Salt Heritage Online Newspaper

08/06/2026

SECSONet Cautions Against Institutional Intimidation of South East Development Commission
.. Urges Constructive Senate Oversight

8 June 2026

The South East Civil Society Network (SECSONet) has officially called for restraint, fairness, and constructive engagement regarding the ongoing legislative oversight interaction between the Senate Committee and the leadership of the South East Development Commission (SEDC).

In a press statement signed by Prince Chris Azor on behalf of the regional civil society network, the coalition warned that the strategic development agency must not be subjected to political tension, media trials, or operational paralysis at its critical takeoff stage.

*Balancing Accountability with Institutional Stability*

While affirming its respect for the constitutional oversight responsibilities of the National Assembly, SECSONet emphasized that regulatory supervision must remain professional and measured. The group noted that public perception across Nigeria is frequently marred by concerns that legislative oversight can sometimes be weaponized as an instrument for coercion or political pressure against public agencies.

The coalition stressed that the SEDC is a vital interventionist institution birthed to fix severe economic and infrastructural deficits in the Southeast region, and therefore requires an atmosphere of stability rather than fear and uncertainty to deliver on its mandate.

"Oversight is necessary in every democracy and public institutions must remain accountable to the people," the statement read.

"However, oversight must not create the impression of intimidation, political pressure, harassment or attempts to weaken institutions before they are allowed to function effectively."

*Funding Constraints Threaten Regional Takeoff*

A key concern raised by the civil society network is the current financial status of the commission. SECSONet revealed that reports indicate the SEDC is yet to receive the substantial capital funding required to implement any meaningful regional development activities.

The group argued that stakeholders' energy should currently be channeled toward securing adequate funding and establishing smooth operational structures for the commission, rather than creating premature institutional instability.

*Core Demands for Regional Development*

To safeguard the future of the commission and protect it from becoming a casualty of political bargaining, SECSONet outlined five critical recommendations:

(i) *Non-Hostile Engagement:* The immediate adoption of a constructive, professional, and non-hostile relationship between the Senate Committee and the SEDC leadership.

(ii) *Resolution of Funding Woes:** Urgent legislative and executive intervention to address the acute capital funding challenges confronting the new commission.

(iii) *Enhanced Public Relations:* Proactive transparency and regular communication from the SEDC management to build public confidence and trust among regional citizens.

(iv) *Civil Society Tracking:* The establishment of independent civil society monitoring systems to assist with project tracking, transparency, and grassroots participation.

(v) *Protection from Sabotage:* An approach to public accountability that strengthens the agency internally without exposing it to media trials or institutional sabotage.

*A Call for Wisdom and Restraint*
Concluding the statement, Prince Chris Azor reminded both lawmakers and commission officials that the success of the SEDC transcends partisan politics, as it directly impacts the reconstruction, economic recovery, and long-term future of the Southeast region. The network urged all parties involved to act with structural wisdom and sincerity of purpose in the interest of the public.

Report by: Mr. Godwin C. Ezeaka.

23/05/2026

Anglican Bishop Lauds Samuel Omogo Foundation for Rural Water Projects in Ebonyi

IKWO, EBONYI STATE — 19 May 2026

The Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Ngbo, Rt. Rev. Godwin A. Awoke, has highly commended Rev. Fr. Dr. Peter Omogo and the Samuel Omogo Foundation (SOF) for their outstanding humanitarian interventions, particularly the provision of clean and safe drinking water to rural communities across Ebonyi State.

The commendation was delivered during the official commissioning of a newly drilled motorized borehole at Agalagu Amagu in the Ikwo Local Government Area.

*Bridging Denominational Divides*

In his welcome address, Bishop Awoke described the foundation's intervention as "Christian love in action," noting that the project brings long-awaited relief to surrounding villages that have struggled with severe water scarcity for years.
A central theme of the Bishop’s address was the foundation's total disregard for denominational boundaries. Despite being an Anglican Bishop, Rt. Rev. Awoke revealed that the Catholic priest and his foundation have unconditionally supported his communities. To date, the Samuel Omogo Foundation has drilled three boreholes for his constituency: one at his school in Ngbo and two in his native village in Ikwo.

