IMO BREAKING NEWS BLOG

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar says late Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, lived a worthy life, describing his death as a monumental loss to Nigeria. Atiku said this when he paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Yoruba leader on Sunday with his entourage.

“It is quite true that this house has hosted me a couple of times. What did I take away from this house? The virtues that Pa Adebanjo lived and preached throughout his life,” Atiku said. He added, “So, it is a matter of honor, respect that after his demise we should come and pay respect to his life, his works, his contributions to the unity and peaceful coexistence of this country.

“His loss is a monumental loss to the immediate family and to those of us who have admired him and tried to emulate his ways of life and his belief in the unity of this country. “Therefore, it is my singular honour and privilege to identify with his immediate family in this grave and irreparable loss which has affected the family. “We all have to go one day but with some God, he lived a worthy life and a life that can rarely be compared to so many people.

“Therefore, on behalf of the very short entourage that has accompanied me here, we are here to condone the family to let you know that we share your loss because he was also a father to us.

“He was a father, he was an adviser, he was a guide in what we have set to do for this country, and he has always made sure that he told us the truth and nothing but the truth So we will continue to honour him. What I mean by honoring him is to honor the family he left behind.” 

+ Njoku Macdonald Obinna 

Owerri, Imo State.

Media propaganda has been a veritable tool adopted by most politicians who use both hack writers and paid media herlings to influence public perception and opinion; which, if not thoroughly checkmated and tackled headon, may heat up the polity, incite people against themselves, deepen misunderstanding, and inspire anarchy.

Reading through a hurriedly - written response by a certain Prof. Mark Anyanwu, whose claims to be a lecturer at the Bowen University-Iwo is still in doubt, against Dr. Chima Amadi (Mazi Gburugburu) ; rave of the moment and the new conservation of Imo politics: my attention, was once again, drawn to yet another fictious, invented fiction, and politically sponsored story by one Ikecukwu Iwuagwu; with the caption: `` Exposing Chima Amadi: The Billionaire Without A Traceable Source Of Income``, making it the 14th sponsored stories in the last four days cooked up against one man whose only crime is showing interest in running for Imo topmost governorship seat through the activities of The Mazi Organization (TMO); a fast growing socio-political movement that serves as a catalyst for sensitization, humanitrian outreach, advocacy for good governance, and also a launch pad for his guber project.

While many erroneously think he is a political neophyte and Jonny Just Come (JJC); Dr. Chima Mathew Amadi has come a long way in the private sector; a silent achiever, a dangerous giver without noise, a powerful bridge builder, a renowed scholar of international repute, respected community leader, and uncommon philantropist who doesn't play to the gallery, or make boast about his achievements but keeps leveraging his rich contacts within the corridors of power and across government's institutions to assist the key political players in Imo and beyond. 

To those who have known him in the last 20 years and still counting; they can confidently tell you of a workaholic , consistent, dogged, and result -oriented business maverick and serial entrepreneur who started his life's trajectory as a major dealer of staple food supply -chain from the North where he would buy these products direct from farms in large quantities, load them in about five heavy duty lorries , transport them to Abuja, before wholesalers would gather to purchase these farm produce. Without Chima Amadi most families may not eat stock fish (okporoko). This is one of the few shocking surprises to those who are questioning his source of wealth as this man has been a major importer of stockfish in Nigeria. This claim is verifiable.

While others were grossly involved in party politics and contracts lobbying, Dr. Chima Mathew Amadi was busy building his business empire with interests spanning; agriculture, telecommunications, media, real estate, management consultancy, and finance. He also devouted ample time to rigorously pursue his academics; acquiring degrees from Nigerian Universities, in United States of America, as well as United Kingdom, which served as a fulcrum to establish one of the leading civil society and advocacy groups in Nigeria; ISDMG.

The Independent Service Delivery Monitoring Group, an intellectual initiative of Dr. Chima Amadi, is a Civil Society Organization birthed with the sole purpose of assisting the people in ensuring that effective service is rendered by government institutions especially those that have been mandated with specific statutory functions.

