
News
2027: Enugu East stakeholders endorse Gov Mbah for second term, declare ‘Mbah is our political party’
“Anybody contesting for 2027 Guber ticket in Enugu is wasting his money” — they warn
Enugu East stakeholders rose from a well-attended townhall meeting in Enugu on Sunday, with a unanimous resolution endorsing Governor Peter Mbah as their sole candidate for 2027 governorship election in the state.
They announced their decision to work for the re-election of the governor, who they said, has surpassed the expectations of the people in just two years.
At the townhall meeting held at the International Conference Centre, Enugu, stakeholders from different political parties said as far as 2027 is concerned, Mbah is their political party . They assured him of their firm support for whatever decision he takes regarding his political future.
In a motion moved by a former governorship candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, Rt. Hon. Chijioke Edeoga, and seconded by a former chairman of the All Progressives Congress in the state, Dr. Ben Nwoye, the Enugu East senatorial district stakeholders stated that the endorsement of the governor was not based on political affiliation with any party, stressing that “one good term deserves another.”


The full text of the communique read by a People’s Democratic Party, PDP stalwart , Chief Okey Ogbodo, reads:
A COMMUNIQUÉ ISSUED BY THE LEADERS OF THOUGHT AND PEOPLE OF ENUGU EAST SENATORIAL ZONE AT THE END OF A TOWN HALL MEETING ON THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE GOVERNOR OF ENUGU STATE, HIS EXCELLENCY, DR. PETER NDUBUISI MBAH, AT THE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE CENTRE, ENUGU, ON SUNDAY, AUGUST 31, 2025.
“One Good Term Deserves Another”
The leaders of thought and people of Enugu East Senatorial District, cutting across political and professional divides, met to appraise the state of our dear state under the leadership of His Excellency, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, in the last two years and three months.
The town hall weighed Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s overarching vision and campaign promises to, among others, take Enugu State to the top three states in Nigeria in terms of GDP; grow the state’s economy from $4.4bn to $30bn; achieve a zero per cent poverty headcount index; and position Enugu State as the number one destination for business, investment, tourism, and for living, against the realities on ground, two years and a few months after his inauguration as governor.
Following a far-reaching discourse where our people – thought leaders, political leaders, professionals, youth leaders, women leaders, traditional rulers, Presidents-General of town unions, leaders of market associations, trade union leaders, among others – openly and freely aired their views, the people of Enugu East Senatorial District resolved the issue this communiqué:
1. The good people of Enugu East Senatorial District, having reflected on the performance of the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, in the last 27 months, express total satisfaction with his government. He has not only kept his campaign promises to Ndi Enugu, but has equally surpassed expectations. We are indeed proud that Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah stands tall as the rave of the moment by every sector and indicator, as far as subnational governance in Nigeria today is concerned. In specifics, we note with pride and commendation:
i) The radical improvement in the security of Enugu State due to the administration’s massive investment in that sector. Within his first anniversary in office, the Governor Peter Mbah Administration built from scratch to finish the Enugu Command and Control Centre linked to AI-embedded cameras installed across the state. It also invested in setting up the Distress Response Squad, a special police unit powered with more than 150 security vehicles with AI-embedded cameras, which are equally linked to the Command and Control Centre.
The result is that in just 27 months, Governor Mbah has transformed Enugu from a state living under the fear of marauding violent criminals, who killed security personnel and innocent civilians and destroyed private and public property at will, to one rated as one of the safest in the country, playing host to Nigeria’s most popular conferences, including the Annual General Conference of the NBA, which brought together well over 20,000 lawyers and international personalities from across the world.
ii) The commitment of 33 percent of the state’s annual budget to, and the ongoing/completed construction of, 260 Smart Green Schools across the 260 political wards. These translate to about 6,500 digitally-equipped classrooms featuring robust ICT infrastructure, e-libraries as well as science, robotics, and mechatronics labs, among others, to equip Enugu children and youths with creativity, critical thinking, and digital skills to rule the emerging global economy.
The transformation of the Government Technical School from a few blocks of dilapidated buildings to a world-class Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College with full boarding provision for 1,000 students. This massive project commissioned by Nigeria’s First Lady, Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, is a landmark, and the fact that it will be replicated in the remaining seven Federal Constituencies of the state further underscores Governor Peter Mbah’s determination to reposition the state’s education sector and economy.
iii) The construction of 260 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres with accompanying staff quarters in 260 wards to provide 24-hour service to Ndi Enugu in every nook and cranny of the state. The incredible infrastructural transformation going on at the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital.
iv) The revival of moribund and abandoned assets, notably, the Enugu United Palm Products Limited, completion of the International Conference Centre, reconstruction of Hotel Presidential, and most recently, the revamp and upgrade of Nigergas Company Limited, while the resuscitation of Sunrise Flour Mills is underway.
