Thursday, 24 April 2025

Hon Sale James strikes peace deal between Egba Agatu, Ologba communities of Agatu LGA, harps on significance of peace

The importance of peaceful coexistence cannot be over emphasized, and without peace, there would be no development.

For over 18 years, the people of Egba Agatu and Ologba communities of Agatu LGA of Benue State have been at daggers drawn over land dispute leading to loss of lives and properties. 

However, it was this need for tranquility and peaceful co- existence that led Hon Adakole Saleh James, a critical stakeholder of Egba Agatu Community, Founder of Adakole Network for Peace in Agatu, and a Benue State House of Assembly Hopeful come 2027, took it upon himself to bring peace to the two warring communities of Egba Agatu and Ologba.

Yesterday being Sunday, April 20, 2025, Adakole James successfully brought the two communities together to embrace peace after taking up the peace role in 2013.

Adakole Saleh James said that Agatu Local Government Area, Benue State is one of the 23 LGAs in Benue State, predominantly inhabited by peace loving farmers, faming and fishing is their major occupation.

"I grew up to know about the cultural heritage of the Agatu Communities. We occupy a local government in Benue State and part of Nasarawa State.

"We have been peace loving people until 2008, I think it was in my secondary school when the crisis started in Egba which is my own very Community. This crisis was between Egba which is my own community and Ologba. This crisis has led to loss of lives and property and escalated beyond these two communities.

"We could not access our farms, we could no longer go for fishing, as I said earlier our major occupation is farming and fishing, your father doesn't need to be a Civil Servant, your mother doesn't need to be a government worker to careter for the family members. We are predominantly farmers and this was a lucrative and major source of our livelihood. 

"And this crisis has actually denied us of government presence, no good roads, if not now that we have contractors on site and works ongoing through the efforts of the Governor, thank God for Governor Hyacinth Alia, who saw the need to connect the rural and the urban cities together," he narrated.

Sale James thanked the current governor of Benue State for remembering the two communities with infrastructural development such as roads, maintaining that the two communities were literally abandoned by government due to insecurity, adding that without peace there would not be any form of development. "So we thank God for his intervention on infrastructure. This is the only development we can say we are witnessing since 2008, the government has outrightly abandoned us and every blame goes to insecurity.

"No development can come in any society without peace, any society at war, meaningful development cannot strive, and the war is not against external bodies, it is a war between brothers, a community against another Community within a particular set of people. It was a serious war since 2008," he disclosed.

Sale James revealed how he took up the challenge of bringing peace to the two communities even at the risk of his own life. "By 2013, I took up this challenge, and say we cannot continue like this, myself particularly, I have lost lives, immediate family members, houses burnt down as a result of this crisis."

He stated that if anyone has lost anything in the war, he has lost a lot. "If there is anyone who has lost anything in this crisis, I can say I have lost more. So I say, can I continue to wait and lose more lives? I may even be the next victim.

"So I picked up this challenge in 2013, I started preaching peace within my community, then we use social media, media houses to reach out to other communities because I couldn't access them.

"Sometimes without security you cannot access these other communities to talk to them, thank God for social media, we always talk to ourselves on social media by reaching out to each other, on the need for peace, the essence of peace, why peace needs to be maintained and sustained, the need for forgiveness in order for us to grow, there is the need to let go, there is no need to fight over land, piece of land, there is no need. So when they saw the genuineness, the sincerity, because actually everyone was tired, the Egba community, the Ologba community and every other community, they were all tired of the crisis, we were tired of retardation, tired of retrogression, tired of backwardness, tired of lack of basic amenities such as health facilities, no functional schools in most of these areas, it has gotten to everybody's neck, so it has become everybody's business, and I am happy that the youths have woken up, from the enlightenment, from the discussions we had with youths from the commities and for the first time, I have been visiting the communities on some occasions, youths of Ologba Community, I have been visiting them, engaging them, on the essence of peace, why we must go back to the ancient path, why we must rebuild that Agatu that was inherited from our four fathers because I grew up riding bicycles, from my community to other communities 2am mid night, and you will hear nothing, but now people will be on transit, you will leave your house and say I am going to market, I am coming, I am going to the farm, and you just hear that somebody has been kidnapped and that is the end." 

He said for years this bad blood between the two communities continued and none of the communities could be exempted, adding that the meeting on Sunday brought joy to both communities "And for years this has been happening for a long time, this has been happening repeatedly,   I cannot exempt my own community, I cannot exempt the other communities, of course both communities are involved in this, and this has taken so many lives, nobody knows who is next, so the meeting yesterday was one of the happiest moment in both communities. 