Aspiring for Imo topmost seat in government is no small feat. It demands adequate preparation, resilience, foresight, and an unwavering commitment to excellence and leadership. Dr. Chima Amadi (Mazi Gburugburu) is quite aware of all this , and also quite aware that power would not be handed over to anyone on a platter of gold just like success, little wonder, he committed his time over the years to building his business conglomerate, expanding his network, acquiring degrees, attending leadership courses overseas, and silently empowering men in politics and entreprenurship. 

 His growing popularity in the Imo political space is not a surprise to keen observers of his journey through life and silent involvement in enthroning political leaders , especially, at the national level as he is little known back home.

To the conservative, there are lasting lessons to learn from the driving passion for service, socio-economic philosophy, leadership style and political trajectory of Dr. Chima Mathew Amadi. 

Today, he stands out as one of the frontline contenders for Douglas House ahead 2027, judging by his robust political engagements, humanitrian outreach and social activities. No sane mind would deny this even if you are not rooting for him. 

While he is dogged and courageous in any people - orinted good cause, Dr. Chima Mathew Amadi is a peerless brand of humility, integrity, financial discipline, prudence, love for the poor, honesty of purpose, candour and a patriotic fervor still uncommon in Nigeria's effervescent political horizon.

A brand , according to marketing expert and newspaper Columnist with The Punch, Azuka Onwuka, `` is the sum total of the relationships a company, product, service or even a person has with the customers``. It is not a mere living or breathing organism but an experience - a worthy one at that . And so it is with Dr. Chima Amadi. A glimpse at some of the instances when and where he had demonstrated the afforementioned leadership qualities would serve as an enduring guide. 

Dr. Chima Amadi recognizes that in every religion, including the metaphysics that the spirits are the harbingers of both fortunes and misfortunes that visit mankind , thus, he chose to toe the path of transcendental virtues of charity, honesty, humility, and passionate service to mankind: contrary to those who indulge in vices of hate, envy, anger, callousness, smear campaign of calumny, and pull him down syndrome. 

Mazi Gburugburu has made men and built powerful institutions, and through his appropriate engagements and relentless service to humanity, has also built a formidable wall of goodwill around himself. 

Let other contenders present their report cards, we are here to do justice to them! 

Njoku Macdonald Obinna`is a Media Consultant|Newspaper Columnist|Public Analyst|PR- Expert and Independent Publisher. 

Ekaette Akpabio, wife of Nigeria’s Senate President, has filed multiple lawsuits against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan at the Federal High Court in Abuja, citing breach of fundamental rights and defamation over statements made by the Kogi Central senator on Arise News.  

In one of the suits, Mrs. Akpabio is seeking a perpetual injunction to restrain Akpoti-Uduaghan from making further allegedly scandalous statements. She is also demanding N250 billion in punitive damages for the alleged infringement of her fundamental rights and an additional N1 billion in damages for the purported harm caused by the defamatory remarks.  

Another lawsuit specifically challenges Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claim on Arise News that Senate President Godswill Akpabio made sexual advances toward her, arguing that the statement has damaged her reputation and that of her family.  

Mrs. Akpabio is also asking the court to order a formal retraction of the statements and an unconditional apology published in two national newspapers, including ThisDay. 

The Supreme Court on Friday ruled that the local government election held in Rivers State on October 5, 2024, was invalid, illegal, null, and void. The election, won by the All Peoples Party (APP), was annulled due to non-compliance with legal requirements.

Delivering the lead judgment, Justice Jamilu Tukur stated that the Rivers State Electoral Commission disregarded essential legal procedures, violating Section 150 of the Electoral Act 2022.

Prior to the election, an Abuja Federal High Court had, on September 30, 2024, barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from providing the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) with the voters’ register for the election. The court also prohibited the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Department of State Services (DSS) from providing security for the polls.

Justice Peter Lifu, who delivered the Federal High Court ruling, stated that RSIEC acted unlawfully by setting the election date for October 5, 2024, without adhering to necessary legal provisions.

Key violations cited include:

Failure to publish the mandatory 90-day election notice as required by law.

Inadequate update and revision of the voters’ register before setting an election date.

As a result, the court ordered INEC not to release the certified voter register until all legal requirements were fulfilled. It also barred RSIEC from using any voter register for the election. 

Former lawmaker Shehu Sani has expressed disappointment over the ongoing dispute between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, stating that it is unfortunate the issue has now shifted to matters of the “bed.”

