Author: Uchenna Ugwu

GBV Response: USAID trains 1,105 persons in Ebonyi
GBV Response: USAID trains 1,105 persons in Ebonyi
Training
By Uchenna Ugwu
Abakaliki, June 27, 2024 (NAN) The United States Agency for International Development Momentum Country and Global Leadership (USAID-MCGL) said it trained 1,105 persons on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) response in Ebonyi.
The Team Lead of the project, Mrs Nneka Chijioke-Dikeocha, disclosed this on Wednesday in Abakaliki, during stakeholders meeting to mark the end of the project in the state the theme “Consolidation, Sustainability and Ownership.”
Chijioke-Dikeocha said the project was meant to address maternal mortality and morbidity by preventing and mitigating the consequences of Violence Against Women and Girls (VAW/G).
She said the project was also designed to tackle possible drivers of early and forced marriages.
She explained that MCGL had also trained 394 healthcare workers in collaboration with the Ebonyi Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
“Others include the agencies on first line response, concerning postpartum family planning and adolescent response care.
“The project from its inception in 2021, captured the training of multi-sectoral taskforce members and key stakeholders on smart advocacy, resource mobilisation and child safe guarding approaches.
“Others include capacity development of local partners, establishment of women savings and loans group.
“Also, integration of GBV services into routine Ante-Natal Clinic/Family Planning services through a study in 20 selected MCGL supported sites, among others.
“The collaboration with the ministry and other development partners was to facilitate cross learning between Ebonyi and Sokoto states and provide support.”
The wife of the Governor, Mrs Mary-Maudline Nwifuru, through her foundation, Better Health for Rural Women, Children and Internally Displaced Persons (BERWO), applauded the organisation for changing the narrative, where GBV was viewed as part of people’s culture.
Nwifuru, represented by Mrs Nkechi Echiegu, the Team Leader of BERWO, disclosed that the foundation was currently using trained members of the multi-sectoral taskforce across council areas for sustainability of the project.
He added that “concerning maternal mortality and newborn, I have taken it upon myself to enroll 4,076 women into Healthcare Insurance Scheme to enable them to access free ante-natal and free child birth.
“And the scheme is reducing child mortality, I equally enrolled children between zero to five years old, with all this, we are reducing infant mortality in the state.
“I really commend the organisation for establishing the community structure aimed at enhancing the objective of MCGL.”
Nwifuru also disclosed that her foundation plans to build a standard GBV centre with rehabilitation section in the state before 2027.
Mrs Felicia Nwankpuma, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs Joy Mbam, described the project from USAID as “transformative with profound impacts on the lives of many women and children.
“Over the past four years, USAID-MCGL has demonstrated exceptional commitment, expertise and support, together, we have launched and implemented numerous initiatives that have advanced gender equality, strengthened responses to GBV.”
The Commissioner for Grants and Donor Agencies, Mr Solomon Azi, acknowledged the impact of the GBV training.
He said “GBV survivors have been equipped with temporary shelter, while men were educated on the need to support their wives.
“MCGL has also educated our youths, mostly girls, with adequate information on post-partum, family planning.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
UVU/ACA/HA
Edited by Chidinma Agu/Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

June 27, 2024
Ebonyi Fire Service trains 152 LPG dealers on safety measures
Ebonyi Fire Service trains 152 Gas dealers on safety measures
Safety
By Uchenna Ugwu
Abakaliki, June 25, 2024 (NAN) The Ebonyi Fire Service has trained about 152 members of the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Retailers Association (LPGAR) branch of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) on fire risk control and precautional measures.
The programme was held on Tuesday during fire safety and ignition control training for LPGAR – NUPENG association at the service parade ground, Abakaliki.
The Chief Fire Officer, Mr Ralph Ibiam said that the training became necessary because of the need for more safety consciousness on happenings and reoccurrence of fire incidents in the state.
“The training is aimed at exposing the dealers on how to ensure safety in case of any emergency at their business places.
“It is an annual event and statutory obligation for the service to conduct such awareness for the group,” Ibiam said.
He further disclosed that the programme would be extended to petroleum dealers as well as outlets to address the trend of fire disaster in the state.
Ibiam called on the association to create community awareness and educate residents on the cause.
The Deputy Fire Officer and Resource Person, Mr Chukwuma Nweke, urged the association to adopt precautionary measures like ensuring proper gas storage, practice exit drill at home, purchase fire extinguisher among other safety tips.
In his remarks, Mr Jude Ani, Chairman LPGAR – NUPENG, appluded the personnel for disseminating information to spur safety consciousness among members of the association.
Ani encouraged members to extend the training to their sale representatives and promised continuous partnership with the fire service to ensure safety.
The News agency of Nigeria NAN reports that the training featured some fire marshals who exposed the dealers to real term safety measures.
NAN reports that the command also urged the public to call its fire service emergency numbers to include, 07069752627 and 08032554317 Abakaliki and 07036845645, 08032635818 Afikpo LGA.
Other unit numbers include, 08030647592 Uburu, 07069717263 Onueke.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
UVU/MNA
Edited by Maureen Atuonwu
June 26, 2024
Nwifuru’s wife inaugurates free ICT training for youths in Ebonyi
Nwifuru’s wife inaugurates free ICT training for youths in Ebonyi

