NEWS
AFTER DEVASTATING FLOOD, AKOBUNDU STANDS WITH NKALUNTA: DONATES RELIEF MATERIALS, CASH, MOVES MOTION FOR FEDERAL RESCUE
Calls for Urgent Federal Intervention as Overflow of Akoo River Leaves Residents Counting Their Losses
The people of Nkalunta Village in Otu Uzo-Ibere community, Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State, were thrown into distress on September 22, 2026, following a devastating flood caused by the overflow of Akoo River, which submerged the entire village and destroyed properties, leaving residents to grapple with the painful consequences of the natural disaster.
The incident, which disrupted the lives and livelihoods of members of the community, has renewed concerns about the recurring threat of flooding and the urgent need for a lasting solution to protect residents from further devastation.
Moved by the plight of his constituents, the Senator representing Abia Central Senatorial District, Senator Austin Akobundu, promptly initiated efforts towards finding a permanent solution to the flooding challenge. As part of his response, the senator has commenced steps to address the problem, with efforts towards a lasting remedy currently underway.
In a demonstration of solidarity and concern for the affected residents, Senator Akobundu subsequently visited Nkalunta Village to commiserate with the people over their losses, assess the situation and offer assistance to alleviate the hardship caused by the disaster.
During the visit, the senator, through members of his campaign council, donated relief materials and cash to support the victims as they navigate the difficult period.
Speaking on behalf of the senator, the Deputy Director-General of the Senator Austin Akobundu Campaign Council, Barrister Suleiman Ukandu, said the visit was an expression of the senator’s genuine concern for the affected community, stressing that the victims were not alone in their moment of distress.
Ukandu explained that despite his demanding legislative and other official responsibilities, Senator Akobundu considered it important to personally identify with the people of Nkalunta, particularly because the community is part of Ikwuano Local Government Area, where he hails from, and falls within the Abia Central Senatorial District he represents at the National Assembly.
According to him, the senator had already begun taking steps towards addressing the flooding challenge before the delegation’s visit, underscoring his determination to ensure that the incident receives the necessary attention.
He further disclosed that Senator Akobundu was preparing to present a motion on the floor of the Nigerian Senate to draw national attention to the devastating flood and seek urgent intervention by the Federal Government.
The proposed motion, he said, would highlight the suffering of the affected residents and seek appropriate measures to address the underlying causes of the flooding, with the ultimate goal of securing a sustainable solution that would prevent a recurrence of the disaster.
Ukandu noted that the senator’s intervention went beyond expressing sympathy, describing the visit as part of a broader commitment to working towards the protection and welfare of the people he represents.
Senator Akobundu used the occasion to reaffirm his commitment to the welfare and development of the people of Nkalunta, assuring them of his continued concern for their well being as efforts to address the flooding problem progress.
He also appealed for the people’s continued support for his re-election bid, expressing confidence in the importance of sustained collaboration between elected representatives and their constituents in addressing community challenges.
The senator’s visit provided an opportunity to engage directly with residents, hear their concerns and gain a clearer understanding of the difficulties they face following the destruction caused by the overflowing river.
Also speaking during the visit, the Administrative Secretary of the Senator Akobundu Campaign Council, Pastor Ekeleme Ikeije; the Ikwuano Coordinator of the council, Elder Henry Nwaoha; and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for Ikwuano State Constituency, Chief Clement Onukwue, expressed sympathy with the flood victims.
They acknowledged the devastating impact of the disaster on the community and expressed hope that the necessary interventions would be implemented to prevent a recurrence.
Their messages reinforced the need for collective action, effective intervention and sustainable measures to protect vulnerable communities from the destructive effects of flooding.
Responding on behalf of the community, the General Chief of Nkalunta, Chief Nwabueze Nkenna, expressed gratitude to Senator Akobundu for visiting the village at a difficult time to identify with the people and demonstrate concern for their plight.
He appreciated the senator’s gesture of support, describing the visit as a welcome show of solidarity with residents who had suffered significant losses as a result of the flood.
The community leader also assured the senator of the community’s continued support for his re-election bid.
The devastating flooding in Nkalunta has once again highlighted the vulnerability of communities situated around waterways and the need for proactive measures to prevent natural disasters from repeatedly threatening lives, property and livelihoods.
While the senator’s donation of relief materials and cash provides immediate assistance to affected residents, the community’s long term recovery will depend on the implementation of effective measures to address the flooding challenge.
The proposed motion before the Nigerian Senate is expected to provide an avenue for bringing the community’s plight to national attention and seeking the necessary federal intervention.
For the people of Nkalunta, the hope is that the current efforts will translate into a lasting solution that will safeguard their homes, restore their livelihoods and spare future generations the trauma of another devastating flood.
As the people begin the difficult process of recovering from the disaster, Senator Akobundu’s visit represents a gesture of solidarity, while the ongoing efforts towards a permanent solution remain central to the community’s expectations.
