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Tag: Ebonyi State

  • Four Killed, Beheaded in Fresh Ebonyi Boundary Conflict

    Four Killed, Beheaded in Fresh Ebonyi Boundary Conflict

    Four persons were killed on Thursday night in Okporojo-Oso Edda, Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, following a renewed boundary clash with neighbouring Amasiri community in Afikpo Local Government Area. The attackers also razed several houses, while graphic videos showing headless bodies and burning homes later circulated on social media.

    The two communities have been locked in a decades-long dispute over land, a conflict that has claimed many lives and caused extensive destruction of property despite repeated intervention efforts by successive state administrations.

    Local sources alleged that the assailants came from the Amasiri axis, adding that the victims were beheaded and their heads taken away, while two persons are still missing. The incident plunged the affected community into mourning and reignited concerns over the unresolved land dispute.

    Ebonyi State Commissioner for Internal Security, Etta Uka Ude, confirmed the killings, describing them as “barbaric, unlawful and totally unacceptable.” He noted that the attack did not occur in the actual disputed area, making it even more disturbing, and said the state government swiftly mobilised security agencies to prevent further escalation.

    According to Ude, tactical police teams and military personnel have been deployed, calm has largely been restored, and investigations are underway to arrest and prosecute those responsible. Police spokesperson Joshua Ukandu and Edda Local Government Chairman Chima Ekumankama also confirmed the incident, condemning the violence and urging residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies.

  • Ebonyi APC, NNPP Trade Blames Over Governance

    Ebonyi APC, NNPP Trade Blames Over Governance

    Political tension is rising in Ebonyi State as the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) exchanged accusations over governance and the 2027 general election.

    NNPP State Chairman, Mr. Ojeogu Ifeanyi, claimed his party is fully committed to unseating Governor Francis Nwifuru. Speaking in Abakaliki during a meeting of party council chairmen and the State Working Committee, Ojeogu criticized the APC-led administration, citing widespread hunger, poverty, infrastructural decay, harassment of opposition parties, and general underdevelopment.

    “The purpose of our meeting is to strategize on taking over Ebonyi State Government House in 2027,” Ojeogu said, urging residents to obtain voter cards and support the NNPP gubernatorial candidate.

    In response, the Ebonyi APC dismissed the claims as baseless and propagandistic. State Publicity Secretary, Mr. Ogbuatu Simbad, described the opposition’s statements as false and mischievous, asserting that the NNPP lacks a significant structure, presence, or followership in the state.

    Simbad defended Governor Nwifuru’s record, highlighting achievements in civil service welfare, healthcare delivery, and inclusive governance. “The Governor has consistently provided purposeful leadership, improved healthcare facilities, and ensured state hospitals and health centers function efficiently across communities,” he said.

    The APC challenged NNPP leaders to substantiate claims of failure, insisting the opposition’s rhetoric is mere wishful thinking. Party officials encouraged residents to continue supporting Governor Nwifuru to sustain developmental progress across Ebonyi State.

    The exchange underscores the growing political rivalry ahead of 2027, as parties position themselves for the upcoming gubernatorial contest. Analysts note that such clashes are likely to intensify in the months leading to the election, reflecting deep-seated competition in the state’s political landscape.

  • Ebonyi Civil Service Begins Confirmation of Airport Staff

    Ebonyi Civil Service Begins Confirmation of Airport Staff

     

    The Ebonyi State Civil Service Commission has commenced the screening and confirmation of airport staff who have completed their two-year probation, a move widely welcomed by employees.

    The chairperson of the commission, Mrs. Virginia Oketa, addressed officers on Wednesday at the commission’s office in Centenary City, Abakaliki. She commended Governor Francis Nwifuru for prioritizing employment and staff welfare, citing the recent N20,000 salary increase for workers.

    Oketa urged staff to keep the governor and his wife in their prayers and stressed the importance of submitting original certificates for verification, warning that statements of results would not be accepted. She explained that the probationary period was designed to test loyalty and performance, adding that appointments remain provisional until confirmation.

    In a statement signed by the commission’s head of information, Obinna E.I., staff were also reminded to maintain professionalism in both conduct and appearance, particularly at Okadigbo International Airport, where modest dressing reflects the image of public service.

    Employees expressed appreciation for the initiative. Ajah Nnamdi from Ishielu Local Government Area thanked the governor for ensuring timely salary payments and creating a pathway to confirmation, while Oketa Chidimma Cheryl described Nwifuru as “the best governor she has encountered.”

    The screening covered departments including human resources, administration, and airport operations.

     

  • Ebonyi Communities Devastated by Deadly August Flood

    Ebonyi Communities Devastated by Deadly August Flood

    At least 12 people have been confirmed dead, while more than 800 farmlands were submerged following a devastating flood that struck a plantain plantation in Enohia Itim, Afikpo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

    The disaster, which occurred on Friday, August 1, 2025, was triggered by torrential rainfall that caused widespread flooding, displacing residents and destroying crops. The impact has left families mourning their loved ones and farmers counting heavy losses.