"As I said I have been engaging them individually and I saw the need for us to move as a people, this time around not just as individuals, so when I visited the other Community, we had joyful moment, it was a deliberate effort, if you choose peace and I don't choose peace, there won't be peace, it has to be a deliberate effort between the two of us.

"So I led the youths from the other community to my community and when I introduced them to my people as youths from the other community, our people were happy, there was palpable joy and we had fruitful discussions, they agreed to sustain the tempo of peace, we are also devising strategies in order to sustain the peace, and we agreed to be having this engagement with the youths  regularly.

"A crisis that lasted for close to 18 years, there is no magic about it, it is deliberate, it has to be genuine from both sides, they have to see the genuineness, they have to see the transparency of the process, they have to see the integrity of the whole process, and myself been the Founder of Adakole Network for Peace in Agatu, carrying out this outreach, reaching out to less-privileged and the displaced in this crisis, they see the sincerity of purpose, it is a welcome development."

Speaking further, he said that latest meeting was the first of its kind since the starting of the crisis, saying that to sustain the peace there is need for regular meeting to renew the mindset of the two warring brothers. "There is need to sustain this on continuous basis to see a renewed mindset, to see the youths transformed and I commend my team members reaching out to the less privileged, the displaced as a result of the crisis."With Adakole Network for Peace in Agatu (A.N.P.A), peace is here.

 

Friday, 18 April 2025

Chief Ambassador Nwaobi tasks Prince Ukachukwu on strong vision, pays him courtesy visit in Abuja

Divine Uchenna:

The race for the topmost job in Anambra State has commenced and it is time for critical stakeholders to stand up to be counted.

No wonder, the Business mogul, CHAIRMAN/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, BRIGHAMS HOTEL  & SUITES LTD and BINOLEX NIGERIA WIRE & CABLE LTD, Chief Ambassador Christian Chukwuebuka Nwaobi, has paid a courtesy visit to Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu (Ikukuoma Ndigbo) the All Progressives Congress (APC) Flag-bearer in the November 8, 2025 Governorship Election in Anambra State, with the sole objective of advising him on the way forward.

During the visit in Abuja on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, the Osumenyi born billionaire, industrialist and hospitality expert, used the opportunity offered by the visit to advise Prince Ukachukwu on some critical issues capable of ensuring his victory at the poll on November 8.

Also known as AGBALANZE EZE-UMEAFOJURU of Osumenyi and Ezinifite Kingdom, Ambassador Nwaobi urged the Gubernatorial candidate on the need to develop a Strong Vision, understand the state's challenges and opportunities, identify key areas to focus on, such as education, infrastructure, healthcare and, or economic development.

Ambassador Nwaobi stressed that as the only candidate who is hoped to dislodge the incumbent governor from the Government House in Awka, he must take Responsibility,  recognize that his life and career are his responsibility, take ownership of his actions, decisions, and policies as that would help him to build trust with voters and stakeholders.

Hon. Nwaobi maintained that managing expectations is also vital. “Be aware of the expectations of various stakeholders, including voters, party members, and special interest groups, balance these expectations with your vision and goals.”

He also harped on the need for honesty and transparency. “Be Authentic and Honest; be true to yourself and your values. Voters can tell when you're being insincere. Honesty and transparency are crucial for building trust.

“Listen and Empathize, you should understand the concerns and needs of your constituents. Show empathy and compassion, and be willing to listen to different perspectives,” he said.

Agbalanze added that building a strong team is as important as working hard, showing perseverance and surrounding himself with professionals who share the same vision as he does. “Surround yourself with experienced and dedicated professionals who share your vision. This will help you make informed decisions and implement effective policies. Work hard and persevere. Running for governor requires dedication, hard work, and resilience. Be prepared to face challenges and setbacks, and stay focused on your goals,” he added. 

On his campaign strategies, Hon. Nwaobi said “Some key qualities to demonstrate during your campaign include integrity by showing that you're committed to doing what's right, even when it's difficult. Show leadership by demonstrating your ability to inspire and motivate others. Accountability is taking responsibility for your actions and decisions; have compassion by showing that you care about the wellbeing of your constituents,” Ambassador Nwaobi stressed. 

Speaking on how he would engage his voters, Nwaobi advised Prince Ukachukwu on strategies to consider while engaging with voters and stakeholders. He told the gubernatorial candidate who doubles as his brother to advise with permission, respect people's boundaries and ask if they want advice or input.

