Drama as Umeh's witnesses testify in Ekwunife favour

There was a mild drama at the Anambra Central Senatorial zone Election Petition Tribunal yesterday as two out of four witnesses brought by the All Progressives Grand Alliance candidate, Chief Victor Umeh testified in favour of Senator Uche Ekwunife.

Four witnesses brought by Chief Victor Umeh against Senator Uche Ekwunife (PDP-Anambra Central) testified over the March 28 senatorial poll.

They testified before the Justice Nayai Aganaba three-member tribunal after adopting their written statements on oath under cross examination by respondents’ counsel on Wednesday.

One of Chief Umeh' s witnesses and APGA’s collation agent for Idemili South Local Government Area, Mr Chijioke Agbayim, said that the election was peaceful in all the polling units in the area.

Agbayim however said that INEC collation officers created a barrier from allowing him to compare results being collated from forms EC8B to EC8C.

THE SAD ORDEALS OF A SICKLE CELL PATIENT’S ONLY CHILD ‘…I’M AFRAID THIS AKIYANJU IS INDIRECTLY KILLING MY MUM,’Mirabel - O’star Eze.

Mirabel Usonwaka Edward

She is eight years old. The health conditions and peculiarly isolated life of an only child of a single mother has made her grow so fast that she reasons older than her age. She is Mirabel Usonwaka Edward, the only child of a Human Right Crusader who has been on the news since the turn of the century fighting with all her might the ills in the society. The reporter decided to get the little child to bare her mind on the recent throes of health crisis her mother has been going through and how she has been coping. One would be surprised at the avalanche of wisdom that oozes from her lips.

Following are excerpts:

‘My school teacher taught me that anyone who tells lies to obtain anything that does not belong to him is a fraudster. She said it is obtaining by tricks and is the same thing people call 419. Lately, my mum has been so sad because of one man called Professor Akiyanju, who has been begging on TV on behalf of her kind – those living with Sickle Cell Disorder. My once jolly good and free-spirited mother has turned into a shadow of herself since she watched that video clip, as she is now pushing herself so hard to get justice for sicklers. When I asked my mother why she was so affected by the video clip, she replied that this man called Professor Akiyanju has managed to ridicule her painful challenge in order to enrich himself, his family members and his cohorts. My mother cried for days after she made inquiries and found out how people, including the president, are pouring in money to this man’s sickle cell foundation, when, according to my mum, the foundation has made no impact on her kind. I wept bitterly with her. This man who has made me so sad because of my mum’s mood should be ready to face the law if anything happens to her. My mum said that this Akiyanju has only succeeded in victimizing her kind the more with his fraudulent approach as it presents those living with Sickle Cell disorder to the general public as mere helpless beggars. My mother believes a lot in hard work and just enrolled me in an institute, this holiday period, to learn bead-making, so I don’t stay idle. I learn't that when she was in the military, she lived the same lifestyle of discipline and hard work, against all odds. Why would someone in his right senses want to kill my mother with depression and shock by using her condition as an object of ridicule and money-making? I wanted to be a teacher when I grow up but I have promised my mother that I will be a doctor to save her from dying, yet, looking at the injustice shown to the people living with Sickle Cell like my mother, I wish I could be a lawyer to be able to make those who unjustly worsen her condition to face the full wrath of the law.

CRIMINALS CANNOT BEAT US TO IT - ANAMBRA PPRO - O'star Eze

 

Anambra State PPRO, DSP Ali Alphonsus Okechukwu

The newly installed Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ali Alphonsus Okechukwu, has assured Anambra residents of his command's resolve to continue setting the pace in expunging crime totally from the state. He made this declaration in his office on Tuesday as he officially resumed office having been handed over on Friday. He expressed shock that there are still pockets of hoodlums operating in certain areas of the state such as Nkpor/Obosi/Umuoji axis, Anambra State House of Assembly area, Ekwulobia Township stadium area, and stated clearly that he would not waste time in launching investigations to ascertain and check whatever security risk these sections of the state pose.

Responding to the readiness of his command towards the August returns around the corner, DSP Okechukwu said to ostareze.com that the event is an annual one and the police is already taking steps in preparedness for maintaining the relative peace enjoyed by the state.

In his words, 'I have been in the state for about a year now and have been part of the resounding success the Anambra state police has recorded in sweeping out crime and miscreants from the state. The state governor, Dr Willie Obiano had stamped his foot down from day one on the issue of maintaining a tranquil, and crime-free state. I thank the people of Anambra for I know that this success could not have been possible without the unalloyed cooperation they have been giving the police and I urge Ndi Anambra to continue partnering with the police in their dedication job to keep Anambra crime-free. I know that criminals are re-strategizing but they should also be aware that we are not resting on our oars but are restrategizing too. They cannot beat us to it. Crime has not place in Anambra state.' End quote.

The Anambra PPRO revealed that he would soon be paying visits to media houses to address the people of Anambra and re-assure them that the Willie Obiano administration will continue to maintain zero-tolerance to crime.