v) The administration’s trailblazing performance in the transport sector where the Governor has launched the Enugu Air; constructed and commissioned five modern transport terminals located at Holy Ghost (Enugu), Gariki, Nsukka, and Abakpa; as well as launched 100 CNG Mass Transit buses with 100 more in transit to Enugu. The administration has successfully pushed through a concession by the Federal Government that would see to the completion and operationalisation of the international terminal of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, construction of a cargo terminal, and general upgrade of the airport in line with his agenda to make Enugu an aviation hub.
vi) The massive road projects in the state, with about 1,000km completed or ongoing. This is the bedrock of transforming Enugu into a preferred destination for investment, industrialisation, and tourism.
vii) The outstanding effort to truly position Enugu as the centre for tourism, including medical tourism through the ongoing construction of the Enugu International Conference Centre (ICC) 5-Star Hotel, Enugu International Hospital, and ongoing transformation of Nike Lake Resort Hotel through a PPP with the Landmark Group.
viii) The ongoing revolution in the agricultural sector, including the Tractor Assembly and Service Plant at GRA, Enugu; ongoing establishment of 200-hectare Farm Estates in each of the 260 wards; revitalisation of the Enugu United Palm Products Limited; revitalisation of Centre Pivot Irrigation Systems at Ojor in Uzo Uwani LGA and Mgbagbu Owa in Ezeagu LGA; revitalisation of Adarice Irrigation System at Adani in Uzo Uwani LGA; ongoing revitalisation of Enugu State Sunrise Flour Mill; establishment of Enugu State Livestock Productivity Centre; and distribution of massive farm inputs to Enugu State farmers, among others.
2. Given Governor Peter Mbah’s trailblazing performance, we are convinced that he is leading Enugu State on the path of development never witnessed before. We have prayed for a day like this since the end of Dr. Michael Okpara’s era. Today, we can state unequivocally that God has answered our prayers in the person of Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah. Ndi Enugu now hold their heads high and proudly identify as Ndi Enugu anywhere.
3. Consequently, we, the thought leaders, political leaders, professionals, youth leaders, women leaders, traditional rulers, Presidents-General of town unions, leaders of market associations, trade union leaders, and indeed the good people of Enugu East Senatorial District unequivocally endorse Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for a second term in office come 2027. If he has done these great works in repositioning Enugu State in just two years, it is only left to imagination what the state would look like at the end of eight years of his administration.
4. In endorsing him, we want to state that we are blind to party affiliation. In the face of Nigeria’s fluid party politics, our political party is Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, a performing Governor, who has shown that he not only has what it takes to turn Enugu State around, but also to take it to the pinnacle of glory where our founding fathers dreamt of.
5. Further to this, we urge our brothers and sisters from Enugu North and Enugu West Senatorial Districts to return the favour we accorded them in 2007, 2011, 2015, and 2019, as no son or daughter of Enugu East Senatorial District was on the ballot for the governorship seat of Enugu State during those election cycles. This we did in deliberate deference to the subsisting zoning arrangement in Enugu State as established by our founding fathers. This arrangement guaranteed two terms in office for Enugu West Senatorial District through His Excellency, Barr. Sullivan Chime, from 2007 to 2015, and Enugu North Senatorial District through His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, from 2015 to 2023. Mbah’s case will not be different.
6. Finally, we urge Ndi Enugu to continue to support the Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah Administration for the peace, security, and rapid development of our state.
God bless Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah and God bless Enugu State.
News
Peter Obi to Umahi: Become presidential candidate before challenging me to debate
Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has dismissed Works Minister Dave Umahi’s invitation to a public debate, saying the minister must first become a presidential candidate before challenging him.
Obi made the remark during an interview with media entrepreneur Chude Jideonwo while responding to questions about Umahi’s call for a debate following his criticism of the condition of some federal roads.
The former Anambra State governor argued that the issue had already been resolved, noting that his criticism of a deteriorating road had prompted the government to begin repairs.
“First of all, I already started the debate by standing on that road and saying the road was bad. The only reply should have been that the road was good. But I thank him because he is now repairing the road, so the debate is closed. There is nothing else to debate.”
Obi maintained that if Umahi intended to challenge him in his capacity as a presidential candidate, the minister would first have to qualify for that position.

“If he is inviting me to a debate as a presidential candidate, then he has to become a presidential candidate first.”
Explaining his position, Obi likened the situation to a football team that failed to qualify for the FIFA World Cup attempting to challenge one that had already earned its place in the tournament.
“The World Cup is going on now. You cannot stay outside and invite a team that qualified for the World Cup to come and play against you simply because you think you are good. No. There is a qualification process.”
He added that presidential debates are traditionally reserved for candidates seeking the nation’s highest office, insisting that such engagements should be between presidential contenders rather than ministers or other public office holders.