Training

By Uchenna Ugwu

Abakaliki, June 21, 2024 (NAN) The wife of Ebonyi Governor, Mrs Mary-Maudline Nwifuru, on Friday in Abakaliki inaugurated a three-month free training on digital skills acquisition for youths in the state.
Mrs Nwifuru inaugurated the training through her pet project, Better Health for Rural Women, Children and Internally Displaced Foundation (BERWO), in collaboration with the state government.

The wife of the governor, who gave the beneficiaries start-up kits, said the initiative came as an effort to create digital literacy skills and provide employment opportunities to the younger generations in the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the beneficiaries will be trained in frontend development, hardware maintenance/networking, graphic design, video editing and content creation.

She noted that the basic and practical skills in information technology and digital literacy were key to self-development and uplifting their potential.

The governor’s wife affirmed the state government’s commitment to providing the youth an enabling environment for the training.

She commended the governor for his support for the programme.

Earlier, Mr Tochukwu Okorie, Commissioner for Information and Communication Technology (ICT), said the essence of the scheme was to bridge the digital knowledge gap and enable the beneficiaries become self-reliant in their various endeavours.

Also, Mr Peter Oga, Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Ebonyi Command, appealed to the youth to embrace the scheme and stay away from drug abuse.

Mr Kenneth Offor, Deputy Commander, NDLEA, who spoke on the topic, “Abstaining from illicit drugs”, advocated a treatment and rehabilitation centre in the state.

Speaking, Mrs Nkechi Echiegu, BERWO team leader, said 65 young men and women would embark on the free training scheme aimed at enhancing the digital literacy skill of youths in the state.

Echiegu highlighted that the foundation embodies a shared vision to address critical issues and enhance the quality of life for all.

Some of the beneficiaries expressed satisfaction for participating in the programme.

A beneficiary, Stephanie Okorie, expressed appreciation to the state government and the foundation for the initiative and pledged to utilise the knowledge gained for self-development and creation of digital empowerment.

NAN reports that the pilot phase of 65 beneficiaries were drawn from across the 13 local government areas of the state. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
UVU/GOM/FAA
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Edited by Gregg Mmaduakolam/Folasade Adeniran

June 21, 2024
Police arrest 4 over alleged killing of Alex-Ekwueme Varsity student

Killing
By Uchenna Ugwu
Abakaliki, June 20, 2024 ((NAN) The Police Command in Ebonyi has arrested four suspects in connection with the alleged abduction and killing of Magnus Okeke, a student of Alex-Ekwueme Federal University (AE-FUNAI), Ikwo Local Government Area of the state.
DSP Joshua Ukandu, Spokesman of the Command confirmed the arrest to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abakaliki.
“Yes, we have commenced investigation on the matter and four persons have so far been arrested in connection with the heinous crime.
“The victim’s body has been recovered and taken to the mortuary. Investigation is ongoing to unravel the death. Four suspects have been arrested so far,” he said
The management of the university, had in a statement by its Public Relations Officer, Mr Elom Iyke Ubochi, described the abduction and killing of Okeke as wicked.
Ubochi noted that Okeke, an extra year student of the Department of Accountancy was abducted on June 1, 2024.
“Yes, the security agencies have apprehended some of those alleged to be involved in the abduction and did everything possible to rescue him alive.
“Unfortunately, on Monday, June 17, the decomposing body of Okeke was painfully recovered under the bridge at Ako stream in Nwakpu village, on Ikwo/Abakaliki Road,” he said
The university urged anyone with useful information that could aid in the investigation to come forward and assist the authorities. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
UVU/EBI/IU
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Edited by Benson Iziama and Isaac Ukpoju
June 20, 2024
Cleric, others admonish Muslim faithful to demonstrate sacrificial love

