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Alpha Times, Awka South LGA, Awka (2026)

06/06/2026

WHAT HAS NIGERIA IMMIGRATION SERVICE BEEN DOING?

By Paul Nwosu, PhD || AlphaTimes

I asked this question in one of my articles last week, and I am compelled to ask it again. Indeed, it is a question every concerned Nigerian should be asking as our nation continues to sink deeper into an ocean of insecurity.

What has the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) been doing to check the influx of illegal and potentially toxic migrants into the country?

For years, Nigerians have been told that much of our security nightmare is linked to instability across the Sahel region. Conflicts, insurgencies and political upheavals have triggered waves of migration towards Nigeria's northern borders, bringing with them grave security challenges: terrorism, arms trafficking, kidnapping, violent extremism, land grabbing and other transnational crimes.

If this is true, then what has the agency specifically charged with border management been doing?

The NIS Act mandates the Service to manage Nigeria's borders, control migration, and issue travel documents. More specifically, the Act states that border management entails patrolling and monitoring Nigeria's air, land, and sea borders to enforce entry and exit regulations, protect territorial integrity, and prevent transnational crimes.

That is the lawful responsibility and assignment of the Nigeria Immigration Service.

Their job is not merely to produce international passports that facilitate the travels of the elite class in and out of the country, which is the creamy aspect of their mandate. The other part of their responsibility carries even greater implications for national security.

Whenever insecurity is discussed, attention naturally shifts to the military, the air force and the police. They certainly have critical responsibilities. But what about the agency that is supposed to guard the nation's international gateways?

A Yoruba proverb says: "If the wall did not open its mouth, the lizard would not enter." The Igbo put it differently: "He who brings home ant-infested firewood invites lizards into his compound." These sayings underscore a simple truth: security breaches rarely occur without an initial point of failure.

The essence of having multiple security agencies is that their functions complement one another. When one link in the security chain is broken, the entire chain is compromised. A porous border allows criminal elements to blend into local populations, making it far more difficult for security forces to distinguish chaff from substance, law-abiding citizens from violent infiltrators.

This is why the question remains unavoidable. What has the NIS been doing, and what is it doing now, to secure Nigeria's borders?

For too long, we have focused on treating the symptoms of insecurity while neglecting its possible sources. If illegal migration and unchecked border crossings are contributing factors, then the issue must be addressed honestly, professionally and without political or ethnic sentiment.

Recently, the Republic of Niger reportedly deported eight hundred (800) Nigerians whom they handed over to our own Immigration department, and tightened measures against illegal migration. Every sovereign nation has the right, and indeed the obligation, to protect its borders in the interest of national security. Have we been doing the same?

Experts warn that as long as instability persists across the Sahel, Nigeria's northern frontiers will remain under pressure. That reality demands a vigilant, proactive and uncompromising immigration service.

Nigeria cannot afford weak border management for our national security depends on a coordinated effort in which every agency performs its statutory responsibilities effectively.

The question, therefore, remains: What has Nigeria Immigration Service been doing, and what is it doing today, to help secure Nigeria's borders and protect the nation?

06/06/2026

AlphaTimes EDITORIAL

Forgery Allegation, Bribery Claims and the Shameful Distraction in the House

The allegation by Hon. Philip Agbese that his signature was forged to endorse Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere for the position of Minority Leader in the House of Representatives is a grave matter that must not be swept under the carpet. If indeed a lawmaker's signature was fraudulently deployed for a purpose he neither approved nor intended, it amounts to an assault on the integrity of the legislature and a dangerous precedent for democratic governance.

Forgery is not a mere procedural irregularity. It is a serious offence that undermines trust, accountability and the sanctity of official documentation. The House of Representatives owes Nigerians a duty to immediately and transparently investigate the allegation through the appropriate committee. The investigation must be thorough, impartial and evidence-driven. Every relevant document, witness testimony and electronic record, including the CCTV footage already released into the public domain, should be subjected to careful scrutiny. The truth must be established beyond speculation.

Equally disturbing is Agbese's allegation that some lawmakers were induced with money to support Ugochinyere's bid for the leadership position. While this claim remains to be proven, it raises troubling questions about the manner in which key leadership positions within the National Assembly may sometimes be determined. If endorsements and votes can be purchased by the highest bidder, then legislative leadership risks becoming a marketplace rather than an institution guided by competence, credibility and service.