Ambassador Nwaobi said he must develop listening ear, give people a chance to share their thoughts and concerns, as well as avoiding judging people so as to focus on finding solutions rather than placing blame, and that he must provide long-term support and guidance to those who need it.

 

Tuesday, 8 April 2025

Association of Christian Correspondents of Nigeria felicitates with an icon, Bishop Charles Ighele @ 70

Cyriacus Nnaji:

Association of Christian Correspondents of Nigeria (ACCN) has joined millions across the globe in celebrating the 70th birthday of Bishop Charles Ighele, an icon and the General Superintendent of Holy Spirit Mission, popularly known as the Happy Family Centre.

Bishop Ighele clocked 70 today, Tuesday, 8th, April, 2025.

In a press release signed by Adeola Ogunlade, President, Association of Christian Correspondents of Nigeria (ACCN) Bishop Ighele has consistently exemplified integrity, spiritual leadership, and a lifelong commitment to the work of God.

He said “As a Patron of our Association, Bishop Ighele has consistently exemplified integrity, spiritual leadership, and a lifelong commitment to the work of God and the welfare of humanity. He has remained firm, compassionate, and unrelenting in the pursuit of a society that reflects Christ’s love in action.”

“Under Bishop Ighele’s leadership, Holy Spirit Mission has grown to nearly 80 branches across Nigeria. Beyond preaching the gospel, the ministry is deeply involved in feeding the poor, empowering entrepreneurs, and restoring dignity to vulnerable populations. His deep concern for food security has led to a massive agricultural initiative in Ogun State, with plans to build a University of Agriculture and Rural Development,” he added

Ogunlade also stated that Bishop Ighele also champions education, youth development. “Bishop Ighele also champions education, youth development and the transformation of communities through practical skills training. His ministry is currently developing a Skills Acquisition Institute to inspire and equip young Nigerians with tools for self-reliance, particularly in agriculture and enterprise.

“The Happy Family Television Programme, which he co-presents with his wife Carol, broke ground in 1995 as Nigeria’s first regular marriage and family intimacy broadcast. Today, it continues to inspire strong, godly homes across the country.

“A graduate of the University of Ife with a degree in History and Political Science (1980), Bishop Ighele has combined intellectual depth with spiritual discernment to lead a church that speaks to both soul and society.

“As he marks his 70th birthday this April, we honor a man who believes the church must not just be a place of worship but a force for societal transformation. Bishop Ighele has taught us that true ministry meets people at their point of need—with compassion, with strategy, and with vision.

“We celebrate his life, his service, and his legacy. Happy 70th birthday, Bishop Charles” he said.

 

 

 

Monday, 7 April 2025

Olujoke, Akhaine, Adegoke call for strengthening of Democracy in Nigeria

Experts, professionals, stakeholders, including Dr. Asekere Olujoke, Professor Sylvester Odion Akhaine and Mr. Kunle Adegoke (SAN) have called for the strengthening of Democracy in Nigeria.

The trio made the call at a Subnational Conference on Strengthening of Democracy in Nigeria, organized by the Centre for Democracy and Development, Lagos, at The Dover Hotel, in Ikeja, Lagos State, on April 3rd, 2025. The identified several challenges undermining Nigeria’s democracy, as well as recommendations which are aimed at strengthening democracy in Nigeria.

Theme of the Conference was Strengthening Nigeria Democracy: Pathways to Good Governance and Political Integrity.

Kunle Adegoke (SAN) delivered a paper titled Strengthening the Roles of CSOs, Political Parties, Media & other stakeholders in Mobilizing Citizens for Electoral Political Participation & Oversight Functions

He said “It has become imperative for us all to have interest in how to ensure that we get governance right as our fates and futures are determined by the choices we make or fail to make today just as our present has been a product of the past. It is on this note that I congratulate the organizers of today’s event for considering our collective interest a serious business that should not be left to chances.”

He concluded that the submissions at the conference are necessary if there is true desire to have a society where there is maximum participation in the electoral process and that all stakeholders have their different roles to play which cannot be left undone

Dr. Asekere Olujoke Funmilayo, Senior Lecture, Department of Mass Communication, Yaba College of Technology, said, “We must also address the issue of voter apathy. Voter apathy is a major challenge in our democratic process, and it has resulted in low voter turnout. We must work together to address voter apathy by promoting voter education and mobilization, as well as ensuring that our electoral process is free and fair. We must also address the issue of inadequate voter registration. Inadequate voter registration is another challenge in our electoral process, and it has resulted in the disenfranchisement of many citizens. We must work together to address inadequate voter registration by promoting voter registration drives, as well as ensuring that people truly understand the power of their votes.

