Orji Uzor Kalu: Statesmanship At A Time Like This
The events of June 13TH that surrounded the leadership election of the 10th Senate has thought us a lesson like no other, about our politics, our politicians and defined the inevitable peril that lies ahead for our young Democracy. Had the proponents of legislative independence not deployed the arrogance of “Majority” and placed above all else the urgent need to...
10th Senate: The Miscalculation That Gave Akpabio The Gavel, By Dele Oni
The election of Presiding officers of the Senate is regulated by the Provisions of its Standing orders, just like other Parliaments across the world, but the choice of who to vote for is a decision of personal conviction of Senators. The road to the Seat of the Presiding officers of the 10th Senate was a long winding route, bargaining, alignments,...
OPINION: How Alex Otti Orchestrated His Own “Hostile Handover”, By John Okiyi Kalu
As a matter of personal philosophy, I refrain from criticizing new administrations, at the state or federal level, or passing judgement on its activities before their first 100 days in office especially if no major blunder is committed that threatens the security and survival of the people. I may extend that to as much as 180 days before taking...
Abia Assembly: Hon. Erondu Jnr, On A Right Start
Though it’s too early to start appraising the newly inaugurated members of the 8th Abia State House of Assembly, there is need to give kudos to the Member Representing the good people of Obingwa West State Constituency, Hon. Erondu Uchenna Erondu Jnr, for his good start at the plenary of the House recently. While his fellow first-timers in the House...
[OPINION] The Son-Husband: Stuck In-between? By Kingsley Ukpai Mecha
The Son-Husband: Stuck In-between? Son-husband, I know you feel like the unsung hero of our time. Since your father’s departure, you have assumed the roles of both son and husband for your mother. You are the one who provides for her, protects her, and loves her unconditionally. I picture you being torn between two roles: loyal SON and ardent HUSBAND. You are pressed to...
[OPINION] If Ikpeazu Is Your Standard Then Break His Records, By Ikechukwu Iroha
Since you can’t do any other thing outside blaming Ikpeazu, try breaking the following records he set and we will join in clapping for you. 1. Ikpeazu kept Abia peaceful and safe at a time the rest of the region was in turmoil. No single successful bank robbery was recorded in Abia State under his watch; all elections held on...
Otti Not Ikpeazu Ruined The Judicial Panel Of Enquiry..
For the records, I will support any judicial probe of any government in Nigeria if done within the ambits of the law. But what politicians must usually avoid is a mixture of bitterness and vindictiveness in pursuing any judicial probe. Otti already set the tone for persecution when he assumed the position of a judge and a jury at same...
[OPINION] The Political Legacy Of Orji Uzor Kalu In Abia State, By Bernard Ogbe
In 1999, Nigeria ushered in a new era of democracy, and Abia State witnessed the rise of a young and dedicated governor, determined to deliver good governance to this one among the newly created states. Despite facing limited financial resources at the time, the governor, affectionately known as the "Action Governor," worked tirelessly to uplift Abia State in every...
[Opinion] Unregulated Mining Activities Pose Grave Threat To Public Health, Environment In Nigeria By Mecha Kingsley Ukpai
Abuja, Nigeria – September 12, 2023 - In recent years, illegal mining has emerged as a rising concern in Nigeria, posing serious public health and environmental risks. The unchecked actions of illegal miners harm not just the well-being of local communities, but also the country's natural resources and ecosystems. Because of a lack of efficient regulatory mechanisms and enforcement, illegal...
[OPINION] As Naira Falls, Loses Local, International Relevance: Can It Get MohBad (Worse)? By Mecha Kingsley Ukpai
For years, the Naira, Nigeria's official currency, has been declining. It traded at 197 to the US dollar in 2016, but by 2023, it had plunged to 700 to the dollar. This is a depreciation of over 70% in just six years. The Naira has been caught in a storm, losing not only its value in the global financial market...