Such allegations reinforce the growing cynicism among Nigerians about the internal workings of political institutions. Citizens already struggle with declining confidence in public office holders. Reports of possible bribery, horse-trading and questionable manoeuvres for leadership positions only deepen public distrust. The House cannot afford to dismiss these concerns as mere political quarrels. Nigerians deserve to know whether legislative offices are earned through merit and persuasion or secured through financial inducement and backstage deals.

More unfortunate is the fact that these embarrassing controversies are consuming valuable time and attention at a moment when the country faces urgent challenges demanding legislative focus. Across Nigeria, citizens grapple with economic hardship, rising unemployment, insecurity, inflation, failing infrastructure and growing social tensions. These are the issues that should dominate the agenda of the House of Representatives.

Instead, the public is being treated to a spectacle of accusations, counter-accusations, signature controversies and allegations of bribery. Such conduct diminishes the dignity of the legislature and projects an image of a political class more preoccupied with positions and privileges than with the welfare of the people.

The House of Representatives must rise above this embarrassment. It must demonstrate that it possesses the institutional maturity to investigate allegations against its members without fear or favour. Any individual found culpable, whether in forgery, inducement or any related misconduct, should face appropriate sanctions.

Nigeria's democracy cannot flourish when the processes that determine legislative leadership are clouded by allegations of fraud and corruption. The House must seize this moment to reaffirm its commitment to transparency, integrity and accountability.

06/06/2026

News!
CHIPPINGS SELLER CAN'T CHALLENGE ME"
-Senator Nwaebonyi mocks APGA Candidate Ojimba. Says Senate is for intellectuals and professionals.

06/06/2026

Ebonyi Central Protesters Demand Restoration of NDC Senatorial Ticket to Chief C. Sagas

By Charles Nwoke || AlphaTimes

Ebonyi Sons and Daughters of Ebonyi Central Senatorial District on Friday staged a peaceful protest at the National Secretariat of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), demanding the restoration of the Ebonyi Central Senatorial ticket to Arc. Chief Christian Asaga Nwali, popularly known as Chief C. Sagas. The protesters described him as the duly elected winner of the party's senatorial contest and called on the NDC leadership to uphold justice and internal democracy.

The protesters carried placards bearing inscriptions such as "Justice for Ebonyi Central," "Respect Ebonyi Central Voters," "Correct the Wrong in Ebonyi Central," and "Ebonyi Central Has Spoken." They urged the national leadership of the NDC to intervene and reverse what they described as an injustice against the people of Ebonyi Central Senatorial District. The group maintained that Chief C. Sagas legitimately emerged as the winner of the process that produced the party's senatorial candidate but was allegedly denied the ticket under questionable circumstances.

Addressing journalists during the protest, the demonstrators insisted that the democratic choice of party members must be respected. They declared that the people of Ebonyi Central had clearly spoken through the electoral process and deserved to have their decision honoured. One of the protesters stated that the mandate, voice, and vote of the people belong to Chief C. Sagas and should be returned to him without delay.

The group appealed to the National Leader, National Chairman, Presidential Candidate Mr Peter Obi, and other key stakeholders of the NDC to urgently review the matter. They expressed confidence that the party leadership would act in accordance with the principles of justice, transparency, and democracy. According to the protesters, restoring the Ebonyi Central Senatorial ticket to Chief C. Sagas would strengthen confidence in the party's commitment to fairness.

The protesters also argued that equity and political balance support the candidature of Chief C. Sagas, who hails from Ikwo Local Government Area. They noted that Ezza has occupied the Senate seat for more than two decades, while Ishielu has also produced a senator for about eight years. According to the group, Ikwo remains the only major component of Ebonyi Central that has never produced a senator. They stated that equitable representation requires the opportunity to be extended to Ikwo.

In addition, the protesters raised concerns about what they described as the concentration of political representation in Ezza North Local Government Area. They alleged that both Professor Bernard Odoh and Rt. Hon. Anayo are from the same local government and warned that such a situation could negatively affect the popularity of the party ahead of future elections. They stressed that addressing the concerns of party members is necessary to preserve unity and strengthen the NDC's electoral prospects in Ebonyi State.