His comment follows Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegation of sexual harassment against Akpabio during an interview on Arise Television’s Morning Show. She claimed that Akpabio obstructed her motions in the Senate after she rejected his advances.

However, Akpabio denied the accusation through his media consultant, Kenny Okulogbo.

Reacting to the controversy, Sani urged for caution and restraint, posting on his X handle:

"It’s unfortunate that the Senate issue was simply about seat and now about bed. Need for caution and restraint." 

A Magistrate Court in Lokoja, Kogi State, has ordered the remand of Austin Okai over allegations of cyberstalking and criminal defamation against Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.

The Department of State Services (DSS) sought the court’s approval to detain Okai while investigations continue, citing Nigeria’s Criminal Justice System, which mandates court authorization for detention beyond 48 hours.

Delivering the ruling on Friday, Magistrate Mobah Abdullahi of Chief Magistrate Court 1, Lugard Court, Lokoja, granted the request, ordering Okai’s remand at the Federal Correctional Center, Kabba. The case was adjourned to March 13, 2025.

Case Background

Okai, a former PDP candidate for Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency in the 2023 elections, is facing trial over a social media post in which he accused Governor Ododo of misappropriating billions of naira allocated to Local Government Councils and state agencies.

The court’s decision ensures Okai remains in custody while investigations continue. 

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has demanded that her Senate probe be aired live, emphasizing that Nigerians deserve full transparency in the process.

Referred to the Senate’s Ethics and Disciplinary Committee after a dispute with Senate President Godswill Akpabio over seating arrangements, Akpoti-Uduaghan stated she is prepared to face the panel but insists the proceedings must not be held behind closed doors.

In a statement on her Facebook page on Thursday, she noted that she had previously refrained from commenting on Senate matters but now feels compelled to speak out.

She urged Nigerians to closely follow the probe, assuring that she would advocate for complete openness.

Some Lagos State lawmakers have reiterated their stance against the return of embattled former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa.  

While moving around the Assembly premises to assert their presence, the lawmakers, speaking through the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Security, and Strategy, Steven Ogundipe, urged party leaders to clearly communicate their position on the situation and how it should be resolved.  

Despite their appeal for guidance, the lawmakers firmly maintained that they no longer want Obasa as Speaker.  

Meanwhile, Obasa, who arrived shortly after the lawmakers had left, insisted that he remains the legitimate Speaker. He added that while he has no objection to being removed, the impeachment process must be conducted lawfully and correctly. 

The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has announced that aspirants seeking to contest in the November 8 governorship election in Anambra State will be required to pay N30 million for the nomination and expression of interest forms.

This was revealed in a statement by APGA’s National Organising Secretary, Ifeanyi Mbaeri, on Thursday in Abuja.

Mbaeri also released the primary election timetable, stating that the party’s special state congress and governorship primary election is scheduled for April 5.

As part of its inclusivity measures, APGA has approved a 5% discount on the nomination form for female aspirants and persons with disabilities.

Key Dates:

Form Sales: Begins Friday, February 28, and ends March 20

Screening of Aspirants: March 28 at APGA National Headquarters, Abuja

Mbaeri added that the party leadership reserves the right to adjust the schedule if necessary. 

By Onyinyechi Nwankwo 

As Imo people are in dire need of a redeemer, The Mazi Organization has identified Dr. Chima Amadi as having the capacity to govern Imo State, thereby redeem it for the good of the people.

They said that he is fully prepared to the onerous task of being governor, a feat they added reflects in his wide consultancy, approach to the people, including his goodness, philanthropy, godliness and cordiality with the small and mighty across board.

The Mazi Organization was emphatic that Mazi Gburugburu, a business tycoon, who is well read, has the collective interests of the people of Imo State at his heart hence he is aspiring to bring to bare his wealth of experience in politics, leadership, governance, education, commerce and industry to develop the state and hence advance infrastructure, commerce and industry, agriculture, education thereby improving the economy, good living, peace, comfort, security, prosperity and cordiality.

Making this attribute, Hon. Onyemaechi Crown, who formerly represented IhitteUboma State Constituency in Imo Assembly, during the Inaugural Meeting of Fix Imo Media Team held in Owerri on Sunday, added that Chima Amadi is a globally recognized human whose exposure in all human endeavors cannot be overstressed.

