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Anambra election: Fear, doubts over November polls as Nigerian govt mobilizes against unknown gunmen

Published

4 years ago

October 11, 2021

In less than one month, eligible voters in Anambra State will file out to elect a new Governor for the State. There have, however, been controversies over the election as many believe that the election is already threatened. This is because of the spate of violence in the state, which has for months remained sustained.

The first real doubt about the election holding first came in March 2021, when some unidentified gunmen stormed the home town of Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, Isuofia in Aguata LGA of Anambra State and attacked a gathering where he was speaking with young people about his vision for the state. Soludo is the candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) for next month’s election.

The gunmen came at a time when Soludo was still struggling as an aspirant to get the ticket of APGA. Even before the attack on Soludo, there have been sustained attacks on federal establishments, including Police Stations, Correctional Centers and burning of vehicles belonging to government establishments, including attack on INEC. The attack on Soludo, however, gave it a political coloration, leaving all with the question of whether the election would hold or not.

In the last few weeks, the level of insecurity in the State has become alarming. It came to the climax penultimate week when Dr. Chike Akunyili, the widower of the late former Minister of Information and former Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Dora Akunyili, was murdered in the most gruesome manner, along with eight others.

Before then, in Ajalli, Orumba North Local Government Area, a police station was attacked and two policemen killed. Also, the vehicle of a member of the House of Representatives and former PDP governorship aspirant, Hon. Chris Azubogu was attacked, and his driver killed.

The gunmen also set ablaze the offices of the Department of State Services (DSS) and Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Nnewi, Anambra State, leaving two people dead on their trail. Also set ablaze was the Nnewi country home of a Lagos-based chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Joe Igbokwe, and the home of another prominent son of Nnewi and former minister, Dr. Chu Okongwu, which was also invaded and burnt down.

In most of the incidents, eyewitnesses have pointed at the separatist group; Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), even though the group has been struggling to extricate itself from it. Those who have witnessed scenes of attack always say the heavily armed groups have always passed one message for their lucky victims who escaped alive to go and tell the concerned authorities that there will be no election in Anambra State.

Away from IPOB, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) have been in a war of words over who is responsible for the attacks in the State.

The APC had first accused APGA of not doing enough to stem the tide of insecurity in the state. Senator Andy Uba, the party’s governorship candidate, had accused Governor Willie Obiano of having a hand in the increasing violence in the State for the purpose of putting off the scheduled election.

Uba said with the huge monthly security vote collected by the governor and his wife, the security of the State ought to be better managed. Uba who spoke through the media director of his campaign organisation, Hon. Afam Ogene said: “Each time Gov Obiano clownishly adorns himself in military camouflage, does he do so for mere comic display?”

But in a swift response, APGA stated that by accusing Governor Willie Obiano of having a hand in the insecurity in the state, the APC was indirectly accusing President Muhammadu Buhari of ineptitude, since the president is the Chief Security Officer of the country.

The state Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Mr C. Don Adinuba who also doubles as the Director of Media and Publicity of the Soludo Campaign organization, argued that the “Anambra APC indicts President Buhari anytime it comments gratuitously on a negative security development in the state. President Buhari, not Governor Willie Obiano, is the Commander in Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces and head of all security agencies in the country. Security is on the Exclusive List of the 1999 Constitution, as amended.

“Each of the 36 state governors in the federation is merely the titular chief security officer of his state. No governor has control over the police force or the Department of State Services or the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in his state, let alone any of the Armed Forces. Even the Anambra Vigilante Group (AVG) is supervised by the state police command, like any other state vigilante service,” Adinuba explained.

As the brickbat continues, there have been arguments about whether there will be election in the state or not. Attorney General of the federation, Abubakar Malami reacting to this said the federal government was determined to ensure that elections hold, and that even if it means imposing an emergency rule in Anambra, it will not hesitate.

Malami has, howeve,r been roundly condemned for the statement, with many stating that he has an ulterior motive by making such an utterance, especially, being that he is a member of the APC campaign council in the state.

Governor Willie Obiano who visited President Muhammadu Buhari on the issue said: “I was warmly received today at the State House in Abuja by President Muhammadu Buhari. I reported the statement credited to the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami to him. The Minister had threatened that the federal government will impose a state of emergency on Anambra State over security challenges.

