De NONIA News/magazine (2025)

16/07/2025

*Umuokanne's Traditional Ruler Asserts Authority*

By Queeneth Sagas

In a bold statement, HRM Eze Dr. Matthew Chiedozie Nwokoma (Eze Okaome the 4th of Umuokanne), the Traditional Ruler of Umuokanne autonomous community in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State, has reiterated that he remains the monarch of the community on Sunday while addressing Ohaji/Egbema Practicing Journalists at his Palace. This assertion comes amidst controversy over the alleged imposition of an Eze-elect on the people of Umuokanne by some individuals.

Eze Nwokoma, who resigned from the police force following the death of his elder brother to become the Traditional Ruler in line with the hereditary kingship pattern of Umuokanne, has brought peace, unity, and development to the community. He emphasized that his reign has improved security, orderliness, and cordiality among the people.

The monarch expressed his willingness to accept new autonomous communities within Umuokanne, provided due process is followed. "We are waiting for the state government to approve any other autonomous community for us," he said. "I will accept any new autonomous community created with clean documentary evidence in good faith."

Eze Nwokoma urged those inciting trouble to stop or face the wrath of the ancestors of the land. "We want a cool breeze that shall make us be at home with it," he said. "War is very expressive, damaging, but peace is priceless."

The President-General of Umuokanne Town Union, Sir Bethel Enyinna, and other community leaders affirmed their support for Eze Nwokoma, stating that they are all ready to welcome more autonomous communities duly acquired. They emphasized that HRM Eze Nwokoma has been ruling the community well, bringing peace, unity, and development to the community.

The leaders condemned the alleged imposition of an Eze-elect on the community, describing it as an effort in futility. "Any imposed Eze for Umuokanne is totally out of place," they maintained.

Eze Nwokoma called for continued calm and urged his subjects to aspire for goodness and collective development of the community.

As a peace ambassador and security expert, Eze Nwokoma's leadership has earned Umuokanne recognition as the most peaceful community in Nigeria by the United Nations. As such over 40 percent of Ohaji indigenes displaced in their various restive communities take refuge in Umuokanne ", Eze Nwokoma said.

The monarch emphasized that any new autonomous community duly gotten in Umuokanne would not affect his throne or his positions as Head of Security and Conflict Resolutions Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers, member Ethnics and Privileges in South East Council of Traditional Rulers and member Police Campaign Against Cultism And Other Vices. Stating that He remains committed to the traditional values and customs of the community.

The people of Umuokanne stand united behind their traditional ruler, HRM Eze Dr. Matthew Chiedozie Nwokoma (Eze Okaome the 4th of Umuokanne). As the community looks to the future, it is clear that peace, unity, and development will continue to be the guiding principles.

04/07/2025

*NBC: A Threat to Democracy? Ex-NBA Chairman Sparks Controversy*

Queeneth Sagas

A former Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Owerri Branch, has ignited a heated debate about the role of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) in Nigeria's democratic landscape. Barrister Lawrence Nwakaeti has declared the NBC fundamentally incompatible with constitutional democracy, citing its potential to stifle free speech.

In a keynote address titled "Judiciary and the Role of the Media in Deepening Nigerian Democracy," at the opening of Official Unveiling of Imo NUJ Diamond Members/ Workstation on June 30th, 2025, Nwakaeti delivered a scathing critique of Nigeria's democratic institutions. He lamented the declining independence and effectiveness of both the judiciary and the media, emphasizing the need for reform.

NBA Ex- Boss contention centered on the NBC, arguing that the commission, established by the NBC Act, is inherently unconstitutional. "The NBC as a body and as presently constituted is not a necessary vehicle in a constitutional democracy where free speech is guaranteed with necessary legal safeguards," he stated.

He also reminded that the media has a constitutional mandate to inform and enlighten the public on the day-to-day activities of government and other human institutions without inhibition. He asserted that the media is a powerful tool that can be used to hold public officers accountable and bring up crucial issues for public discourse.

Nwakaeti as well charged the judiciary to always protect media practitioners from unnecessary obstruction by invoking section 22 of the 1999 constitution, which said “established the concept of Journalism while section 39 Grantees it”. He also advised the judiciary to work hand-in-glove with journalists by making court proceedings and decisions more open to the public.