"This is indeed faith in action," Bishop Awoke remarked, praising Fr. Omogo’s spirit of inclusive love and service.

*A Broader Humanitarian Mission*

Founded in memory of the late Samuel Omogo, the foundation has become a lifeline for the poor, widows, orphans, and disadvantaged persons in Ebonyi State and beyond. Driven by a commitment to human dignity and rural development, the foundation's major interventions include:
* Drilling boreholes and providing clean water to rural communities.
* Providing direct assistance to widows, orphans, and indigent families.
* Offering educational support and scholarships to children from impoverished homes.
* Executing healthcare assistance and medical outreach programs.
* Driving community empowerment and youth support initiatives.
* Supporting churches and grassroots community development projects.
In addition to the foundation's work, Fr. Omogo continues to drive youth empowerment through the Goodness Omogo Leadership Academy. As its founder and director, he has positioned the institution to raise future leaders by integrating quality education, moral formation, skill acquisition, technology, agriculture, and sports.

*Acknowledging the Benefactors*

During his remarks, Rev. Fr. Dr. Peter Omogo deflected the praise, attributing the foundation’s success to the collective dedication of its supporters and board members.
He expressed profound gratitude to international donors Bob and Mary Hyatt, emphasizing that their unwavering generosity and sacrifices have been instrumental in funding the clean water projects and bringing hope to struggling rural families. Fr. Omogo described them, alongside the foundation's board members, as compassionate partners in the mission to uplift the less privileged.

*Community Joy and Final Blessings*

The commissioning event was filled with emotional testimonies from community members who expressed their deep gratitude for finally having access to a reliable, life-changing water source. They described the new borehole as a source of immense joy, relief, and renewed hope.
The ceremony concluded with Bishop Awoke offering prayers for God’s continued blessings, strength, and prosperity upon Rev. Fr. Dr. Peter Omogo, the donors, and the entire Samuel Omogo Foundation as they continue their vital service to humanity.

Report by Cornelius Nweke

02/04/2026

GOVERNMENT, GLOBAL ORGANISATION, CSOs AND HUMAN RIGHTS LEADERS DRUM SUPPORT FOR TAMBCF DURING HISTORIC TRIPARTITE CELEBRATION

ABAKALIKI, EBONYI STATE — The global spotlight and local movement to protect multiple-birth families reached a crescendo last weekend on Friday 27 March 2026 at St. Theresa's Catholic Cathedral Abakaliki as the Twins and Multiple Births Care Foundation (TAMBCF) hosted its "Tripartite Celebration." The landmark event integrated the 10th Edition of the Twins and Multiple Births Festival (TAMBFest), the 83rd Posthumous Birthday Symposium of Rev. Fr. Raymond Ifeanyi Ezeonu, and a formal petition for the late priest's canonization.

State Government Pledges Budgetary Advocacy

In a significant boost for the Foundation’s sustainability, the Ebonyi State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has officially committed to pushing for state funding for multiple-birth welfare. Mr. Nkwuda Emmanuel Ogochukwu, Head of the Child Development Department, delivered a compelling Goodwill Message, commending the "remarkable level of awareness" created by the Foundation.

"As a representative of your welfare agency, the Child Development Department, I assure you that I will continue to advocate for the State Government to make budgetary provisions for the vulnerable members of your foundation," Mr. Nkwuda stated. "This is to ensure that the concerned families feel a sense of belonging and that their welfare is improved and sustained within the limits of our available resources."

International Recognition: ICOMBO Ratifies Concessional Membership of TAMBCF

Leading the international tributes, Dr. Carolyn Lister, Chair and Research Director of the International Council of Multiple Birth Organisations (ICOMBO), delivered a powerful video message from New Zealand. Recognizing the Foundation’s growth, Dr. Lister announced a major milestone:

"As an organisation, we are delighted to be able to offer [TAMBCF] Concessional Membership with ICOMBO as a testament to how far this advocacy has come".

