Bende Analyst Newspaper

08/07/2025

*DISABLED KADUNA STUDENT IN DESPERATE PLEA: "I'D RATHER DIE THAN LIVE WITHOUT A BIKE"*

Kaduna, Nigeria - A heart-wrenching appeal has been made by Musa Usman Gizo, a student with a disability in Kaduna State, to Governor Senator Uba Sani, pleading for a mobility bike to aid his daily movement.

According to reports, Gizo submitted a letter to the Government House over 60 days ago, but unfortunately, it has received no response. In a desperate bid to get his plea heard, the student has threatened to take his own life if his request is not granted.

"I'd rather commit suicide—lose my life—than leave Government House without a bike today. My dreams, my future, everything is on the line. All I need is a bike, sir," Gizo wrote in his letter.

The student's situation has raised concerns about the government's response to the needs of persons with disabilities in the state.

Gizo's story highlights the struggles faced by many individuals with disabilities in Nigeria, who often rely on the generosity of others or government assistance to access basic necessities.

As of today, there is no information available on whether Governor Uba Sani's administration has responded to Gizo's plea or taken any action to address his concerns.

further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

04/07/2025

"EXTORTION IN UNIFORM: NIGERIA'S POLICE OFFICERS STRUGGLE TO SURVIVE AMIDST CULTURE OF EXPLOITATION"

The Nigeria Police Force is facing a severe crisis, with officers struggling to make ends meet due to inadequate resources and a culture of exploitation. A recent study revealed that police officers lack proper equipment, including fi****ms, communication devices, and vehicles, forcing them to rely on personal resources to carry out their duties.

The situation is further exacerbated by a disturbing practice of taxation by superiors, where officers are forced to contribute to absurd expenses. For instance, a circular from the Nigeria Police Divisional Ombi Division Lafia, with reference number AB: 4087/NAS/OMBI/Vol. 4/45, titled "SUB N01: ORDER AND DIRECTIVE" and signed by Bernard Lar, Admin Officer of the Division, directs officers to contribute to the repair of the Division's borehole. The contributions range from N5,000 for Senior Police Officers (SPOs) to N2,000 for Inspectors and N1,000 for Rank and Files. Officers who refuse to pay are threatened with denial of access to the borehole for themselves and their families.

THE PLIGHT OF POLICE OFFICERS

The lack of resources and exploitative practices have taken a significant toll on officer morale and effectiveness. Many officers are forced to live in poverty, with some struggling to provide for their families. The Nigeria Police Force has been plagued by reports of underfunding, poor infrastructure, and inadequate welfare for officers. In 2023, it was reported that police divisions operate on as little as N30,000 monthly, while officers endure deplorable living conditions, including sleeping inside exhibit vehicles at police stations.

CALLS FOR REFORM

The House of Representatives has called on the Nigerian government to address the deplorable living conditions of police officers and take immediate steps to auction police barracks across the country. The proposal aims to replace the barracks model with an enhanced "housing allowance" based on rank, existing police salary structure, and location.

CONCLUSION.

The Nigeria Police Force is in dire need of reform. The government must prioritize the allocation of resources to the police force, ensure transparency and accountability, and abolish the culture of taxation by superiors. By addressing these issues, the government can help improve the welfare and effectiveness of police officers, ultimately benefiting the general public.

04/07/2025

"LABOUR PARTY DEFECTS TO ADC IN ENUGU STATE: A NEW POLITICAL ERA BEGINS"

ENUGU, - In a significant development, the Labour Party in Enugu State has officially defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), in a bid to strengthen their political presence ahead of the 2027 general elections. The defection was formalized through a letter dated July 3, 2025, and signed by Kingsley Ugwu, a leadership of the Party in Enugu State.

According to the letter, the Labour Party in Enugu State will begin mobilizing support for the ADC across all 160 wards in the state's 17 Local Government Areas. This grassroots mobilization effort is expected to give the ADC a significant boost in the state.

The defection is seen as a major boost to the coalition movement championed by Peter Obi, and is expected to have far-reaching implications for the political landscape in Enugu State.

REACTION FROM LABOUR PARTY LEADERSHIP

Chief Kingsley Ugwu, confirmed the new alliance, stating that the party recognizes the need for unity and collaboration in pursuit of shared goals. He emphasized that the party remains committed to the principles of good governance and will work together with the ADC to achieve a better Nigeria.

The Labour Party's defection to the ADC is a significant development in Enugu State politics, and is expected to shape the dynamics of the 2027 elections. As the party begins its grassroots mobilization efforts, it remains to be seen how this new alliance will impact the state's political landscape.