“Furthermore, we must address the issue of corruption in our electoral process. Corruption is another major challenge in our electoral process, and it has resulted in the manipulation of election results. We must work together to address corruption in our electoral process by promoting transparency and accountability, as well as ensuring that our electoral officials are neutral and impartial.”

Speaking further, the erudite scholar said that Democracy is a multifaceted concept that extends far beyond the realm of elections and governance. “Democracy is a multifaceted concept that extends far beyond the realm of elections and governance. At its core, democracy is about empowering individuals with sovereignty, ensuring equality among citizens, and fostering a society that values and upholds democratic norms and principles. It is about creating a space where citizens can engage in deliberative discussions, exchange ideas, and participate in collective decision-making processes. Democracy is also about resistance and radical action, where individuals can challenge unjust systems and demand accountability from those in power,” Funmilayo added.

Professor Sylvester Odion Akhaine, Department of Political Science, Lagos State University, looked at Democratic practice in Nigeria after a protracted military rule by x-raying the contradictions of the Fourth Republic marked by Constitutional Deficit which include Pacted transition, rigged polls, weak parties, ideological poverty, defection, absence of tempering, Godfatherism, Corruption , Cost of governance and Illiberalism[ intolerance of dissenting views, rule of force, etc.]

However, at the end the Conference, the organisers, Centre for Democracy and Development issued a communiqué in which they identified some of the Challenges hindering democracy in Nigeria which include Constitutional Deficit comprising Structural and legal inadequacies that impede democratic consolidation. They are Electoral Integrity Issues: Widespread electoral malpractice, including vote buying, rigged polls, and lack of internal party democracy; Weak Political Parties: Absence of ideological direction, frequent defections, and dominance of godfatherism in party politics.

Others are, Corruption and Cost of Governance: High governance costs, poor accountability, and misuse of public resources; Limited Electoral Awareness and Participation: Low voter engagement, especially among youth, and inadequate election education at the grassroots.

They also talked about Challenges in Voter Registration and Accessibility, adding that there is Need for improved registration processes and the establishment of convenient polling units. They also alerted on the Lack of Institutional Strengthening: Weak democratic institutions unable to withstand undue political influence.

Further group advocated the strengthening of democracy in Nigeria by making the following key recommendations: Enhancing Electoral Awareness and Voter Empowerment, saying that Local Government Authorities (LGAs) should actively promote election awareness and facilitate voter registration closer to the people and the National Orientation Agency (NOA) should intensify its democracy education efforts beyond election cycles.

They also suggested improving Electoral Processes and Integrity by Political parties which must uphold internal democracy to ensure credible candidate selection and Institutional frameworks which should be strengthened to curb vote buying and electoral fraud.

The conference concluded by saying that in order to Strengthen Democratic Institutions and Leadership, there is need for the Establishment of robust institutions that uphold transparency and accountability and Recruitment of credible and service-driven political leaders through a refined selection process.

It further stated that to enhance Youth Engagement in Politics, there is need to provide young voters with accurate information to enable informed electoral participation and encouraging youth-led democratic initiatives and leadership development.

The conference also averred that addressing Governance Challenges must consider reducing the high cost of governance and promoting fiscal accountability and Encouraging statesmanship and visionary leadership among political actors.

According the Centre for Democracy and Development, the Strengthening Democracy Conference in Lagos underscored the urgent need for collective action in addressing democratic deficits and reinforcing governance structures.

Stakeholders also agreed that democracy must be seen as a marketplace of ideas, where power is transient and governance is a responsibility rather than an avenue for personal enrichment. Moving forward, there is a need for sustained engagement between citizens, electoral bodies, political parties, and governance institutions to ensure Nigeria’s democratic evolution remains on a progressive trajectory.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday, 6 April 2025

Hon Umenzekwe, Onwa Achina, congratulates Ukachukwu on victory as APC Flagbearer

Success Damian:

All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart and chieftain, Hon Chief Modestus Umenzekwe, Onwa Achina, has congratulated Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu on his landslide victory as the Flagbearer of the APC in the November 8, 2025 Governorship Election in Anambra State.