Dr. Lister further lauded the legacy of Fr. Raymond Ezeonu, describing him as a "shining example of what is possible". She noted that long before ICOMBO existed, this "humble priest rescued twins... He didn't just save their lives; he sheltered them and ensured they grew into productive members of society". ICOMBO also threw its full weight behind the official petition to the Catholic Church to recognize Fr. Ezeonu as the Patron Saint of Twins and Multiple Births.

National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Applauds TAMBCF

At the national level, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) identified the Foundation’s work as a critical intervention and a cornerstone for human dignity. Mr. Christopher Onyekachi Okorie, the Ebonyi State Coordinator for the NHRC, expressed the Commission's pride in the Foundation's devotion and resilience:

"NHRC is proud of your devotion towards assisting parents of twins and multiple births amidst many challenges that they face... Above all, for keeping alive the deeds and memory of Saint Ezeonu in the minds of his lovers and all whose lives he touched positively."

Ebonyi Coalition of CSOs Endorses "Abakaliki Declaration"

Furthermore, the Ebonyi Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (EB-CSOs) provided a resounding endorsement for the event. Chief Mrs. Ugo Nnachi, Co-Chair of the Coalition, congratulated TAMBCF and assured the Foundation of their continued partnership, stating:

"Hearty Congratulations TAMBCF. You stand as a testament to what God can do with commitment. Please be assured of our support."

In his formal solidarity message, Dr. Okezie Kelechukwu (PhD), a Co-Chair on behalf of the EB-CSOs, officially endorsed the Abakaliki Declaration and called for urgent government action. He described the late Fr. Ezeonu as a "courageous humanitarian" whose actions "redefined cultural narratives, affirming the inherent worth and right to life of every child." The Coalition urged the Ebonyi State Government to take "decisive and sustained action to uphold and protect the sanctity of life for all children, especially the most vulnerable," stressing that discrimination based on birth circumstances must end.

A Renewed Call to Action & Sustained Advocacy

Comr. Ezeaka emphasized that the Foundation’s work is just beginning. With the formal support of ICOMBO, the NHRC, and the Ebonyi CSO Coalition, the Foundation is now positioned to move the Multiple Births Welfare Bill forward in the State House of Assembly.

"We are no longer just a local voice; we are part of an international movement," Ezeaka noted. "From the streets of Abakaliki to the offices of ICOMBO in New Zealand, the message is clear: every twin and higher-order multiple is a 'Pearl' to be cherished".

"With the Ministry of Women Affairs now advocating for a budget line and ICOMBO connecting us to the world, the 'moving train' of this mission has become unstoppable," Ezeaka said. "We are moving beyond awareness into the era of institutionalized care where every 'Double Blessing' is secured by the law and the state."

About TAMBCF: The Twins and Multiple Births Care Foundation (TAMBCF) is a specialized humanitarian organization dedicated to the protection and welfare of multiple-birth families. It serves as the custodian of the legacy of Rev. Fr. Raymond Ifeanyi Ezeonu, the "Male Mary Slessor" of the 20th century. The Foundation provides data-driven advocacy and humanitarian support to ensure "Double Blessing, Zero Burden" for all families.

02/04/2026

GOVERNMENT, GLOBAL ORGANISATIONS, CSOs AND HUMAN RIGHTS LEADERS DRUM SUPPORT FOR TAMBCF

ABAKALIKI — The global spotlight and local movement to protect multiple-birth families reached a crescendo last weekend on Friday 27 March 2026 at St. Theresa's Catholic Cathedral Abakaliki as the Twins and Multiple Births Care Foundation (TAMBCF) hosted its "Tripartite Celebration." The landmark event integrated the 10th Edition of the Twins and Multiple Births Festival (TAMBFest), the 83rd Posthumous Birthday Symposium of Rev. Fr. Raymond Ifeanyi Ezeonu, and a formal petition for the late priest's canonization.