While rating Dr. Chima Amadi as the best Imo breed to govern the state with a view to promoting democratic governance, purposeful leadership, welfare and wellbeing of the people who have been yearning for better living, Onyemaechi called on the Media Team to remain resolute as they preach to Imolites especially those at the grassroots of the goodness of Chima Amadi.

Affirming that Dr Chima Amadi is going to govern Imo State in 2027, the Spokesperson of TMO and former State APC Publicity Secretary, Cajetan Duke, said Imo is in darkness and needs a light as Chima Amadi to lighten its success and progress. 

President Bola Tinubu openly told governors that federal allocations to their states have tripled under his administration.

Speaking at the APC Caucus meeting last night, where party leaders expressed their confidence in his leadership, Tinubu stated:

"If your state was receiving N40 billion before, you are now getting N120 billion!" 

Former President Goodluck Jonathan and former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Attahiru Jega, have decried the influence of political interference on the appointments of electoral commissioners. 

Jonathan and Jega spoke on Tuesday at a conference organised by pro-democracy and advocacy group Yiaga Africa in Abuja. The event was tagged, ‘Reflection Conference on Democratic Elections in West Africa’.

“The electoral commission must be fully independent and we must have credible people. Political leaders who are so domineering and over-pressuring you (INEC staffers) to do what is wrong should resign and leave,” Jonathan said.

On his part, Jega said, “There is political interference in the appointment or removal of electoral commissioners and other election officials.” He said citizens, civil society organisations and drivers of changer should continue to mobilise effectively for credible elections. 

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Princess Mojisola Meranda, may step down, potentially making way for David Setonji or Wale Rauf to assume the role.

This follows intervention efforts by key political figures, including former APC National Chairman Chief Bisi Akande, ex-Ogun State Governor Aremo Olusegun Osoba, and Chief Pius Akinyelure, Chairman of the NNPC Limited Board.

Meranda made history as the first female Speaker on January 13, following the removal of Mudashiru Obasa, who was accused of corruption, abuse of office, and high-handedness. However, Obasa has challenged his removal in court, claiming due process was not followed.

Sources indicate that political stakeholders met with House members over the weekend, with another meeting expected soon. Speculation suggests that Meranda may return to her former role as Deputy Speaker, while either Setonji (Badagry 2) or Rauf (Amuwo Odofin 2)—both from Lagos West—could be the next Speaker.

Setonji, the House Chief Whip, has been a lawmaker since 2015, while Rauf joined in 2019. The push for a Lagos West Speaker stems from a need for regional balance, as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Meranda both hail from Lagos Central, leaving Lagos West without a top leadership position.

Despite this, 36 out of 40 lawmakers passed a vote of confidence in Meranda on February 17, supporting her continued leadership. However, the House has adjourned indefinitely, allowing room for further negotiations. 

The Chairman of the 10th House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has assured Nigerians of a constitution that truly reflects the aspirations and desires of the people. Speaking at the closing ceremony of a two-day retreat for committee members in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, on Saturday, Kalu, who also serves as the Deputy Speaker of the House, expressed his gratitude to the committee members for their dedication to the review process. He urged them to remain steadfast in their commitment to delivering a meaningful constitutional reform.

“We are so proud of you,” Kalu stated. “On behalf of the Speaker, the House leadership, and the National Assembly, we recognize the enormous responsibility placed upon you as members of this committee. From the outset, we knew this task was challenging, but your commitment has given us confidence that we are on the right track.” Kalu emphasized the urgency of the exercise, noting that the committee is determined to complete a significant phase of the review before the upcoming election period. He praised the team spirit and dedication exhibited by members, stating that their collective effort will bring Nigeria closer to a constitutional framework that is truly representative of the people's aspirations.

“The journey towards achieving this goal has been marked by challenges, but our resilience and shared vision have kept us moving forward. We have heard the voices of the people, and we are committed to ensuring that their aspirations are reflected in the final document. This constitution will be one that truly embodies the will of Nigerians,” he added.

Kalu likened the committee’s role to that of architects shaping the future of Nigeria and urged members to continue working together beyond the retreat. “You are the architects of a greater Nigeria. You are the cooks in the kitchen baking a better future. Do not relent. Your hard work and dedication will yield rewards for all Nigerians,” he said. He also acknowledged that the process comes with its challenges but reassured members that their diligence is paving the way for significant national progress. “Please let this unity among us continue. Let us remain partners in progress to make this vision a reality. The Speaker and I are proud of you,” he concluded.