03/07/2025

03/07/2025

"SOUTH EAST SENATORS PAY COURTESY CALL ON ENUGU GOVERNOR AHEAD OF ZONAL PUBLIC HEARING"

*ENUGU, - In a show of solidarity and respect, the South East Senators of the 10th Assembly paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of Enugu State, H.E Barrister Peter Mbah, at the Lion Building on July 3, 2025, ahead of the Zonal Public Hearing on the Review of the 1999 Constitution.

The Senators, who are expected to engage with stakeholders in the South East zone on the review of the 1999 Constitution, were warmly received by Governor Mbah, who expressed his appreciation for their visit.

The Senate delegation was led by Senator Francis Nwebonyi (Ebonyi North), Senator Onyewuchi Ezenwa (Imo East), Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North), Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (Abia South), Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti Central), however these senators weren't part of the south east geo-political zone in entirety.

Some south east geo-political zone senators are Senator Enyi Sunny Onwukwe Ebonyi Central, Senator Andy Ubah Anambra South etc.

The meeting, which was characterized by warm discussions and exchange of ideas, focused on the upcoming public hearing and the need for collective engagement to ensure the interests of the South East region are adequately represented in the constitutional review process.

Governor Mbah, in his remarks, appreciated the Senators for their visit and assured them of his administration's support for the public hearing. He also emphasized the importance of the constitutional review process, noting that it presents an opportunity for Nigerians to re-examine the country's foundational laws and make necessary adjustments to promote national development and cohesion.

The Senators, in their remarks, thanked the Governor for his warm welcome and hospitality, and assured him that the public hearing would be a success. They also solicited the Governor's support and cooperation in ensuring that the views and concerns of the people of Enugu State are adequately represented during the public hearing.

The courtesy visit is a prelude to the Zonal Public Hearing on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, which holds on Friday, July 4, 2025, and Saturday, July 5, 2025. The hearing is expected to provide a platform for stakeholders in the South East zone to contribute to the constitutional review process and shape the future of the country.

03/07/2025

PUBLIC HEARING ON ANIOMA STATE CREATION BEGINS IN ENUGU

Enugu — In a landmark event, members of AkuruoUlo and Nzuko Ndigbo in Enugu and the broader South-East have been called to action by their leader, Chuks Ibegbu, DG of both organizations, to participate in the public hearing on the creation of Anioma State. The hearing is scheduled to take place at the International Conference Centre, near Okpara Square in Enugu, starting at 10 a.m. daily.

"All AkuruoUlo and Nzuko Ndigbo members in Enugu and South East who can make it should attend... We need our brothers and sisters in Anioma to join us in the South East to enlarge our coast."— Chuks Ibegbu, DG

This initiative aligns with the Nigerian Senate’s constitutional amendment process, part of Senate Bill 481 introduced by Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North), advocating for the creation of Anioma State from the current Delta State.

WHY ANIOMA STATE MATTERS

Balancing representation: The South-East region—home to Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo—currently has only five states, unlike most Nigerian zones. The addition of Anioma will bring parity in federal representation and resources .

Addressing historical grievances: Advocates argue that Anioma State would recalibrate post-war marginalization of Igbo people by offering better cultural recognition, administrative control, and resource allocation .

Economic viability: Comprising nine LGAs (six oil-rich), with fertile lands near Asaba and Onitsha, Anioma possesses the demographic and agricultural capacity to function as a standalone state .

VOICES SUPPORTING THE CAUSE

Igbo Women Assembly in Enugu emphasized that Anioma State would "firm a sixth state in the Southeast region", urging solidarity to correct long-standing disparities .

Meanwhile, the United Igbo Elders Council has publicly endorsed the creation of Anioma State, urging President Tinubu and the National Assembly to act swiftly .

PUBLIC HEARINGS ACROS THE SOUTH

As part of the Senate’s zonal agenda for constitutional amendments, hearings are being held:

South-South: Uyo, Akwa Ibom – July 4–5, 2025

South-East: Enugu (International Conference Centre), ideal for greater participation from Enugu, Anambra, Ebonyi, and Imo

Other zones include hearings in Lagos (South-West), Bauchi (North-East), Minna (North-Central), and Kaduna (North-West)

THE ROAD AHEAD

Legislative momentum: Nwoko’s bill has attracted signatures from 85 senators, signaling strong cross-regional support .

Navigating dissent: Some leaders from Ndokwa/Ukwani communities have voiced strong opposition to their areas being included in a Southeast-based Anioma State, preferring alignment with South-South Nigeria .

