FACT REPORTERS NETWORK

  By Ebele Iyke Odili/Amaka Isikala  Anambra State Government has intensified campaign against fake and substandard products with a renewed multi-agency enforcement strategy aimed at sanitizing markets and protecting consumers across the state.  This was the focus of a press briefing held yesterday at the office of the Commissioner for Industry, Mr. Christian Udechukwu, in Awka. The meeting brought together representatives of key regulatory and security agencies, including Abdullahi Umar of the Department of State Services (DSS), Engr. Waribeko Fidelis of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and Barr. Kenneth Nwalaka of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). Each agency reaffirmed its readiness to work closely with the state government to ensure coordinated enforcement and the removal of harmful products from the markets. Speaking after shortly after the conference, Commissioner Udechukwu explained that the initiative was part of Governor Chukwuma So...

  By O'star Eze  Amid escalating tensions in the historic town of Enugwu-Agidi, Njikoka Local Government Area, a new investigative report has cast Hon. Chukwuebuka David Onuorah, the President-General (PG) of the Enugwu-Agidi Brotherly Union (EBU-Nigeria), in a light far removed from the villainous portrayal dominating recent headlines. Despite a barrage of accusations including land grabbing, illegal levies, and leadership overreach, this research uncovers a narrative of exceptional community service overshadowed by what sources describe as a deliberate smear campaign orchestrated from the palace of Igwe Michael Chidozie Okekeuche, the traditional ruler. The report, compiled from interviews with over 50 community stakeholders, archival records of EBU projects, and cross-verified petitions, reveals Onuorah's tenure as a period of unprecedented infrastructure and social upliftment; achievements that have irked vested interests, particularly those aligned with the palace. A Reco...

  By Ndife David, Awka The Nigerian Institution of Highway and Transportation Engineers (NIHTE), a division of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, has inaugurated its 4th Awka Branch Chairman during its Annual General Meeting held at the Ministry of Works Conference Hall, Awka, Anambra State.  The event had in attendance senior engineers, industry stakeholders and student members committed to advancing the state’s transportation infrastructure. Delivering the keynote address on Integrated Approaches to Rural Road Development: Engineering Innovation and Contractual Frameworks, Engr. Tony Nwafor MD Vertical Limits and Engr. Prof. Louis Orakwue SPC RAAMP in their presentations underscored the need for modern, collaborative methodologies to improve rural access roads. They highlighted how innovative engineering practices and effective contract administration are critical to unlocking agricultural productivity and supporting inclusive development. Representing the National Chairman,...

  ‎Kenechukwu Onyekwuluje  ‎Awka ‎The Anambra State Town Union Council (ASTUC) Youth Wing has honoured the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Queen Elizabeth Agwu, with the Transparent and Exemplary Leadership Service Award for her role in strengthening credible elections in the state. ‎ ‎Presenting the award in Awka, ASTUC Youth President-General, Comrade Ken Okoli, praised Dr. Agwu’s integrity and professionalism since assuming office in November 2022. He commended her for overseeing multiple elections, including what he described as the freest and most transparent gubernatorial election in Nigeria’s history, noting that her leadership has restored youths’ confidence in the electoral system. ‎ ‎Receiving the award, Dr. Agwu expressed surprise and gratitude, stating that the recognition was meaningful because it came from youths who had been quietly observing her work. She reflected on her commitment to fairness and credibility upon assuming office and highlighted eff...

  By Amaka Isikala/Ebele Iyke/odili In a bid to foster economic growth and boost international trade in Anambra State vis-a-vis Nigeria, the European Union (EU) has promised a continuous drive, which will be aimed at facilitating, supporting and promoting agro-business. The EU provides digital market place and is a matchmaking hub - a virtual space where Nigerian agro-business can connect with EU buyers, investors and partners to initiate export trade deals, investments and further collaborations. Anambra State Coordinator, Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr. Peter Udom made these clarifications while explaining NEPC’s programmes during a Southeast regional sensitization in Awka. He said, "we are a regional sensitization and export ready for SMEs in the South East; our duties include training in export procedures, compliance and giving guides on accessing export markets. "We also provide mentorship and technical support for value-chain actors, facilitating trade link...