NEWS
OZIOMA RALLIES ADC OSISIOMA LEADERS FOR 2027, TASKS WARD EXECUTIVES ON GRASSROOTS MOBILISATION
Barr. Kelechi Ozioma Onyeobia, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Obingwa, Osisioma and Ugwunagbo Federal Constituency, has called for stronger party unity, strategic planning and intensified grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
On Wednesday, October 21, 2026, Onyeobia held an interactive meeting with the ADC Osisioma 5-Arms Local Government and Ward Executives in Osisioma Ngwa, Abia State, to assess the party’s progress, review mobilisation strategies and identify areas requiring improvement.
Speaking at the meeting, the ADC Chairman in Osisioma Ngwa, Hon. Obioma Ogbonna, commended the candidates for their commitment to the party’s growth and pledged continued support, urging leaders and stakeholders to sustain cooperation.
Other party leaders, including Hon. Emeka Ahukanna, ADC LGA Secretary; Hon. Michael Onyekwere, Ward 1 Chairman; and Hon. Chibuzor Akokwu, Ward 6 Chairman, highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen the party through ward level engagement and grassroots mobilisation.
Similarly, Hon. Dan Onwutuebe, Osisioma Ngwa Coordinator of the Atiku Abubakar/Rotimi Amaechi Campaign Organisation, expressed confidence in Onyeobia’s candidacy and urged members to work collectively towards electoral victory in 2027.
The Deputy Director General and Osisioma Coordinator of the Ozioma Movement, Hon. Obinna Otuonye, also encouraged members to spread the OZIOMA message across communities, assuring them of an inclusive movement guided by the popular Igbo expression, “Onye ruo ma, ya eri ma”, emphasising the principle that everyone should have a role in collective progress.
Addressing the executives, Barr. Onyeobia urged them to remain united, proactive and committed to delivering victory for all ADC candidates. He stressed the need for consistent community engagement, wider dissemination of the party’s message and stronger collaboration among leaders and stakeholders.
He reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with party structures to build a stronger, more inclusive and electorally competitive ADC across the federal constituency.
The meeting underscored the importance of grassroots participation, effective leadership and party unity as the ADC intensifies preparations for the 2027 general elections.
NEWS
UBANI SAN CHARGES NBA ORON ON ACCOUNTABILITY, SECURITY AND PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE AS BAR CENTRE PROJECT TAKES OFF
Senior Advocate says proposed NBA Oron House must promote mentorship, unity, institutional integrity and access to justice.
Dr. Monday Ubani, SAN, has called for a secure, dignified and professionally supportive environment for legal practitioners, stressing that the independence and safety of lawyers remain fundamental to the protection of the rule of law and the effective administration of justice in Nigeria.
Ubani made the call while delivering the keynote address as Chairman of the Occasion at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Oron Branch, Law Week, held under the theme, “Legal Administration and Legal Practice in a Secured Environment.” The event featured the foundation-laying ceremony for the proposed NBA Oron House, Bar Centre, marking a significant step towards strengthening the branch’s institutional capacity and professional development.
The senior lawyer explained that security in legal practice extends beyond physical protection to include freedom from threats, intimidation and unlawful interference, as well as the protection of confidential information, digital security and institutional safeguards.
He maintained that lawyers must be able to perform their professional duties without fear of retaliation, particularly when challenging unlawful conduct or representing clients whose interests may conflict with those of powerful individuals or institutions.
Describing the proposed NBA Oron House as more than a physical structure, Ubani said the Centre should become a lasting professional home where lawyers can exchange ideas, access continuing legal education, receive mentorship and collaborate on legal aid and public-interest initiatives.
He urged the branch to ensure that the facility is adequately equipped with functional meeting rooms, legal research resources, private consultation spaces, administrative offices, reliable utilities and appropriate security arrangements. He also emphasised accessibility for persons with disabilities and the need for a sustainable maintenance plan.
Accountability, Transparency Essential to Project’s Success
Ubani stressed that the success of the Bar Centre would depend not only on the quality of its construction but also on the transparency, integrity and accountability of those responsible for its execution.
He called for proper documentation of financial contributions and expenditure, regular progress reports, professional procurement and construction standards, and a realistic completion and management plan.
He warned against allowing the facility to become the personal property of any administration or faction, insisting that it must remain an enduring institutional asset accessible to lawyers across generations and professional backgrounds.
Drawing on his experience in NBA leadership, including his service as Chairman of NBA Ikeja Branch, Second Vice-President of the Association and Chairman of NBA-SPIDEL, Ubani urged members to prioritise the collective interests of the legal profession above personal differences, electoral divisions and individual ambitions.
He observed that leadership tenures would eventually end, but institutions built on sound principles could serve generations to come.
Young Lawyers, Professional Development in Focus
The senior advocate also called for greater investment in young lawyers, noting that the proposed Centre should provide opportunities for mentorship, practical training, professional development and continuing legal education.
He identified the financial demands of establishing legal practice, technological changes, professional competition and the responsibility of maintaining ethical standards amid economic challenges as some of the difficulties confronting young practitioners.
According to him, a well-managed Bar Centre could help address these challenges, strengthen professional fellowship and prepare younger lawyers for greater responsibilities in the administration of justice.
