
News
Chimaroke Nnamani: Progenitor of Ebeano, Misunderstood Leader, Vindicated at 66.
By Paul Mumeh
Senator Chimaroke Nnamani, former Governor of Enugu State, stands tall as one of the most intriguing, visionary, and intellectually gifted political figures of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. Physician, philosopher, statesman, motivational speaker, and political strategist, the man fondly called “Ebeano” remains a phenomenon whose impact on politics, governance, and public discourse continues to resonate far beyond Enugu State.
Born on May 30, 1960 in Port Harcourt, Rivers state with an uncommon blend of intellect and courage, Senator Nnamani first distinguished himself in medicine as a specialist doctor before venturing into politics. Yet even in politics, he never abandoned the analytical depth and precision of a medical professional. His approach to governance reflected diagnosis, treatment, and long-term planning — qualities that made him one of the frontline members of Nigeria’s celebrated 1999 class of governors.
As Governor of Enugu State from 1999 to 2007, he redefined governance and political organisation in the state. At a time when democracy was still fragile and experimental in Nigeria, Chimaroke Nnamani emerged as one of the loudest advocates of people-oriented governance.
He coined and popularised the now-famous phrase, “Dividends of Democracy,” a concept that has since become a permanent part of Nigeria’s political vocabulary. What many now repeat casually was, for him, a philosophical conviction — that democracy must translate into visible benefits for ordinary citizens.
Beyond governance, Nnamani transformed the political landscape of Enugu State through the establishment of the Ebeano political family — a structure that evolved from a movement into a political dynasty.


Ex-Enugu Governor, Dr Chimaroke Nnamani
Since 1999, regardless of changing political parties and shifting alliances, the Ebeano philosophy has consistently produced political office holders; councillors, local government chairmen, state and national assembly legislators, ministers, and governors — while nurturing influential leaders across the state. That enduring relevance remains a testament to the strategic depth and organisational genius of its founder.
As Senator representing Enugu East in two different eras — from 2007 to 2011 and again from 2019 to 2023 — Nnamani remained a powerful voice of reason, intellect, and candour. Highly cerebral and unapologetically frank, he earned respect as a politician who never shied away from difficult truths. He called a spade a spade, regardless of whose interests were affected. In an environment where political correctness often overshadows honesty, Chimaroke Nnamani chose courage over convenience.
His Ebeano Lecture Series further revealed the depth of his intellect and foresight. Through those lectures, he dissected local and global issues with philosophical clarity and uncommon eloquence. Time and again, many dismissed or misunderstood his positions, only for subsequent events to vindicate his predictions and perspectives. Like a thinker ahead of his era, he often saw tomorrow before others fully recognised today.
Perhaps nowhere was this more evident than during the political turbulence of 2023. Against prevailing sentiments within the Peoples Democratic Party, Senator Nnamani openly supported Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress. To many of his political associates and constituents, the move appeared controversial, even unacceptable. They rose against him politically, interpreting his action as betrayal or political aberration. Yet, in his characteristic manner, Nnamani insisted on what he believed was the pathway forward.
Ironically, not long after the 2023 elections, many within the same political establishment and among the voices that opposed him began embracing the Tinubu administration with enthusiasm. Those who once condemned his position gradually became apostles of the same political direction he had earlier championed, with several eventually aligning with the APC. Once again, Chimaroke Nnamani’s foresight appeared vindicated.
Yet politics, especially in Nigeria, can be frustrating to the well-intentioned. Despite the sacrifices and political risks he took, Senator Nnamani found himself isolated and unrewarded. Even the political structure he supported did not reciprocate his loyalty in the manner many expected. Left in the political cold, he chose dignity over bitterness and returned to his first calling — medicine — resuming professional practice in the United States, where he is reputed for his work in foetal medicine, the specialised care of unborn babies.
There is profound symbolism in that journey. After years of helping to birth political ideas, institutions, and leaders, the doctor returned to the science of preserving life itself. It reflects the essence of the man: resilient, purposeful, and deeply committed to service regardless of circumstance.
At 66, Senator Chimaroke Nnamani’s story is not merely one of political victories and setbacks. It is the story of conviction. It is the story of a man who often walked ahead of the crowd — misunderstood in the moment but vindicated by history. It is the story of a statesman whose ideas outlived controversies and whose political philosophy continues to shape generations.
As he celebrates this milestone, this should not be a moment of discouragement over the fickleness of politics or the contradictions of human nature. Rather, it is a moment of reflection, renewal, and reaffirmation of purpose. Nigeria still needs voices of courage, intellect, and foresight. The nation still needs statesmen willing to chart difficult but necessary paths toward unity, justice, and development.
For Senator Chimaroke Nnamani, aka Ebeano, the journey at 66 is not an ending but the continuation of a legacy built on vision, resilience, and uncommon courage.
Happy 66th Birthday to a physician of bodies, a diagnostician of society, and a philosopher of politics. May the years ahead bring renewed strength, greater fulfilment, and the satisfaction of knowing that history often remembers pioneers more kindly than contemporaries do.
• Paul Mumeh wrote from Abuja.
News
I might not be alive to contest in 2027 – Peter Obi raises alarm over threats to his life
Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Mr Peter Obi, has cried out over alleged threat to his life.
Obi, who is a major contender ahead of the 2027 presidential election said he might not be alive to participate in the election.
According to him, there is obvious attack on everything that had to do with him, including his life.
The former Anambra state governor made the allegation during a podcast with Chude Jideonwo.
“The way they are going now I might not be alive, I’m telling you every single thing I do for a living this government is frustrating it deliberately so.
“Everything, so there’s even a possibility if they have opportunity I will not be alive. I get frustrations every day because you do things that may think it may be normal it is not normal they won’t come directly and say oh we are doing this but you could see their hand in eventually everything.

