FACT REPORTERS NETWORK

  By O'star Eze  Awka, Anambra State Capital – July 31, 2025 – The heart of Awka was shattered this morning as seven families were abruptly rendered homeless following a court-ordered eviction along Secretariat Road. A court bailiff, accompanied by police officers and workmen, descended on a residential and commercial property, forcibly removing belongings and leaving lives in disarray under a dreary, drizzling sky. The scene was one of despair as mattresses, furniture, and personal treasures were unceremoniously tossed onto the rain-soaked road. Children, their faces etched with confusion and fear, huddled in nearby shops, watching helplessly as their homes were dismantled. The cold morning rain mingled with tears, soaking household items and food supplies, while families stood powerless, their dreams washed away. Speaking to this correspondent, the court bailiff revealed that the eviction was carried out on the orders of a court ruling in favor of the Awka Catholic Diocese, ...

  LAGOS, Nigeria — July 29, 2025 Prominent Nigerian entrepreneur and philanthropist, Dr. Stanley Uzochukwu, has been honoured with glowing tributes across the country and beyond, as admirers celebrate his extraordinary impact on business, leadership and humanitarian service. The founder and CEO of Stanel Group and The Delborough Lagos, a luxury hospitality brand, Dr. Uzochukwu has built a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most inspiring figures, blending wealth creation with spiritual humility and social impact. One of the most moving tributes came from Dr. Ifeanyi Aniagoh, popularly known as #DigiPriest, who described the Anambra-born businessman as “a builder of men, a light in this generation, and a symbol of what Nigeria can be.” According to Aniagoh, “Meeting Dr. Stanley as an aide to Governor Willie Obiano remains one of my greatest gains. Having him as my mentor elevated my being. He sponsored our annual Digipreneur Week in Anambra and remains a pillar in mentoring young leader...

  By O'star Eze  The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has ordered tactical and intelligence units to escalate efforts to apprehend the armed assailants responsible for the abduction and murder of Mr. Ifesinachi Onyekere, Managing Director of Fish Magnet Outlet. The directive comes after the recovery of the victim’s navy blue Toyota Corolla, abandoned by the attackers along Ukwulu/Igbariam Road, by a joint security team comprising Anambra Vigilante Operatives and the Police. The incident occurred on the evening of July 27, 2025, when gunmen trailed and attacked Onyekere at his residence in Ezinifite village, Okpuno, Awka. Preliminary investigations indicate the assailants shot the victim in the leg before abducting him. His lifeless body was later discovered, triggering widespread outrage among Awka residents. Condemning the brutal killing, CP Orutugu vowed that the perpetrators would face justice, emphasizing the Police’s commitment to the victim’s family, the people...

  By O'star Eze  The Anambra State Police Command has made a significant breakthrough in the horrific murder case of a pregnant nurse whose mutilated body was discovered in a soakaway pit in Ogbunike, Oyi Local Government Area. On July 25, 2025, with the assistance of the Umueri village community, police arrested a 24-year-old female suspect, Somtochukwu Nwafor, in connection with the crime. During interrogation, Nwafor confessed to being the girlfriend of the prime suspect, Chiemerie Obika Elobisi, who remains at large. She admitted to being called by Elobisi to clean blood stains at the crime scene after the murder. Nwafor further revealed that the victim, a trained nurse, was lured to Elobisi’s residence under the pretense of seeking medical attention. Shockingly, she disclosed that the perpetrators were involved in selling the victim’s body parts to native doctors in the area. Following Nwafor’s confession, operatives from the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID)...

  By O'star Eze  The Anambra State Police Command has taken delivery of a new Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) to enhance its operational capacity in combating security challenges across the state. The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, received the APC at the State Police Headquarters in Awka on behalf of the officers and men of the command. CP Orutugu expressed profound gratitude to the Nigeria Police Force management for providing the critical asset, which he described as a game-changer in the command’s efforts to maintain peace, law, and order. “This APC will significantly boost our operational capabilities, particularly in addressing emerging security threats and sustaining our commitment to a safer Anambra,” the Commissioner stated. The CP also commended the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for his proactive leadership, which has led to improved logistics, welfare, and morale of police officers nationwide. The Anambra State Police Com...

The Anambra State Police Command is aware of a disturbing narrative currently circulating across public platforms concerning the death of Mr. Okechukwu Akaneme, a respected figure in the Onitsha business community and former President of the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce. According to reports, the late Mr. Akaneme allegedly sustained life-threatening injuries following an enforcement operation purportedly carried out by personnel of the Anambra State Waste Management Authority (ASWAMA), allegedly accompanied by armed police officers, on 11th October 2024. It is further alleged that this operation, in the course of enforcing waste management compliance, resulted in Mr. Akaneme suffering spinal injuries from which he never fully recovered ultimately leading to his reported demise on 10th July 2025. The Command expresses its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the late Mr. Akaneme and recognizes his significant contributions to the state’s socio-economic developmen...