  By Chike Mabene Mr. Governor of Anambra State, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo's Budget 2026 tagged, "Changing Gears 3.0: Solution Continues." aptly outlined a number of MUST-Dos necessary for the disruptive changes that he envisages will guarantee long term safety and prosperity, and ultimately the achievement of a "liveable and prosperous homeland" for Ndi Anambra.  Here are 20 key points to note from Mr. Governor Chukwuma Soludo's 2026 Budget presentation: 1. Budget Size: ₦757.88 billion, representing a 24.1% increase from 2025. 2. Capital Expenditure: ₦595.3 billion (79% of total budget), with 26.3% year-on-year growth. 3. Recurrent Expenditure: ₦162.6 billion (21% of total budget), with 16.6% year-on-year growth. 4. Budget Deficit: ₦225.7 billion (29.8% of total budget). 5. Funding: Hybrid options, including privatization proceeds, increased IGR, and concessionary borrowing. 6. No Borrowing: Soludo's administration has not borrowed to finance bu...

By O'star Eze  Doles Cash Gifts to the Elderly, Widows, Orphans Clears Hospital Bills for Indigents, Empowers Artisans, Traders, Others Commits 50% of His Assets to Charity and BenevolenceIt was a joyous celebration on Friday as political leaders, associates, friends, well-wishers, and relations in the state stormed the country home of former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olisa Metuh, in Nnewi, Anambra State, to mark his 60th birthday in a rare display of philanthropy, service to the underserved, and love for his people. The highlight of the birthday activities, which commenced on Thursday, was Friday’s endowment of hundreds of millions of Naira for various philanthropic gestures.  These included the clearance of medical bills for indebted patients at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi; care funds for elderly people aged 75 years and above; as well as cash gifts and essential items to widows and physically challenged ...

  By O'star Eze  The Former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olisa Metuh on Thursday splashed endowments ranging from scholarships, community facility projects, mobility aids for the physically challenged, assorted food items, cash gifts and other donations ahead of his 60th birthday on Friday, 28th November, 2025 Chief Metuh whose birthday trail blazed through his home town Nnewi, Anambra State on Thursday said he dedicated the landmark event to charity and service to humanity in thanksgiving to God for His boundless faithfulness and mercies in his life in the last six decades. As part of activities for the birthday Metuh on Thursday continued his endowment series which commenced on the previous day by paying homage to Igwe Nnewi, Igwe Kenneth Onyeneke Orizu III where he and his entourage of family members, friends, business associates and political allies received royal blessings and commendation from the royal father. The birthday tr...

By Chris Chikelue Anambra State Ministry of Health, has announced another round of free Hydrocelectomy to people living with hydrocele diseases in the state. This was made public by the Ministry of Health through the Department of Public Health and Disease Control. The free exercise which will be the fourth dispensation is co-sponsored by The Carter Center (TCC). According to the release the surgery will happen simultaneously within major government hospitals in the three central zones of the state. The hospitals and catchment Local Government Areas (LGAs) are, Umueri General Hospital (GH): Anambra East, Anambra West, Ayamelum and Oyi LGAs. "Enugwukwu GH: catchment LGAs are Njikoka, Awka South, Awka North and Dinukofia LGAs. "Ekwulobia GH: Aguata, Anaocha, Orumba North and South LGAs. Days of the free surgery is Friday, November 28, Saturday, November 29 and Tuesday December 2, 2025 from 7:30 in the beginning of the days. The release assured that the hydrocele surgery is safe...

By Chris Chikelue/Stan Nwakor The Commissioner for Health, Anambra State, Dr. Afam Obidike has inaugurated the Anambra State Technical Working Group (TWG) for Climate Change. This took place at the Data Operation Centre (DOP) of the Ministry on Wednesday, November 26. The Committee is scheduled to analyze the effect of climate change in the state as it concerns erosion, drainage system, Agriculture and other parts of the environment. Committee members include, the Permanent Secretary SMOH, Executive Secretary, Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ANPHCDA) all Directors, Heads of Departments and Focal persons of different programmes in the Ministry. Others are, Representatives from the State Emergency Management Agency, Ministry of Environment, Agriculture and representatives from the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH). The Programme Officer, Climate Change, Dr. Tochi Nweke commended the stakeholders for being present at the inauguration a...