ANAMBRA HEALTH MINISTRY SETS THE PACE IN ICT COMPLIANCE TRAINING OF WORKERS …AS GOVERNMENT DONATES 14 LAPTOPS TO PROGRAM OFFICERS. - O’STAR EZE

ANAMBRA HEALTH COMMISSIONER, Dr Joe Akabuike, presenting a laptop computer to Dr Aneme Cyril, one of the beneficiaries

The Dr. Joe Akabuike-led Anambra State Health Ministry has today, July 23, 2015, flagged off ICT Compliance training exercise for her program officers at the Ministry of Health complex, Awka. The program, which featured presentation of brand new Hewlet and Packard brand laptop computers to the program officers donated by the state government, was termed the first of a series of such program intended by the state government for all the ministries in the state, by the Health Commissioner, Dr. Joe Akabuike.

In his speech during the event, Dr Akabuike posited that, given that the world is now a global village courtesy of the internet and also given that most of what we do on a day to day basis is computer-based, it becomes imperative that a ministry like theirs must ensure that its program officers have full training in the use of computers and internet facilities.

Continuing, he said, ‘This is important, particularly in the developing world where we have a lot of data collection and processing…It is because we still lag behind in computer literacy that most of the data you see in most researches we do, we quote the western world…But these data we are quoting have a lot of cultural, social and developmental differences from what is obtainable in developing countries. Also, most of the data we use are institution-based given that most of our facilities are not well-equipped for data-accessing. That is why I felt that it is something very important that should be done and we wrote a memo to His Excellency, which he quickly acknowledged and has approved the supply of laptop computers to our program officers. Those of us who are computer literate know that the only effective way one can learn how to use the computer is by having one. If you teach somebody how to use the computer and the person does not have one, he will quickly forget what he learnt. That is why the government provided the computers so that those who are part of the training exercise will have no excuse whatsoever for not becoming proficient in computer manipulation.’

Dr Joe Akabuike also revealed that his ministry is setting the pace in the government’s project of getting all the workers in Anambra State computer literate. He expressed his gratitude to the state governor, Chief Dr. Willie Obiano for his unflinching support to his ministry, especially for the recent gesture. The health commissioner enjoined the beneficiaries of the laptops and training to appreciate the fact that the training is not just for the ministry’s benefit but theirs too and make the most of the golden opportunity. 

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Dr Aneme Afam Cyril, the Program Manager in charge of HIV/AIDS control unit of the ministry of health expressed his elation at the development saying that it has taken care of a major challenge which the lack of computers and the know-how had kept posing for them on a daily basis. He thanked the state government for her kind gesture.

Also present at the occasion where several health directors led by the Director of Primary Healthcare, Dr Emmanuel Okafor.

Dr Joe Akabuike, posing with the Director of Primary Healthcare and Project Officers

GOVERNOR OBIANO, CHIEF ODENIGBO, OTHERS WEEP OVER 32 UNIDENTIFIED CORPSES LAID TO REST...AS OBIANO BANS HEAVY DUTY VEHICLES FROM PLYING DAYTIME

THE CLERGY ALONGSIDE GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS PRAYING OVER THE CORPSES BEFORE FINAL BURIAL

The Anambra State government has organised a mass burial for the 32 unidentified bodies of victims of the fuel tanker accident that took place at the Asaba Park, Upper Iweka, Onitsha on the 31st of May, this year. The ceremony which commenced with a 21 gun salute in honor of the departed, proceeded with an inter-denominational burial service held at the instance of the Anglican Bishop on the Niger, Reverend Owen Nwokolo and attracted top government functionaries and stakeholders in the state.
In solemn dirges blended with bible readings, the final rites of the departed were completed before they were interred at the St Andrew's Anglican Cemetery, Obosi.

Speaking at the event, Governor Willie Obiano explained that tissues specimen were taken from the unidentified bodies (which were burnt beyond recognition) and deposited at the Onitsha General Hospital where they will be kept for a period of ten years for future investigations while the graves will have cenotaphs to identify the bodies. Chief Dr. Obiano, who said in swift response to the incident, his administration had taken pragmatic measures to forestall similar future occurence, some of which include ban of fuel-carrying tankers and trucks from moving in the daytime and plying the state's roads as well as restriction of commercial motorcyclists from plying some roads in the state. while noting that his government is working in collaboration with relevant agencies to ensure safety on the state roads, the governor urged the motoring public to imbibe safety habits and always ensure that their vehicles are in fine shape.