Echoing Kalu’s sentiments, the Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Hon. Akin Rotimi Jnr, reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to ensuring that the constitutional review process remains inclusive, transparent, and reflective of the country’s diverse interests. “The constitutional review process is a complex and delicate undertaking that requires expertise, wisdom, and thorough engagement with various stakeholders across ethnic, religious, and political lines,” Rotimi said. “Guided by our legislative agenda, we remain steadfast in delivering meaningful reforms under the capable leadership of Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu. Nigerians can expect a comprehensive, well-considered, and impactful exercise that strengthens our democracy and fosters national development.”

The House Committee on Constitution Review continues its work to produce a revised legal framework that will enhance governance and address the evolving needs of the nation. 

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen has urged stakeholders to explore alternative funding sources for education in Nigeria, emphasizing the need to reduce over-reliance on government resources. Speaking at the 31st and 32nd Annual General Meeting of the Zaria Education Development Association (ZEDA) in Kaduna State on Saturday, Speaker Abbas highlighted Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) and endowment funds as viable solutions to drive sustainable growth in the education sector. His remarks came as he was honored by ZEDA for his ‘service to humanity.’

“Diversifying funding streams is critical,” Abbas stated. “By establishing endowment funds or engaging in public private partnerships, we can reduce our reliance on government funding. Successful models in countries such as Denmark and Ireland have demonstrated that diversified funding can drive long-term, sustainable growth in the education sector.” He underscored that human capital development remains the cornerstone of national progress, citing global examples such as Japan, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan, Luxembourg, Ireland, and Denmark. These nations, he noted, achieved remarkable progress not through natural resources alone but through strategic investments in education, training, and innovation.

“Nigeria, blessed with vast natural resources, must equally prioritize the development of its people to realize its full potential,” he added.

Zaria’s Educational Heritage and New Initiatives

The Speaker praised Zaria’s historical contributions to Nigeria’s intellectual and professional landscape, citing its educational legacy dating back to the 16th century. He highlighted Ahmadu Bello University and other institutions as pillars of learning that have significantly shaped the country’s academic and professional communities.

As part of efforts to enhance learning in Kaduna State and beyond, Speaker Abbas announced several new educational initiatives for his constituency. These include the establishment of a Federal College of Education, a College of Health Sciences, a National Open University of Nigeria campus, and a College of Legal Studies.

“Once fully established, these institutions promise to extend significant educational and socio-economic benefits to our community,” he stated.

Challenges in the Education Sector

While celebrating progress, Speaker Abbas emphasized the need to address pressing educational challenges, particularly in primary and secondary education.

“The foundation of any thriving educational system rests upon robust, accessible, and quality basic education. Issues such as out-of-school children, those with special needs, and the overall quality of education demand urgent attention,” he said.

Commending Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani for constructing over 62 new secondary schools, he noted that the initiative had significantly reduced the number of out-of-school children and addressed critical infrastructure deficits.

The Role of Technology and Legislative Agenda

Speaker Abbas urged ZEDA to integrate technology into education, drawing inspiration from global models like the United Kingdom’s Education Development Trust and Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology, and Research. He stressed that leveraging digital innovation could transform how educational outcomes are monitored, enhance teacher training, and expand access to learning resources.

“In the House of Representatives, our Legislative Agenda aligns with these priorities. We remain committed to advancing universal basic education, enhancing secondary and technical education, and integrating innovative reforms to address both current and future challenges,” he assured.

Recognition and Closing Remarks

The Grand Patron of ZEDA, His Royal Highness, the Emir of Zazzau, Malam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, CFR, LLD, lauded Speaker Abbas and other prominent figures for their contributions to the development of Zaria. He reiterated the importance of ZEDA in advancing education in the region and called for continued support from stakeholders.

As Nigeria grapples with the complexities of education funding, Speaker Abbas’s call for alternative sources such as PPPs and endowment funds could pave the way for a more sustainable and effective education system in the country. 