NUJ State Chairman, Comrade Precious Nwadike, expressed gratitude to members of the union for standing firm in ensuring that journalism practice in the state is not used to ridicule the integrity of the profession. He emphasized that the sanctity and responsibility of the journalism profession as the watchdog of society must be upheld.

The former Chairman of the Council, Comrade Steve Uzoeshi, posited that journalists in the state were trying their best despite facing intimidation. He asserted that the watchdog of society also needs to be protected while carrying out their duty and that the media deserves funding like the other arms of government.

The event highlighted the need for the media and the judiciary to work together to promote transparency and accountability in governance. It also emphasized the importance of protecting media freedom and upholding the constitution.

The event showed that journalists are determined to uphold the values of their profession and play their role in deepening democracy, as well cited the importance of empowering journalists to carry out their duties effectively. By providing them with the necessary tools and support, journalists can play a more effective role in promoting transparency and accountability in governance.

06/12/2024

VINDICATION AT LAST! Imo NUJ Press Centre Restored to Rightful Owners

Queeneth Sagas

"After years of intense battle, the Integrity Group of Imo NUJ has emerged victorious! The Owerri High Court has nullified the earlier judgement, returning the press centre to its rightful owners. A major win for justice and the rule of law!"

In a landmark ruling, the Owerri High Court has set aside the earlier judgement against the Integrity Journalists group, returning the Imo NUJ Press Center on Port Harcourt Road to its rightful owners. This decision brings an end to a long-standing dispute over the ownership of the property, which had been embroiled in controversy since 2019.

The journey to this victory was not an easy one. The Integrity Group had faced numerous challenges and setbacks, including a previous judgement that had gone against them. However, they refused to give up, and their perseverance has finally paid off. According to Barr Vitalis Nwaonu Esq, representative of the counsel to Imo State Nigeria Union of Journalists Integrity Group, "The Hon. Justice Ann Ononeze Madu has shown her capacity as a legal icon who believes in the rules of the law."

The court's decision was based on the fact that Christopher Akaraonye, Chris Isiguzo, and their cohorts had no right to sell the landed property, which belongs to the entire journalists' union, as they were not legitimate leaders. The court condemned their actions, stating that they had no right to parade themselves as leaders of the union while their leadership was being challenged.

The judgement has been hailed by Imo journalists, who see it as a victory against an illegal attempt to steal their property. The Integrity Group has expressed its satisfaction with the judgement, stating that they are ready to follow the matter to its logical conclusion at the Industrial Court.

This ruling marks a new era for the Imo NUJ, one where their property and rights are protected. As the union moves forward, they can do so with confidence, knowing that the law is on their side. The court's decision is a hallmark of justice and the importance of upholding the law.

The Imo NUJ Land Grabbing Case has been a long and arduous journey, but the Integrity Group's perseverance has paid off. This ruling serves as a reminder that no individual or group can act with impunity, and that the rights of others will be protected.

06/10/2024

Omeogo's Commitment to Excellence Earns Media Recognition

By Queeneth Sagas

Hon. Canice Moore Nwachukwu, popularly known as "Omeogo," has received the "Most Media Friendly House of Representatives Member" award from the Coalition of Orlu Zone Media Practitioners (COZMP) in Imo State. This recognition is a testament to his robust representation and commitment to transparency as the member representing Orlu/ Orsu/ Oru East Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

As Chairman of the House Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and member of the House Committee on Ecological Funds, Omeogo has made significant strides in addressing ecological disasters in Imo State. He recently assessed gully erosion sites and the ten billion Naira erosion control project in Ideato North LGA.

In his acceptance speech, Omeogo expressed gratitude and pledged to continue collaborating with the media. He also revealed plans to commission projects in his federal constituency, demonstrating his dedication to serving his people.

The award ceremony, held at Gravity Hotel in Owerri, was attended by notable figures, including Chief Dona Nwogu, Dr. Emmanuel Enyinnaya, and Chief Gabriel Nwosu.

Omeogo's commitment to proactive representation and media collaboration has earned him recognition from his peers and constituents. His efforts to address ecological challenges and promote transparency are truly commendable.

As a journalist-turned-lawmaker, Omeogo's achievements serve as an inspiration to his constituents and the media community, showcasing the power of effective representation and collaboration.

De NONIA News/magazine

16/07/2025

04/07/2025

06/12/2024

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