“The President assured me and Ndi Anambra that the federal government is not contemplating taking such drastic action. Rather, President Buhari said that the federal government will increase its support to security agencies operating in Anambra State to contain the challenges. Among other measures, the President said that there will be more booths on the ground”.

Obiano said that President Buhari frowned at those who use his name and that of the federal government to intimidate Anambra voters. “We also discussed the November 6th. 2021 Anambra gubernatorial election. President Buhari assured me that he will not support intimidation of the electorates in any form, and promised that the federal government will support INEC and other agencies connected with the election to ensure the conduct of a free, fair and credible Anambra gubernatorial elections”.

On the feasibility of elections holding in Anambra State, the federal government has responded by launching operation Golden Dawn, not only for Anambra State, but for the entire South east. DAILY POST confirms that there is a massive presence of the military and mobile police operatives in all corners of Anambra State.

Hon Emeka Aforka, a member of the House of Assembly, while reacting said: “Anambra has not recorded death above 15 persons since the new scales of violence in the state. For a state that has for the past 7 years enjoyed well-deserved reputation of being Nigeria’s safest and most peaceful state.

“Anambra has not recorded a fraction of casualties the nation has seen in places like Borno, Zamfara, Katsina, Benue, Plateau, Yobe, Niger, Adamawa, Taraba, amongst others, where terrorists have killed several thousands of civilians and attacked military formations. The bandits operating in Northern part of the country have even brought down some sophisticated combat aircraft, were elections not held successfully in these states in 2019?

“Is the number of victims of the politically motivated violence in Anambra State anything near what the nation has seen even in such states as Imo and Ebonyi controlled by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)? Why hasn’t Malami considered a state of emergency in these APC-controlled states? Anambra will hold its election, and it will be peaceful,” he declared.

Echoing same stand, A human rights Lawyer, Barr Kelechi Eze who spoke with DAILY POST said, “Let us assume that the insecurity continues, have there not been elections in other states in the North, even in the heat of terrorists attacks? I am very confident that elections will hold in Anambra. The state governor has said he is ready for the election, the APGA, APC and even PDP have also said same. So, is it people from other states as the governor has said that will come and destabilize what we are doing here?

“It is a one-state election, and so all focus would be here. I think the federal government can also mobilize to ensure that the state is better protected for the election.”

Daily Post

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Abeokuta shuts down as dignitaries gather for wedding of Yemi Kolapo’s daughter

Published

6 months ago

September 1, 2025

Trends Admin

Abeokuta shuts down as dignitaries gather for wedding of Yemi Kolapo’s daughter

Obasanjo, Emir Sanusi, Top Generals, Politicians, Media Icons, Nollywood Stars Grace Grand Celebration

The ancient city of Abeokuta stood still on Saturday, August 23, 2025, as a constellation of Nigeria’s most influential figures converged for the Nikkah (wedding) of Faizah Omoteniola Kolapo, daughter of Dr. Yemi Kolapo, Publisher of The Point Newspaper and Iya Sunnah of Egbaland, and AbdulHakeem Jimoh, son of retired military officer, Brig. Gen. Olanrewaju Jimoh.

A celebration of love and legacy

The beautifully adorned marquee of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library served as the venue for the grand affair. The event attracted guests from across the country and beyond, paying tribute to the philanthropic legacies of both families, according to a report by Freedomonline.

Dr. Kolapo, who is also President of the Media Transformation and Empowerment Foundation and Ameerah General of Ogun State, received high praise for her impact in media and religious spheres.

The groom’s father, Brig. Gen. Jimoh (rtd), was equally celebrated for his years of service and contributions to the society.

Sanusi, Obasanjo, Amosun lead distinguished guests

Among the most prominent guests was His Royal Highness Muhammadu Sanusi II, Emir of Kano and ex-Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria. Despite last-minute travel changes due to the burial of the Emir of Zuru, Sanusi ensured his presence, describing it as a personal duty to honour Dr. Kolapo.

Other notable figures in attendance are:

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and his wife, Chief (Mrs) Bola Obasanjo
Senator Ibikunle Amosun, former Governor of Ogun State
Aremo Olusegun Osoba, veteran journalist and former Ogun State Governor
Oba (Prof.) Saka Matemilola, the Olowu of Owu Kingdom
Ambassador Sarafa Isola, former Nigerian High Commissioner to the UK
Capt. Raji Rasheed (rtd), former Military Administrator of Sokoto State and Baba Adinni of Egbaland
Otunba Oyewole Fasawe, businessman and political associate of Obasanjo

Governors, senators and political stalwarts present

Kogi State Governor Alhaji Usman Ododo, who lost his father just two days prior, was represented by the state’s Commissioner for Finance, Asiwaju Asiru Idris, alongside a team of special advisers.