CHIEF PAUL ODENIGBO, EXECUTIVE SECRETARY - SEMA ANAMBRA STATE

Also speaking to newsmen during the event, the executive secretary of Anambra State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Chief Paul Odenigbo shared his sorrow at the tragedy and as well said that the Anambra state government has, by the lightening speed response and commitment to the occurrence, set the pace for other states. He also used the occasion to enjoin Ndi Anambra to take precautionary risk management measures, especially with regards to the way they handle electrical appliances, inflammable substances and their compliance to road traffic rules. Chief Odenigbo also called on heavy duty vehicle drivers to become more conscientious in their driving and stop using psychotropic substances and alcohol given the high risk level of their occupation. He appreciated the state government for assisting the surviving victims of the mayhem and called on other well-meaning Nigerians to borrow a leaf from the government and assist those whose breadwinners died in the incidence. He also commended the Vice President, Professor Osibanjo, for the way he came down to Anambra state to show solidarity and assistance on hearing of the occurence. Chief Paul Odenigbo observed that this gesture was a sign that the Anambra state governor is in right-standing with the federal government. He expressed his satisfaction with the way the media reported the accident in a responsible and professional way. The Executive Secretary re-affirmed SEMA's resolve to maintain high level of professionalism, efficiency and effectiveness in the execution of their duties in cases of emergencies in the state.

INTERDENOMINATIONAL CLERGY IN ATTENDANCE AS SERMON IS BEING DELIVERED

In a sermon, the Right Reverend Nwokolo represented by the Archdeacon in charge of Obosi Archdeaconry, Venerable Oswald Ezekwere called on christians to live everyday with the consciousness that everything on earth is vanity, noting that only total faith and belief in God as well as positive living can guarantee eternal life.

THE 32 CORPSES' COFFINS BURIED FINALLY

In his remark, the Chief Imam, Central mosque, Bida road, Onitsha, Mr Abdulrahman Hamza, representing the muslim community in the state, said that Governor Obiano has, by his decision to organize the burial, exhibited genuine humaneness and goodwill as as his commitment towards addressing any bottleneck that might hamper the growth of the state.

Special prayers were said for the executive governor, the state, and the bereaved families as well as for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed.

Obiano, Mike Okiro, Prof Obioma Lament Moral Decay in Nigeria …call for institution of moral education in schools

Former Inspector-General of Police, Sir (Dr) Mike Okiro; Anambra State governor, Chief Willie Obiano, and other eminent Nigerians, yesterday (today) took turns to lament the soaring rate of immoralities among Nigerians especially the younger generation, lamenting that if nothing is done urgently, it would bring the nation on her knees. They decried that the emergence of the social media has dealt a deadly below-the-belt-blow on the moral values of the young people. They made the observation at the 1st National Annual Conference organized by the Association for Moral Education Nigeria (AMEN) themed: Moral Education: Bedrock for National Development.

Okiro, who doubles as the Chairman, Police Service Commission, Abuja decried that the display of ill-gotten wealth by corrupt individuals has affected the psych of the younger generation negatively; hence, needs urgent rescue before the matter goes out of control.

“Unnecessary display of ill-gotten wealth threatened and still threatens Nigeria’s democratic political process. When the leaders and the people think of public service in instrumental way, accountability declines, and national development is adversely affected. It is not out of place to note at this juncture that the youths of this great country need inspiring role models who make positive contributions to the communities/society, because as of now most of our youths are growing up without knowing that corruption is socially injurious” he said.

While declaring the event open, Gov. Willie Obiano who was represented by his Commissioner for Information, Dr Uju Nwogu disclosed that “moral education is more of character building. There is great decay in morality in our society because of lack of fear of God among the people. And that is what we are trying to restore in Anambra. We are laying emphasis on moral education in schools in order to catch them young; we are also retraining our teachers. Negative usage of the social media is destroying our society today. In schools, reports have it that children watch pornographic movies and pictures and that must be stopped.”

Meanwhile, the national coordinator of the group, Sr. Mary Jude-Theresa Nwodo, in her speech, revealed that her NGO which is under the provisions of Minnesota Non-Profit Corporation Act and recognised by Section 501, subsection 3 organization by the Internal Revenue Service of the United States of America is poised to breathe life into the comatose social value of Nigerians; noting that the group would stop at nothing to achieve its set objectives.

Professor Goodwill Obioma, delivering the theme talk, bewailed the corrosion of core Igbo values such as respect for elders, helping the weak and aged. He attributed the facilitated development of the BRIC economies to their ingrained moral values and called on Nigerians to borrow a leaf from them. Professor Obioma observed that the campaign to add Moral Education to our curriculum is a timely one given the institution of PMB as our president, a man, he termed, an embodiment of integrity. He, therefore, called on Anambra State government to set the pace in inculcating moral education to the curriculum, starting from the teacher institutes.

The event was, however, attended by the crème de la crème in Nigeria including commissioners of various ministries, traditional rulers, and moral crusaders among others.

Knee replacement, Heart Surgery now done in Anambra ―Obiano By O'star Eze

Anambra State governor, Chief Willie Obiano has disclosed that knee replacement, heart surgery and other ailments which hitherto were not being carried out in any hospital in the state have begun. He said that it was part of his administration’s effort to improve the health sector in the state, revealing that more milestones would be achieved in the health and other sectors in the state within the shortest possible time.

Obiano, who was represented by his commissioner for information, Dr Uju Nwogu at the 1st National Annual Conference organized by the Association for Moral Education Nigeria (AMEN) said that his administration would stop at nothing to transform the health sector of the state.

