IMO BREAKING NEWS BLOG

....... Gives ICPC 30 days to complete probe, submit report

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the activities of the so-called Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), describing it as a fictitious body with no legal backing.

According to a statement by the presidential spokesman, the President ordered the anti-graft agency to conclude its investigation and submit a comprehensive report within 30 days.

The directive followed the discovery that the PFIPC was never established by the Federal Government and has no basis in any law, presidential instrument, executive approval or other lawful act of government.

The statement said one Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew had falsely presented himself as the Director-General of the PFIPC and claimed to be a presidential appointee.

The ICPC is expected to investigate the alleged forgery of appointment letters and other official government documents, the use of a false claim of presidential appointment to obtain official recognition and diplomatic support, including visa facilitation, as well as the opening of multiple bank accounts in the names of purported government agencies using allegedly forged documents.

President Tinubu also directed the commission to investigate the activities of the principal suspect and other collaborators, as well as the circumstances that enabled the fictitious body and the false claim of presidential appointment to gain an appearance of official legitimacy.

The investigation will examine the origin and use of the alleged forged official documents, the processes through which official recognition or diplomatic support may have been sought or obtained, the opening and operation of related bank accounts, the source and movement of funds, and the role of any public officials, private individuals, financial institutions or intermediaries who may have facilitated or participated in the alleged scheme.

The President further instructed the commission to identify weaknesses in government and institutional procedures that may have been exploited and recommend immediate measures to prevent a recurrence.

He also directed all ministries, departments and agencies of the Federal Government to cooperate fully with the ICPC by providing all relevant information, records and assistance required for the timely completion of the investigation.

According to the statement, President Tinubu stressed that the integrity of the Presidency and federal institutions must be protected against impersonation, forgery, abuse of official identity and the exploitation of loopholes in the public service.

He directed that anyone found culpable should be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law.

Fake Agency: No Petition Before Us — Senate

The Senate, on Tuesday, through its spokesperson, Senator Yemi Adaramodu (Ekiti South), said there was no petition before the Red Chamber to dabble in the controversy surrounding the alleged fake agency reportedly headed by a fake Director-General, Adeniyi Adeyemi Mathew.

Recall that in the past few weeks, controversy has engulfed the polity over the allegedly non-existent Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), involving the alleged fake DG and the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila.

While the Chief of Staff disowned the agency and its purported DG by raising the alarm, the DG countered by alleging that the PFIPC is well known to the Presidency through Gbajabiamila, who, according to him, collected N400 million from him for the appointment and demanded 48 per cent of the N1.3 billion appropriated for the agency in the 2026 budget.

Responding to journalists’ questions on the Senate’s position on the raging controversy after plenary on Tuesday, Adaramodu said the Senate, for now, has no petition before it from any of the feuding parties or concerned Nigerians to warrant any form of intervention or comment.

He admitted that, as reported in the media, the alleged fake agency has a budget line in the 2026 Appropriation Act, which should be sorted out by the executive, where the controversy originated and resides.

He added that, being a matter already before the court, the Senate, in line with its rules, would not dabble in it.

“The allegations and counter-allegations over the alleged fake agency and fake Director-General are all within the executive, which should sort them out, specifically between the Office of the Chief of Staff and the alleged fake DG.

“The budget line being referred to was not created or inserted by the National Assembly, and it is not the duty of the Senate or the House of Representatives to carry out security checks on those supposedly appointed to head the various MDAs.

“If the alleged fake DG were one of the presidential appointees screened and confirmed by the Senate, the controversy might have been perceived to be somewhat linked to us.

“However, if a petition is sent to the Senate by any of the feuding parties or any concerned Nigerian on the existence or non-existence of the agency or its DG, it will be looked into legislatively,” he said.

POINTS AT ISSUE

1. The PFIPC controversy began in October 2025 when the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) alerted the Presidency that another body was performing similar functions. The organisation, calling itself the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), claimed to be a federal agency, prompting an inquiry by the Office of the Chief of Staff.

2. The Presidency later declared the PFIPC a fictitious agency, saying it was never created by law, executive order or presidential approval. It alleged that Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew falsely presented himself as the council’s Director-General using forged appointment letters, official seals, signatures and other government documents.