  Onyekwuluje Kenechukwu  Awka.   ‎The President of the Cooperative Federation of Anambra State (COFAS) has unveiled a detailed action plan aimed at revitalising cooperative societies across the state, emphasising the need for renewed awareness, proper education and disciplined financial culture among members. ‎ ‎Speaking after a cooperative workshop held in Awka, the COFAS President, Professor Soludo, said the first and most urgent step toward rebuilding the sector is massive sensitisation. ‎ ‎“First of all, we must create awareness like we are doing now,” he stated. “Then we must pursue cooperative education, helping people understand the nitty-gritty of cooperative enterprise. Nobody can perform what he does not know.” ‎ ‎Also addressing participants, Dr. Nma Okechukwu highlighted the timeless value of cooperation in human progress. She stressed that cooperation remains the backbone of thriving enterprises, warning that businesses suffer where unity is lacking. She urg...

By Karen James  The Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (Ocha Brigade) has launched full-scale enforcement campaign to end street trading and improve environmental sanitation across Anambra State. The Managing Director of the Brigade, Comrade Celestine Anere, led the operation on Tuesday at the Onitsha Main Market, declaring that the agency will no longer tolerate any form of street trading or environmental violations. He stated that the Brigade will adopt a firm and uncompromising approach in enforcing state environmental laws, warning that offenders will receive no sympathy or exemptions. Comrade Anere emphasized the importance of keeping all drainages clean and fully desilted, noting that any neglect will attract strict penalties. He explained that the clean-up and enforcement exercise will be continuous, stressing that the state must get it right to maintain a safe and healthy environment. According to him, enforcement of environmental regulations in every locality will continu...

  By O'star Eze  The Anambra State Government has officially confirmed Hon. Chukwuebuka David Onuorah as the authentic President General of the Enugwu-Agidi Brotherly Union, dismissing false reports of suspension circulating on social media.  This assurance was made clear in a communiqué issued on November 26, 2025, by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs.  The statement came after a stakeholders’ meeting held at Government House, Awka. The communiqué, signed by Honourable Commissioner TonyCollins Nwabunwanne, explicitly stated that Onuorah remains the substantive leader of the union.  It was also copied to other key authorities including the police, security agencies, and the traditional ruler of Enugwu-Agidi, reinforcing the government’s position. Fresh executive committee elections for the union have been scheduled for December 29, 2025.  The government outlined strict modalities to ensure the elections are transparent, inc...

  By Ndife David, Nteje. In a major boost to rural infrastructure, addressing essential community needs and promoting sustainable grassroot development, the Mayor of Oyi Local Government Area, Hon. Dr. Emma Nweke, earlier today officially commissioned two motorized, solar-powered boreholes today in Awkuzu and Nteje communities.  The projects, located in Ama Udala Village in Dusogu, Awkuzu, and Ama Obi-Ogbo Agwa in Ifite Nteje, are expected to dramatically improve sustainable access to clean, reliable and free water to enhance public health and overall well-being of community residents in Oyi Local Government Area. The commissioning ceremony attracted a large turnout of stakeholders, including Oyi Local Government officials, traditional leaders, women’s groups, party faithful, amongst others. In his remarks, Dr. Nweke lauded the communities for their spirited participation in the recent Anambra governorship election. He said the borehole project is just one of several life-tran...

  By: O'star Eze  The Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC) Nnewi, in partnership with the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room and with funding from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) through the ALGAF Project, has intensified its campaign to strengthen grassroots governance in Anambra State by equipping 45 specially selected fellows with the tools to demand accountability from local government chairmen. The fellows;15, drawn from each of the state’s three senatorial zones, are being trained through a monthly leadership and governance workshop series designed to sharpen their advocacy, research, and engagement skills. At the latest session held in Awka, Anambra State, participants were taken through two critical topics: “Human Rights Principles in Local Governance” facilitated by seasoned legal practitioner Mrs. Nkechi Nnoli, and “Budget Cycle and Public Procurement Processes” delivered by Mrs. Ugochi Freeman, Executive Director of Creative ...

