News

Perspective – Infrastructure: Debunking Abia State Government’s falsehood on Deputy Speaker Kalu

Published

6 months ago

February 3, 2026

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Being a press statement from the office of the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives

Governance, everywhere, is a convenanted social contract with the people and, therefore, passes as a serious business run with all openness. But, unfortunately, what has been going on in Abia State for some time now has been propaganda, where a deluge of lies is dished out to the people on a regular basis by the administration of Dr. Alex Otti.At every turn, the government makes deliberate efforts to conceal public information, yet echoes transparency and accountability.

However, this has been exposed. We are compelled to believe that the aides of the governor are mainly the masterminds of the concoctions, aiming to hoodwink the people and brew unnecessary face-offs.Such tissues of lies resurfaced in the baseless allegations and misinformation peddled in a recent press statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha about a piece of land located along Umuahia-Bende Road and donated for a federal government housing scheme attracted by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and member representing the good people of Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Ph.D, LL.D, CFR.

The Office of the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, has taken notice of the press statement, decrying the spread of lies and misinformation.It is nothing but a tissue of falsehood aimed at tarnishing the reputation of the Deputy Speaker.To put the record straight, the land in question is communally owned and was donated by the Deputy Speaker’s Umuoche community in Bende.

There was no allocation but a donation. The claim of allocating the land by the government for the project is proof that the author of the press statement was ignorant of the facts. We recall that the State government pulled strings to move the housing estate away from Bende town but the Deputy Speaker stood his grounds, insisting that the project was originally billed to be sited along Umuahia-Bende-Ohafia corridor. So, one wonders why the Otti’s administration is now making it look like it was based on allocation by the government.

The second notable issue raised is the alleged demolition of a school building in Bende without the consent of the government. This is another barefaced lie by the Otti’s government.To set the record straight, the Deputy Speaker, in his generosity, had initially planned to build a smart exam centre on a plot where a dilapidated, age-stricken mud school building stood, a building originally constructed through self-help efforts by the Umuoche community after the civil war of over 50 years ago.

This decision came after the Deputy Speaker had already taken steps to improve the school by constructing a block of classrooms and a perimeter fence to secure the premises.However, just as construction was about to begin on the exam centre, a government contractor appeared, expressing interest in the same location for a government smart school project.

This happened when the government came under heavy criticism on its handling of smart schools project in Abia State.The government’s decision to insist on this specific location, despite other available spaces in the premises, raised concerns. Tensions later escalated when hoodlums were deployed to halt the construction, sparking community resistance and police intervention to restore order.

In the end, the government contractor approached the Deputy Speaker with decency and decorum, pleading to use the space, which he graciously agreed to relinquish.Curiously, despite the understanding, no further development has occurred on the site since then, lending credence to the speculation that the only objective of the government was to stop the Deputy Speaker from building the project on the site and not really the construction of any audio smart school.Another project the State government has selfishly stifled its progress is the 50 bed hospital being constructed in Eluokwe Community School, Amaukwu Igbere. We urge the public to recognize the Deputy Speaker’s genuine effort to address the healthcare needs of seven communities of Igbere, Ward B.

The communities had no functional health facility, and they approached him with the request. He then facilitated the construction of the 50-bed hospital to be located within Eluokwe community school compound, with the communities’ approval and agreement on the location.Both the location for the contruction and the contractor handling the job are unknown to the Deputy Speaker. For emphasis sake, legislators facilitate projects without being involved in the execution process. It is the work of the relevant supervising MDAs to do. So, how then could the Deputy Speaker have gone and demolished a building to construct a new one?If it must be stated, it was the agents of the State government that arrested the project supervisor and temporarily stopped work at the site.

It is noteworthy that the Deputy Speaker has been attracting projects to the State even before this administration for which he was accorded commendations and not condemnation as the case now. We therefore want to put it on record that the allegations that the Deputy Speaker pulled down a school building is absolutely unfounded and lacks merit. One wonders how far the government is willing to go on its propaganda machinery to continue deceiving Ndi Abia.A situation where officials of the State at all levels are let loose like rabid dogs and encouraged to pour invectives and vituperations on those who should be partners in the development of the State is absolutely condemnable. Sadly, the government has refused to draw the line between propaganda and good governance.But while we pick holes in the pettiness that dots Otti’s style of governance, we must however commend the governor for the allocation of land in Umuahia for the ongoing construction of the Industrial Court attracted by the Deputy Speaker.

The Deputy Speaker, by any stretch of imagination and conceivable stance, deserves applause for striving to attract projects to shore up the infrastructure needs of the State rather than being maligned.

Hurling abuses at him simply depicts ingratitude. But for us, infrastructure is governance, not politics.And that is why it amazes us that a brilliant media outing of the Deputy Speaker would be misconstrued and attacked in such a ferocious manner. It beats one’s imagination that Otti’s administration is more interested in hurrying to make enemies for itself than friends that can help it achieve more for the people.