Osun State's recent local government elections have been met with commendation from Hon. Bamidele Salam, who lauded Governor Ademola Adeleke for his leadership and the peaceful conduct of the polls. In a statement issued shortly after the elections, Hon. Salam, who represents Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore, and Ejigbo federal constituency at the National Assembly, praised Governor Adeleke’s resilience and composure throughout the electoral process. He noted that the governor’s handling of challenges and provocations ensured a free and fair election.

“Governor Adeleke has proven to be a true man of peace, exemplifying the dedication to selfless service that the people of Osun State need,” Hon. Salam stated. “His leadership through this election process stands as a testament to his commitment to fostering unity and progress for all.” He further highlighted the significance of the voter turnout, describing it as a clear endorsement of Governor Adeleke’s administration over the past two years.

Hon. Salam, who also leads the Osun caucus in the House of Representatives, extended his appreciation to the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) for its steadfastness and professionalism in organizing the elections despite the challenges encountered. He also commended the electorate for their peaceful and orderly participation, which contributed to the seamless execution of the polls.

As election results are finalized, the lawmaker urged victorious candidates to embrace a spirit of humility and inclusiveness, emphasizing the importance of governance centered on public welfare. “Victory in any election comes with great responsibility,” he noted. “I trust the winners will demonstrate leadership that is inclusive, accountable, and responsive to the needs of the people.”

With the new local government leaders set to assume office, Hon. Salam reiterated the need for collaborative efforts to enhance development and improve the quality of life for Osun residents. 

Voting commenced in the Osun State local government election on Saturday morning as scheduled despite prior controversy. The exercise commenced in some local governments as early as 8am, including Ede North Local Government Area where Governor Ademola Adeleke voted.

The governor after casting his vote, described the exercise as peaceful, calling on the people of the state to come out and vote peacefully. Voters were seen casting their votes in some of the polling units, as the exercise moved on seamlessly.

AGF, Police call for suspension

The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi and the Nigeria Police Force had called for the suspension of the exercise. While the AGF hinged his call on a controversial Court of Appeal judgement which allegedly reinstated the earlier sacked local government chairmen and councillors, the police cited security threat.

According to the justice minister, the Court of Appeal, Akure division, on February 10, 2025, nullified the judgement of the Federal High Court, Osogbo, delivered on November 25, 2022. The AGF said the verdict of the appellate court implied that the All Progressives Congress (APC) local council chairmen formerly sacked by the lower court have been restored.

On its part, the Police said it received credible intelligence indicating a likelihood of violence and significant security threats should the planned elections proceed. 

In a statement by its Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police explained that reports gathered from joint intelligence gathering revealed that various groups, including political elements and other interested parties, are mobilising to instigate unrest, disrupt public peace and undermine the democratic order. 

In a bid to boost morale, foster family cohesion, stability and provide additional care for the newborn, the Imo State House Of Assembly has urged His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, Executive Governor of Imo State, to  approve the introduction of paternity leave for male officers in the State Public/Civil Service.

This was the outcome of the Motion, during Plenary on Thursday 20th February 2025, Chiefly sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Rt Honourable Amara Chyna Iwuanyanwu.

Moving the Motion, Rt Honourable Amara Chyna Iwuanyanwu, who is also the Member Representing Nwangele State Constituency, explained that the Motion was borne out of necessity. He specifically stated that newborns rely strongly and heavily on bonds with parents who influence their emotional, social,  environmental bonding growth and development.

The Prolific lawmaker, while highlighting the vital role fathers play in a child's emotional, social, environmental and cognitive growth and development stressed that introducing paternity leave for male officers would allow them to provide the much needed support to their wives who came out of the labour room. 

In his words, Rt Honourable Amara Iwuanyanwu, who is also the House Committee Chairman On Youths and Sports, Rules, Business and Public Petitions noted thus, "Imo State is a progressive State with a progressive Governor, who is willing to better the lot of Public/Civil Servants. Therefore, If this Motion is given the required nod, it will help to resolve a lot of marital issues. The Federal Government and some states like, Enugu, Oyo, Ondo and Lagos have implemented paternity leave policies, and it has geometrically improved Public/Civil Service morale, while strengthening family bond and unity".

The Nwangele lawmaker further noted that the Federal Government had earlier in a circular issued on the 25th of November 2022 through the Head of Service of the Federation, Dr Folasade Yemi-Esan approved paternity leave in the Public Service of the Federation, noting that 14 working days was approved.