Ubani further encouraged the NBA Oron Branch to use the facility as a platform for public service through legal awareness campaigns, pro bono services and constructive engagement on human rights, criminal justice reform, electoral integrity, constitutional governance and access to justice.
He emphasised that the credibility of the legal profession should not be measured solely by the respect lawyers command in courtrooms, but also by the confidence ordinary citizens repose in them.
Calls for Support Without Compromising Bar Independence
Ubani appealed to members of the Bench, government, traditional institutions, corporate organisations, business leaders, philanthropic individuals and other friends of the legal profession to support the project.
He, however, cautioned that partnerships and external support must not compromise the independence of the Bar or undermine its professional responsibilities.
Commending the leadership and members of NBA Oron Branch for initiating the project, he urged them to sustain the commitment and collective effort that had made the foundation-laying ceremony possible.
He said the true value of the completed Centre would not be determined merely by the beauty of its structure, but by the quality of lawyers it develops, the lives it touches and its contribution to justice and the rule of law.
Ubani expressed the hope that NBA Oron House would become a lasting symbol of professional excellence, institutional progress and service to humanity, built on the enduring foundations of unity, integrity, transparency and accountability.
Dignitaries Grace NBA Oron Law Week
The annual event attracted prominent members of the judiciary and the legal profession, including the Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Hon. Justice Ekaette F. Obot, who was represented by Hon. Justice Effiong Offiong of the State High Court.
The Attorney-General of Akwa Ibom State, Uko Udom, SAN, was also represented by a director in the State Ministry of Justice. Several judges, magistrates and Bar leaders from Eket, Uyo and Ikot Ekpene attended the occasion.
The NBA Oron Branch is chaired by Ikara O. Ikara, Esq., while Chief Godwin Effiong serves as Chairman of the Annual Law Week Planning Committee.
The highlight of the event was the foundation-laying ceremony for the proposed NBA Oron House, led by Hon. Justice Effiong Offiong on behalf of the Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Ekaette F. Obot.
The ceremony was widely regarded as an important milestone in the branch’s drive to establish a permanent institutional facility that will strengthen professional interaction, support the development of lawyers and promote access to justice.
With the project now underway, the call by Ubani underscores the importance of ensuring that NBA Oron House becomes not merely a landmark building, but a centre of professional growth, ethical leadership, institutional accountability and public service.
NEWS
OZIOMA 2027: ONYEOBIA STRENGTHENS GRASSROOTS SUPPORT IN OBINGWA, ENGAGES NDA MEMBERS
ADC Federal Constituency Candidate Reaffirms Commitment to Dialogue, Unity and Effective Representation
Barr. Kelechi Ozioma Onyeobia, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Obingwa/Osisioma/Ugwunagbo Federal Constituency, has continued to strengthen his grassroots engagement ahead of the 2027 general elections, holding consultations with members of the New Development Alliance (NDA) in Mgboko, Umuanunu Ward 3, Obingwa Local Government Area of Abia State.
The consultation, which took place on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, provided an opportunity for the ADC candidate and members of the group to exchange ideas, discuss their expectations, and explore a shared vision for the future development of the constituency.
Barr. Onyeobia and his entourage received a warm and enthusiastic welcome from members of the NDA, who expressed their appreciation for the engagement and their interest in his political vision under the Ozioma 2027 project.
In their separate remarks, the group’s leader, the ADC Ward 3 Chairman, the Women Leader, and the Youth Leader commended Barr. Onyeobia for what they described as his commitment, sincerity, integrity, and clear vision for development and effective representation.
They expressed confidence in his leadership capacity and highlighted their expectations for a future defined by purposeful representation, improved opportunities, and greater attention to the needs and aspirations of the people.
Responding, Barr. Onyeobia thanked the members for their warm reception, patience, and willingness to engage with him and his team. He emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue, mutual understanding, collaboration, and grassroots participation in building a stronger constituency where the voices and interests of the people remain central to leadership decisions.
He reaffirmed the value of engaging directly with community members, noting that meaningful representation requires listening to the people, understanding their concerns, and working collectively towards a common developmental vision.
Also speaking, Hon. Chief Uche Okezie urged members of the group to remain committed to the Ozioma 2027 project and take its message of purposeful leadership and effective representation to their communities, churches, families, friends, and other social networks.
Hon. Okezie described Barr. Onyeobia as a man of integrity and sincerity whose commitment to the people’s interests, in his view, makes him worthy of their confidence. He also highlighted his longstanding relationship with the group’s leader, expressing optimism that their continued partnership, unity, and collective efforts would contribute to achieving their shared aspiration for a more progressive and effectively represented federal constituency.
The meeting further underscored the importance of grassroots consultations in strengthening relationships, building trust, and creating opportunities for citizens to participate in conversations about their political future.
As the 2027 elections approach, the Ozioma 2027 project continues to pursue grassroots engagement across the constituency, with an emphasis on unity, dialogue, and a shared commitment to better representation.
For Barr. Kelechi Ozioma Onyeobia and his supporters, the message remains clear, meaningful leadership begins with listening to the people, building trust, and working together towards a better future for Obingwa/Osisioma/Ugwunagbo Federal Constituency.
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