But deceptive manoeuvrings are not a good style of governance and we say no to propagandists masquerading as leaders of Abia State. But if they have elevated propaganda to an art, then, they should not pretend to be saints. Such a hypocritical disposition undermines the credibility of government and makes it less people-oriented.On the allegation that the APC door has been shut on Otti: this is not the truth. The press conference was well recorded for anyone to replay the Deputy Speaker and take him on his words. Simply put, he had, prior to now, invited the governor over to APC based on their friendship and the fact that both of them were together in the party. It was a brotherly call to return home. But the governor is a man, capable of chewing his own cud and taking his own decisions. If he decides to return to the party, better for him. It means he will get more support from the Deputy Speaker and other APC stalwarts in the State. If otherwise, there is still no animosity, but to misinterpret the situation is to sow the seed of discord.We will continue to urge Abia people to see through the diversionary tactics of the government and demand better from the administration.

Finally, the Deputy Speaker notes with concern the Governor’s apparent reluctance to pursue peaceful coexistence, and respectfully urges a reconsideration of this stance in the best interest of Abia State.

Scripted by:

Levinus Nwabughiogu, Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria

News

ABIA 2027: Anosike Projects people-orientef governance

Published

1 day ago

August 3, 2026

csunews

……….promises welfare reforms ahead of polls

Stephanie Clems, Umuahia

The gubernatorial hopeful of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2027 election in Abia State, Dr. Kelechi Anosike’s message of people-centred governance, has elicited public discourse.

His supporters have also expressed optimism over his vision for the state’s future.

Although campaigns are yet to officially commence, Anosike has attracted positive receptions at several public engagements, with many supporters describing him as a leader whose ideas on governance and social welfare resonate with the aspirations of ordinary Abia residents.

He had always stated his vision for the state, which he said his administration would prioritize the welfare of the people, stressing that government must first guarantee the well-being of its citizens before embarking on ambitious infrastructure development.

According to him, “The whole essence of government is to serve the people first. The people need to be alive first to use any infrastructure. We shall build lives before we build infrastructure,” he said.

Anosike also assured of food security across the state, expressing confidence that policies under his administration would make food more available and affordable.

“If you have no food today or eat only once a day, when I assume office in 2027, you will have three square meals and even snacks in between because there will be food everywhere,” he said.

The PDP governorship candidate further pledged to make healthcare more affordable by introducing a comprehensive health insurance scheme designed to reduce the cost of medical care for Abians.

He explained that expanding access to quality and affordable healthcare would be a major priority of his administration, ensuring that families no longer face undue financial hardship in accessing essential medical services.

On workers’ welfare, Anosike promised to uphold due process in the public service, maintaining that employees should only retire in accordance with the provisions of the law.

“As a welfarist, we play by the rules. If the law says you work for 35 years or retire at 60 years of age, that is what should apply. If you have not attained either of those milestones, a welfarist will not retire you.

That is why I have said I will recall and reinstate those 10,000 workers who were retired prematurely in Abia State,” he stated.

Reiterating his philosophy of governance, Anosike referenced Mahatma Gandhi’s famous quote: “Not even God will preach the gospel to a hungry man without first offering him bread,” emphasizing that the welfare of the people would remain the foundation of his administration.

As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 elections, Anosike’s message continues focus on social welfare, affordable healthcare, food security, workers’ rights, and good governance to improve lives.

Foreign

Nigeria to digitise consular services in Spain, deepen diaspora engagement

Published

1 week ago

July 27, 2026

csunews

By Editor, Umuahia

The Nigerian Embassy in Madrid has disclosed plans to digitise records of Nigerians resident in Spain and introduce Total Quality Management (TQM) principles to improve consular service delivery.

This is aimed at strengthening citizen-centred diplomacy and enhancing engagement with the Nigerian diaspora.

The initiatives were announced by Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain, Ambassador Okezie Ikpeazu, during a meeting with the Executive Committee of the Federation of Nigerian Communities in Spain (FNCS) at the consulate in Madrid.

Ikpeazu said the digitisation initiative would create a comprehensive database of Nigerians in Spain, enabling the Mission to improve communication, respond more efficiently to consular requests and deliver faster, technology-driven services.

“Our goal is to build a responsive, efficient and truly citizen-centred Mission that better serves Nigerians in Spain,” the ambassador said.

He added that the adoption of Total Quality Management principles would strengthen accountability, professionalism and service standards across the Embassy in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to improved service delivery.

The Ambassador reaffirmed that the welfare, protection and effective representation of Nigerians abroad remain central to the Mission’s mandate and pledged continued collaboration with the Nigerian community in Spain.

