THE RESOLUTION OF THE ANAMBRA SOUTH SENATORIAL ZONE, LABOUR PARTY STAKEHOLDERS MEETING HELD AT AWKA, TODAY; 10TH JANUARY, 2024

 THE RESOLUTION OF THE ANAMBRA SOUTH SENATORIAL ZONE, LABOUR PARTY STAKEHOLDERS MEETING HELD AT AWKA, TODAY; 10TH JANUARY, 2024

The Anambra South Senatorial Zone Labour Party (LP) Stakeholders rising from a crucial meeting held today in Awka resolve as follows:

1. The Anambra State Government treats with disdain, disrepute, and disregard the Anambra State traditional institution as exemplified in the selective, unceremonious, and unwarranted suspension of Igwe Damian Ezeani, the Traditional Ruler of Neni, for the alleged breach of a code of conduct which the indigenes of Neni never complained of and the so-called Code of Conduct for Traditional Rulers in the state was never invoked when the V.P His Excellency Kashim Shettima and Gen Tukur Buratai were respectively conferred with chieftaincy titles by the Traditional Rulers of Ukpo and Aguleri, thus demonstrating that the Anambra State Governor acted mala-fide and inequitably.

2. That it is contemptuous and smacks of irrationality and unbridled abuse of power for the Governor of Anambra State to constitute himself into the accuser, prosecutor, and judge when he publicly and embarrassingly adjudged that Rev Fr. Emmanuel Obimma, aka Ebube Muonso breached the Burial Law of Anambra State during the burial obsequies of his mother, Ezinne Grace Obimma. The Governor of Anambra State assumed Ecclesiastical jurisdiction for which he was appropriately rebuked by His Grace, Most Rev Valerian Okeke, the Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province. We do not want to belabour the matter except to express our alignment with the wholesome stance of His Grace, Most Reverend Valerian Okeke.

3. The security situation in Anambra State is deplorable, and it demands an urgent, proactive and result-oriented approach rather than the untoward propaganda routinely orchestrated by the Anambra State Government-sponsored advertorial posters.

4. The LP Anambra South Senatorial District Stakeholders unanimously resolved that the Principle of Zoning of the Governorship Seat of the state must be maintained in the forthcoming 2025 Anambra gubernatorial polls and, therefore, dutifully call on the National Leadership of the Party to make a bold and unequivocal statement to this effect to ensure orderliness and rancour-free Party Primary Election in Anambra State 

5. Pursuant to the above, we, therefore, humbly insist that the Labour Party ticket for the 2025 Anambra Gubernatorial Election must go to Anambra South Senatorial Zone, and nowhere else. It is our wish to Anambra South candidates should commit to support whoever emerges from our Zone as the candidate of our party. 

6. As a corollary and in the spirit of fair play and equity, the Stakeholders respectfully suggest that all concerned solemnly agree that the LP candidate SHALL serve for one term of 4 years, after which the post goes to the next zone.

7. Honourable Paul Obu, who represents Orumba North and is the Minority Whip in the Anambra State House of Assembly being the only elected official from Anambra South, has our full support to lead and convene meetings of Labour Party Stakeholders in our Senatorial Zone going forward.

Thank You.

Signed

S/N Name 

(Local Government Area)

1 Hon. Paul Obu (Orumba North)

2. Prof Patrick Obi (Ekwusigo)

3. Chief Andy Azike (Aguata)

4. Ichie Sunday Ezeobiora (Aguata)

5. Valentine Ozigbo (Aguata)

6. Barr. CJ Okoli-Akirika (Nnewi South) 

7. Chief Okey Ezibe (Orumba)

8. Dr Collins Ohamobi Ihiala

9. Chief Isaac Okpala (Aguata)

10. Barr Arinze Ikeabanife (Aguata)

11. Engr. Igwe Jerome (Nnewi South)

12. Barr Izuchukwu Udegbu (Nnewi North)

13. ¬¬Ben Heroes Orji (Ekwusigo)