By Ndife David, Awka. In a decisive operation against human trafficking and medical malpractice, the Anambra State Government has dismantled a notorious baby factory syndicate masquerading as a hospital in Umunya, Oyi Local Government Area. The illegal facility, operating under the name Mother and Child Hospital and Maternity, was located at No. 1 School Road, near Tansian University.  Acting on months of surveillance and intelligence gathering, the state government working in close collaboration with security agencies stormed the premises with officials of the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA Brigade) and arrested key members of the criminal network. The so-called hospital was found to be operating with a falsified license and was owned by a self-proclaimed medical doctor, Mr. Odili Ossai, a native of Delta State. Authorities have confirmed that the syndicate was involved in the trafficking and exploitation of young girls, aged 15, 19, and 21. Many of the victims were rep...

  In the heart of Anambra State, Nigeria, Enugwu Agidi has emerged as a model of transformative community leadership under the stewardship of its President-General (PG), Hon. Chukwuebuka David Onuorah.  With a vision rooted in progress, unity, and empowerment, Hon. Onuorah has redefined what it means to lead a community, steering Enugwu Agidi toward sustainable development and cultural revival.  Through strategic initiatives such as road construction, the town hall project, a pivotal trip to China, provision of health centre, bridge construction and robust youth empowerment programs, he has addressed immediate community needs while laying the foundation for a brighter future.  This article explores Hon. Onuorah’s achievements, highlighting how his leadership has reshaped the narrative of community governance in Enugwu Agidi. Road Construction : Paving the Way for Connectivity Under Hon. Onuorah’s leadership, Enugwu Agidi has prioritized infrastructure development, wi...

By O'star Eze  The Anambra State Police Command has issued a stern warning against individuals and groups spreading false or exaggerated security-related information on social media and other platforms, aimed at causing public panic and discrediting security agencies. The announcement, made by Police Public Relations Officer SP Tochukwu Ikenga, comes as part of an ongoing security assessment in the state. The Command expressed concern over the rising trend of deliberate misinformation, which it says undermines public confidence and hampers security operations. Such actions, described as malicious, are now under intense scrutiny, with the police promising to investigate and expose those responsible. Legal action will be pursued under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015, and other relevant laws. SP Ikenga urged residents to remain vigilant, refrain from sharing unverified information, and report suspicious activities through official channels. The Command reaffi...

  In line with ongoing efforts to strengthen strategic partnerships and deepen public support for security operations in Anambra State, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, *CP Ikioye Orutugu fwc MNIPS PhD*, today 22nd July 2025, after receiving the prestigious award of “Best Crime Fighter – Man of the Year 2025” by the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory Council paid a courtesy visit to High Chief Dr. Christopher Ndubuisi (Ikenga Umuawulu) at his office in Abuja. The visit is part of the Commissioner’s broader advocacy initiative aimed at fostering collaboration between the Police, other security agencies, and key stakeholders within and outside the State. During the meeting, *CP Orutugu* appreciated High Chief Ndubuisi for his consistent support to security agencies and called for increased synergy between traditional leaders, community stakeholders, and the Police, especially in intelligence gathering, public awareness, and logistics supp...

Kenechukwu Ofomah   Two years after a whistleblower, Nnamdi Emeh, a 26-year-old NYSC member and IT consultant to the Anambra State Rapid Response Squad (RRS), made startling revelations against some police operatives in Anambra, the police operatives are still walking freely. The police have also maintained a conspicuous silence on the matter, while the whistleblower remains in detention. Emeh, who worked closely with the police squad, had exposed grave allegations of extrajudicial killings, organ harvesting, and extortion allegedly perpetrated by senior police officers in Anambra. Despite an order by a Federal High Court for his release, Emeh is still behind bars, while the accused officers walk free. Recall that the Nigeria Police Force, under public pressure in 2023, constituted a panel to investigate the horrifying allegations. Yet, despite promising to make the findings public, the police have reneged. Reacting to the development in a chat with correspondent Kenechukwu Ofomah...

By O'star Eze The recent heart-wrenching loss of my friend’s mother in a hit-and-run accident highlights a critical issue in Nigeria: the failure of drivers to take responsibility on the roads.  “If only he had taken responsibility and stopped to take my mum to the nearest hospital, she may have survived the carnage,” my friend lamented.  This tragedy reflects a broader problem of disregard for traffic laws and a lack of accountability in assisting accident victims.  For Nigeria to progress toward first-world status, drivers must embrace their civic duty to obey traffic regulations and prioritize human lives by ensuring accident victims receive timely medical care. Hit-and-run incidents, like the one that claimed my friend’s mother, are alarmingly common in Nigeria.  According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria records over 40,000 deaths annually from road traffic crashes, with hit-and-run cases contributing significantly.  A 2017 study in the Anna...