Other political dignitaries included:

Senator Shuaib Salisu (Ogun Central)
Senator Lekan Mustapha, Aare Musulumi of Ogun State
Senator Adesoji Akanbi, Okanlomo of Ibadaland
Hon. Ladi Adebutu, PDP chieftain
Hon. Segun Showunmi, Convener of The Alternative
Alhaja Salmot Badru, former Ogun Deputy Governor
Rt. Hon. Suraj Adekunbi, two-term Speaker, Ogun Assembly
Prof. Anthony Kila, Pro-Chancellor, Michael & Cecilia Ibru University
Chief Ralphs Nwosu, Founding Chairman, African Democratic Congress

Strong media presence

The Nigerian media industry showed up in full force. Attendees included:

Mr. Ademola Osinubi and Mr. Joseph Adeyeye, former and current MDs of Punch Newspapers
Mr. Gbemiga Ogunleye, ex-Provost, NIJ
Chief Raheem Adedoyin, Secretary-General, International Press Institute
Mrs. Funke Egbemode, ex-Osun Information Commissioner and past NGE President
Mr. Mustapha Isah, former NGE President
Mr. Femi Adesina, ex-presidential spokesman
Dr. Reuben Abati, media personality and former presidential aide
Mr. Tunde Rahman, SSA on Media to President Tinubu
Mr. Eze Anaba, current NGE President
Chief Chris Isiguzo, NUJ leader
Dr. Kabir Garba, NGE Vice President
Dr. Lasisi Olagunju, Saturday Tribune Editor

Corporate communications heads from top banks and firms also attended, including:

Nasir Ramon (UBA)
Kunle Aderinokun (Access Bank)
Tajudeen Ahmed (BUA Industries)

Clerics and Islamic scholars deliver powerful messages

The spiritual aspect of the Nikkah was led by top Islamic scholars, including:

Sheikh Saadallah Bamgbola, Chief Imam of Egbaland
Sheikh AbdulQuadr Junaid, Chief Imam of Remoland

Prof. Kamaldeen Balogun, Chief Imam of Gbagura and wedding lecturer

Sheikh Sulaimon Farouk Onikijipa, Grand Mufti of Ilorin
Sheikh Sulaiman AbdulAzeez, Imam Gambary of Ilorin

Prof. Balogun emphasized loyalty, patience, and mutual support in his sermon. The Emir of Kano also offered heartfelt advice: “In everything you do in marriage, ask yourself — is this something you would do to someone you truly love?”

Military brass and public service titans in attendance

Serving and retired top brass of the military added weight to the guest list. These included:

Maj. Gen. RO Yusuff (rtd)
Maj. Gen. JB Olawumi (rtd)
Maj. Gen. Oyefesobi (rtd)
Maj. Gen. Ajetunmobi, Maj. Gen. Ogunlade, AVM Demola Durotoye (rtd)
Maj. Gen. Faruk Mijinyawa, GOC 81 Division Lagos
Rear Admirals Imam and Olanrewaju
Brig. Gen. GU Nwamba, Commander, 35 Arty Brigade, Alamala
Maj. Gen. BO Sawyerr, among others

Star Power: Nollywood graces the occasion

The wedding also sparkled with the presence of Nollywood royalty:

Chief Adebayo Salami (Oga Bello)
Fathia Balogun, Bimbo Akintola, Toyin Abraham and husband
Fausat Balogun (Madam Saje)
Doyin Kukoyi, media influencer Queen Zara Onyinye, and others

Emotional moments and speeches

The groom’s father, Brig. Gen. Jimoh (rtd), expressed deep gratitude to God and to all guests.

Dr. Yemi Kolapo said with pride: “I feel super proud that I raised a lovely daughter. My message to them is to live in peace, shut out intruders, love each other, and grow together.”

Senator Amosun described the union as “blissful” and prayed for future generations to celebrate similarly joyous occasions.