14. Barr. Chigbo Anyabolu (Nnewi South)

15. Hon Prince Chimezie Mbonu (Orumba North)

16. Arc Emeka O. Ekwueme (Orumba North)

17. Nze Afam Okpalauzuegbu (Aguata)

18. Nneka Enwelu (Aguata)

19. Hon Pamela Ify Okoye (Ihiala)

20. Sir Justin Igbodika (Ihiala)

21. Chris Obiefuna (Orumba North)

22. Ambassador Okey Akachukwu (Orumba North)

23. Eche Mba (Orumba North)

24. Ewim Amaka E. (Nnewi North)

25. Prince Chidozie Umeokoli (Aguata)

26. Hon Ezenwata Patrick (Aguata)

27. Joseph N. Ezeokafor (Orumba)

28. Ogibo Nwosu (Nnewi North)

29. Hon. Osita Okoli (Orumba South)

30. Ezechukwu Nwankwo (Orumba North)

31. Dr Jeff Okeke (Nnewi South)

32. Hon. Tochukwu Mgbeafuluba (Orumba South)

33. Hon. Chibuzo Nwosu (Orumba South)

34. Hon. OC Gaius Ezeh (Aguata)

35. Hon Emeka Umeakukar (Aguata)

36. Hon Amaka Ofejebe (Orumba North)

37. Madu Levi (Ekwusigo)

38. Hon. Chiedochie Rogers Oji (Ihiala)

39. Chukwudebelu Chidozie Major (Ihiala)

40. Nwafor Ifeanyi (Orumba North) 

41. Nwaenyi Adolphus C. (Ihiala)

42. Sir R. O. Mbaebie (Aguata)

43. Teddy Ezeaghauche Ezeike (Aguata)

44 Hon. Kelechi Uzoka (Nnewi South)

45. Barr. Oti. B. Chinedu (Ihiala)

46. Angus Ochiogu (Orumba North)

47. Dr Tony Offiah (Aguata)

48. Chief Okey Enekwe Orumba North

49. Chikaodili Ezeanokete (Aguata)

50. Dr Mezue Ndidi (Ekwusigo)

51 Alex Azike (Aguata)

52. Joe Joe Uzoh (Nnewi South)

53. Emma Ezeuchegbu (Aguata)

54. Chief Emma Ebene (Orumba North)

VALENTINE OZIGBO SCORES A MAJOR POLITICAL ENDORSEMENT AHEAD OF HIS DECLARATION FOR GOVERNOR

 VALENTINE OZIGBO SCORES A MAJOR POLITICAL ENDORSEMENT AHEAD OF HIS DECLARATION FOR GOVERNOR

ENUGWU UKWU, Anambra State - Valentine Ozigbo, respected Nigeria business leader and a 2021 Anambra Governorship Candidate, has received the first major public endorsement for his yet-to-be-declared 2025 governorship bid. 

At a high-powered meeting of Labour Party stakeholders in Njikoka Local Government Area of the southeastern state hosted by Mr Martin Obinna Anekwe in his country home in Enugwu Ukwu, on Saturday, January 6, 2023, Mr Ozigbo received Anekwe's endorsement for governor. 

"I called this meeting to inform my political family, my supporters, and all the stakeholders of the Labour Party, and the wider Njikoka political community that for the next governorship election in our dear state, I am standing with the Labour Party, and my good friend, Valentine Ozigbo," Mr Anekwe told the high-powered audience, to resounding cheers and applause. 

In response to this surprise high-profile endorsement, Ozigbo expressed gratitude to the host, Anekwe, and all the party stakeholders present. He promised to make a formal statement concerning the state of Anambra State and the 2025 governorship race "soon enough".

Ozigbo also used the opportunity to wish Hon Ayika a birthday in advance of Monday when the former federal lawmaker would clock 59. 