3. Following petitions by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, the DSS and Police launched investigations. Authorities said they recovered forged documents and uncovered 34 bank accounts allegedly linked to Adeyemi, including some opened in the names of fictitious government agencies. He and two others are facing an eight-count charge.

4. Adeyemi alleged that Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila accepted N400 million through proxies to secure his appointment as PFIPC director-general, an allegation Gbajabiamila strongly denies.

5. President Bola Tinubu has directed the ICPC to complete a fresh investigation within 30 days. The probe will examine the alleged forgery, movement of funds, bank accounts, collaborators, possible involvement of public officials and loopholes that enabled the alleged scheme.

Source

‎The quest for credible, visionary, and people-oriented leadership in Orsu State Constituency demands a candidate with proven capacity, grassroots connection, political loyalty, and a sincere passion for service. 

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‎Ifeanyi Destiny Nwadikwa (Akaraka Orsu) stands tall as one of the finest choices for the APC ticket to represent Orsu State Constituency in the Imo State House of Assembly. His personality, experience, accessibility, and commitment to the growth of Orsu make him deserving of the opportunity to fly the party’s flag.

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‎He possesses the qualities of a true servant leader. He understands the challenges facing the people of Orsu, especially the need for improved infrastructure, youth empowerment, education, security, and economic opportunities. Having maintained close contact with the grassroots over the years, he is fully aware of the expectations and aspirations of the people. This connection places him in the best position to effectively represent their interests at the Imo State House of Assembly.

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‎One of the strongest reasons Ifeanyi Destiny Nwadikwa should emerge as the APC candidate is his reputation for humility, accessibility, and compassion. Leadership is not merely about holding office; it is about listening to the people, understanding their struggles, and working tirelessly to improve their lives. Many within Orsu Local Government see him as a dependable figure who relates with people across different age groups and political backgrounds without discrimination. His ability to unite people and build bridges is a valuable asset that will strengthen both the APC and the Orsu State constituency at large.

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‎It is worthy to note that Akaraka represents a new generation of progressive leadership driven by ideas, innovation, and development-oriented thinking. At a time when many citizens desire energetic and responsive representation, he offers hope for purposeful legislation and effective engagement. His emergence would inspire confidence among young people and encourage broader participation in governance and democratic processes.

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‎Electorally, Ifeanyi Destiny Nwadikwa also stands as a strong candidate capable of mobilizing support across the wards in Orsu LGA. His popularity among party faithful and ordinary citizens gives APC a better chance of securing victory in the general election. Choosing a candidate with grassroots acceptance is crucial for party success, and Akaraka has continued to demonstrate the political strength and goodwill necessary to achieve this objective.

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‎In conclusion, the APC ticket for Orsu State Constituency, Imo State House of Assembly should be entrusted to a man who embodies loyalty, competence, unity, compassion, and vision. Ifeanyi Destiny Nwadikwa has shown through his actions and commitment that he is prepared to serve the people diligently and represent them honorably at the Imo State House of Assembly. His candidacy offers APC an opportunity to present a credible, capable, and people-centered leader who can effectively champion the interests of Orsu and contribute meaningfully to the development of Imo State.

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‎My name remains Nze Wilson Amaefule and I write from Amaimo, Umuhu-Okabia in Orsu LGA.

IMHA: ONOWU OBINNA ONYEOCHA UNVEILS CAMPAIGN COORDINATORS, CHARGES THEM TO BE GOOD AMBASSADORS OF GOV. UZODINMA

...as GOC Nwadike Emerges Director-General

By Kaima Awurunke, Owerri

Race for the Imo State House Of Assembly, Orlu State Constituency, Has Earnestly Commenced In Orlu LGA Following The Unveiling And Inauguration Wednesday, Of His Campaign Team By One Of The Top Contenders, Hon. Obinna Evaristus Onyeocha Also Known As "Onowu".

Onyeocha Is From The Umutanze Autonomous Community In Orlu North Of Orlu LGA; One Of The Areas Recently Ravaged By Insecurity, But Is Now Bubbling With Life And Excitements, Following The Declaration To Participate In The Race By Their Kinsman, Onowu Obinna Onyeocha.

Inaugurating The "Team Onowu" Comprising Of Ward Coordinators From The 13 Wards In Orlu LGA, Onyeocha Charged Them To Be Good Ambassadors Of His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma Who, According To Him, Is Actual "Captain" Of The Ship He Is Assisting To Sail.