Sacrifice
By Uchenna Ugwu
Abakaliki, June 16, 2024 (NAN) The Imam of Central Mosque Abakaliki, Alhaji Aminu Labaran, has encouraged Muslim faithful to demonstrate sacrificial love and peace to better the nation.
Labaran made the remarks on Sunday at the Eid praying ground in Abakaliki.
The cleric advised the faithful to always put their trust in God at all times.
Mr Ibrahim Obiahu, State Chairman of Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), in his message, said that the celebration was borne out of the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim and exemplified by Prophet Muhammad.
Obiahu urged government at all levels to initiate measures that would ease the economic hardship.
Speaking, the leader of the Hausa community in the state, Alhaji Danjuma Gambo, advocated for the will and action to live in peace and unity with one another.
Gambo said that the sacrifice of Eid-el Kabir symbolised the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim to Almighty Allah as he was ready to sacrifice his son, but was told to use a ram instead.
He said, “it’s a day of sacrifice; this is why muslims sacrifice an animal and the day also brings about unity among faithful.
Mrs Hadiza Mansiru, Hawa Muhammed and Ladi Aminu, in their separate remarks, prayed for continuous peace, unity and significant development of the country.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
UVU/ISHO/MNA
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Edited by Yinusa Ishola/Maureen Atuonwu
June 16, 2024
Gov. Nwifuru urges Muslims to pray for nation’s peace, dev’t

Prayer
By Uchenna Ugwu
Abakaliki, June 16, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi, on Sunday encouraged the Muslim Ummah to leverage the Sallah period and pray for the peace, progress, unity and development of the country.
Nwifuru, in his message to mark the Eid-el-Kabir, prayed for Allah’s blessings upon their lives and usher them into an era of prosperity.
This is contained in a statement in Abakaliki by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Monday Uzor.
“On behalf of the government and people of the state, we wish all our Muslim brothers and sisters happy Eid -el- Kabir.
“And may the blessings of Allah fill your lives with happiness and open all doors of success now and always,” Uzor quoted Nwifuru as praying.
The governor reiterated the commitment of his administration to carry all the segments of society along, irrespective of religion.
He, however, expressed satisfaction over the contributions of the Muslim faithful in the state toward the realisation of his administration’s “People’s Charter of Needs Agenda”.
Nwifuru further assured that security arrangements had been perfected to ensure a hitch- free celebration.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
UVU/CHOM/BRM
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Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Bashir Rabe Mani

June 16, 2024
Eid celebration: Police direct strategic deployment of personnel in Ebonyi
Eid celebration: Police direct strategic deployment of personnel in Ebonyi
Sallah
By Uchenna Ugwu
Abakaliki, June 15, 2024 (NAN) The Police Command in Ebonyi says it has directed strategic deployment of its operational and intelligence assets to ensure a hitch-free Eid-el-Kabir celebration in the state.
The command disclosed this in a statement issued by its Spokesman, DSP Joshua Ukandu, and made available to newsmen in Abakiliki on Saturday.
According to the statement, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Mrs Augustina Ogbodo, extends the command’s best wishes to all the Muslim faithful.
“On behalf of the officers and men of the command, we felicitate all Muslim Ummah as they celebrate the 2024 Eid-el-kabir.
“Consequently, I have directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical/Operational Unit Commanders to deploy operational and intelligence assets to ensure adequate security in their areas of responsibility.
“I enjoin the Muslim faithful in the state to observe the celebration with responsibility and extend compassion to their neighbours,” the statement added.
It further quoted Ogbodo to have appealed to the residents of the state to continue to be law-abiding and quickly report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or call the command’s Control Room on 07064515001. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