“It is our resolution from day one that I assumed office to leave no stone unturned to ensure that all sectors of the state economy are transformed. And we will stop at nothing to ensure that we achieve that feat with the invaluable support of Ndi-Anambra. For instance, knee replacement, open heart surgery is now done in Anambra. Those things they do abroad, we now do it here. It is now being done in Chukwuemeka Odumegwu University Teaching Hospita, defunct Amaku general hospital.”

Tony Okafor , Awka. To hell with your computer literacy, Anambra teachers tell Obiano. 14-07-2015.

Anambra state teachers have rejected the compulsory Information Technology package planned for them by the state government. 
The State Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Teachers,Ms Nnenna Okonkwo, disclosed this to our correspondent in Awka on Tuesday.
She said the Union had written the state commissioner for Education, Professor Kate Omenugha to explain to her that the conditions given to the teachers  for the policy were unconscionable and unacceptable.
She said one of the conditions given to them by the state Government for the training was for them to obtain the computers from government for N90,000 each.

She said “such conditions are not acceptable to us and we havemade our position known to government.
“We have asked them to reduce the price of the computer to N50,000 each and that teachers who will be due for retirement in the next 18 months should not be compelled to buy the computers.

“We say this because government had compelled us to sign consent forms, compelling teachers in the state to buy the computers from them, only for the commissioner to withdraw from that stand last week.

“How can somebody compel teachers to buy the computers at that High cost? Some of the teachers have their own computers and somebody still wants them to buy another one; it is callous and we have rejected the plan', Okonkwo submitted.

The state government had last week decreed that from January 2016, teachers in the state who are not computer literate would no longer enjoy promotion.

The state commissioner for education, Professor Kate Omenugha made this known in a press conference in her office in Awka.

She said: “There has been misinformation and misconception, with bad blood being generated on the policy of one teacher, one computer. This is a national policy that we are just  trying to implement.
“When the National Council on Education took the decision in 2012, it was binding on all states and because of the forward – looking nature of the present administration, we decided to implement it.

“When we took over, the state government evolved a blueprint on the implementation of the one teacher, one laptop policy and by January 2016, every teacher in the state must be computer literate, otherwise there will be no promotion for non computer literate teachers.

“Similarly, any new teacher to be employed in the state must be computer literate. What we promised Anambra State is to give our children education that is competitive and no pupil can rise above his teacher that is not computer literate, a situation we do not want.

“We made it clear that teachers should key into the programme voluntarily. It is not mandatory, contrary to what many people are insinuating. We know that making changes often come with resistance, but this is one change that is important for the future of education in our state.”
According to her, those who did not consent to purchasing the laptops will not be punished, except that they must be computer literate to be able to impart the right knowledge on the children, in line with the national policy on education.

Chicason Groups Decry Dearth Of Palm Trees In Nigeria ...Requests 34,000 Hectares Of Land From Anambra State Govt By Abuchi Onwumelu, Awka

The Managing Director of Chicason Groups, (Production) Engr Linus Ilozue has decried the dearth of palm trees in Nigeria even as he said that the greatest problem facing the agro based arm of the company now is scarcity of palm kernel

He described palm kernel as the basic raw material for vegetable oil production and other ancillary products.

Engr Linus Ilozue, who stated this when Anambra State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr. Afam Mbanefo paid a courtesy call on Chicason groups at Nnewi, said their wish for now was to have palm tree plantation that would supply 450 tons of palm kernel daily and reduce their dependence on importation of raw materials .

He stated that for the company to achieve that target they would need about 34,000 hectares of  land from the Anambra State government for the cultivation of palm trees as raw material feeder to the company in form of backward integration.

According to him, 'We are building a new plant with increased capacity. We want to source the palm oil locally which is now scarce and in fact we are pushed to go to Ivory Coast to buy palm kernel,' Ilozue said.

He stated that their target for now was to generate from the envisaged expansion plan ,a total of 135,000 tons of palm oil in the next three years.

Speaking on the essence of his visit, the commissioner said he came to ascertain the level of seriousness from the company and also to expressed the state government’s readiness to boost palm  production through the provision of large hectares of land for planting of high yielding palm trees .

He assured Chicason groups of government's partnership in  actualizing the company's expansion  in agro industry.

He described the Chicason Groups as one of the serious companies in country

Mr Mbanefo restated that Agriculture was one of Governor Willie Obiano's pillars of development.

He further announced that Anambra State government has mapped out 65,000 hectres of land for Agro investments.