The Popular Motion which was seconded by the Chief Whip And Member Representing Oru-East State Constituency, Hon Chigozie Nwaneri, was co-sponsored by the following lawmakers :

1. Hon Kanayo Onyemaechi.

2. Hon Chigozie Nwaneri.

3. Hon Johnleoba Iheoha.

4. Hon Okey Ernest Udeze.

5. Hon Chisom Ojukwu.

6. Hon Obinna Ambrose Egu.

7. Hon Innocent Ikechukwu Ikpamezie.

The following lawmakers supported the Motion with commendable submissions :

1. Hon Kanayo Onyemaechi, Majority Leader (Owerri-west).

2. Hon Chigozie Nwaneri, Chief Whip (Oru-East).

3. Hon Barrister Chisom Ojukwu, (Nkwerre).

4. Hon Okey Ernest Udeze (Ideato-North).

5. Hon Prince Obinna Ambrose Egu, PhD (Ngor/Okpala).

6. Hon Sam Ikechukwu Osuji (Isiala Mbano).

7. Rt Honourable Barrister Kennedy Chidozie Ibeh (Obowo).

8. Hon Dr Uzoma Francis Osuoha (Ohaji-Egbema).

9. Hon Engr Gilbert Chiedozie Nwosu, FNSE (Oguta).

10. Hon Chief James Uba Esile (Onuimo).

Impressed and satisfied with the superlative submissions of his Honourable Colleagues, the Speaker, Rt Honourable Chike Olemgbe, who presided, put it to vote and it was unanimously adopted. Thereafter, he Ruled as follows :

BE IT RESOLVED BY THIS HONOURABLE HOUSE To Urge The Governor Of Imo State, His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma To Approve The Introduction Of 14 Working Days Paternity Leave Policy In The Imo State Public/Civil Service And Subsequently, Direct The Head Of Service Of The State To Issue A Circular To That Effect.

The Clerk was directed to communicate the Resolution of the House to the Appropriate Quarters.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has claimed she has faced numerous challenges in the Senate.

Speaking during an interview on Brekete Family, a Human Rights Radio and Television program hosted by Ahmed Isah, popularly known as "Ordinary President," Natasha opened up about her struggles.

Her remarks come after a heated exchange with Senate President Godswill Akpabio during a plenary session on Thursday over a seating arrangement.

The dispute began when Natasha discovered that her designated seat had been reassigned. Refusing to accept the change, she challenged the decision, leading to a tense confrontation. In a viral video, she was seen boldly telling Akpabio, "I’m not afraid of you."

Addressing the incident on Brekete Family, Natasha alleged that many of her privileges had been revoked.

"I have been going through a lot but remained silent to avoid misinterpretation or legal issues. I just want the opportunity to work," she stated.

She further revealed that she had been excluded from several international engagements, including a United Nations event for which she was nominated.

"Since the nightclub incident last year, I have been pulled out of many international activities. My name was even removed from a UN event, with claims that I would not be promoted internationally. Every event I have attended since then has been self-sponsored."

Regarding the Senate clash, she clarified, "I did not speak out of order. He was reading my suspension, and I had to invoke Order 10, which is an order of privilege."

Meanwhile, senators from Kogi State have apologized to Senate President Akpabio following the altercation. 

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has reaffirmed that the local government elections scheduled for Saturday will proceed as planned, despite an appeal from the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, to suspend the polls.

In a statement on Friday, Adeleke’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law, stating that no individual has the authority to override court decisions.

“My advice to all parties, including local and national stakeholders, is to abide by democratic norms. For me and my people, we stand by the rule of law, not illegal self-help. The election will hold, and its outcome will accelerate development at the local level. I urge our people to remain peaceful—Osun is a truly peaceful state,” the statement read.

The AGF, in a Thursday statement, had urged Adeleke to direct the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission to halt the election, arguing that it would be unconstitutional and invalid.

Fagbemi cited a recent Court of Appeal ruling in Akure, which reinstated sacked council chairmen who had been removed following an earlier Federal High Court decision. According to him, their tenure remains valid until October 2025, making any fresh election an unconstitutional act.

He further cautioned against actions that could incite violence and urged Governor Adeleke to prioritize peace and uphold the Constitution.