  O'star Eze  A wave of confusion and anger has swept through the Enugwu-Agidi community following the circulation of a document dated November 20, 2025, claiming to suspend the President General of the Enugwu-Agidi Brotherly Union (EBU-Nigeria), Hon. Ebuka Onuorah, with immediate effect. The letter, which lists seventeen allegations ranging from financial impropriety to land-grab complicity and the use of thugs, has been widely condemned as a poorly executed forgery aimed at destabilising the union ahead of its December General Conference. In a prompt and authoritative response issued yesterday, the Public Relations Officer of the union, Comrade Amaku (Ive Dinma), declared the suspension letter legally baseless and constitutionally impossible.  He reminded members that the union’s constitution explicitly reserves the power to remove an elected officer, including the President General, to the General Conference alone, and that only the President General himself has the ri...

  By Onyekwuluje Kenechukwu  Awka ‎The youth wing of the Association of Town Unions (ASTUC) has conferred its prestigious Mega Star Role Model Awards on three distinguished personalities selected from the 179 communities of Anambra State. ‎ ‎The honourees  Dr. Chinedu Umeadi (Anambra Central), Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Basil Ekwunife (Anambra North), and Chief Ebuka Onunkwo (Anambra South) — were celebrated yesterday at the old Government House, Awka, for their notable contributions to youth development, community upliftment, and social impact across the state. ‎ ‎During the ceremony, each awardee expressed gratitude to ASTUC Youths for recognising their efforts. ‎ ‎Chief Ebuka Onunkwo, while receiving his award, said he was delighted that his long-standing support for Anambra youths continues to be appreciated. He pledged to remain committed to youth empowerment and development initiatives. ‎ ‎Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Basil Ekwunife thanked God for the honour, noting that he was surpr...

  By: O'star Eze  A tragic fire incident in Ekwusigo Local Government Area on November 21st, 2025, was caused by a fatal road accident involving a tanker truck and other vehicles, not an armed group attack as falsely reported on social media. According to the Anambra State Police Command, a tanker carrying petrol (PMS) collided with a Toyota Corolla early that morning, causing the tanker to explode and ignite both vehicles along with some nearby shops.  A tricycle (Keke) caught in the blaze resulted in the death of its rider who was fatally burned. The police have launched an investigation to identify the drivers involved and take necessary actions.  The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has also ordered a probe into the fake social media reports, aimed at arresting those who spread misinformation and panic across the state. SP Ikenga Tochukwu, Police Public Relations Officer, reiterated the police command’s dedication to public safety and committed to provi...

  Chief Dr Ebuka Onunkwo has donated the sum of ₦10 million to victims of the recent fire disaster that ravaged Udorji Road in Ozubulu, Ekwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State, on 21 November 2025. The philanthropist and business magnate paid an unscheduled visit to the scene of the incident, which resulted from a petrol tanker accident and destroyed several shops and vehicles. During the visit, Dr Onunkwo assessed the extent of the damage and engaged with victims and community leaders. He expressed profound sympathy for those who lost property and sources of livelihood, describing the incident as deeply heartbreaking. He urged the victims to organise themselves and visit his office at Seahorse Lubricant Industries Ltd on Tuesday for further engagement. Dr Onunkwo assured the affected residents of his continuous support and reiterated his commitment to easing their suffering. He called on relevant authorities and other well-meaning Nigerians to join hands in providing reli...

  By O'star Eze   In a successful intelligence-driven operation, the Anambra State Police Command recovered a stolen 3-year-old girl from Nnobi, Idemili South Local Government Area, following a disturbing case of child abduction and trafficking. The Rapid Response Squad in Awkuzu recovered the toddler in the early hours of November 21, 2025, after a case involving conspiracy, child stealing, and harbouring was transferred from Ogbaru Division, Atani.  The child has since been safely reunited with her parents. Preliminary investigations revealed that the child was stolen by Miss Chioma Anioma, an apprentice to the victim’s family.  After realizing police were closing in, Chioma fled to Calabar, Cross River State, where she allegedly sold the child to another suspect who is now on the run.  To evade capture, Chioma later abandoned the child at Nnobi and disclosed the location to the victim's parents. The Anambra Police are intensifying efforts to trace and ar...