Nigeria becomes member of the World Trade Center Association Club

As Nigeria’s economy continues to grow and diversify, lucrative investment opportunities for property investors are arising, not just in the luxury segment, but also in mass housing and commercial developments. Investor’s confidence in the Nigerian economy has also attracted significant foreign direct investments (FDIs) in the real estate sector.
A closer look at the Nigerian real estate market, however, reveals a number of commendable initiatives by key players, In the bid to foster economic growth and promotes international business relationships.
For five decades, the Churchgate group, an indigenous Nigerian conglomerate, has been enhancing productivity through multi-channel businesses. Its latest project, World Trade Center (WTC) Abuja, has been ascribed by analysts as the distinctive landmark in Abuja’s skyline.
Beyond the fact that the mixed-use development offers the very best in luxury apartments, AAA office towers, the Capital Mall, and a five-star hotel, the project gives a unique opportunity for occupants and tenants within the WTC Abuja to become a member of the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) Club and enjoy all the benefits that comes with it.
The World Trade Centers Association, headquartered in New York City, is the umbrella organization for over 330 World
Trade Centers in more than 100 countries. The Association stands outside politics across national boundaries, in service to those who develop and facilitate international trade.
The World Trade Centers Association stimulates trade and investment opportunities for commercial property developers, economic development agencies, and
international businesses looking to connect globally and prosper locally. Although WTCs vary from country to country, they are all connected as a part of the World Trade
Centers Association (WTCA). Some of the countries under the WTCA globe are from Europe, America and Africa.
With the construction of World Trade Center in Abuja, it automatically becomes a member of the World Trade Centers Association and occupants within the WTC Abuja
can join other members in enjoying the services and facilities of all World Trade Centers throughout the globe at concessionary rates. These worldwide privileges include meeting and club facilities, trade information and education services, exhibit space, access to temporary office space, videoconferencing facilities, secretarial and translation services.
More than just a building or an organization, a World Trade Center brings together businesses involved in international
trade from around the globe. It supplies businesses with access to international trade services and facilities and seeks to simplify and stimulate trade by bringing together
the offices of government and industry that serve and carry on trade.
According to the Group Managing Director, Churchgate Group, Mr. Vinay Mahtani “The World Trade Center Abuja master plan provides residential apartments, AAA
commercial offices, a 5 –star hotel and the Capital Mall and will rank amongst the landmark destinations of Africa”. The
site is located along the main gateway into the Central Business District.
He said, “The residential tower features elegant one to six-bedroom floor plans, with spacious balconies, concierge services, security, underground parking, tennis and squash courts, swimming pools and a fitness centre, amongst others.
“The commercial tower, on the other hand, encompasses a blend of efficiency and extravagance for the modern international business. Designed with 20 traditional floors
and three penthouse floors, the WTC office tower aims to accommodate an industrially diverse work environment.
With flexibility in mind, the offices can adjust to businesses of any size, ranging from 100 square metres to 1,440 square metres on a single floor plate.”

culled from ABSradiotv online

CROSSROAD

Once again I'm at this crossroad
Once again I'm torn
Between the devil and the deep blue
And the bleakness of what lies ahead
Stares coldly back at my face

I'm no more at ease
I'm no more at peace
I'm no more myself
My freedom is sold for free
And in chains I lay supine

Amidst these turbulences
Of manipulations
And manipulating
I keep hoping I'll still see
I'll still find that old innocence

But my eyes have been torn wide apart
Not just mine but even hers
Survival has torn off our hymen
Leaving us way dissatisfied
Yet in the deepest regrets

Yet in the deepest regrets.

( CIRCLES. VOLUME TWO: IN THE LIGHT OF THE DARK. BY O'STAR EZE)

NIA/Awka Capital Development Authority brainstorm on Obiano’s World-class Capital City Agenda

In keeping with the desire of the Governor Willie Obiano administration to create a decent environment for the people, the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) is partnering with the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) to give Anambra State a world-class city focused on Dubai Model City concept. Stakeholders converged over the weekend for the 2015 NIA State Chapter Annual Conference organized by NIA and ACTDA at the Emmaus House, Awka with the theme: “Developing An Effective Urban Master Plan for Awka Capital Territory.”

Speaking after declaring the one-day seminar open, governor  Obiano stated that as a friend of the “built environment” who is excited with the activities of the NIA, he believes in professional organizations driving the process of infrastructural development. Governor Obiano who was represented by the Executive Vice Chairman, and Chief   Executive Officer of ACTDA, Arc. Michael Okonkwo   recalled that since the May 15, 2014 inauguration of the 10-man Board for ACTDA, the team has kept pace with the mandate to transform Awka like Dubai did from 1990 to 2013.



Awka Aerial Photography

To achieve the transformation, Obiano said ACTDA was mandated to accelerate infrastructural development of the Awka Capital Territory, prepare a Master Plan for the Territory, implement the Awka Capital Territory Master Plan, provide infrastructural services and coordinate all building development activities of the private sector, parastatals and government agencies within the Territory. According to him, the Awka Capital Territory consists of six local government areas in part or in whole of Anaocha, Awka North, Awka South, Dunukofia, Njikoka and Orumba North.
He pointed out that the Model City Concept for Awka Capital Territory considered and adopted most efficient, productive, lucrative and affordable design principles before settling for three Capital Cities of Dubai of United Arab Emirates; Seoul, the capital city of South Korea and Kigali, the capital city of Republic of Rwanda.