Earlier, Onyeocha's Team Of Elders Had Approved And Named Comrade GOC Nwadike From Umuna Ward In The Orlu South Of Orlu LGA As The Director-General Of The Campaign Organisation. 

It Would Be Recalled That Nwadike Was The Director-General Of The Incumbent Executive Chairman Of Orlu LGA, Pastor Chris Mbarie, And He Helped Very Significantly In Marketing And Promoting Mbarie's persona For The Executive Chairmanship Position Of The Council He Today Occupies.

Nwadike Said He Accepted The Appointment As His Own Little Way Of Helping To Promote Peace, Equity, Fairness And Justice In Orlu, Noting That He Worked As The DG For The Incumbent Executive Chairman Because The Office As At The Time Of His Aspiration, Fell Rightly To His Orlu North (Orsu Clan). He Explained That Going By The Existing Gentleman's Understanding Between The Two Clans In Orlu LGA, The Position Of The Member Of The House Of Assembly For Orlu State Constituency In 2027 Would Also Go To Orsu Clan, Hence His Support For An Aspirant From The Orsu Clan.

Other Strategic LGA And Ward Coordinators So Far Appointed Were Named And Led Through Oath Of Offices By A Priest Who Attended The Ceremony In The Presence Of Large Supporters From Umutanze And Orlu In General.

The Team Also Announced Several Proposed Activities, Including Ward Tours Expected To Commence By This Weekend.

Onyeocha Maintained That His Aspiration Is In Keeping With His Determination To Continue To Help The Administration Of His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma In Maintaining Peace And Development In Orlu State Constituency While Remaining In Sync With Orlu People On Their Zoning Tradition.

"I Was Once Asked To Run For This Office In 2023, But I Declined And Told My Leader And Our People That It Was Not Yet The Turn Of My Orsu Clan. That Was Partly How The Incumbent Member Found Himself There. And He Even Vowed Before Me And Our People That In Keeping With Our Strong And Very Tested Zoning Arrangements, He Was Not Going To Seek For Re-election.

"Orlu People Went About This Understanding Because Of The Complex And Mixed Clannish Composition Of The Area, And Since This Arrangement Has Been In Operation, Outsiders Rarely Know Of Our Mixed Bloods In Orlu. This Arrangement Has Brought Peace In Our Local Government, So, It Is Important That We Continue To Respect And It For Peace To Continue To Reign In Our Dear Council. We Must Learn To Shelve Aside Our Selfish Interests When Matters Of Communal Interest Are Involved.

"The House Of Assembly For Orlu State Constituency In 2027 Goes To The Orsu Clan, And I Am Promising You, My Orlu People, The Kind Of Positive And Progressive Representation That You Have Never Experienced Before. Trust Me When I Say This, And Hold Me By My Words", Onyeocha Assured.

Present at the event was the General Secretary Of Óganihu Isu; the overall Socio-political platform of Isu Clan, Ogbuehi John Kennedy Duru who presented a message from his Isu people affirming that the next zoning arrangement for the Imo State House of Assembly from 2027 favours the Orsu Clan. He stated that any Isu politician seeking to twart the agreement is on his own, and will be considered a trouble maker. 

....... As Party launches digital membership registration, reaffirms support for apex leader

The Young Progressives Party (YPP) in Imo State on Saturday held a significant stakeholders’ meeting as the newly emerged State Chairman, Rt. Hon. Michael Anyanwu, presided over the gathering for the first time since assuming office.

The former lawmaker recently emerged as the State Chairman of the party, succeeding the former chairman, Barr. Greg Okemili. Prior to his emergence, Anyanwu served as the State Secretary of the party, a position in which he played an active role in the party’s organizational development and internal coordination.

The meeting brought together key leaders and stakeholders of the party from across the state in a renewed effort to strengthen the party’s structures, deepen unity among members, and reposition the party for greater relevance and impact in Imo State.

Stakeholders engaged in extensive deliberations on strategies for party growth, grassroots expansion, and stronger internal coordination among party organs. Participants emphasized the need for collective commitment and cooperation as the party continues its efforts to build a stronger political platform in the state.

A major highlight of the meeting was the official flag-off of the party’s E-Membership Registration Exercise, a digital initiative aimed at creating a modern, transparent, and well-coordinated membership system that will enhance participation and strengthen the party’s grassroots base across the state.