The group called on supporters to remain peaceful and law-abiding while awaiting the response of the party leadership. They stressed that their demand was not for special treatment but for the restoration of a mandate they believe was earned through a democratic process. The protesters further maintained that a transparent and united NDC remains the strongest platform for electoral success in Ebonyi State and across Nigeria.

As of the time of filing this report, the protesters remained at the premises of the NDC National Secretariat, waving placards and chanting calls for justice. They reiterated their demand that the NDC leadership respect the will of Ebonyi Central voters and restore the mandate of Chief C. Sagas. The group also stated that it would continue its peaceful demonstration until the party leadership responds to its demands.

06/06/2026

Governor Nwifuru Reaffirms Commitment to Innovation, Science and Technology

By Charles Nwoke || AlphaTimes

Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to leveraging innovation, science and technology as key drivers of economic growth and sustainable development in Ebonyi State. Governor Nwifuru made the commitment during a courtesy visit by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Kingsley Toochukwu Udeh (SAN), at the Government House in Abakaliki.

Governor Nwifuru said the meeting focused on strengthening innovation, advancing science and technology, and building strategic partnerships that can accelerate economic growth in Ebonyi State. He stated that the discussions explored practical measures for promoting scientific and technological development while creating opportunities for sustainable development across the state.

According to Governor Nwifuru, both parties examined areas of collaboration aimed at promoting youth empowerment, digital transformation, investment opportunities, and sustainable development. He noted that innovation, science and technology remain essential tools for improving governance, creating jobs, and enhancing the welfare of citizens. He added that his administration is committed to positioning Ebonyi State as a leading destination for enterprise, innovation, and investment.

Governor Nwifuru expressed confidence that stronger cooperation between the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology and the Ebonyi State Government would deliver significant benefits to residents and support national development goals. He said the partnership would create new opportunities for technological advancement, skills development, and innovation-driven solutions to challenges facing the state.

Governor Nwifuru also appreciated the minister for the visit. He reiterated his readiness to work closely with the ministry to advance policies and programmes that will foster inclusive growth, economic growth, and sustainable development in Ebonyi State.

06/06/2026

LIBIDINOUS MONSTER:
50-Year-Old Man Arrested for Defiling 8-Year-Old Child in Abia Community

By Kanayonmuo Azaka || AlphaTimes

A 50-year-old man, Stephen Njoku, is in custody after allegedly defiling an eight-year-old girl in the Ebem Ohafia community of Ohafia Local Government Area, Abia State.

The suspect was apprehended by local youth before being handed over to the police. He has since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Umuahia for a thorough investigation.

The horrific incident triggered massive outrage, prompting a wild protest by roughly 200 local women. Wielding fresh leaves, the women marched through the community performing Ikpa Mbogo, a traditional ritual of public condemnation against the suspect, while demanding immediate justice.

Reacting to the incident, the Ebem Ohafia Development Union (EODU) strongly condemned the assault, labeling it disturbing, unacceptable, and a violation of the community's moral standards. In a statement by Publicity Secretary Ifeanyi Okali, the union declared zero tolerance for child exploitation and urged the aggrieved protesters to remain calm while law enforcement handles the case.

The victim has been hospitalized for urgent medical attention.

Abia State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, confirmed the arrest and stated that detectives have already visited the crime scene. She assured the public that the suspect will be charged to court as soon as the SCID concludes its investigation.

06/06/2026

IPOB Claims FG Admits Omotosho Lacked Jurisdiction

By Kanayonmuo Azaka || AlphaTimes

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has claimed that the Federal Government inadvertently admitted that Justice James Omotosho acted without jurisdiction when he sentenced its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, to life imprisonment on terrorism charges.

In a statement issued on Friday by its spokesman, Emma Powerful, IPOB said the admission was contained in the Federal Government's cross-appeal filed in response to Kanu's appeal against his November 20, 2025 conviction by the Federal High Court in Abuja.

According to IPOB, the government argued in its cross-appeal that Justice Omotosho lacked the jurisdiction to impose a life sentence, contending that the applicable punishment should have been the death penalty. IPOB said this position effectively undermines the entire judgment.

