NEWS
MOUAU LECTURE: SENATOR AKOBUNDU EULOGIES DR M.I. OKPARA FOR HIS “UNDYING LEGACIES”

…Recalls how the old eastern region became the fastest growing economy in the world under him
The Senator representing Abia Central Senatorial district, Senator Austin Akobundu, has described late Dr Michael Iheonukara Okpara, the Premier of defunct Eastern Region as a selfless leader with immeasurable positive impact on humanity.
Speaking as Chairman of the second edition of the Michael Okpara Lecture organized by the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), on Friday, Senator Akobundu stated that the late Premier, who was an irreplaceable colossus with imperishable imprints on society, stood up for his people when it mattered most.

He was an icon of agricultural and industrial revolutions whose legacies continue to reverberate around the world even long after he has gone. He was among those exceptional leaders James Freeman Clarke, the American minister, theologian and author, had in mind when he made that famous statement that, “’A politician thinks of the next election; a statesman, of the next generation
“As we gather here today in honour of this great man who led a life of austerity that his people might flourish in prosperity, let us use this occasion to immerse ourselves once again in his undying legacies.
“I thank the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, the Governing Council, the Senate, Management and staff of this great university for sustaining the legacies of Dr Okpara through the successful operation of the different Faculties in the institution, especially the agriculture and agro-allied Faculties, over the years. Through it, Dr M.I. Okpara’s dream of having a highly skilled labour to work the farms comes true.
“I also thank them for organising this event, which not only serves to celebrate our late Premier but also as an occasion for us all to retreat, reflect, and relaunch.
“The theme chosen for this edition of the lecture cannot be more apt. Agriculture was Nigeria’s economic mainstay, and it remains Nigeria’s surest path back to food security and economic development as proven by Dr Michael Okpara’s policies and actions.
Speaking on the creation of the South-East Development Commission (SEDC), the senator expressed joy over the crop of Board and Management appointed to run it, saying that
“there is hope for a greater today and a better tomorrow if the Commission leverages on the commitment of current crop of political leaders across the region to pursue an agenda of revamping the Okpara’s policies for legacy continuity.
“Let me also use this opportunity to congratulate the entire university management team on the newly completed modern public lecture theatre due for commissioning today. The university deserves more of such modern facilities and infrastructure to further honour the memory of Dr M.I. Okpara.
“In my capacity as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I shall continue to collaborate with the university, and other germane stakeholders, in her quest for excellence by working to ensure that her due benefits from the federal government and relevant agencies, including support from other related bodies, reach her as and when due. Count me in as one of your reliable partners”.
“The labour of our heroes past shall never be in vain!”
In his address at the event, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, described late Dr Michael Okpara as an Iroko who worked tirelessly for his people, adding that on resumption office as VC, he saw the need to immortalize the late sage whose name the university bears.
This, he acknowledged will be done every two years.

“In the next two years again, we will gather like this to celebrate our iconic father. It’s not a coincidence that the federal government named the institution after Michael Okpara because his legacies are still visible for all to see”
Okpara did a lot in agriculture, industry and that the Eastern regional government was adjudged as the fastest growing region in the world because of his achievements that crossed all sectors.
Chairman of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), Dr Emeka Wogu, who was unavoidably absent, delivered the keynote address on the theme of the programme:
“Agripreneur Model for Attainment of National Food Security and Economic Development: The Dr M. I. Okpara Approach in Retrospect – Leveraging the Southeast Development Commission as a Modern Vehicle for Legacy Continuity.”
through his representative.
The event attracted eminent personalities, including the Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Chioma Otti who was represented by the State’s Commissioner for Agriculture,

Senator Chris Adighije, Chief Uzodinma Okpara who is the Chairman, Board of Directors, Dr Michael Iheonukara Okpara Foundation, Comrade Fidelis Chukwunweike Edeh, Pro-Chancellor snd Chairman of the Governing Council of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, captains of industry,
traditional rulers, members of the academia, and
politicians of all hues and featured
the presentations of awards to the Distinguished Senator by the university community as well as from the Students Union Government (SUG) led by Mr Favour Ikpeama.
Another highlight of the occasion was the cutting of cake to celebrate the event
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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