Another key moment during the meeting was the unveiling of new members of the State leadership. Hon. Samuel Umunnakwe, a former House of Assembly candidate was presented as the State Secretary, while Nneoma Jane Nwoke was unveiled as the State Deputy Chairman. Their emergence, stakeholders noted, would further strengthen the leadership team as the party works to reposition itself in the state’s political landscape.

In a show of solidarity, stakeholders unanimously passed a vote of confidence on the Apex Leader of the party in Imo State, High Chief Kemdi Chino Opara, PhD, KSC in recognition of his steadfast leadership, guidance, and continued support toward the growth and stability of the party.

The stakeholders also reaffirmed their confidence in the State Working Committee led by Rt. Hon. Anyanwu, pledging their support for the leadership as it works to reposition the party for effective organization and service to the people.

Party leaders described the meeting as productive and forward-looking, expressing optimism that the resolutions reached would further strengthen unity within the party and enhance its capacity to respond to the aspirations of the people of Imo State. 

As the second edition of the Niger Delta Games enters Day-3 in Benin, Edo State, the Scouting Committee has said that it has a mission to identify the next generation of star sportsmen and women from the region.

Chairman of the committee, Godwin Enakhena and his team has been moving round the games venues from morning sessions till the close of the day, monitoring and liaising with the screening committee to ensure that the right athletes were scouted.

"We’re ready to help discover the next Blessing Oborodudu, Victor Ikpeba, Victor Osimhen, Nwankwo Kanu, Efe Ajagba, Enefiok Udo-Obong, Blessing Okagbare, Ese Brume etc for the Niger Delta region", he asserted Sunday afternoon when he joined a group of former athletics stars at the track and field events at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium on Sunday.

The line up of athletics greats includes Mary Onyali, Henry Amike, Gabriel Okon, Gabriel Opuama and Enefiok Udo-Obong among others.

"We are happy with the job done by the screening committee to ensure that true U-20s are the ones participating in Benin City. 

"We’re going to be meticulous in beaming the searchlight on very talented younger athletes that are being showcased at the Games", he said amidst the din of cheers that trailed the completion of the 400m hurdles final. 

Enakhena recalled that at the last edition in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, 644 athletes were identified as having the potentials to thrive in the future.

He believes that there exists a possibility to exceed that number given that the states are beginning to embrace the vision of going to the grassroots to discover budding talents.

"To make this happen, we’ve put together experienced coaches and scouts. Blessing Oborududu leads wrestling scouts and Rolake Olagbegi-Kassim leads tennis. She was the first Nigerian female professional tennis player and the first to win Gold and Silver medals at the All-African Games. The longest serving NPFL player, Victor Ezeji will lead the football scouts, amongst others", he disclosed.

The NDG has been programmed to provide a platform for states in the region to discover, test and nurture indigenous budding talents to become national and international champions.

The games is organised by Dunamis-Icon Limited led by Sir Itiako Ikpokpo and sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC)

By Kennedy Onwunali 

With the countdown to the second edition of the Niger Delta Games underway, Imo State has stepped up preparations, commencing closed camping for its contingent ahead of the February 20–27, 2026 competition in Edo State.

A total of 270 athletes and 46 coaches, drawn from 16 sports associations, have settled into camp at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, where technical and tactical drills have begun in earnest.

Separately, the state’s swimming team has already taken camp in Asaba, where they are undergoing specialised sessions aimed at sharpening endurance and competitive edge before joining the rest of the contingent for the Games.

The Commissioner for Sports and Chairman of the State Liaison Committee, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, while addressing the athletes, described the camping programme as a strategic move to boost fitness, discipline and team bonding.

He reiterated the state government’s commitment to the welfare of the athletes, assuring them of adequate support throughout the competition. According to him, the administration of Governor Hope Uzodimma is determined to reward excellence and celebrate podium finishes.

On his part, Onyeocha promised personal recognition for gold medallists, noting that the team would remain in camp from February 17 to 18 before departing for Edo on February 19. He added that necessary logistics had been provided in line with competition regulations.

The Games, sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission and organised by Dunamis-Icon Limited under the theme, “Beyond Oil: Harnessing Talents,” are expected to showcase emerging sporting talents from across the Niger Delta region