Chief Umenzekwe, known for his political sagacity, business and administrative acumen, was addressing Journalists on Sunday, April 6, 2025, adding that APC deserved to field the best candidate in order to win the November Gubernatorial election.

Umenzekwe went further to thank the President for insisting on merit which ensured that the people’s choice, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, emerged winner, adding that it would be a doom for the commercial and industrial hub of the nation to re-embroil itself in retrogression in all developmental indices due to avoidable mistake of choosing the wrong candidate.  He therefore thanked God that with the emergence of Ukachukwu as the party flagbearer, there is hope for APC in the November Gubernatorial Election.

Umenzekwe stated that the state needs a man whose words are like the words of the holy book, a fellow who sees black and calls it black and white, white, a promise keeper.

He said, “Anambrians have also evaluated the capacities of the various political parties under which umbrellas the state has been governed, many of these parties run Anambra as a captured state or as a property to be bought and sold at their whims and caprices without paying attention to the social contract between those who rule and the led, security of lives and property are now left in the hands of non-state actors and people in the state can no longer sleep with their two eyes closed; roads, water, electricity, hospitals, education, environment are left to rot, as the entire urban cities smell with refuse at every nook and cranny, but with Prince (Dr) Ukachukwu, with his innovative ideas, all these anomalies will be corrected.

He said Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu victory has not only elicited infinite jubilation and wide spread acceptability by the people of the state, it has also, of course, engendered hope that Anambra State will rise again. He said “The Osumenyi born Business Mogul and philanthropist is a man of impeccable character, a man that has built political and business clout and reputation. His path from grassroots politics to national prominence has positioned him as a serious contender for the office of governor, Anambra State come, November, 2025."

He said Ukachukwu’s companies have created numerous job opportunities across the country, contributing to economic growth and development, particularly in southeastern Nigeria.

He said that as a member of the Federal House of Representatives, representing the Orumba North/South Federal Constituency of Anambra State, Ukachukwu was vocal on issues relating to youth empowerment, rural development, and infrastructure. He used his legislative platform to advocate the improvement of educational facilities and road infrastructure in his constituency.

Umenzekwe stated that Ukachukwu’s tenure in the House of Representatives was marked by his commitment to constituency development projects. He launched several initiatives aimed at providing basic amenities to rural areas, including the installation of water boreholes, electrification projects, and the construction of schools. His ability to effectively balance his legislative duties with his business endeavors made him a well-respected figure among his constituents.

“Apart from his electoral pursuits, Ukachukwu has played a significant role in national politics. As a member of the APC, he has been involved in shaping the party’s policies, particularly concerning the southeast region. He has used his platform to advocate better representation of southeastern Nigeria in national governance and to push for federal projects that would benefit his region. His influence within the APC has made him one of the party's key figures in Anambra State.

“In addition to education, Ukachukwu has supported healthcare initiatives, including funding the construction of health centers in remote areas of Anambra. These centers provide essential medical services to communities that would otherwise lack access to healthcare facilities,” Umenzekwe said.

The Eyimba Achina added that with Ukachukwu as a seasoned administrator with tested credentials in both the private and public sectors of service will skillfully capitalize on this perception, presenting Ndi Anambra both at home and the diaspora with a clear cut vision and agenda that combines his proven administrative experience with ambitious development goals for the state.

So he is a sort of a unifier, he is connected to all senior political actors and junior political actors including the grassroots. And his philanthropic attitude is unequaled.

 

 

 

 

Hon. Ambassador Christian Nwaobi congratulates Prince (Dr) Ukachukwu on landslide victory as APC Flagbearer

Business mogul, CHAIRMAN/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER  Of  BRIGHAMS HOTEL  & SUITES LTD and BINOLEX NIGERIA WIRE &  CABLE LTD, Hon. Ambassador Christian Chukwuebuka Nwaobi, has congratulated Prince (Dr) Nicholas Ukachukwu (Ikukuoma Ndigbo)on his landslide victory as the All Progressives Congress (APC) Flag-bearer in the November 8, 2025 Governorship Election in Anamra State.

The billionaire, industrialist and hospitality expert, Chief Christian Nwaobi, described Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu (Ikukuoma) as a leader who can fix Anambra State.

AGBALANZE EZE-UMEAFOJURU of Osumenyi and Ezinifite Kingdom while speaking to the media on Sunday, April 6, 2025, expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the entire APC community for their support to the grassroot politician whom he said has the capacity of righting the wrongs of present and past administrations in the state.