The governor stressed that the importance he attaches to an orderly environment informed the speed with which he approved the Development Control Manual (DCM) produced by ACTDA, geared towards ensuring orderliness that will propel sustainable development in Awka Capital Territory and control of land use and institution of compliance with space standards and approved designs. He said ACTDA has completed such projects as Aerial Photography of Awka Capital Territory with a resolution of 10 cm, using a mapping that produces a higher Digital Terrain Model height accuracy for urban planning and engineering designs and aerial photogrammetric method of surveying that involves measurement and interpretation of features directly from aerial photography.

In his welcome address, Chairman of the State chapter of NIA, Arc. Peter Okpala noted that the theme of the conference was carefully chosen as a major contribution of the Association to the infrastructural development in the State, stressing that “the choice was informed by our decision to partner with the current administration of governor Obiano that has shown good desire to lay a solid foundation for orderly infrastructural development.”
Arc Okpala noted that the dream of actualization of Awka Capital Territory became more glaring with the Obiano administration. “Everyone here will agree with me that since after the creation of of Anambra State in August 1991, not much has been done to change the State capital from its rural nature to its current status as the State capital. Instead, the reckless subdivision and sale of lands by individuals and government agencies in the State capital tends to tilt the town towards urban slums. “The members of the NIA Anambra State, very desirous of working to improve our environment, saw the setting up of Awka Capital Territory Development Authority as a wonderful opportunity to create a world-class city in our State and also a platform for us to achieve our long desire to create a decent environment for our people. There might have been attempts to produce the master plan before now, but it never materialized.
“He appreciated the governor for appointing professionals in the art of governance, adding that his quick response during the period of incessant collapse of building in the State and setting up Collapsed Building Panel has ensure that not a single building has collapsed again unlike between June and September 2014 when about 10 buildings collapsed in the State”.

While hailing Rubend Nig.  Ltd and Intercolor Ltd for their exhibitions, at the conference, Arc Okpala  sought for partnership with the State government in the areas of project monitoring and supervision for which the Association  requested for a bus and project monitoring vehicle for effectiveness.

Resources Persons presented papers during the occasion namely: “Urban Renewal Plan/Redevelopment Structure for the Capital Territory”  by Professor Leonard Muoghalu; “Sustainable Urban Development Plan” by Arc Adibe Njoku; “Waste Management System/Refuse Disposal” by Dr. Anthony Okoye and “Effective Physical Planning Laws/Legislation” by  Arc. Chijioke Okwuowulu.
Others are “Fire Control Safety Management”  by Engr. Martins Agbili; “Security System and Management” by  CP Hosea Karma; “Traffic Control and Management “ by Mr. Sunday Ajayi and “Developing An Effective Urban Waste Management System for Sustainable Environment.”

culled from ABS online

American Association of Moral Education Summit: Buhari Storms Anambra State ..Leads War Against Moral Education By Abuchi Onwumelu

Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari is expected to lead other prominent Nigerians to a Summit organized by the American Association of Moral Education in Anambra state.
The four-day Summit will hold at the Women Development Centre, Awka, the State capital from 14th – 18th July..
Nigerian Coordinator of the Association , Reverend Sister Mary-Jude Therese Nwodo who disclosed this in a press briefing at St. Patrick’s Cathedral Awka, said President Buhari was chosen for the summit because of his 'Demonstrable commitment in moral rearmament.'
She said 'President Buhari is chosen because of his change mantra. We sent an invitation to him and we got a message that he has shown interest to attend.'
Others expected to attend the Summit are: Chairman of Police Service Commission, former Inspector-General of Police, Mike Okiro and Director-General of National Teachers Institute, Dr. Aminu-Landa, among others.
The Association which was formed in 1976 has Nigeria as its 36th member nation.
Reverend Sister Nwodo who regretted that government 'Is not helping matters in keeping the youth busy with work, said if the moral standards of the youth are not stepped up now, society would pay for it in no distance time.
She said the American Association on Moral Education became interested in granting Nigeria its member after her presentation the last time she visited the organization.
She said the task of imparting right virtues on the young was a job for everybody, adding that was why the association is a non- religious and inter- disciplinary.

Social Media Award : Bishop Ezeokafor Congratulates Aide Charges Journalists to Discharge Their Duty Without Fear Or Favour BY ABUCHI IFESINACHI, AWKA

The Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, His Lordship Most Paulinus Ezeokafor has charged journalists to discharge their responsibilities effectively without fear or favour.
Bishop Ezeokafor who gave the charge at St. Patrick's Catholic Cathedral, Awka while congratulating his media Aide, Mr. Abuchi Onwumelu who was recently honoured by social media journalists for his creative ingenuity and also for creating a Social media forum where media Practitioners interact and socialise, said journalists as purveyors of information occupy an important position in society and held the key to projecting rightful information that would enable the people to see things in the right perspective.
He said the Church would continue to support media practitioners with prayers stressing that the job of the media was to disseminate accurate information while calling on government at all levels to allow the media to practice their profession without any form of molestation, inducement or even threat to life.
According to Bishop Ezeokafor, ' Media practitioners should be given a free hand to operate; people should stop harassing them. They should be encouraged. Truly, journalists are endangered species. I want those in political positions to understand that they cannot do without the media. Even the Church cannot function properly without the media, that's why we are here praying for them,' Bishop Ezeokafor said

Awka accident: Ekwunife condoles with deceased family, Ebube Muonso

Senator Uche Ekwunife, representing Anambra Central Senatorial Zone has condoled with Odenigwe family of Enugwu Ukwu, the Spiritual Director of Holy Ghost Adoration Ministry (aka Ebube Muonso), Rev Fr. Emmmanuel Obimma and Anambra state government over the death of Okey Odenigwe and some members of his family in an auto crash along Awka Enugu expressway on Sunday.