    Chairman of Afikpo Local Government Area, Engr. Timothy Nwachi, confirmed the incident in a statement, expressing deep sympathy to the bereaved families. He pledged that the local government would work closely with relevant state and federal agencies to provide humanitarian assistance and relief materials to victims.

    “We express sadness over the unfortunate incident and use this medium to extend our condolences to the families that lost their loved ones,” Nwachi said. “As a government, we will support and collaborate with relevant authorities to ensure timely relief and take preventive measures to avoid a recurrence.”

    Nwachi also appealed to residents living in flood-prone areas to relocate to safer ground, warning that persistent heavy rains could trigger more flooding, as forecasted by meteorological agencies.

    The Councillor representing Itim Ward in the Afikpo Legislative Council, Hon. Francis Abani Okpani, provided further details, revealing that of the 12 confirmed fatalities, only three bodies have been recovered so far, while nine remain missing. He said three children were among the victims.

    Okpani noted that the Federal Ministry of Environment had previously listed Afikpo among the high-risk flood areas in Nigeria for 2025, stressing that he had earlier urged residents to factor climate change projections into local flood risk management plans.

    “I continue to appeal to our people to maintain effective drainage systems and to ensure waterways are kept clear of debris,” Okpani said. “Blocked drains only worsen the severity of flooding when heavy rains come.”

    The incident has left the community in shock, with hundreds of farmers facing significant economic hardship due to the loss of crops and farmland. Relief efforts are expected to begin in the coming days.

  • Ebonyi Gov suspends 87 Commissioners, Perm Secs

    Ebonyi Gov suspends 87 Commissioners, Perm Secs

    Governor Francis Nwifuru
    Governor Francis Nwifuru

    Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has suspended 87 top government officials for failing to attend an official state function. The suspension, which took effect immediately, was announced in a statement by the governor’s spokesperson on Monday night.

    The affected officials include 25 commissioners, 14 senior special assistants, 24 special assistants, and 22 permanent secretaries. The governor described their absence as a serious act of negligence and a breach of official duty.

    All suspended officials are barred from signing documents or carrying out any official assignments for the duration of the one-month suspension. They will also forfeit their salaries during this period.

    Commissioners among the suspended officials have been directed to hand over responsibilities to their respective permanent secretaries.

    According to the statement, Governor Nwifuru viewed the no-show at the event as unacceptable and a failure to uphold public trust.

    The full list of suspended commissioners includes:

    1. Engr. Stanley Lebechi Mbam
    2. Prof. Leonard Uguru
    3. Dr. Mathew Nwobashi
    4. Prof. Nwogo Obasi
    5. Hon. Victor Chukwu
    6. Engr. Jude Okpor
    7. Barr. Ikeuwa Omebe
    8. Hon. Chidi Onyia
    9. Chief Oguzo–Offia Nwali
    10. Dr. Ben Uruchi Odo
    11. Dr. Donatus Ilang
    12. Dr. (Mrs) Ngozi Obichukwu
    13. Dr. Moses Ekuma Ikenna
    14. Chief Richard Idike
    15. Barr. (Mrs) Felicia Nwankpuma
    16. Hon. Chinedu Nkah
    17. Engr. Ogbonna Obasi Abara
    18. Mrs. Nkechinyere Iyioku
    19. Engr. Francis Ori
    20. Hon. Tochukwu Okorie
    21. Barr. Valentine Okike Uzo
    22. Chief Sunday Inyima
    23. Hon. Ogbonnaya Okorie
    24. Chief Elechi Elechi
    25. Hon. Stanley Ogbuewu

    The state government has not disclosed whether further disciplinary action may follow after the suspension period.

  • Abakaliki FC players, Officials receive cash gifts from Ebonyi state Governor

    Abakaliki FC players, Officials receive cash gifts from Ebonyi state Governor

    Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru

    Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has rewarded each of the 34 registered players of Abakaliki Football Club with ₦1 million following their impressive run to the final of the 2025 President Federation Cup.

    Despite losing the final 4-3 on penalties to Kwara United after a goalless draw in regulation time at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos on June 28, the governor commended the team’s outstanding performance and fighting spirit throughout the competition.

    Speaking at a reception held in Abakaliki, Nwifuru also announced a ₦1 million reward for the club’s Head Coach and former Nigerian international, Ifeanyi Onyedika. Additionally, 16 club officials will receive ₦500,000 each, while the supporters club was awarded ₦4 million.

    The governor also recognized the Ebonyi chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) with ₦1 million for their consistent coverage of the team.

    “I watched the final match live, and I was proud of how you represented Ebonyi. Your performance justified our investment and showed great technical skill and unity,” Nwifuru said. “You have made Ebonyi proud and proven that you are destined for greatness in football.”