State Government Pledges Budgetary Advocacy

In a significant boost for the Foundation’s sustainability, the Ebonyi State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has officially committed to pushing for state funding for multiple-birth welfare. Mr. Nkwuda Emmanuel Ogochukwu, Head of the Child Development Department, delivered a compelling Goodwill Message, commending the "remarkable level of awareness" created by the Foundation.

"As a representative of your welfare agency, the Child Development Department, I assure you that I will continue to advocate for the State Government to make budgetary provisions for the vulnerable members of your foundation," Mr. Nkwuda stated. "This is to ensure that the concerned families feel a sense of belonging and that their welfare is improved and sustained within the limits of our available resources."

International Recognition: ICOMBO Ratifies Concessional Membership of TAMBCF

Leading the international tributes, Dr. Carolyn Lister, Chair and Research Director of the International Council of Multiple Birth Organisations (ICOMBO), delivered a powerful video message from New Zealand. Recognizing the Foundation’s growth, Dr. Lister announced a major milestone:

"As an organisation, we are delighted to be able to offer [TAMBCF] Concessional Membership with ICOMBO ... Continued in the Comments' Section

22/11/2025

07/06/2025

Genocide in Egugba-Alioma Community
.. Group Calls for Arrest of James Agena, Effium Warlords

The people of the newly created Alioma and Ezekuna Alioma autonomous Communities in Ohaukwu LGA of Ebonyi State under the aegis of Alioma Consultative Assembly have called on Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State to order the immediate arrest and prosecution of James Agena for Sponsoring Fresh Genocide and looting in Egugba Village, thereby sabotaging the Peace Process recently initiated by the State Government.

In a Release signed and issued by High Chief Aligwe Mathias Chukwuma and Dr. Bernard Orichi, the Chairman and Secretary, Alioma Consultative Assembly, titled "JAMES AGENA PROMOTING CRIMINALITY UNDER THE COVER OF EFFIUM AND EZZA EFFIUM CRISIS"
they accused Agena with his Sponsors of sending Warlords led by Monday Odah to attack Ezza people at Egugba on 5th June, 2025 during which they massacred Ezza people including their aged parents, pregnant wives and young children.
According to the release, "... ever since the government meticulously arrested the crisis and restored peace in the then Effium Community, James Agena and his accomplices resorted to indiscriminate looting of Ezza people's properties within the urban to make money since his only means of livelihood (the War) has been graciously terminated by the state government."
Continuing,
"Having looted all the houses within the urban, and annexing to rural areas, Agena took to sending his rogue boys to Ezza villages now known as Alioma and Ezekuna Alioma autonomous Communities, to continue his looting extravaganza, ... mindlessly killing so many innocent aged Ezza people and children they met as they stormed Egugba village to loot zincs and other valuable belongings of Ezza people."
The Assembly, therefore, called on the State government to hold Agena accountable for the unabated criminal operations and the recent genocide in Egugba village on the 5th June 2025.
***
Check Comments for the Press Release.

05/06/2025

EXCELLENT RESULTS BY MARIST COLLEGES IN 2025 JAMB/UTME

Marist Comprehensive College Ezzagu, Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Nigeria, has a rich history that dates back to its founding on September 9, 1995 by the Marist Brothers of the Schools - a Catholic congregation dedicated to education.
Since its inception, the Marist Comprehensive College Onunweke, Ezzagu; Ishielu LGA Ebonyi State has grown and developed, offering a comprehensive curriculum that includes academic, moral, and spiritual education. The college has a strong reputation for academic excellence, discipline, and character development.

Throughout its history, Marist Comprehensive College has remained committed to the Marist ideals of simplicity, humility, and hard work, striving to produce well-rounded individuals who are equipped to make a positive impact in society.

The Marist Brothers are founded in 1817 by Saint Marcellin Champagnat in France, have been active in Nigeria since the 1960s. They established Brothers Juniorate, Uturu in 1963; Comprehensive Academy in 1981, with the goal of providing quality education to youths in the country.
Other Secondary Schools managed by the Marist Brothers include Christ the King College, Gwagwalada, Abuja, Sacred Heart Marist College, Ejule, Marist Bicentenary College Ngor Okpala, Imo State, Marist College Umuchigbo Enugu State; Christ the King's Catholic Marist College, Ire-Ekiti; Marist Comprehensive College Nteje; Marist College, Yangoji, Abuja.