Ikpeazu said the Embassy would continue engaging relevant authorities and stakeholders on initiatives that promote the interests of Nigerians in Spain while advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives.

He said the Mission remains committed to implementing the Federal Government’s 4-D foreign policy framework of Democracy, Development, Demography and Diaspora, noting that stronger engagement with Nigerians abroad, improved service delivery and strategic partnerships with the diaspora are essential to advancing Nigeria’s national development and international standing.

“Our engagement with Nigerians in Spain reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to the 4-D foreign policy framework. The diaspora remains a vital partner in promoting Nigeria’s development and strengthening our global presence,” Ikpeazu said.

The Ambassador also urged Nigerians resident in Spain to remain law-abiding and continue projecting a positive image of Nigeria by respecting the laws and institutions of their host country.

“Your conduct reflects the image of Nigeria. Lead with integrity, promote unity and continue to be worthy ambassadors of our nation,” he said.

The FNCS delegation, led by its President, Hon. Jackson Oboh, welcomed the Embassy’s commitment to closer engagement while highlighting issues affecting Nigerians across Spain.

Among the concerns raised was the restoration of direct flight connectivity between Nigeria and Spain, which the federation said would facilitate travel, promote trade and investment, boost tourism and strengthen bilateral relations.

“Direct flights will ease travel, stimulate business and further deepen relations between Nigeria and Spain,” Oboh said.

Both parties agreed to institutionalise regular consultations between the Embassy and the Federation of Nigerian Communities in Spain to strengthen collaboration, improve the welfare of Nigerians in Spain and support more effective consular service delivery.

The engagement underscores Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening ties with its diaspora community in line with the Federal Government’s 4-D foreign policy framework, which recognises Nigerians abroad as strategic partners in advancing national development, economic diplomacy and stronger bilateral relations.

News

2027 general elections: Obingwa West throws weight behind PDP, drums support for Appolos, Anosike

Published

4 weeks ago

July 7, 2026

csunews

Stephanie Clem’s, Umuahia

The people of Obingwa West in Obingwa Local Government Area of Abia State have declared their support for the gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Kelechi Anosike, and the party’s House of Assembly candidate for the state Constituency, Enyinnaya Appolos, ahead of the 2027 general election.

The declaration was made during a well-attended thank-you rally that took place at the country home of Appolos in Isiko, where party faithful, community leaders, and supporters gathered to reaffirm their commitment to the PDP and its candidates.

Addressing the gathering, Appolos expressed profound gratitude to the leadership and members of the PDP for entrusting him with the party’s ticket to contest the Obingwa West state constituency seat.

He also thanked party members for nominating Dr. Kelechi Anosike as the party’s gubernatorial candidate for the 2027 election.

He said that the confidence reposed in both candidates was a responsibility they would repay through dedication, hard work, and victory at the polls.

Appolos assured supporters that the PDP was fully prepared for the forthcoming elections, urging members not to be distracted by political developments but to remain united, committed, and resolute in their determination to return the party to Government House and retain the Obingwa West state assembly seat.

“The only reason I have called you together today is to thank you for nominating me as the PDP candidate for Obingwa West state constituency and for nominating Dr. Kelechi Anosike as our governorship candidate.

“I want to assure you that the PDP is fully prepared for the 2027 election, and by the grace of God, we shall emerge victorious.

“I also assure every loyal party member working tirelessly for our success that everyone who contributes to the party’s victory will equally share in the benefits of that victory,” he said.

Appolos further called on party members to intensify grassroots mobilisation across all wards and polling units, stressing that the PDP’s victory would depend on unity, discipline, and sustained engagement with the electorate.

Also speaking, the leader of the PDP in Obingwa West, Chief Ezinwa Abiri, reaffirmed the party’s confidence in both candidates, describing them as credible and capable leaders with the experience, competence, and commitment to advance the interests of the people.

Similarly, the PDP Chairman in Obingwa Local Government Area, Ahamefula Egbulefu, assured party members that the party structure in the area remained united and fully committed to delivering overwhelming victories for Dr. Kelechi Anosike in the gubernatorial election and Enyinnaya Appolos in the Obingwa West state assembly contest.

The high point of the rally was the formal presentation of the PDP flag to Appolos as the party’s standard-bearer for the Obingwa West State Constituency election.

The event also witnessed the official return of Chief I. I. Nwamuo, a former Deputy Chairman of Obingwa Local Government Area, to the PDP. Declaring his return to the party, Nwamuo pledged to work assiduously with other party faithful to ensure the PDP records a resounding victory in the 2027 general election.

The rally attracted party executive, ward leaders, youth and women groups, traditional stakeholders, and supporters from across Obingwa West, all of whom pledged to intensify grassroots mobilisation to secure decisive victories for the PDP and its candidates in the 2027 polls.