Ekwunife in her condolence message described the incident that led to the death of Okey, his wife and one of his sons as tragic and a calamity for the entire family of Odenigwe and Anambra state government.

She called for special prayers for the repose of the deceased souls, adding that the sad news of the auto crash kept her awake all through the night as she meditated over the incident that almost wiped out entire family of six and called on Odenigwe family to bear the irreparable loss courage.

"I received with shock the painful death of Okey Odenigwe, his wife and a son on Sunday along Agu Awka in a terrible auto crash. These deaths though avoidable call for special intervention on the state of federal roads across South East zone and Anambra in particular. I am more saddened over the death of these persons leaving behind very little and innocent children to suffer the pains of loss of parents"

"I therefore send my heart felt condolences to Odenigwe family of Avo Omimi Enugwu Ukwu and the Spiritual Director of Ebube Muonso, Fr. Emmanuel Obimma whose Personal Assistant the deceased was before his death and the government of Anambra state. This is a very sad moment for all of us but we must accept in good faith this which we cannot change and do more to save our people from such careless deaths in future" she said.

Senator Ekwunife however promised to make a legislation that would minimize deaths on Nigerian highways when the 8th National Assembly reconvenes. Ends.

THE MACE By Tony Okafor.

Just finished scanning through the 320 sections of the 1999 constitution of the federal republic of nigeria(as amended in 2010) looking for -MACE .I didn't see it anywhere in the constitution, meaning that prima facie it cannot be validly relied upon as a legal weapon to canvass for the legitimacy or otherwise  of the sitting of our legislators in any part of nigeria-since the legislature ought to be guided by the constitution as the supreme law or grundnorm.What I saw in the constitution is that the lawmakers shall form quorum to sit upon the presence of 1/3 of members,without more.(in crucial decisions like impeachment 2 /3 quorum is required)Then why must our lawmakers fight and scramble for the possesion of the MACE each time they have misunderstanding , to legitimize the sitting of any of the divide?The late Chuba Okadigbo had to bring down  the MACE of the senate from Abuja to Ogbunike (I think in 2000 or so) to prevent his impeachment as the senate president; relying fully on the fact that without the MACE the senate "can do nothing".Chuba in all his wisdom did not reason that another MACE could be procured in a nearby market and used for same purpose.And I think that was what really happened and the giant Chuba lost the battle to Anyim Pius Anyim.Then why attach importance to the MACE if it has no constitutional backing? Ignorance of the law or ignorance of the facts or old fashion or stereotype? This made me to further research via the google on the history ,origin and significance of the MACE to the parliament. I gathered that the MACE was introduced in the parliamentary business at about 1653 as a symbol of authority representing the sovereign .According to my findings,the parliament cannot sit or take decision,especially in Australia ,without the MACE.Confusion? But in the event of any logjam on the legitimacy of the sitting of any of our legislative houses in nigeria with or without the MACE will the judiciary centre its decision on the constitutionality or history of the MACE ? That is my headache because this situation will one day play out in Nigeria the way things are going and MESS up the entire system . Granted that legislative houses have their rules and order where the MACE may have been given a mention,can these rules and order(s) of the legislatures override the constitution where the MACE is not expressly mentioned as a symbol of any authority? To be continued.

Aguata Anglican Diocese Ordains 7 Priests

Three priests and four deacons were recently ordained by the Anglican diocese of Aguata in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State. The four deacons are: Ord. Walter Chife, Ord. Chukwuemeka Anyichie, Ord. Ernest Okoli, and Ord. Rowland Nwibe; while the priests are Rev. Nathaniel Ume, Rev. Kenneth Ochulor, and Rev. Eric C. Chidolue.
The event which held at St. John the Divine Anglican Church, Oko saw two bishops, many priests of various ranks, top government functionaries and other eminent personalities in attendance.

In his homily, the guest preacher and Bishop of New Bussa Diocese in Niger State, Rt. Rev. Israel Afolabi Amoo charged the new priests to uphold the teachings and principles of Jesus Christ, noting that such is the key to their survival in the extension of God’s kingdom. He disclosed that God still needs people who will dedicate themselves to the extension of His Kingdom on earth and preaching of salvation of Jesus Christ to mankind.

