News
ADC’s coming tsunami in Anambra: If you listen carefully, you’ll hear
By Sunny Igboanugo
Perhaps it has a great deal to do with the man at the centre of it all – John Chuma Nwosu. Like a Rolls Royce or Maybach on a smooth road – noiseless, sleek and smooth. That is why the din is apparently not deafening. But something fundamental is happening in Anambra State at the moment. Call it a quiet revolution.
Yes, the din is not deafening yet, but it is building up gradually, but steadily and soon, very soon, the echoes would reverberate everywhere – too loud that even those in distant lands will hear.
To underscore this, pan to Nri, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State on Friday, August 1, the day David Mark, Nigeria’s longest-serving Senate President, landed in the state, where a snippet THE of new wave in the political and social tempest was tested.
It was supposed to be a private visit. The retired military tactician, who is now managing one of the most humongous political events in the history of Nigeria in the name of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition – an arrangement housing some of the biggest and most influential politicians in the country today – was in town to attend the burial of the late Justice Umeugbolu Emmanuel Okoye Nri-Ezedi, the Chief Judge Emeritus of Anambra State.
But the event soon took a different turn – splashed with a dose of politics. The picture of Mark, Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the February 25, 2023 election and the duos of John Chuma Nwosu, governorship candidate of the ADC in the November 8, 2025 election and Ndubuisi Nwobu, was all it took to paint the picture of the unfolding event – many have already seen as impending tsunami.
The grand reception of Mark, Grand Commander of the Officer of the Niger (GCON), National Chairman of the ADC, had indeed begun at the Chinua Achebe Airport in Anambra by Nwosu and other party leaders from the state including members of the JCN Governorship Campaign Council before being led in a convoy to the venue of the event.
From the reaction of the crowd who also gathered at the St James Anglican Church, Nri, Anaocha local government area of the state, during and after the event, presided over by Most Reverend Alexander Ibezim, Archbishop on the Niger and Anglican Bishop of Awka, it was obvious where the political pendulum in the state is now swinging.
Indeed, if Charles Chukwuma Soludo, Governor, who was also at the occasion, was still in doubt that the tides are changing in the state and that his hitherto sure-footed grip on the political structures to guarantee his second term in office is fast waning, that event, must have been an eye opener. It was a clear indication that the ambition is slipping fast on a slopy ground.
That the people were donating the ululation the ADC team was quite evident. That the gentle breeze of the ADC initially wafting through the atmosphere, apparently buoyed by the Obi-effect, was fast turning to a whirlwind, could not have been lost him. Even the dumbest political imbecile could have been stirred to that reality.
Of course, this turn of events could not have been for nothing. Outside the Obi influence in the polity, Soludo’s underwhelming performance since 2022 when he took power seems not only unfathomable but inexplicable.
It is obvious, many people are realising, albeit, too quickly too late that they have overrated him and entrusting him with power is a fatal mistake – one they are not too eager to repeat – thus the attractiveness of the prospect of a fresh option and alternative.
Else, what is the explanation for a Professor of economics and former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), not attracting a single investment from outside the shores of Anambra in the last four years given his rich pedigree?
This fact is one of the issues at the heart of the Anambra question at the moment. To say that the people are in a state of flux is clearly an understatement. At no time have they been this disappointed in their government as many seem today in the hands of Soludo since he happened on the scene.
Naturally, it would have been a different kettle of fish, more likely to have made more sense and left the people with clearer understanding, were it any other individual that was the subject other than their own revered star-boy of the South East, if not Nigeria, who had trounced the landscapes beyond the proverbial seven seas and seven wildernesses to bring the golden fleece.
What happened? What plausible explanation could Soludo adduce to support such a disappointing, if not dismaying performance? How could it be explained away that a persona posting such rich and enviable pedigree, could not find his feet at the job, where even crass illiterates are putting up somewhat appreciable shows?
So, it is not surprising that Nwosu’s profile is growing by the day. Outside all the candidates in the race for Agu Awka next year, he is the only one without any primordial baggage – straight from the private sector – without ever touching government money – like Obi – arguably the most credible and performing governor in the history of the state today.
He is arguably the most-travelled, the most internationally-connected, with thriving businesses within and outside Nigeria and – more importantly – the most equipped to run government in the most modern way, as is the template across the world and as most desired, not only in Anambra, but in Nigeria today.
Founder, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD-CEO) of Jetlink – a conglomerate of Information Communication Technology (ICT) concern, with global reach and tentacles spread across Ghana, Liberia, and other parts of the globe, his Security, Health, Education, Environment, Markets and Social Welfare (SHEEMS) Agenda, appears the only hope today to reverse the years of the locust under Soludo.
The story was told of how the late Shehu Shagari, Nigeria’s Third Republic President on arrival in then Anambra State, during one of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) campaigns, stood in awe at the Head Bridge in Onitsha, to behold the wonders created by Ndigbo in the commercial capital – the highrise buildings and other edifices – at which he could not help but exclaim – is this the place the civil war was fought?
