-Agidi Junction leading up to Ugwu-Ogwu, is a major connectivity artery that have dramatically improved intra-town mobility, ease of commerce, and the general aesthetics of the area. This essential link was neglected for years, and its completion is a testament to the current administration's ability to attract and manage capital projects.

The Construction of Mkpasalaku Bridge addresses a critical safety and accessibility issue. Bridges are vital infrastructure, and securing the funding and engineering expertise for this project demonstrates a high level of leadership competence and a commitment to the safety of commuters and residents, particularly during the rainy seasons.

The transformation of the Enugwu-Agidi Secretariat Complex is a clear sign of organizational pride and efficiency. A modern, functional secretariat facilitates better governance, meetings, record-keeping, and general administration of the EBU. This upgrade reflects a commitment to professionalism and creating a worthy administrative environment for the town union.

These projects move beyond routine maintenance. They represent capital investments that will serve the community for decades, ensuring Enugwu-Agidi remains a vital part of the Awka Capital Territory.

Prioritizing Human welfare and inclusion beyond concrete and asphalt, the Ebuka Onuorah administration has shown a profound commitment to the most vulnerable members of the community, fulfilling the essential social contract of a good leadership.

The consistent and deliberate effort in sharing stipends to indigent persons is a significant welfare program. In a difficult economy, this gesture provides a much-needed lifeline, demonstrating a compassionate and inclusive leadership style that ensures the poorest and most vulnerable are not forgotten. This is a direct measure to alleviate hardship and promote social justice within the town.

The ability to attract attention to critical needs, as evidenced by the scale of the road and bridge projects—is a rare and valuable asset in community leadership. 

This demonstrates that Hon. Onuorah has the political network and influence to lobby effectively for Enugwu-Agidi, bringing external resources to supplement the town's self-development efforts.

While Prince Ikeanyi alleges unsubstantiated "violence and mayhem,". In contrast, the achievements of Hon. Ebuka Onuorah—the Enugwu-Agidi Junction to Ugwu-Ogwu Road, the revitalized Secretariat Complex, the Mkpasalaku Bridge, and the indigent stipends, are concrete, visible, and beneficial realities for every indigene.

The Enugwu-Agidi Brotherly Union (EBU) Constitution provides clear channels for addressing grievances. A true desire to "rescue" the town should prioritize dialogue and constitutional processes over public appeals that risk tarnishing the town's image and distracting the leadership from its core mandate of development.

The evidence overwhelmingly supports the assertion that Hon. Ebuka Onuorah's tenure has been a period of unprecedented, tangible progress. The community should focus on consolidating these gains rather than succumbing to politically motivated attempts to derail a demonstrably successful administration.

Thanks.

Ive Dinma

CN Amaku.