“The government is attacking everybody, I am being attacked personally even to provide me with things I am entitled to, not at all,” he said.
He recalled how his vehicle was clamped down at the airport while he was right there, whereas other vehicles lined up on the same spot were untouched.
Obi further that stated that even close associates were beginning to avoid him over fear of government clampdown.
He disclosed that friends now send him invitations for occasions but tell him not to bother attending.
News
Yilwatda hails Tinubu’s intervention funds as a promise kept
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has said that the intervention programmes of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu have continued to demonstrate that the Renewed Hope Agenda is delivering tangible economic benefits to millions of Nigerians through strategic investments in entrepreneurship, small businesses, and youth empowerment.
According to Professor Yilwatda, the Presidential Intervention Funds represent yet another example of the Tinubu administration fulfilling its campaign promises by providing the critical financial support needed to stimulate enterprise, create jobs, and deepen economic inclusion across the country.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, Abimbola Tooki, the National Chairman noted that for decades, access to affordable financing remained one of the biggest obstacles confronting Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), despite their enormous contribution to national economic growth and employment generation.
The current administration, he said, has deliberately moved to address this challenge through targeted intervention programmes that are unlocking the entrepreneurial potential of Nigerians.
“The Tinubu administration understands that sustainable economic growth begins with empowering the productive sector. By supporting small businesses and young entrepreneurs, government is laying the foundation for long-term prosperity and shared economic progress,” he stated.
Professor Yilwatda highlighted the ₦75 billion Presidential Intervention Fund for MSMEs as a landmark initiative designed to provide accessible financing for small businesses across various sectors of the economy.

He said the programme is enabling entrepreneurs to expand their operations, increase productivity, and create employment opportunities.
He further pointed to the ₦11 billion support package through the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), describing it as a strategic investment in strengthening the capacity and competitiveness of Nigerian small and medium enterprises.
The APC National Chairman also commended the ₦30 billion Youth Entrepreneurship Fund through the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), noting that the initiative reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to equipping young Nigerians with the resources required to transform innovative ideas into successful businesses and become drivers of national development.
Professor Yilwatda emphasized that these interventions are already making meaningful differences in the lives of ordinary Nigerians. Across the country, young entrepreneurs, artisans, farmers, traders, tailors, manufacturers, and other small business owners are accessing capital to expand their businesses, employ more people, and contribute to the economic development of their communities.
He explained that the impact extends beyond individual beneficiaries, creating a multiplier effect through increased productivity, higher household incomes, stronger local economies, and expanded opportunities for wealth creation.
“The APC remains committed to building an economy that works for all Nigerians. These intervention funds are not mere policy announcements; they are practical investments in the dreams and aspirations of millions of our people.
“The evidence is clear. Businesses are receiving support, young people are being empowered, jobs are being created, and economic inclusion is expanding. This is governance that delivers results, and it is another demonstration that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is keeping his promises to the Nigerian people,” Professor Yilwatda said.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the APC and the Tinubu administration to implementing policies that promote entrepreneurship, stimulate investment, strengthen local industries, and build a resilient economy capable of delivering sustainable prosperity for all Nigerians.
News
Ex-Minister Uche Nnaji set for arraignment as ICPC files six criminal charges over alleged certificate forgery
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has filed a six-count criminal charge against former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, , over alleged certificate forgery and related offences.
The charges, filed before the Federal High Court in Abuja, are contained in suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/389/2026, with the Federal Government listed as the complainant and Nnaji as the sole defendant.
According to the charge sheet, the ICPC accused the former minister of receiving N29.58 million in salaries and allowances while serving in office, alleging that he ought to have known the funds were proceeds of an unlawful act arising from corruption and fraud. The commission said the action contravenes provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
The anti-graft agency also alleged that Nnaji used his office to confer corrupt advantage on himself and knowingly presented false information to the Federal Government by submitting forged > (NYSC) and (UNN) certificates during his ministerial appointment in 2023.
In separate counts, the ICPC accused him of producing and using as genuine a forged NYSC Certificate of National Service and a forged UNN degree certificate, offences punishable under the Penal Code.
The filing of the charges follows Nnaji’s arrest last Wednesday after arriving in Abuja from Enugu aboard a chartered flight.

The prosecution stems from an investigation published by Premium Times, which alleged that Nnaji forged his university degree and NYSC certificates submitted to President and the Nigerian Senate during his ministerial confirmation.
The newspaper reported that the confirmed Nnaji was admitted in 1981 but neither graduated nor was issued a degree certificate, while the NYSC also reportedly disowned the discharge certificate attributed to him.
Nnaji resigned as minister shortly after the allegations became public. He has since defected from the APC to PDP , where he emerged as the governorship candidate of a faction of the party for the 2027 Enugu governorship election.
He is expected to be arraigned before the Federal High Court in the coming days.
-
News2 days agoNNAMDI KANU: NMA condemns Prof. Aghaji’s arrest, demands justice
-
News2 days agoNigerian students issue 4-day ultimatum to South African businesses to leave the country
-
News13 hours agoEx-Minister Uche Nnaji set for arraignment as ICPC files six criminal charges over alleged certificate forgery
-
News3 days agoPFIPC Scandal: New details reveal SGF’s Office cleared Adeyemi for Canada Summit
-
News8 hours agoI might not be alive to contest in 2027 – Peter Obi raises alarm over threats to his life
-
News2 days agoDSS releases Nnamdi Kanu’s doctor, Aghaji
-
News2 days agoTiktoker, Peller, arraigned in court for threatening and videoing police officers on duty; granted 500k bail
-
News3 days agoUS planning to use lots of documents against Tinubu — Primate Ayodele