In addition to Valentine Ozigbo, present at the meeting were political heavyweights like Chief Cosmas Agagbo (Okpokaji n'Abba); Chief Okey Ezeibe, a billionaire businessman and a chieftain of the Labour Party; Hon Valentine Ayika, a former federal lawmaker and state lawmaker; Hon Paul Obu (Minority Whip of Anambra State House of Assembly); Chief Innocent Akpuaka (Gbulie Aku n'Abba); Dr. Ndubuisi George (Isienyi Nawfia); Mr Clem Nwana; Ozomkpu Jude Ekwunife; Odenigbo Uruokwe, the Governor of Enugwu Ukwu Forum; Ndubuisi Obi (Okogba n Abba); Ambassador Charles Isintume; Chief Robinson Eziamaka (Chopinson); Dr Willie Emenari; Obinna Okafor (Ezeumuokorobia); Mrs. Chinyere Nwafornta; and Joe Adigwe. 

Labour Party's Anambra State Chairman, Chief Ugochukwu Umeh; the Executive Council of the Labour Party in Njikoka LGA; the chairmen and secretaries of the party from the 18 wards in Njikoka, and many other stakeholders were present at the meeting. 

One of the event's highlights was presenting a Labour Party membership card to Mr Anekwe and Hon. Valentine Ayika. 

This event is significant in several ways. It is the first major meeting of Labour Party stakeholders for the year 2024 and the first local government visit by Valentine Ozigbo, who is the immediate past President and Group CEO of Transcorp Plc. 

With the overwhelming endorsement of Ozigbo for the governorship of the state, the renowned philanthropist has been marked as a frontrunner in the race for the 2025 governorship.

On the sidelines of this meeting, Ozigbo was formally presented with an award for his outstanding contribution to education and youth development given to him at a December 11, 2023 event organised by YOUreka Media, Arts and Entertainment held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel. 

Collette Davidson (Mbamalu), the author of "Nature and I", during the presentation extolled Ozigbo, who is the immediate past President and Group CEO of Transcorp Plc, for his compassionate interventions in youth development and education through his VCO foundation.

VALENTINE OZIGBO REITERATES COMMITMENT TO YOUTH DEVELOPMENT AS HE SPONSORS NYSC CAROL NIGHT

AWKA, Nigeria — The Anambra State NYSC permanent orientation camp in Umuawulu-Mbaukwu was a scene of festive spirit and reflection on Sunday, December 10, 2023, as it hosted the VCO-NYSC Carol of 9 Lessons sponsored by the Valentine Chineto Ozigbo (VCO) Foundation and other partners. 

This is the third consecutive year in which VCO Foundation is sponsoring the Yuletide event, which underscores the importance of harnessing the potential of Nigeria’s youth for national advancement.

Valentine Ozigbo, one of Nigeria's most recognisable philantropist, the Founder of VCO Foundation, while speaking at the occasion, emphasised the need for moral rebirth and introspection, particularly during the Christmas season. 

“This time of year is not just for celebration but also for deep personal reflection,” Ozigbo stated. “Understanding and maximizing our strengths, and recognizing and addressing our weaknesses, are crucial steps towards our individual and collective development.”

The State Coordinator of the NYSC in Anambra, Mrs. Blessing Ekene Iruma, expressed her gratitude to Mr. Ozigbo for his unwavering commitment to youth development. “VCO's continuous support for this carol event is a testament to his genuine dedication to empowering young Nigerians,” she remarked.

Izuchukwu Oraelosi, the General Manager of the VCO Foundation, elaborated on the significance of the event, noting that it was part of the foundation’s efforts to provide a unique Christmas experience for corps members in Anambra State. 

“We aim to foster spiritual rebirth and healthier social relations among the youth,” Sir Oraelosi said. “It is essential to bridge the gap between generations and share values effectively for a morally sound society.”

The event reached its zenith with a dazzling firework display and an enthusiastic rendition of the Hallelujah chorus by the mass choir, led by Mr. Oraelosi. 

The night was further enlivened by melodious carol renditions and solo performances from the NYSC Choir and the VCO Foundation Choir, among others, making the their VCO foundation-sponsored NYSC Christmas Carols a memorable and impactful celebration for the corps members in Anambra State.