  By O'star Eze  Hon. Ebuka David Onuorah, President-General of Enugwu-Agidi community since December 2022, has been praised widely for his transformative leadership and commitment to community development.  Despite facing controversies, many community members and stakeholders commend his efforts to improve infrastructure, security, and welfare. Under Hon. Onuorah’s leadership, Enugwu-Agidi has witnessed substantial progress with completed infrastructure projects such as the Enugwu-Agidi Junction to Ugwu-Ogwu Road, revitalized Secretariat Complex, newly installed street lighting, and renovated health centers.  His administration has focused on upgrading security by reforming the community vigilante group, enhancing the safety of residents and promoting peace. Community welfare initiatives spearheaded by Onuorah include bursaries for indigent students, support for widows and the elderly, and youth empowerment programs.  The Enugwu-Agidi Brotherly Union, under his...

By Cynthia Onwudiwe The integrity of Nigeria’s judicial system has once again come under public scrutiny following two rapid and consequential rulings delivered by Hon. Justice Tagbo Anieto of the Anambra State High Court, Otuocha. The decisions, handed down within 24 hours of each other, emerged at a time when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has publicly cautioned judges and Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) to uphold professional ethics and resist corruption, emphasising that “justice is not for sale.” His remarks set the tone for intensifying national attention on judicial conduct. The first case, Suit No. OT/169/2021 delivered on July 24, 2025, centred on the legitimacy of a contract executed by an EXCO previously invalidated by court decisions. Justice Anieto ruled that the 1st Defendant lacked the legal capacity to enter the agreement, declaring that the plaintiff’s claims “hang on nothing at all” because the foundational document relied upon—Exhibit K2—was unenforceable. The decisi...

By Our Reporter Ikenga Abiama Dynasty Foundation of Igboland, a foremost institution dedicated to the preservation of Igbo heritage, justice, and the welfare of Ndigbo, has express deep concern over dire consequences of the life jail sentence handed down to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.  The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) was convicted on seven counts of terrorism-related charges and sentenced to life imprisonment by Justice James Omotosho of Federal High Court, Abuja on Thursday, November 20, 2025.  Reacting to the widespread outrage that trailed the judgment, in a statement issued on Friday, the foundation noted that the verdict, if allowed to stand, have wider ramifications to Ndigbo and Nigeria in general.  The statement signed by the foundation's chairperson, Amb. Dr. Uba Iwunwa, Queen Ugobeze, said: "We stand in solidarity with the multitude of voices across Igboland and beyond who see this judgment not as an act of justice, but as a travesty that deepens th...

By: O'star Eze  As the year draws to a close, the Anambra State Police Command has issued a security advisory to all residents, visitors, business owners, and road users across the state regarding heightened risks during the Ember Months (September to December).  The period typically sees increased commercial activities, travel, and celebrations, but also a rise in criminal activities. Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, stated that the Command is fully committed to maintaining safety and security throughout this period.  Police operations have been intensified with increased patrols, stop-and-searches, and joint security deployments at markets, places of worship, and major transportation hubs. The CP urged the public to remain vigilant by avoiding unnecessary night travel, securing their homes and businesses, and reporting suspicious activities promptly.  Communities are encouraged to strengthen cooperation with the police to enhance local security. Motorists...

  By O'star Eze  The President-General of Enugwu-Agidi community, Hon. Ambassador Chukwuebuka David Onuorah, has urged all sons and daughters of the town living in cities and overseas to return home this Christmas. Speaking yesterday, Tuesday November 18, at his Country Home in Enugwu-Agidi, Onuorah said the community is now very safe because of the strong security system put in place. He assured everyone that vigilante groups, police, and modern security gadgets like CCTV cameras his administration installed, are working day and night to protect lives and property. “Come home and enjoy Christmas with your family and old friends. There is nothing like eating your mother’s soup, dancing with your people, and sleeping in your father’s compound. It heals the heart and brings joy,” he said. The PG also reminded indigenes that Governor Chukwuma Soludo wants every Anambra person to “think home” and invest in the state so that Anambra can become like Dubai and Taiwan of Africa. Onuor...