By O'star Eze The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has conferred the prestigious “Best Crime Fighter – Man of the Year 2025” award on CP Ikioye Orutugu, Commissioner of Police for Anambra State, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to security and public safety. The award was presented during the FCT Press Week Lecture and Awards Ceremony held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, themed *Journalism in a Changing World: Press Freedom, Media, Democracy, and Society*. The ceremony, attended by dignitaries including the Inspector General of Police, represented by Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, and the Assistant Inspector General of Police Zone 7, represented by ACP Odugbesan O., celebrated CP Orutugu’s exceptional leadership and strategic approach to crime prevention. The NUJ FCT Council commended his professionalism, transparency, and unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law, which have sig...

  An Igbo socio-cultural group, Igbos for a Progressive and United Nationhood, IPAN has bemaoned the spate of insecurity in the Southeast, regretting that had the people harkened to its warnings when the violence and killings started, the region would have been a whole lot safer today. The National President of the IPAN, Comrade Lawrence Onuzulike gave the view in an exclusive chat with TNC correspondent in Awka, in response to a recent speech by prolific writer and poet, Chimamanda Adichie at a literary festival in Enugu. At the event, Adichie remarked that the southeastern part of Nigeria “no longer feels like home” because of an erosion of its former tranquility and hospitality.  She attributed the shift to ongoing violence linked to armed separatist activities and the recent surge in ritual killings in the region. Reacting to the comments, the IPAN president, Comrade Onuzulike regretted that the security situation in the Southeast is not only sad, but very embarrassing, ap...

Dr. George Moghalu, the Labour Party governorship candidate, met with members of the Omambala Union over the weekend in Umueri, Anambra North, as part of his continued consultations across the state. The Union represents six agriculturally rich local government areas in the region. The event was presided over by respected industrialist and statesman, Dr. Chike Obidigbo, who spoke about the importance of leadership that recognizes Omambala’s agricultural potential and prioritizes investment in agro-processing, health, and education. In his address, Moghalu shared personal connections to the region, citing his chieftaincy title from Omasi and expressing a desire for partnership. “I am here to tell you not just that I’m running but that I want to run with you. Omambala is home,” he said. Moghalu emphasized his pledge to serve only one term: “Anything you can’t do in four years, you won’t do in eight. I want to serve, not sit.” He stressed the need for transparency, accessibility, and humi...

_As CP Orutugu Orders Prosecution of Suspects, Expresses Concern Over Rising Moral Decay in Society_ The Anambra State Police Command has arrested two suspects involved in a self-orchestrated kidnap incident designed to extort money from the victim’s own family. The suspects are Chinecherem Okonkwo ‘f’ age 28years old and Chinecherem Aronu ‘m’ age 30years old  Operatives of the  Rapid Response Squad (RRS) acting on an intelligence-led investigation of a disturbing report of alleged abduction of Chinecherem Nwaokoye, a female student of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), stormed a lodge located at UNIZIK Temp Site, Awka, where the victim was found alive and in the company of her male accomplice.  According to the report, Chinecherem had earlier contacted her family on Tuesday, 8th July 2025, informing them that she was returning home from school but never arrived. Her phone remained switched off throughout that day. On Wednesday, 9th July 2025, her fa...

   By O'star Eze  The Nzukọ Ọdịnani Welfare Association (NOWA) announces her support for Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, in his commendable efforts to expose and prosecute charlatans who undermine the sanctity of Igbo Traditional Religion. In a press conference themed “Reclaiming Our Sacred Heritage: Eradicating Cultic Crimes and Traditional Abominations in Ọdịnani Igbo Nation,” NOWA outlined its mission to protect Igbo spirituality and morality. NOWA President-General, Nze Ezeafọ Onyebụchim Chiukwuemekalụm Izuegbu, condemned the rise of black magic, ritual killings, human trafficking, and fraudulent spiritual healers exploiting Ọdịnani for criminal gain.  He highlighted abominations such as witchcraft, human sacrifices, and desecration of sacred spaces, declaring them contrary to authentic Igbo traditions.  “Ọdịnani is light without evil; it promotes life and justice, not death or greed,” he stated. He stated NOWA’s Four-Point Action Plan as Edu...