“God is in need of servants in his massive vineyard. Nigeria is part of that vineyard and when you look at our nation today, it is in serious trouble. God needs people who would be sent to work in this vineyard; He needs people who would be sent to preach salvation of Jesus Christ. We need to act swiftly to save this nation. The unfortunate thing is that the church which should be the light is derailing in that regard. This is because there is lack of trust among the flocks. That is why you were called to the service of God. You are therefore to uphold to the tenets of your calling to the glory of God. There is high level of insecurity in the country and I urge everybody to be security conscious” he said.

While ordaining the priests and deacons, the Bishop of the host diocese, Most Rev. Christian Efobi charged the priests to hold unto the truth and light of Jesus Christ while discharging their priestly duties. He noted that the church would stop at nothing to ensure the salvation of Jesus Christ is preached around the world.

Obiano condoles family of tragic accident...writes off medical bills

Obiano Condoles Family of Accident Victims, Writes off Medical Bills

The compassionate governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano has condoled the family of the victims of the ghastly motor accident which occurred today at Finotel Junction along Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, Awka.

According to an eye witness, a loose trailer fell on a car conveying the family of six killing three on the spot including their parents.

Saddened by the development, governor Obiano has undertaken to pay all medical bills to be incurred by the surviving duo who are receiving treatment at Regina Caeli Hospital, Awka.

Expressing his condolence for the lives lost, Obiano assured Ndi Anambra that he would ensure safety of lives and regulated movement of heavy duty vehicle within the state.

culled from Ifeadinmesi.com

Anambra State Government Charges Online Publishers To Refrain From Gossips & Yellow Journalism

Dr Akabuike, during the AOP courtesy call

 In a bid to ensure freedom of information law passed by the 7th National Assembly is respected to ensure public office holders are accountable to the people and access to information of government is respected, the Anambra state government has expounded his administration resolve to work with the media to deliver open door policy of governance devoid of selfless leadership prowess to the people.
He assured that his government has remained one of the administrations that has also taken into consideration of including media practitioners in the programme of government to provide open access to information about Anambra state added that his administration is willing to strengthened the already established relationship with the media if adequate reporting and respect for institution of government are observed.
Speaking to members of the Anambra State Online Publishers in Awka, the Anambra state commissioner for health Doctor Jeosapath Akabuike, assured the readiness of the state government to strengthen the already existing relationship with journalists and however express hope that it would be extended to the men of the Online Publishers, being the nascent and fastest way of information disseminations network.
                                 
Though expressed disappointment in some media practitioners who rush without crosschecking their facts before reports are published but charged journalists to ensure they eschew derogatory reportage in the interest of the country.
‘’One thing that is very shocking to us is that our people I mean some media practitioners are always very fast in projecting derogatory images and views, that is why a times when you see some people, they may decide not to talk at all so that they may not be miss represented or misquoted in any form.
So the media instead of being an agent to shape the government becomes the one that is destructive if you people remember, that was what made the late Professor Dora Akunyili to try to reposition Nigeria before the entire world that we are not as bad as we are painted'.
He continued, ''This your association from what I understood I know is something that came into that, that is why I say I commend you so much for thinking along that line, it is because of the fear of miss representation and miss quotation that makes people to shy aware from media’’. Akabuike said.
Doctor Akabuike however charged the social media publishers  to always engendered professionalism in the discharge of their duties and ensure public office holders are not disengaged from their constitutional duties base on wrong or  mis-representation of information of government and buoyed on the fact to disengage from the relationship  entered into with the Anambra state online publishers if discovered it does not reflect the term at which he entered into the relationship which is subject to secession when the need arises.
‘’My charge is that if you want to write anything about anybody or institution of government, first read it again and asks yourself if you are promoting of damaging that person.
In as much that I quite appreciate and I know the power of social media, I don’t support or suggest the situation where people use it to throw up all forms of gossips and all forms of careless statements or use it to promote irrelevant information because I know that is what some people would want to hear but I urge you to always communicate an information of peace and ensure you don’t do anything that will project war and Anarchy and ensure you occasionally do some investigative journalism.
‘I am ready to partner with you , I am sure there in no union and no MoU we have signed, if we are getting what we bargain for I will work with you but you must operate at a very narrow and safe margin and decency, if I discover that you go contrary to the terms which I see is below standard and see you would want to promote derogatory  and careless journalism, I am ready to break away ‘’ He charged.
Earlier in the courtesy visit, the Anambra state Online Publishers headed by the state coordinator, Mr. Bamidele Ajayi had requested the support of the ministry to ensure their operation is supported and disclosed effort by the union to streamline operation of persons using the online media to damage individuals and institution of government noted that the union would serve as police to regulate online publishers within in state to ensure ethics of journalism profession is observed.
He assured the commissioner on the union's resolve to ensure non practitioners or willing members are compelled to instill discipline and see that project Anambra state is portrayed in positive light to the international community, owing to the fact that social media information dissemination is an un regulated media but could be used to sharpen the society and project art and culture of the people that would in turn encourage  foreign direct investment to the state and Nigeria at large.

The Commisioner (middle in traditional attire) posing with some of Anambra Online Bloggers