“I am a presidential candidate. Around the world, not all presidential candidates participate in debates. It is usually the leading candidates. It is like someone in Division One asking a Premier League team to play a match. No. You compete within your own level. When he becomes a presidential candidate, then he can debate with those who are in that category,” he added.
Umahi had earlier dismissed Obi’s criticism of the Tinubu administration and challenged him to a debate on the Federal Government’s performance, insisting that President Bola Tinubu’s infrastructure projects and appointments had transformed the South-East.
News
Peter Obi slams arrest of Prof Aghaji, urges authorities to uphold Rule of Law
Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has criticised the arrest and detention of Professor Martin Aghaji, describing the incident as troubling and a sign of what he called a growing disregard for citizens’ rights and human dignity in the country.
Obi reacted on Saturday after reports emerged that operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) had arrested the renowned cardiothoracic surgeon before later releasing him and reportedly apologising for the action.
Professor Aghaji, a respected medical expert and former university administrator, is said to be one of the doctors linked to detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
In a statement shared on his X account, Obi expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding the professor’s arrest.
He alleged that security operatives arrived at Aghaji’s residence in Enugu in the early hours of the morning and took him away without prior invitation or notification.

According to Obi, the 74-year-old surgeon was arrested in the presence of his daughter, who was visiting him at the time.
He argued that such an operation should have been handled in a more professional manner, especially considering the status and reputation of the medical practitioner.
The former Anambra State governor described Aghaji as a globally recognised surgeon, accomplished academic and respected elder statesman who has spent decades contributing to the development of Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
Obi further claimed that after being taken from Enugu to Lagos, the professor was held for about three days before regaining his freedom. He said the authorities later apologised to him, allegedly admitting that his arrest was a mistake.
The former presidential candidate said the development raises concerns about the conduct of security agencies and the treatment of citizens, particularly professionals who have dedicated their lives to serving the country.
He warned that incidents of this nature could discourage skilled Nigerians from remaining in the country and contribute further to the migration of professionals abroad.
Obi noted that Nigeria is already facing serious challenges in the health sector due to the increasing departure of doctors and other healthcare workers. According to him, actions that appear to humiliate respected professionals only worsen the situation.
“The practice of treating highly regarded, ethical professionals – and indeed any Nigerian – like common criminals sets a dangerous precedent that undermines the rule of law across all sectors. Therefore, we must conduct ourselves with civility in the discharge of our public duties. A superior and renewed Nigeria is indeed Possible,” Obi said.
He stressed that all Nigerians, regardless of their profession, status or political affiliation, deserve to be treated in accordance with the law and with respect for their fundamental rights.
News
Benin Catholic Archbishop Akubeze dies at 69
The Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City has announced the death of its Archbishop, Most Rev. Augustine Akubeze.
Akubeze died on Thursday at the age of 69, according to a statement issued by the Chancellor of the Archdiocese, Rev. Fr. Michael Oyanoafoh, on behalf of the Consultors of the diocese.
The statement described the late archbishop as a humble and committed servant of God who touched many lives through his ministry.
It read, “On behalf of the Consultors of the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City, we announce, with profound sorrow, yet with a firm hope in the resurrection, the passing of our dearly beloved father and Archbishop, Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City, who was called home to the Lord on Thursday, July 9, 2026.
“Archbishop Augustine Obiora Akubeze lived a very simple and humble life in faith and obedience to the will of God. He impacted the lives of so many people. He was a complete gentleman and a father to us all.”

The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria also confirmed his death in a statement signed by its Secretary-General, Rev. Fr. Michael Banjo.
The secretariat described Akubeze as a “unique shepherd” whose leadership combined spiritual growth with the development of the church and the welfare of its members.
The statement read, “Archbishop Akubeze was a unique shepherd who understood that the true development of the church embraces both spiritual renewal and the holistic growth of God’s people.
“Under his care, the Archdiocese of Benin City has witnessed significant developmental strides. He was deeply committed to the welfare of his priests with the conviction that the future of the church depended on well-formed shepherds.”
The Catholic Secretariat also recalled his contributions as a former President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, describing him as a defender of the church’s teachings.
“As an erstwhile President of the Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, he firmly stood as a pillar of orthodox truth. His voice did not tickle ears but fed souls, bringing to light his episcopal motto: ‘Ut Testimonium perhibeam veritati’ (That I may bear witness to the Truth),” the statement added.
The secretariat praised his leadership style, noting that he demonstrated humility and service throughout his episcopal ministry.
“His patient listening and selfless generosity embodied a compassionate shepherd who knew the smell of his flock.
“He demonstrated always by his gentleness and quiet disposition that genuine authority in the church is not measured by power but by service,” it stated.
Born in 1956, Akubeze was ordained a Catholic priest on October 3, 1987.
He was appointed the pioneer Bishop of Uromi Diocese on December 14, 2005, and consecrated on February 25, 2006.
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