  By Ndife David, Awka. The Managing Director and CEO of the Anambra State Road Maintenance Agency (ARMA), Engr. Obinna Nduka, has presented a detailed report of the agency's achievements in road maintenance and infrastructure development over the past two years, under the leadership of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo. Engr. Nduka’s progress report, delivered during a live broadcast on “Talk with the Commissioner” on the Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS), Awka, highlighted ARMA’s significant strides in improving road infrastructure and addressing long-standing road challenges across the state. The Director emphasized the central role that ARMA has played in tackling these road challenges, particularly through its collaboration with local government mayors, contractors, and vendors in the “Zero Potholes” campaign. This initiative, which aims to eliminate potholes and improve road conditions across Anambra, has proven to be a cornerstone of Governor Soludo’s administration. Accordi...

 Ratifies Nenadi Usman Led NWC. The National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of Labour Party has adopted Dr. George Moghalu as the party’s candidate for the November 8 Anambra State governorship. Moghalu emerged from the primary conducted by Julius Abure-led National Working Committee (NWC) before it was sacked by the Supreme Court. There were rumours that Senator Esther Nenadi Usman-led interim NWC was planning to conduct another primary to replace Moghalu. There was also reported friction between Usman and the Labour Party presidential candidate in 2023, Mr. Peter Obi, who attended Moghalu’s gubernatorial flag off in Awka. But the LP NEC which met on Friday in Abuja, after reviewing the party’s status in the Anambra governorship and other scheduled by-elections, “reaffirmed the commitment of the party to fielding credible candidates and directed the NWC to conclude necessary preparations with INEC in line with the Electoral Act 2022.” The party however called on the Independent...

  The Labour Party Governorship Candidate in Anambra State, Dr. George Moghalu, has extended warm birthday felicitations to the Senator representing Anambra Central, Senator (Dr.) Victor Umeh, OFR, describing him as a steadfast patriot and principled leader. In a goodwill message made available to the press, Dr. Moghalu acknowledged Senator Umeh’s remarkable contributions to public service, democratic growth, and the advancement of the Igbo cause. He noted that the Senator’s unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and good governance has continued to inspire confidence in the democratic process. Dr. Moghalu praised the Senator’s bold representation at the National Assembly, adding that his voice had become a rallying point for truth and progress, not just within Anambra Central, but across the South-East and beyond. He described Senator Umeh as a man of deep convictions and uncommon courage, whose legacy of leadership would outlive his time in public office. He prayed for God's c...

  The Labour Party Governorship Candidate in Anambra State, Dr. George Moghalu, has joined millions of Christians across Nigeria and beyond to celebrate His Grace, The Most Revd Dr. Henry Ndukuba, Primate and Metropolitan of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), on the joyful occasion of his 64th birthday. In a heartfelt message signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Onyebuchi Okoye, Dr. Moghalu described Archbishop Ndukuba as a faithful servant of God widely respected for his humility, spiritual depth, and visionary leadership. He noted that the Primate continues to be a shining example in both the Church and the nation, touching lives through his preaching, teaching, and tireless missionary work. Dr. Moghalu praised His Grace for his outstanding contributions to the spiritual growth of the Church. As Chairman of the Church of Nigeria’s Liturgy and Spirituality Committee, Archbishop Ndukuba has led several landmark initiatives that have deepened the faith of many. “Yo...

Barr Chidi Amamgbo has emerged the candidate of the African Democratic Congress, ADC for the August 16 Anambra South Senatorial Election. Amamgbo, a seasoned legal practitioner and community leader from Ihiala, emerged during the primary election of the party for the election held on Saturday in Nnewi. At the primary election, which was held in a peaceful environment, monitored by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Amamgbo unanimously emerged via a voice vote by delegates of the party drawn from the 7 local governments areas comprising the Senatorial zone. Addressing the party delegates, the State Chairman of ADC, Patrick Obianyo said the party has reformed and now offers a platform that can salvage the country from its present unpalatable socio-economic condition, and usher in a new era of betterment and people-driven governance. According to Obianyo, the primary was well contested, but other aspirants opted to step down for Barr Amamgbo, considering his...

  By O'star Eze The Nzukọ Ọdịnani Welfare Association (NOWA) announces her support for Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, in his commendable efforts to expose and prosecute charlatans who undermine the sanctity of Igbo Traditional Religion. In a press conference themed “Reclaiming Our Sacred Heritage: Eradicating Cultic Crimes and Traditional Abominations in Ọdịnani Igbo Nation,” NOWA outlined its mission to protect Igbo spirituality and morality. NOWA President-General, Nze Ezeafọ Onyebụchim Chiukwuemekalụm Izuegbu, condemned the rise of black magic, ritual killings, human trafficking, and fraudulent spiritual healers exploiting Ọdịnani for criminal gain. He highlighted abominations such as witchcraft, human sacrifices, and desecration of sacred spaces, declaring them contrary to authentic Igbo traditions. “Ọdịnani is light without evil; it promotes life and justice, not death or greed,” he stated. He stated NOWA’s Four-Point Action Plan as  Education: Organize se...