ENUGU: STRATEGIC CHOICE FOR HEARING

Chuks Ibegbu’s announcement underscores the strategic importance of the Enugu venue and timing:

“Be there. We need our brothers and sisters in Anioma to join us in the South East to enlarge our coast.” — Chuks Ibegbu

By convening at 10 a.m. daily at the International Conference Centre, the move aims to:

Garner massive participation from Anioma delegates now living in the South-East.

Amplify the narrative across socio‑cultural groups poised to testify in support of the constitutional amendment.

WHAT NEXT?

AkuruoUlo and Nzuko Ndigbo members are urged to:

1. Attend on-site hearings starting each morning at 10 a.m.

2. Prepare testimonies and evidence—economic data, cultural history, and personal stories supporting Anioma’s viability.

3. Show unity and solidarity alongside regional stakeholders to impress upon senators, committee members, and media the depth of grassroots support.

Finally, the hearing represents more than bureaucratic procedure—it marks a pivotal campaign for equitable representation, economic empowerment, and cultural justice for the Anioma people. As the halls at Okpara Square open, voices from Enugu and beyond will echo the demand: “Anioma State—now!”

03/07/2025

DAVID KALU APPLAUDS ORJI UZOR KALU OVER TWO FEDERAL INSTITUTIONS IN BENDE, BUT INSISTS HE MUST RETIRE IN 2027

Abia State, Nigeria – Hon. David Kalu, former Chairman of the Green Party of Nigeria (GPN) in Abia State and ex-Publicity Secretary of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, has lauded Senator Orji Uzor Kalu for the successful creation of two federal institutions in Bende. Despite their history as political rivals, Hon. David Kalu praised this achievement as a significant milestone worth celebrating.

The newly established Federal College of Education and Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences in Item, Bende, were officially sanctioned on June 16 and 18, 2025 by President Bola Tinubu .

In his congratulatory statement, Hon. David Kalu remarked:

“This single act of drawing education nearer to Bende people calls for celebration of the Senator. Although this is belated because this is what the Senator ought to have achieved while he was Governor of Abia‑State.”

EDUCATIONAL & ECONOMIC IMPACT

Local Access: Bende and surrounding communities can now pursue teacher training and medical education locally.

Economic Revival: The launch of the institutions is expected to create employment in academia, healthcare, construction, and support services.

Healthcare Capacity: Training doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals locally will help close persistent care gaps in Abia State.

POLITICAL UNITY & FUTURE OUTLOOK

Hon. David Kalu underscored that this moment of bipartisan applause highlights how impactful governance can bridge political divides. However, he also reaffirmed his position on the Senator’s political future: Senator Kalu should retire from politics in the 2027 elections, making way for new leadership and renewed focus in advancing democratic progress in Bende and Abia North.

He emphasized the importance of fresh ideas and leadership, stating that while Senator Kalu’s recent initiatives deserve recognition, “there is a need for fresh input in the progress of Bende and Abia North democratic progress.”

NEXT STEPS

1. Rapid Funding & Implementation: Community stakeholders are advocating for immediate budgetary action to begin construction and development.

2. Community Participation: Local leaders have committed to supporting smooth project initiation and oversight.

3. Leadership Transition in 2027: If Senator Kalu steps aside from the 2027 political race as Hon. David Kalu suggests, it could usher in a new generation of leadership to build on recent gains.

Hon. David Kalu’s endorsement of Senator Kalu’s current achievements marks an example of political unity driven by community impact. Yet, his insistence that Senator Kalu retire in 2027 reflects a broader vision for democratic renewal and sustained development in the region.

03/07/2025

EBONYI INDIGENS MASSACRED IN ANAMBRA: HON. DAVID KALU CONDEMNS KILLING, CALLS FOR INVESTIGATION, JUSTICE, AND DIALOGUE.

Ogboji, Anambra State — A brutal and senseless attack on Ebonyi indigenes in Ogboji, Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State, has triggered national outrage and urgent calls for justice, unity, and accountability. Among those condemning the attack is Hon. David Kalu, National Coordinator of Team Ribadu 2031, who described the killings as “inhuman and deeply destabilizing.”

At least 10 to 13 Ebonyi citizens—mostly young men attending a peaceful community meeting—were gunned down by unknown assailants on Monday evening. The attackers, reportedly traveling in two SUVs, opened fire on the unsuspecting gathering, leaving bodies sprawled across the meeting ground in what appears to have been a premeditated massacre.