    While celebrating the team’s historic run, the governor expressed disappointment over their recent relegation from the Nigeria National League (NNL) to the Nationwide League One (NLO), describing it as a missed opportunity.

    “I blame the coaching crew. With the display in Lagos, you could have easily finished in the top four of the NNL,” he said. “It would have been unprecedented for a relegated team to win the Federation Cup and qualify for continental competition. Regardless, we will explore ways to retain your NNL status.”

    Governor Nwifuru urged the team to prepare more effectively for the upcoming season and granted the players a one-month break. He also promised to take a more active role in the club’s affairs moving forward.

    Team captain, Cyril Timothy, thanked the governor for his continued support and encouragement since the club’s inception, adding that the players had hoped to win the trophy as a gift to the state.

    “We are deeply grateful for your backing and sincerely regret the loss and the relegation,” Timothy said. “We promise to bounce back stronger next season.”

  • Ebonyi: Supreme Court affirms as Gov, dismisses PDP’s suit

    Ebonyi: Supreme Court affirms as Gov, dismisses PDP’s suit


    The Supreme Court has affirmed Governor Francis Ogbonnaya Nwifuru (APC) as duly elected and returned as Governor of Ebonyi State in the 18th March Governorship poll.

    The tribunal and Appeal Court had earlier dismissed the petitions and affirmed INEC’s declaration of the APC Candidate.

    Justice Tijani Abubakar JSC who read the lead judgment held that the appeal filed by Chukwuma Odii of the PDP is unmeritorious.

    The court noted that a petition alleging non-qualification must be brought on grounds of section 177 of the Constitution.

    When a candidate is sponsored by his party, he is qualified to contest an election

    Meanwhile, the governor has distributed SUVs to medical doctorsgovernor has distributed SUVs to medical doctors in the state general hospital as way to motivate them

  • Ebonyi Gov buys SUVs for all doctors in general hospital (Photos)

    Ebonyi Gov buys SUVs for all doctors in general hospital (Photos)


    Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru has bought SUVs for all medical doctors in Ebonyi General Hospitals.

    According to his Special Assistant on New Media, Leo Ekene Oketa, on Thursday, the governor’s move was in a bid to ensure the doctors at work seamlessly and respond to duty calls.

    Okeya added, “this in no small measure will give them good confidence and assurance of their welfare, having been employed by the State Government. It is meant as well, to ensure that they do not convert the hospital ambulances to their private cars. All the SUVs have been paid for and all of them delivered.

    “Talking of ambulances, pictures 5 and 6 show some of the ambulances procured by Ebonyi State Government for the General Hospitals. 52 were paid for, but 20 have arrived. The rest will be delivered soon. The Governor intends to have 2 ambulances for each General Hospital in Ebonyi State.

    “Ebonyi State is on the rise, and our Chief Servant is leaving no stone unturned in that regard.

    “The Governor will deploy them soon, according to his esteemed discretion.”

  • Ebonyi Govt increases workers’ salary by 10,000 naira

    Ebonyi Govt increases workers’ salary by 10,000 naira


    The Ebonyi State Government has approved N10,000 as addition to its worker’s salary as part of efforts to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal.

    Mr Chikadibia Okpor, State Commissioner for Information and Orientation announced the approval to newsmen after the Executive Council Meeting on Friday in Abakaliki.

    ”The issue of workers’ salaries was raised and deliberated by Exco. The sum of N10,000 will be added to every worker’s salary in the state to cushion the effect of fuel subsidy removal,” he said.

  • Rail transport system coming to Ebonyi soon– Umahi

    Rail transport system coming to Ebonyi soon– Umahi

    The Ebonyi State Govern­ment will soon introduce a rail transport system from Abakaliki Town to the Inter­national Airport.

    Governor David Umahi announced this during a Lo­cal Government APC Rally held at Nkwagu Primary School in Abakaliki Local Government Area, Thursday.

    Governor Umahi said the project, which would be carried out in partnership with the incoming govern­ment, would diversify modes of transportation within the Abakaliki urban area and to the Airport.

    The Governor applauded the people and stakeholders of Abakaliki Local Govern­ment Area for their massive mobilization to the rally, saying it was an indication of their readiness to possess their stake in the March Gu­ber poll.

    He urged them to vote for their son Chief Francis Nwi­furu for Governorship and all Candidates of APC for the re­alization of the next level in development.

    The Wife of the Governor, Mrs. Rachel Umahi appealed to the people to demonstrate wisdom by voting for the con­tinuity of the Divine Mandate administration in the State.

    The Governorship Candi­date, Chief Francis Nwifuru challenged the Youths of the Council and Ebonyi State in general to rise in defence of their Mandate by voting mas­sively for him and other APC Candidates in the elections.