He reiterated his earlier stand that every critical stakeholder in Anambra State, as a matter of sincerity devoid of political exigencies and allegiance, knows that Anambra needs a man like Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu to dislodge the government of All Progressives Grand Alliance in the State, adding that the once thriving commercial hub has suddenly become a den of not just political misfits but touts and non-state actors have actually taken charge of the towns and villages. 

Ambassador Nwaobi who could be crowned as the political prophet of our time, being the first person to tell Prince Ukachukwu that he would emerge the flagbearer said, “Of course, the state must not continue in obviously calculated political rascality where promises are made and not kept, where roads, hospitals, schools are in disrepair, religious institutions are no longer accorded the respect they deserve, the same with traditional institutions, while security is at its lowest ebb.”

He said the promised African Dubai Taiwan which has remained in the realms of unfulfilled prophecy is still fresh in the memories of the people and said never again. “As a leader your words must be your bond, we need a man of integrity, a promise keeper, a humanitarian, someone who is accountable, transparent, and a visionary leader with sound background in grassroots politics, a man who feels the pain and heard the cry of his people and does something immediately, a problem solver, a man that can be trusted with the people's resources and it will not evaporate into the thin air.” 

The business magnet while congratulating Ukachukwu said, “If truth must be told, Anambra State needs a grassroots leader like Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu (Ikukoma), a leader who is well endowed with natural leadership qualities, combining it with knowledge of the corporate world where industry and entrepreneurship yield results.”

Ambassador Nwaobi called on all and sundry, including the indigenes of OSUMENYI and its environs to rally round Ikukuoma, quintessential leader, in order to ensure optimal result.

He said, “Of course we the indigenes of Osumenyi, all the towns in Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State, and the different professionals, captains of industries, have in unison chosen Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu (Ikukuoma Ndigbo) to occupy Agu Awka, the Government House of Anambra State, and the massive support from us will be unprecedented in the history of the state. As we all know too well, all the businesses and industries in the country are owned by people from this very community and contribute a lot in the development of Anambra State in particular and Nigeria in general,” the Business mogul averred.

“GOD BLESS OSUMENYI 

GOD BLESS NNEWI SOUTH 

GOD BLESS ANAMBRA STATE

GOD BLESS NIGERIA,” Ambassador Nwaobi stated.

Friday, 4 April 2025

That honour as Pillar of Tansian University said it all about Ukachukwu

By Emmanuel Uwadineke


Some days ago, Prince (Dr.) Nicholas Ukachukwu was bestowed with the prestigious honour as the Pillar of Tansian University by the University Management.

We all jubilated and still jubilating, but beyond the jubilation, we must understand that such award is a bold and audacious statement that Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu is an all-round philanthropist who has done great things not just in politics but also in education.

If I am not mistaking, according to report, Ukachukwu has been one of the major financiers of the institution which led to the University bestowing him with an Honorary Doctorate Degree in the past.

So what the university management did was just a simple acknowledgement of Ukachukwu's immense contributions towards the growth and development of the Institution, by honouring him with the Highest Award.

Now the big one, in appreciation of the honour done to him, Prince Dr. Nicholas Ukachukwu (Ikukuoma) extended his philanthropy gesture further by donating a whopping sum of N270 million for building of a School hostel.

For some of us and other political pundits, the honour by this university of note means a lot, it is a brave recognition of a man who has contributed in community and human capital development in all ramifications.

As Anambra State All Progressives Congress (APC) concludes all arrangements for the primary election on 5th of April, to select the flagbearer for the November 8 Governorship Election in the state, we advise the delegates, power brokers and political stakeholders in the party and beyond, to jettison sentiment and make sure the election is seamlessly organised under a democratic process that would enthrone the people's choice.

Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu remains the people's choice, and the best thing is to ensure that the people get whom they desire as anything in the contrary will definitely spell doom for the party at the poll.

The greatest gift, the party leaders will give Anambrarians is to ensure that the state is connected to the national grid in order to be able to attract federal goodwill as easy as possible instead of going cap in hand whenever they needed something from the federal government. 

And of course, the best way to achieve this is to ensure transparency that will enthrone the best, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu.

So many scholars and political octopus have predicted Ukachukwu's victory if there is transparency. He is the only person in Anambra State APC who can dislodge Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo as it is today.

Anambrarians must jettison money politics, pecuniary considerations and then go for the best. For more than two decades, APC and its political linage has played second fiddle in Anambra State politics, but it must not be so this time, the party leaders must walk the talk, so as not to put the state to ridiculous second fiddle position again.

Anambra APC must get it right this time.