The group argued that if the trial court lacked jurisdiction to impose a sentence, it also lacked the authority to convict, since both conviction and sentence are legally inseparable.

"The Federal Government has effectively fired a cannon through the heart of the judgment it is simultaneously attempting to defend," IPOB stated, insisting that the government's position raises fundamental questions about the validity of Kanu's conviction.

IPOB further maintained that the appeal has become a test of the Nigerian judiciary's commitment to established legal principles, arguing that any attempt to uphold the conviction while accepting the alleged jurisdictional defect would create a contradiction in law.

Kanu's legal team is also challenging the conviction on the grounds that it was allegedly based on a repealed law. The Court of Appeal is expected to determine the issues raised in both the appeal and the government's cross-appeal.

06/06/2026

THE ANAMBRA CRUCIBLE: WHY SOLUDO’S WAR ON “FAKES” IS A BATTLE FOR THE SOUL OF SOCIETY

By Christian ABURIME

Amidst the socio-economic frenzy of modern Nigeria, where quick fixes are often valorised over hard work and sensational success frequently eclipses genuine achievement, many may find it hard to choose a different path. Yet, at different levels of society, one can find those who dare to “beat them” rather than “join them”. And one can still see leaders who would not condone the travesty of right values.

One such mindful, uncompromising leader is the intrepid Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR. He is not your regular governor neither is he your regular politician; he is an uncommon leader wired differently to make the society better for the people. Reason he is engaged in a profound project of values reformation. His recent legal offensive against eight pastors staging “arrangee” miracles, following his earlier crackdown on fraudulent native doctors and fake Ph.D. holders, reflects a decisive shift from passive administration to active moral restoration.

This is no longer just about enforcing law and order; it is about dismantling a culture of fraud that has long permeated Nigerian society. By targeting these three pillars of deception, namely the Pentecostal charlatan, the quack herbalist, and the credential fraudster, Governor Soludo is sending an unambiguous message: In Anambra, integrity is non-negotiable.

What makes Governor Soludo’s approach so compelling is its holistic understanding of the Nigerian psyche. He recognises that the desire for instant gratification manifests in three distinct, yet interconnected, forms: the spiritual fraud, which exposes the dark underbelly of the prosperity gospel, and where faith is commodified and miracles are staged by paid actors; the native doctor quackery, peddling unproven magical breakthroughs to quick riches and power; and the academic impostor, featuring fake Ph.D. holders who hit at the foundation of meritocracy.

Thus, Governor Soludo’s relentless battles against the foregoing social evils form a strategic triad aimed at curing the societal malaise of ‘Get Rich Quick’ mentalities that have plagued Nigeria for decades with the philosophy that the end justifies any means. Whether through 419 fraud, religious deception, or academic forgery, the goal was always rapid wealth acquisition without the friction of discipline or skill acquisition.

Governor Soludo’s values reformation drive seeks to invert this calculus. By bringing the offenders before the courts, he is demonstrating that wealth gained through deception is temporary and carries the heavy cost of imprisonment and social stigma. True success is built on competence, hardwork and integrity -- whether in religion or academia. And ethics is a competitive advantage, creating a society where trust lowers transaction costs and fosters real economic growth.

In other words, the Soludo administration is effectively telling Ndi Anambra and Nigerians at large: “You do not need to stage a miracle to get money. You do not need to fake a degree to get a job. You do not need to hoodwink our youth with a false magical power.” Instead, the path to prosperity is through education, skill development, and honest labour.

Critics might argue that the state government is overstepping into the realm of religion or tradition. However, Governor Soludo’s consistent legal framework, invoking the Homeland Security Law and anti-fraud statutes, grounds these actions firmly in civil order and public protection. He is not banning faith or traditional medicine; he is criminalising fraud. There is a profound difference between a pastor praying for healing and a pastor hiring actors to claim they were healed for financial gain.

This distinction is crucial. Governor Soludo is defending the sanctity of genuine belief and practice by purging the imposters who exploit them. And the implications extend far beyond Anambra. As the first governor in Nigeria to systematically dismantle these three fronts of fraud almost simultaneously, Governor Soludo is offering a blueprint for other states. He is proving that cultural change is possible, and it requires political courage and judicial precision.