DAVID KALU: “THIS IS A DIRECT ATTACK ON IGBO UNITY”

Reacting to the tragedy, Hon. David Kalu issued a strongly worded statement condemning the attack. “This was not only an attack on innocent citizens of Ebonyi but an assault on the collective unity and dignity of the Igbo people,” he said. “We must not allow such horror to be swept under the rug.”

Kalu called for a thorough and independent investigation into the killings and urged the governments of Anambra and Ebonyi States to handle the matter with mutual understanding, restraint, and coordination. He emphasized that those responsible must be identified and prosecuted swiftly to prevent a recurrence.

“No matter the cost or effort required, justice must be done. Let this tragedy not become another unsolved statistic,” he added.

GOVERNORS REACT AMID HEIGHTENED TENSION

Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has vowed to seek justice for the victims, promising full cooperation with Anambra authorities. He condemned the killings as “provocative and unacceptable” and warned that failure to bring the perpetrators to justice could undermine peaceful coexistence in the region.

Anambra’s Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, condemned the killings as “dastardly,” and insisted that the attack was not ethnically motivated. According to preliminary investigations, the killings may have stemmed from internal disputes within the community. Nonetheless, the government pledged full support for law enforcement and cooperation with Ebonyi State to ensure peace is restored.

YOUTHS, LAWYER'S, AND RIGHTS Group's JOIN THE CALL

Civil society groups and youth organizations have also reacted strongly. The Forum of National Youth Leaders of All Political Parties has demanded immediate arrests and prosecution, warning that the silence of the authorities could fuel reprisals.

Human rights lawyer Barr. Ifeanyi Ejiofor decried the act as “a clear sign of the breakdown of local security.” He called for an open investigation and urged Igbo leaders to come together to prevent intra-ethnic conflicts. “This must not become another flashpoint of ethnic or retaliatory violence,” he warned.

MASSACRE IN CONTEXT: A WORSENING TREND

The Ogboji massacre is just the latest in a series of violent attacks across the Southeast. It echoes earlier tragedies—such as the 2022 killing of a pregnant woman and her children in Anambra—and reflects a broader breakdown of law and order in the region. Once considered a relatively peaceful zone, the Southeast has become increasingly volatile due to communal disputes, armed militias, and political tensions.

Ogboji, previously seen as a quiet rural community, is now the scene of a heinous atrocity—proof that no area is immune from the growing insecurity that threatens to engulf Nigeria.

A UNITED SOUTHEAST RESPONSE IS URGENTLY NEEDED

Hon. David Kalu and other concerned voices are urging the immediate convening of a Southeast Security and Peace Summit, to include the governors of Ebonyi, Anambra, Enugu, Imo, and Abia, alongside traditional rulers, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, civil society groups, and security agencies.

“The time for reaction has passed,” Kalu emphasized. “We need a coordinated, long-term plan to protect our people and maintain peace. This is not just about Anambra and Ebonyi—this is about the soul of Igbo land.”

03/07/2025

LABOUR PARTY SLAMS PETER OBI WITH 48-HOUR ULTIMATUM TO RESIGN OVER ADC DEAL

DESPERATE POLITICIANS CAN'T BIRTH NEW NIGERIA, LP FACTION FIRES

The Labour Party has given its former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, a 48-hour ultimatum to resign from the party after he joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition. The party's National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, described the coalition as a gathering of "recycled, desperate, and frustrated politicians".

According to Ifoh, Obi's actions betray the party's values and threaten its cohesion. "Former Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Gregory Obi has received a 48-hour ultimatum to formally resign his membership of the Labour Party having formally joined the coalition party," Ifoh stated.

The LP's decision comes after Obi's public endorsement of the ADC coalition, which aims to work together towards the 2027 General Elections and deliver competent, capable, and compassionate leadership. Obi defended the move as necessary to dismantle structures perpetuating poverty and insecurity in Nigeria.

LP's VERDICT ON THE COALITION*

The Labour Party believes that desperate politicians can't birth a new Nigeria, implying that the coalition's members are more interested in self-serving interests than genuine change. Ifoh emphasized that the party had consistently stated it was not part of the coalition and therefore, any member who joins would have to resign ¹ ².

OBI'S NEXT MOVE

It remains to be seen how Peter Obi will respond to the ultimatum. Will he choose to resign from the Labour Party and continue with the ADC coalition, or will he find a way to reconcile with the party? One thing is certain - the political landscape in Nigeria is heating up, and the decisions made in the coming days will have significant implications for the country's future ³.