VCO Foundation is a beacon of philanthropic excellence and social innovation, founded by Valentine Ozigbo, a multiple-award-winning global CEO. With a mission deeply rooted in empowering communities, nurturing young talent, and fostering sustainable development, in less than a decade, the non-profit has established itself as a pivotal force in driving societal change. 

Its initiatives span a broad spectrum of areas, including tech education, youth development, healthcare, women empowerment, and community support. Through a blend of strategic partnerships, impactful programs, and a deep understanding of the challenges facing Nigerian society, the VCO Foundation continues to make significant strides towards building a more equitable and prosperous future for all.

Anambra South LP Chieftains Insists on Zoning for 2025 Gubernatorial Election

 Anambra South LP Chieftains Insists on Zoning for 2025 Gubernatorial Election

AWKA, Nigeria – In a strongly worded communique issued following a crucial meeting in Awka, the Anambra South Senatorial Zone Labour Party Stakeholders, led by Honourable Paul Obu, the Minority Whip in the Anambra State House of Assembly, have condemned the actions of Governor Soludo towards a Catholic mourning family. 

The Labour Party criticised the governor's shocking public judgment of Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Obimma (Father Ebube Muonso) during the burial of his mother as a breach of the Burial Law of Anambra State, aligning with the stance of His Grace Most Rev. Valerian Okeke, the Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province.

The offensive statement by the Governor Soludo was made at the funeral of the popular Catholic priest's mother, Late Ezinne Grace Udefi Obimma, held on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, at St. William's Catholic Church, Nkwelle Ezunaka, in Oyi Local Government Area of the southeastern state. 

"That it is contemptuous and smacks of irrationality and unbridled abuse of power for the Governor of Anambra State to constitute himself into the accuser, prosecutor, and judge when he publicly and embarrassingly adjudged that Rev Fr. Emmanuel Obimma, aka Ebube Muonso during the burial obsequies of his mother," the statement read. 

"The governor of Anambra State assumed Ecclesiastical jurisdiction for which he was appropriately rebuked by His Grace, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke," the communique read, expressing alignment with the Archbishop's stance. 

Additionally, the widely-circulated communique, issued on Wednesday, condemned the "selective, unceremonious, and unwarranted suspension" of Igwe Damian Ezeani, the Traditional Ruler of Neni by Soludu, and addressed the issue of zoning in the forthcoming 2025 Anambra gubernatorial polls. 

The Labour Party stakeholders unanimously resolved that Anambra stakeholders must maintain the principle of zoning of the state's governorship seat.

"The LP Anambra South Senatorial District Stakeholders dutifully call on the national leadership of the Party to make a bold and unequivocal statement to this effect," the communique stated, emphasising the need for orderliness and a rancour-free party primary election in Anambra State.

Furthermore, the Labour Party insisted that the ticket for the 2025 Anambra Gubernatorial Election must go to the Anambra South Senatorial Zone. 

The group, made up of 54 political heavy-weights such as Valentine Ozigbo, a 2021 Governorship Candidate; Chief Okey Ezibe, a billionaire businessman; Ichie Sunday Ezeobiora, a billionaire agri-business leader; Chief Andy Azike, and four former commissioners, Barr. CJ Okoli-Akirika, Prof. Patrick Obi, Dr Collins Ohamobi, and Dr Ndidi Mezue; Dr. Tony Offiah, Mrs Amaka Ofojebe, Mrs Amaka Ewim; and some of the candidates in the 2023 House of Assembly election, also expressed its desire for candidates from Anambra South to support whoever emerges from their zone as the party's candidate.

The high-powered political meeting was also attended by the Labour Party Anambra State Chairman, Chief Ugochukwu Umeh, some members of the party's state executives, and all the seven local government chairpersons from Anambra South of the party. 

The meeting and the subsequent communique reflect the growing concerns of Labour Party stakeholders and the broader electorate of the state over the Soludo administration's approach to governance, cultural sensitivity, and adherence to the principles of zoning in political contests.