04/06/2025

EBONYI PHILANTHROPIST SPONSORS 50 INDIGENT CANDIDATES FOR 2025 NECO SSCE.. PROMISES TO SPONSOR ANOTHER 50 FOR 2026 WASSCE

An Ebonyi born British-Nigerian residing in the United Kingdom by name Dr. Chukwudi Anthony Nwigwe - Ochigbidu II of Ezekuna Kingdom - has on 31 May, 2025 paid over one million, five hundred thousand naira (N1,500,000.00) being the 2025 NECO SSCE Registration Fees for fifty (50) Indigent Students from Ezzagu Zone in Ishielu LGA, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
The Candidates are drawn from the following schools:
1. Community Secondary School, Azuinyaba
2. Community Secondary School, Onunweke
3. Community Secondary School, Ezzagu
4. Seat of Wisdom Secondary School, Ezzagu
5. Premier Secondary School, Ogboji Aguotu (Formerly not Viable, but now revitalized)
6. Standard International College, Onicha.
The Beneficiaries cut across Azuinyaba, Nkomoro Ezekuna, Ogboji Ezzagu - the three(3) Autonomous Communities of Ezzagu Zone and even Ogbagu in Iyonu, Ishielu LGA, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
Meanwhile, Chief Dr. Chukwudi Anthony NWIGWE has announced his willingness to sponsor another fifty (50) indigent but intelligent Students of Ezzagu Zone for 2026 West African Senior Secondary Certificate Examinations (WASSCE).

Dr. C.A. Nwigwe is currently serving as the International Officer at the University of Northampton, United Kingdom.

Dr. Nwigwe was born into the family of Chief Christopher Nwigwe-Igbede at Ndiegu Ugboanyim in the present Ezekuna Community, Ezzagu in 1973. He holds British nationality. He is a Member Board of Trustees of Ezzagu Patriots Association (EPA).

Dr. Nwigwe has contributed immensely to the growth and development of his community and as well touched a lot of lives positively and left indelible footprints in the sands of time. Testimonies abound on his interventions especially in Education.

20/03/2025

‘We Will Overcome This Challenge’ ~ Sir Siminalayi Fubara

The Embattled Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has reacted to the state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu, describing the development as an unfortunate moment in the state’s political history.

In a press statement issued on Tuesday, Fubara maintained that his administration had consistently prioritised the security and well-being of Rivers people while upholding constitutional order. He expressed disappointment over the role of the state’s House of Assembly, accusing its members of frustrating efforts towards peace and stability.

Despite his suspension, Fubara called on the people of Rivers State to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring them that he would continue engaging relevant institutions to protect democracy.

Read the full text of the press statement below in the Comments' section:

I address you today with a deep sense of responsibility and calm, as we navigate this unfortunate moment in our state’s political history.

11/01/2025

INYABA DC COORDINATOR CELEBRATES NEW YEAR WITH WIDOWS, ELDERS & YOUTHS

In line with The People's Charter of Needs Mantra of the Governor of Ebonyi State His Excellency Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru the Coordinator of Inyaba Development Centre (DC), Chief Hon. Prince Chukwudi Nweze, was able to put smiles on many faces when he hosted some Needy Widows, Youths and the Aged at his Country Home in Ezzagu, Ishielu LGA, Ebonyi State. Their Joys knew no bounds on Friday 10 January 2025 as each of the benefiting Widows went home with two bags of Rice, a fathom of Wrapper and undisclosed amount of money. Ditto for the Elders and Youths as they benefited in cash and in kind.
The Coordinator had in December 2024 hosted a Christmas Get-Together during which he extended his largesse to selected Stakeholders from the two Autonomous Communities that make up the Development Centre.
Some stakeholders of the Development Center commended the kind gestures of Prince Nweze. They equally requested for Dividends of Democracy at the Grassroots.
***
Ezzagu Voice
Ezzagu Patriots Association - EPA