News
John Chuma Nwosu: When integrity speaks, when passion takes over
By Sunny Igboanugo
Only the bereft will stand hands-akimbo and watch nonchalantly at the happenings in Anambra State today. Only the totally soulless would be unmoved by the vibes currently emanating from the state, with regards to the issue of real governance or lack of it, especially as a citizen, resident or even a passerby.
Such a state of being must be as a result of either complete moral bankruptcy, lack of mental acuity or total absence of physical consciousness – perhaps out of brain-dead or comatose condition. Those are the only reason for one to be a standpatter to the current state of affairs in that enclave.
Otherwise, anyone that possesses the littlest iota of physical and psychological consciousness, mental balance or moral suasion would not only react to the continuous stimuli vibing out of the state but would be willing to act one way or the other for or against it.
Though there was not such an outburst of fanfare, apparently because the world was still smarting from the COVID 19 pandemic that swept across the firmament, the emergence of Charles Chukwuma Soludo, as victorious about this time four years ago, left not a few people upbeat that a new positive phenomenon had occurred in the state.
Watchers of events across board including even his opponents and their supporters had expected the immediate transformation of the state, if not anything world-class as in the countries he chose as his model, at the least, beyond what existed in Nigeria before him, especially in Anambra. Indeed, those who opposed him had other reasons outside performance or ability to deliver, given his pedigree and tall credentials he was parading as a first-class economist and former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
The thought of mediocrity or underhand performance, was quite distant in the estimation of the people, especially as he promised to transform Anambra into the Dubai-Taiwan-Silicon Valley model of development.
Today, that lofty idea of an Anambra brimming with activities such as booming industrial base, iconic shopping malls, tourists and holiday makers and glittering lights under beehive sort of night activities, characteristic of the envisaged model in Dubai or Taiwan have completely evaporated from the minds of people.
Instead it has been replaced with the wincing sounds of victims of all sorts of societal ills – banal and insipid economic records – families mourning their dead ones caught in the fires of blazing guns from criminals or running from pillar to post to raise money to pay ransom to secure the freedom of their wards in various detention camps of kidnappers dotting all over the forests and private centres in the state or even in the various detention centres of state exploitative actors disguising as security agencies.
As in a funeral pall thrown over them, Anambra is in a state of total desolation. Except for state officials and other fringe beneficiaries, it has sunk into an abyss of despair and helplessness, not only as a result of planlessness, directionless and impulsive leadership thrashing around frantically to give the impression of doing something, but due to the total lack of empathy and general inertia.
While some stakeholders have contented themselves by crying silently behind locked doors, others allowing feeble protests and others just adopting a wait-and-see attitude, some have picked up the gauntlet to reverse the ugly trend.
So, when John Chuma Nwosu, candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), filed in his papers to contest the November 18 governorship election, it is not just to add another title to his name, but to end the steady slide the state is taking towards the edge of the precipice.
In other words, it is a rescue mission to save the state from the rudderless swing it has found itself in the hands of Soludo, who has not only posted the worst outing in the history of the state but is actually guiding it towards the inevitable crash down the precipice by the time it finally tips, which is no longer far.
The proof that the move Nwosu is making towards the Government House, Agu Awka, is not being driven by a personal ambition to add the title of “Governor” to his name or enjoy the pecks thereof, was emphasised when he appeared at the Anambra State High Court, Awka to put paid to a very fundamental issue raging since he came to the scene.
Hear him: “I Mr. John Chuma Nwosu, of Odida Nnewichi, Nnewi, Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra South Senatorial zone, Male, Adult, Christian, nominated candidate of ADC (African Democratic Congress) for the governorship election on the 8th day of November 2025, do hereby make this affidavit and swear under oath as follows:
- That I am aware that there is rotation of the office of governor of Anambra State among the three senatorial zones, namely Anambra North, Anambra Central and Anambra South Senatorial zones, based of equity, natural justice and good conscience.
- That the South Senatorial zone currently occupying the seat of governor of Anambra State has only one term of four years remaining of the term of office due to the South Senatorial zone and thereafter it shall be the turn of the Anambra Central Senatorial Zone to nominate a candidate for the office of governor of Anambra State for eight years before the office rotates to the North Senatorial zonal for eight years.
- That it is in total agreement and submission to this rotation principle that I depose to this affidavit under oath that I, Mr. John Chuma Nwosu shall, as elected governor of Anambra State under ADC on 8 November, 2025 DO ONLY ONE TERM OF FOUR YEARS IN OFFICE AS GOVERNOR OF ANAMBRA STATE to allow Anambra Central Senatorial Zone produce the next governor after my term of office.
- That accordingly and by the foregoing, I appeal to all Anambra Central Senatorial Zone stakeholders, entire voting population of the zone, all men and women of good conscience to support and vote for me under ADC on Saturday 8 November 2025 as I hereby swear under oath to honour and respect the governorship rotation principles of Anambra State under natural justice, equity and good conscience.
- That I depose to this affidavit under oath, the law and in good faith.
AND THAT I swear to this affidavit sincerely and conscientiously believing same to be true and correct in accordance with the provision of the Oaths Act, 2004.”
For emphasis, Nwosu went further to adumbrate his raison d’etre, just to leave no one in doubt and to settle the fears which many have harboured as a result of the zoning issue.
Providing further and better particulars, he wrote: “Because we take our mission and vision to rescue Anambra seriously; because asking for public trust is serious business; because as a person, campaign organisation, and political party, we are not frivolous; because we believe in transparency and accountability; and because our word is our bond, I have deposed on record in the Court of Law that I will serve only one term, if elected.”
After this unprecedented move, which binds him by the force of law and makes him a candidate for jail should he renege, because it would amount to perjury, having taken an oath, who is still in doubt about his motive?
Who is still doubting that he is being driven by the hunger and passion to save Anambra from destruction? Who is still doubting that he is on a rescue mission? Who is coming along in this worthy project? This is no time to be a standpatter. It is time to take a stand. Now is the time!
Igboanugo is Director, Media and Public Affairs, JCN Campaign Council of the ADC
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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