Anambra State did not create that magic by calling out a genie from an Arabian magic lamp. They did not do so by sitting at home, ringing their hands in confusion. The resources were also not harvested from the Anambra soil alone. Rather, they farmed themselves out to all parts of the world in search of global resources. They not brought in finances, they built industries and other going concerns.
There are thousands, if not millions of them who are doing similar exploits both home and abroad today. Across the globe, beyond the West Coast of Africa, into the shores of other parts of the continent and far away in the farthest parts of the Middle East, Asia, Europe and America, they are waiting to donate, not only their talents but resources, if only they find a viable avenue.
Unfortunately, instead of harnessing and harvesting these potentials, Soludo, has resorted to digging holes in every part of Anambra land in search of obviously elusive, if not insufficient resources. The idea of unleashing all manner of roughnecks in the streets and community markets, chasing after lowly-placed locals and artisans, with all manner of crude implements, with some of them killed or maimed in the process in search of revenues, has since backfired.
In place is coming the new idea of smart government – electronic, digital, Artificial Intelligence (AI), ICT-powered model. The SHEEMS Agenda, Nwosu, says, will come handy in combating crimes and keeping Anambra safe from the killers ravaging the state as well as pursue other programmes in captured within its fold.
Nwosu, the only man with the knowhow, the potentials and the resources to achieve that is already standing by. Surely, it is not likely to be a walk in the park. But with greater effort in spreading the message, the task would certainly be easier. Already, Anambra people are now nibbling at the option. By the time they will take the bite and see how delicious it is, they are sure not to hesitate to swallow the entire dish. Sure bet!
Igboanugo, a journalist, is Director, Media and Publicity, John Chuma Nwosu Governorship Campaign Council (JCN-GCC).
Godswill Akpabio, Nigeria’s Senate President, on Friday, pushed back against reports quoting him as promising to retrieve tickets from winners of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in lieu of sitting senators, who failed at the party’s primaries recently.
He also spoke on the issue of the comprehensive probe called by Adams Oshiomhole, former Governor of Edo State, now Senator representing Edo North at the National Assembly, clarifying his position on the matte, which has since raised a lot of dust within the polity.
The twin issues, dominated the outcome of proceedings on Thursday, on the day the Senators returned after going on recess to participate in the party primaries that took place across board in Nigeria in line with the electoral outlay of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Akpabio, former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, former Minister of the Niger Delta and now Chairman of the National Assembly, who conveyed his position through Eseme Eyiboh, his spokesman, denied ever making such promise to his colleagues, as it went against the grain of democratic ethos, which he had vowed to uphold.
Regarding the probe of the military, Akpabio, in the statement, stressed the need not to distract the institution, but provide it with all the needed support, giving the parlous security situation in the country, its personnel had been battling relentless.
The statement read in full: “The attention of the Office of the President of the Senate has been drawn to misleading reports circulating in sections of the media suggesting that the President of the Senate has promised to secure senatorial tickets for senators who lost their party primaries.
“We must categorically assert that this report does not reflect the position of the President of the Senate. For the record, Senator Akpabio has neither made nor authorised to be made such promise.
“What the President of the Senate actually said, in the course of interacting with his colleagues, was to empathise with senators who were affected by the outcome of their primary elections.
“He assured them that the leadership of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), is actively working to address all issues arising from the primaries and that the final list of candidates will be released in due course in line with the party’s constitution and electoral guidelines.
“Senator Akpabio remains committed to party discipline, due process, and the internal mechanisms of the APC for resolving disputes. He will not interfere with the autonomous processes of the party or make commitments that are outside the purview of the National Assembly leadership.
“The office also notes another report quoting a distinguished Senator on the need for the Senate to probe the military over recent security incidents. While legislative oversight is a constitutional responsibility of the National Assembly, Senator Akpabio’s position is that this is not the opportune moment for a public probe of the Armed Forces.
“At a time when our troops are engaged on multiple fronts against terrorism, banditry and other threats to National Security, subjecting the military to a public legislative inquisition could undermine morale and operational focus.
“The Senate President believes strongly that support, collaboration and closed-door engagements with security agencies are more productive at this critical time. Oversight will be exercised responsibly, without creating distractions that embolden adversaries or divert attention from the urgent task of securing Nigeria.
“Senator Akpabio urges the media and the public to disregard sensational and inaccurate misrepresentation of his remarks and to always seek clarification from his office before publication.”
No candidate was imposed neither was any member barred from participating in the process, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), said on Thursday, which defending the integrity of the exercise, which ended on May 29.
In a statement by Ikenna Enekweizu, National Secretary, party said that all aspirants were given a fair opportunity to participate in the democratic process, adding that the selection process was driven by consultation, consensus-building, and stakeholder engagement through established leadership structures across the country.
Stressing that its National Secretariat was never involved in the business of picking, choosing, or imposing candidates on any constituency or state, contrary to allegations that have emerged following the conclusion of the primaries, the statement added: “At no time has the NDC National Secretariat been involved in the business of picking, choosing, or imposing candidates on any constituency or state.