UVU/JAN/USO
Edited by Joan Nwagwu/Sam Oditah

June 15, 2024
Land Dispute: We didn’t abduct Ebonyi man, says NSCDC
Land Dispute: We didn’t abduct Ebonyi man, says NSCDC
Dispute
By Uchenna Ugwu
Abakaliki, June 13, 2024 (NAN) The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ebonyi Command has denied the news making the rounds that its operative abducted a native of Amaedim Ngwogwo community in the state.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that some national dailies had reported that the NSCDC operatives abducted Mr Innocent Orji, following a land dispute in the community.
However, Mr Elijah Willie, State Commandant of the Corps, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abakaliki on Thursday that the command only effected the arrest of Orji.
Willie explained that the operatives arrested him following a petition written against him by Mr Innocent Igwe alleging threat to life.
He also said that Orji was alleged to be involved in championing intra and inter communal crisis, trespassing, vandalism and other conducts likely to cause breach of public peace.
He said that he received the petition against the said Orji and his cohorts from Odiegwu Ibekwe Chambers, demanding to bring the culprits to justice.
“This is a land dispute and disagreement between Mr Innocent Igwe, the complainant and Orji, the suspect. It started on how to share the land between them but Orji faulted the terms of resolution.
“Yes, it was on these bases that the suspect was arrested because he refused to follow government’s directive on the resolution of the land matters.
“A resolution was reached by the committee but the suspect was obstructing the peace process, which led to his arrest.
“I wonder how an organisation like NSCDC, empowered by law to arrest, detain, investigate and prosecute, will abduct someone”, he said.
The commandant said that he would not fold his arms and watch the community go into turmoil.
“The arrest was done for justice to stand and the publication was a distraction for me not to carry out my official duty.
“The suspect, Innocent Oji also known as Ogbonna was arrested and detained.
“On this note, I want to inform the public, who read from the false publication, that we did not abduct Orji but only arrested him,” Willie added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
UVU/DCO/KUA
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Edited by Deborah Coker/Uche Anunne
June 13, 2024
Police confirm killing of youth in Ebonyi community
Police confirm killing of youth in Ebonyi community
Killing
By Uchenna Ugwu
Abakaliki, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The Police Command in Ebonyi has confirmed the killing of one Ikechukwu Idenyi at the popular Okwor-Ngbo Market in Ohaukwu Local Government Area.
The command’s Spokesman, DSP Joshua Ukandu, confirmed the incident to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abakaliki on Wednesday.
Ukandu said that the youthful Idenyi was shot severally and killed by yet-to-be identified gunmen at midnight on Monday.
He said that the command had deployed its operatives to the area for proper investigation.
He condemned the incident, describing it as wicked.
Ukandu urged the people to support the police efforts toward achieving sustainable security in the state.
Also reacting to the incident, the Chairman of the Local Government, Mr Ikechukwu Odono, said the victim died after multiple gunshots were reportedly firee at him by the gunmen.
“He was shot severally, while trying to lock his shop at the market.
“I visited the scene of the incident, alongside the Deputy Speaker Of Ebonyi House of Assembly, Chinedu Onah, some policemen and other stakeholders in the area.
“The incident is unfortunate,” Odono said, adding that no property was taken away by the assailants.
“Right now, normalcy has returned to the area,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
UVU/NCI/USO
Edited by Nkiru Ifeajuna/Sam Oditah
June 12, 2024
I’m committed to consolidation of democratic ideals– Nwifuru
Commitment
By Uchenna Ugwu
Abakaliki, June 12, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi has pledged his commitment to the sustenance and consolidation of democratic ideals and values in the state in line with visions of its founding fathers.
Nwifuru disclosed this in a message on Wednesday in Abakaliki to mark “Democracy Day” celebration.
The governor’s message was conveyed in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Monday Uzor and made available to newsmen.
Nwifuru said that rule of law, freedom of speech and virile opposition were beauties of democracy and would continue to be strengthened as the nation’s democratic governance advanced.
“Today is a day set aside to celebrate our nation’s democracy and the associated freedoms we enjoy.
“I am proud to say that the principles of democracy, equality, justice and the rule of law are strictly respected in the state under my watch.
“On this day, we honour the struggles of our past leaders who fought tirelessly to establish and sustain our democratic institutions.
“I recognise the contributions of our citizens who have worked to build a more just and equitable society and I can assure you their sacrifices in enthroning democratic governance will not be forgotten.
“However, I acknowledge the challenges we face and what is certain is that as a government, we recommit ourselves to addressing them.
“Let me assure you that we are committed to working assiduously to build a democracy that is truly of the people, by the people and for the people,” Nwifuru said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

UVU/OJI/
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Edited by Maureen Ojinaka and Chijioke Okoronkwo

June 12, 2024