Of course, the journey ahead won’t be easy. Changing a culture or entrenched social orientation takes more than arrests; it requires a sustained effort to build institutions that reward honesty. But the seeds are being sown. Every time a fake native doctor is remanded, every time a staged miracle is exposed in court, and every time a fake Ph.D. holder loses their reputation, the social contract is strengthened.

Governor Soludo’s fight is ultimately a fight for the soul of society and that of future generation. If Anambra can successfully pivot from a society of “fakers” to one of “makers,” it will achieve something greater than economic indicators alone. It will restore the dignity of labour and the sanctity of truth. And in doing so, it may well light the way for the rest of Nigeria to finally move beyond the era of quick fixes and enter an age of sustainable, ethical prosperity. In Anambra, the verdict is already being written: No more fakes!

06/06/2026

AMTY Honours Prof. Chinyere Okunna with Lifetime Achievement Award

By Kaine Peters || AlphaTimes

Nigeria’s first female Professor of Mass Communication, Prof. Chinyere Stella Okunna, has been named recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 Anambra Man of the Year (AMTY) Awards in recognition of her outstanding contributions to journalism, academia, media development and public service.

Chairperson of the AMTY 5th Edition Planning Committee, Prof. Adaoma Igwedibia, said the award acknowledges Prof. Okunna’s decades of impactful service in communication scholarship, journalism education, governance and mentorship.

According to Igwedibia, Prof. Okunna embodies excellence, leadership and dedication to national development, making her a worthy recipient of the prestigious honour.

Prof. Okunna holds the distinction of being Nigeria’s first female Professor of Mass Communication and the first in Sub-Saharan Africa. She currently serves as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics) of Paul University, Awka.

Over the years, she has held several key positions at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, including Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Head of the Department of Mass Communication and Director of UNIZIK 94.1 FM.

Beyond the academic sphere, Prof. Okunna played significant roles in public service during the administration of former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi. She served as Commissioner for Information and Culture, Chief of Staff, and Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget.

A respected scholar and media professional, Prof. Okunna has made significant contributions to ethical journalism, media development and communication studies in Nigeria. Her work has earned her widespread recognition within academic and professional circles.

The AMTY Lifetime Achievement Award adds to a growing list of honours celebrating her enduring impact on academia, public service and the media industry.

06/06/2026

Anambra Government Arraigns Eight Pastors for Staging Fake Miracles Using Paid Actors

By Chris Chikelue || Alpha Times

The Government of Anambra State has arraigned eight pastors before the Anambra State High Court in Awka on Friday on charges of using hired actors to stage fake miracles so as to deceive members of the public and obtaining money from them.

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of the State and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Barrister Tobechukwu Nweke led the prosecution.

The pastors charged are Ndubisi Nnachukwu of Omega Dominion Ministry, Ekeleme Chris Ugochukwu of Cloud of Glory Prophetic Ministry, and Bishop Emeka Nwamkpa of Chapel of Faith Ministry.

Others are, Peter Chukwu of Messiah Adoration Ministry, Chinedu Egwuonwu of Citadel of Grace Ministry, Ebele Nnachukwu of Jehovah the Mighty Than All Ministry, Miracle Iruoma of City of Power Ministry, and Chukwukadibia Ogwuama of Land of Testimony Adoration Ministry.

They face charges of wielding fake supernatural powers and using a religious place of worship for the commission of a crime under Sections 18(3) and 19(1) of the Anambra State Homeland Security Law, 2025, as well as obtaining by false pretence under Section 3(1) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud-Related Offences Act.

Some of the pastors were also charged alongside agents they allegedly used to recruit individuals who were paid to pretend they had been healed or delivered during church services.

The clerics were remanded in a correctional centre after the arraignment, and their plead of not guilty with the matter adjourned to June 15 for hearing and determination of any bail applications.

The proof of evidence filed by the prosecution included video-recorded confessional statements from the pastors, with a flash drive attached to the case files.

Attorney General Nweke confirmed that the confessions form a central part of the state’s evidence and said the prosecutions are part of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s broader campaign to end the exploitation of vulnerable Nigerians through deception.

Alpha Times

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