“Aspirants seeking elective positions were directed to engage with caucus leaders, stakeholders, and grassroots members in their respective states, who were responsible for consultations and recommendations based on local political realities. In the South-East geopolitical zone, our presidential candidate, Peter Obi, joined the party with an existing network of respected political leaders and elder statesmen who currently serve as caucus heads across the region.
“These include former governors and senior political figures such as Sam Egwu, Okwesilieze Nwodo, and Achike Udenwa, among others. The party explained that these leaders were tasked with conducting stakeholder consultations and helping build consensus around aspirants in their respective states.
“These leaders were entrusted with conducting stakeholder consultations, building consensus, and making recommendations to the party based on their understanding of the peculiar political dynamics in their respective states.
“Aspirants who disagreed with stakeholder recommendations were not excluded from the process but were allowed to test their popularity through grassroots primaries. This process was conducted without prejudice to the rights of any aspirant. Where aspirants disagreed with recommendations made by stakeholders or caucus leaders, they were free to test their popularity through the democratic process at the grassroots level, and this was duly accommodated,” the party said.
Addressing concerns raised by some aspirants following the primaries, the NDC acknowledged reports of individuals prematurely declaring themselves candidates as well as complaints regarding aspects of the process.
However, it maintained that such issues had been referred to the party’s appeal panel and leadership for resolution.
The statement also highlighted the party’s commitment to affirmative action and greater female participation in politics, noting that efforts had been made to encourage women to seek elective offices while also considering the interests of serving lawmakers.
Looking ahead, the NDC announced plans to begin a broad reconciliation process aimed at healing divisions and strengthening party unity after the conclusion of the primaries.
“As resolved at yesterday’s NEC meeting, we now look forward to the commencement of a comprehensive reconciliation process. We count on our esteemed caucus leaders, state chairmen, stakeholders, and party leaders to engage all aspirants and members in the interest of unity, cohesion, and the continued growth of our party.”
The party reiterated that its role throughout the nomination process was primarily to welcome new members and aspirants, reassure them of its commitment to fairness and transparency, and direct them to the appropriate caucus structures for participation in party affairs.
According to the NDC, the approach reflects its commitment to internal democracy, consultation, inclusiveness, and respect for established leadership structures as it continues preparations for future elections.
Idi Abbas, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), on Friday, prayed for a legislation to establish a special court to try those caught in the business of stealing crude oil in Nigeria, saying the current general law was not too helpful in stemming the tide.
It was also a day he claimed that the powerful forces behind the syndicate had a way of projecting fronts while remaining behind the scene, which made it almost impossible to track them to face justice.
In fact, Abbas, a Vice Admiral, revealed that the operation was so perfect that those arrested at illegal refining sites were usually low-level operatives with little knowledge of the larger criminal network.
A guest on Sunrise Daily, a breakfast programme on Channels Television, the Naval Chief noted that many of those apprehended during operations are merely workers paid small sums, adding that such a complex structure of oil theft syndicates made it difficult to identify and prosecute the individuals who orchestrate the criminal enterprise.
“Most of the faces behind these thefts are not really known or are not the ones we always catch. The ones we get at most of the illegal refinery sites are just being given some paltry sum, while the big masquerades are the ones that make the real money. Prosecuting suspects is often complicated by the fact that many of those arrested have little or no information about the people directing the operations.
“In trying to prosecute some of these people that we get, some of them don’t even know who they are working for. So, the network is a very delicate one.
“But despite the challenges the Nigerian Navy and other security agencies are continually refining their strategies to counter the evolving tactics of oil thieves. As they are evolving strategies, we are also evolving new strategies. Like I keep saying, technology is the way forward. With that, we have been able to reduce the level of theft.”
Stating that the adoption of technology-driven surveillance, intelligence gathering and monitoring systems had significantly enhanced efforts to curb crude oil theft and protect critical national assets, he reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Navy to sustaining operations against oil theft, stressing that collaboration among security agencies, stakeholders and host communities remains essential to safeguarding the nation’s oil resources.
The naval boss while assuring that Nigeria’s coastal and riverine communities are relatively safe, said the Nigerian Navy had made significant progress in reducing threats along the coast, particularly illegal oil-related activities and sea robbery.
“As it stands today, I can say that our coastal areas and the riverine areas are relatively safe. While crude oil theft and isolated cases of sea robbery remain areas of concern, the Navy has been largely successful in containing such activities through intensified surveillance and enforcement operations.
Hear him: “What we are contending with mostly there is the issue of crude oil theft and some pockets of sea robbery, which we are able to curtail. There is need for the establishment of a special court dedicated to prosecuting maritime crimes.
“This court will focus exclusively on cases involving crude oil theft and other maritime-related offences, helping to address delays associated with the conventional judicial process. The establishment of such a court would significantly accelerate the dispensation of justice and reduce the burden currently placed on the Navy in maintaining seized vessels and other exhibits pending the conclusion of lengthy court processes.
“If we have that in place, I believe the dispensation of justice will be done much faster and then ease the burden of keeping and maintaining some of the arrested vessels, which will be taken off from us because we spend a lot to maintain those vessels under our custody.”
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