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WHAT DOES BARR OKEY IGWE REALLY WANT?

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 What does BARR OKEY IGWE really want?

He was brought in from America to become our local government chairman when he had never been in politics before then. After all, we accepted and respected his elder brother for his stake in Abia politics. He emerged as a chairman in 2016; a young returnee lawyer who would have been more productive in the US Army he belonged to. Many thought he would become the messenger of hope due to his training abroad but were disappointed in his two years as chairman of Umunneochi.

Again in 2019, he was imposed on us again as a House of Assembly member, yet we couldn’t resist the strong oil magnet behind the scene, hence, we yielded to a second imposition with same person on different positions in Umunneochi. In all of these impositions, we didn’t leave him alone, instead we worked as a party to protect the party. Midway into his stay in the House of Assembly, Barr. Philip Okey Igwe is always fueling crises in the polity. He warred with previous T.C Chairmen including Barr Chima Mgbeke, Engr Matthew Ibeh and was the brain behind the unfortunate removal of Matthew as T.C Chairman. He installed Barr Eze Chikamnayo instead but later ran out of favour with him. He is drunk in the pride of being the highest PDP elected office holder in Umunneochi. But does that give him the power to control the Local Government Chairman? For Peter’s sake, he left that office totally depleted, what else is he in for? He parcelated over 500 plots of land belonging to Umunneochi to himself, family, friends and associates, yet he is still playing the ostrich. How come he is not afraid of possible probe of his activities while LGA chairman by private individuals?

Recently, election was held into the offices of Chairmen and Councillors of the 17 local governments of Abia state. Barr Okey Igwe absconded to USA to avoid participating in the election and contributing either his money or tact. He didn’t know that Umunneochi election was conducted on Saturday 19th December against 18th that was the initial date. He left the chairmanship candidate all to himself, yet came back to seek undue right. Many wondered how he was able to fly into USA amidst strict COVID-19 restrictions of entry to US. But no doubt his membership of the USA Army gave him leverage. He abandoned his company Umunneochi to seek holiday in the States while election was on course. He didn’t show presence throughout the election and after. He didn’t commit a single dime to the candidate of PDP or the the party herself in the course of the election. Perhaps, after losing out on his interest during the primary election, he gave up interest. Barr. Okey Igwe was yet in the US when all councillors emerged, but at the point they were preparing for election of Principal Officers of the Council, Okey woke up from his slumber. He started scheming for the soul of the Council. He projected his Councillor from Amuda for the Leader of the Council and other CFC councillors as principal officers. He also sought to impose one of his stooges from zone one as another Principal officer right from his parlour in the US. When the election of Principal Officers was called up on the 30th December, 2020, Okey who was still in far away US, mobilized his CFC Councillors and others led by a notorious outlaw from Mbala Isuochi to distrupt the sitting of the day. When they were rebuffed by combined Police and Civil Defence, the council went on and elected their principal officers. Rt Hon. Oguejiorfor Okoli therefore emerged as the leader. The Deputy Leader was elected from Umuaku, a part of zone 2 that has no position as of current in sharing of positions in Umunneochi. It would be recalled that Umuaku had two Councillors, one of them died in an accident the morning he was running away from the pressure to join Okey’s camp to challenge the emergence of the principal officers. Unfortunately, they were still calling the deceased phone as he was breathing his last. Sadly, enough, barley two months after this unfortunate incident, they have not called nor condoled with the family of the deceased. In sympathy to Umuaku and in respect to their departed colleague, the councillors ceded the Deputy Leadership to the other councillor from Umuaku Hon. Biereonwu Chigbo. As we speak, Barr Okey Igwe is fighting tooth and nail to strip Umuaku of this only position. He is insisting to retain the deupty leader to his ward against popular opinion. According to natural law, for the fact he was not around during the general and Principal Officers’ elections, and also given that he didn’t contribute even pure water to the campaign, he doesn’t have any right of claim to any slot for principal officers. He ran away from the responsibility of the election, yet all of us rallied round him during his own elections.

These notwithstanding, out of the five Supervisors that will form the Chairman’s cabinet, one slot was given to Chief Ndidi Okereke for zone 1, one to Barr Okey Igwe for zone 2, one to Chief Ifeanyi Okechukwu for zone 3, one to Dan Okoli for zone 4, the last one was reserved for the chairman of the LGA Chief Ifeanyi Madu. When Barr Okey started offensive against the chairman, acusing him of influencing the election of Principal Officers of the Council, the peace-loving chairman relinquished his own slot to him, allowing him two slots of supervisors just to let the sleeping dog lie. This is to us the highest show of respect and love. This is regardless of the fact that when Okey Igwe was chairman, he didn’t consult any body for the selection of Principal Officers of his council and appointment of supervisors. After all these extension of olive branch, the House of Assembly member is yet to be pacified. What else does he want? He boasted that he will rubbish the administration of Ifeanyi Madu because his preferred candidate didn’t make it beyond primary election. He is seeking to achieve these by infliterating the council will his stooges. He has been treated fairly, what else does he really want?

He has reported the Executive Executive chairman to the party at state and LGA level. He also reported to Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly two times, and at all of which the chairman had proven his fairness to him. When he didn’t succeed in armtwisting the sympathy of Mr speaker, he proceeded to DSS. Why all these desperation? What does Okey Igwe want from our bridge-building chairman?

When power becomes arrogant, history must remind it of its limitations.

Hon. Tobias Egeonu 

Public Affairs Commentator and Political Analyst.

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OZIOMA RALLIES ADC OSISIOMA LEADERS FOR 2027, TASKS WARD EXECUTIVES ON GRASSROOTS MOBILISATION

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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.

 

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UBANI SAN CHARGES NBA ORON ON ACCOUNTABILITY, SECURITY AND PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE AS BAR CENTRE PROJECT TAKES OFF

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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.

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OZIOMA 2027: ONYEOBIA STRENGTHENS GRASSROOTS SUPPORT IN OBINGWA, ENGAGES NDA MEMBERS

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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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