Reception Chairman, Amb. Sarafa Tunji Ishola, delivered a thought-provoking speech, likening marriage to a journey from “the ocean of fantasy to the ocean of reality.” He stressed mutual respect, responsibility, and non-violence in marital life.

A musical finish by K1 De Ultimate

The reception climaxed with a thrilling performance by Fuji legend Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 De Ultimate), who kept the crowd entertained with his evergreen hits.

The wedding of Faizah and AbdulHakeem was more than a ceremony—it was a convergence of tradition, prominence, and goodwill, reflecting the strong reputations of both families. Abeokuta may not witness such a high-powered gathering again soon, but the memories of August 23, 2025, will live on.

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Israel steps up bombardment of Gaza City killing 16 people

Published

6 months ago

August 29, 2025

Trends Admin

Israel steps up bombardment of Gaza City killing 16 people

CAIRO: Israeli forces killed at least 16 Palestinians across Gaza on Thursday and wounded dozens in the south of the enclave, local health officials said, as residents reported intensified military bombardment in the suburbs of Gaza City.

The military is preparing to take Gaza City, the enclave’s largest urban center, despite international calls on Israel to reconsider this over fears that the operation would cause significant casualties and displace the roughly one million Palestinians sheltering there.

In Gaza City, residents said families were fleeing their homes, with most heading toward the coast, as Israel forces bombarded the eastern suburbs of Shejaia, Zeitoun, and Sabra. Thursday’s deaths took to 71 the number of Palestinians killed by Israeli fire in the past 24 hours, the health ministry said.

Israel officials describe Gaza City as the last stronghold of Hamas, which ignited the war with its deadly October 2023 attack on Israel. The Islamist militant group has since been decimated by Israel’s assault on Gaza.

The Israeli military said in a statement that it was continuing to operate throughout Gaza targeting what it described as “terrorist organizations” and infrastructure.

Israel steps up bombardment of Gaza City killing 16 people

ARAB NEWS

Sports

Arsenal record slim victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford

Published

6 months ago

August 18, 2025

Trends Admin

Arsenal record slim victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford

Arsenal on Sunday opened their 2025-26 Premier League campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Riccardo Calafiori scored the only goal after the Italian defender pounced on a huge mistake by United’s stand-in goalkeeper Altay Bayindir.

Manchester United fought hard to find their way back but they were unable to find the breakthrough.

The Gunners held on to grab the maximum points to begin their season on a victorious note.

Arsenal coach, Mikel Arteta, described the victory as a great result, praising the players for their hunger in the encounter.

He said, “A great result. In the first game of the season you come to Old Trafford. You sense the momentum that they’re trying to build with the ambition they have with the club.

“We have the hunger, desire and ability to win. I am really pleased with that.

“Last year we drew here and we probably played better.

“We came here away and won, which is a big result. We were clearly not at our best. We attacked the box and we reacted well to unusual mistakes. The team reacted time after time in an incredible way. Very proud of that because that is why we got the opportunity to win the game.

“We showed resilience and a will to win. They put you on the ropes here, you will have to have moments when you suffer. To find a way to win at this ground, I’m very happy with the team.

Arteta was delighted with the new signings’ impact after the likes of Viktor Gyokeres, Noni Madueke, and Martin Zubimendi made their debut for the club.

“They have made good impact on the team; they have a great attitude. Physically some of them are still not at the level we require for 95 minutes but we will get there.”

Similarly, Manchester United manager, Ruben Amorim, was proud of his team’s performance despite the defeat.

He said: “It was really hard because I think we showed that we were the better team today. We played better than Arsenal.

“A strange goal, but then we tried everything to score a goal. We have small things that will make a difference in the future. The defence felt like a different team and that is a good thing, but we need to win games.

“I am proud of the players. I said so many times that the players need to adapt.

“Intensity, the way they are sprinting. They fought for every duel. They were so brave playing one against one. They were really brave, and I am happy with that.

The Portuguese coach has called for improvement ahead of their next Premier League game against Fulham next Sunday.

Amorim said: “We deserved more and we were the better team, that is clear but in the end we lost.

“We need to work on the things we need to improve. We need to defend set pieces. We did a lot of things right. There are a lot of things without seeing the video that we need to work on. I am really proud of my players.”

Arsenal will return to Premier League action against Leeds United on Saturday while Manchester United will take on Fulham on Sunday.