Onitsha Market: Sit-at-Home Excuse Is Delusional — Soludo

Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has dismissed claims by some traders at the Onitsha Main Market that insecurity prevents them from opening their shops on Mondays, describing the excuse as “delusional.”

Soludo stressed that the sit-at-home order ended in Anambra in 2023 and insisted that the continued closure of shops on Mondays amounts to economic sabotage. He argued that traders who freely visit stadiums, exercise on the roads, or engage in street trading on Mondays have no justification for keeping their shops shut.

According to the governor, Onitsha Main Market is one of the most secured areas in the state, with over 150 security personnel deployed. He questioned why markets in areas facing greater security challenges remain open, while traders in Onitsha still cite insecurity as a reason for closure.

“Anyone claiming they didn’t open their shop because of insecurity is simply delusional,” Soludo said, adding that such behavior harms the state’s economy and must stop.

#Anambra #OnitshaMarket #Soludo #SitAtHome

Protests erupt in Onitsha as traders and residents block the Head Bridge over the shutdown of Main Market, halting movement in and out of Anambra State.

JUST IN Billionaire Igbo businessman Blord shuts down Onitsha Main Market today not by force, but by influence.

When traders pause business just to honor you, it speaks volumes. Power can command, but respect is earned. This moment reflects true impact, deep connection, and the trust of the people. Congratulations this level of loyalty is not easy to achieve.

#Blord #OnitshaMainMarket #TrueInfluence

How Unverified Onitsha Claims Fueled Trump’s “Christian Genocide” Narrative and US Airstrikes in Nigeria

This report exposes how unverified data from Emeka Umeagbalasi, an Onitsha-based screwdriver seller and activist, influenced powerful US politicians and former President Donald Trump’s claims of a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria. Despite relying largely on secondary sources, assumptions, and Google searches, his figures were cited by US lawmakers and echoed in rhetoric that helped justify US airstrikes in Nigeria. Investigations by The New York Times and experts reveal major flaws, confirmation bias, and exaggerated statistics, noting that Nigeria’s insecurity affects both Christians and Muslims. Critics warn that such misinformation fuels ethnic tension, global misunderstanding, and dangerous foreign policy decisions.

#NigeriaSecurity
#Misinformation
#ChristianGenocideDebate

Breaking: NAFDAC Warns Nigerians About Fake Kiss Condoms – 3 Ways to Identify Counterfeit Products

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public warning about counterfeit Kiss condoms circulating in major Nigerian markets, including Onitsha, Idumota, Trade Fair, Kano, Abuja, Uyo, and Enugu. Consumers are advised that fake condoms may be darker, loosely printed, poorly lubricated, and have missing manufacturer or caution information, increasing the risk of breakage and ineffective protection against STIs and pregnancy. NAFDAC urges Nigerians to purchase products only from licensed suppliers, report suspicious items via phone, email, or the Med-Safety app, and remain vigilant. Health risks from counterfeit condoms include infections, allergic reactions, and unintended pregnancies, making awareness and verification critical.

NAFDAC Warns Public About Fake Kiss Condoms Circulating in Nigerian Markets

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued Public Alert No. 042/2025, warning Nigerians about counterfeit "Kiss Condoms" found in major markets including Onitsha, Idumota, Trade Fair, Kano, Abuja, Uyo, Gombe, and Enugu. The fake condoms differ from genuine products in packaging, labelling, and physical characteristics, posing serious health risks such as ineffective protection against pregnancy and STIs. NAFDAC has directed zonal directors and state coordinators to remove falsified products and urged consumers and healthcare professionals to verify product authenticity and report suspected counterfeits.

Nigeria Mourns Death of Renowned Diplomat Christopher Mbanefo at 95

Nigeria is in mourning following the passing of Chief Arthur Christopher Izuegbunam Mbanefo, Odu III of Onitsha, at the age of 95. Mbanefo served as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and held leadership roles in major universities, contributing significantly to diplomacy, education, accounting, and philanthropy. Educated in Nigeria and the UK, he was a fellow of both ICAN and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England, leaving a legacy of integrity and service.

#ChristopherMbanefo #Nigeria #Diplomat #UNRepresentative #ICAN #Education #Philanthropy #NigeriaMourns

Pandemonium In Anambra Market As Hoodlums Invade Emordi Shoe Dealers’ Market In Onitsha, Brutally Attack Traders And Leave Many Hospitalised

Chaos erupted at the Emordi Shoe Dealers’ Market in Onitsha, Anambra State, after suspected hoodlums stormed the market in broad daylight and launched a violent attack on traders, leaving several people seriously injured. Eyewitnesses described the invasion as coordinated and terrifying, with traders beaten indiscriminately and phones allegedly seized and destroyed to prevent documentation. Victims accused a former market chairman, Nwabueze Umeh, of masterminding the assault amid a prolonged leadership dispute and alleged land corruption. Several injured traders, including the incumbent chairman, Okwudili Anigbogu, are currently receiving medical treatment, as frightened traders appeal to Governor Chukwuma Soludo for urgent intervention to restore peace and safety.

#AnambraState
#OnitshaMarket
#MarketViolence

Igbos are no longer marginalized," Minister of Works Umahi declares, adding that there is no need for Biafra anymore

Minister of Works and former Ebonyi State governor, David Umahi, has dismissed calls for a separate Biafran State, saying the demand is no longer necessary due to the unprecedented integration of the Igbo into Nigeria's national development agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Speaking while inspecting federal projects in the Southeast, Umahi said sentiments of marginalisation that once fuelled separatist movements have eased significantly due to massive investments in roads and other critical infrastructure. "In the past administration, our people felt very much marginalised, and that was the reason some people were agitating for Biafra. But today, we are well integrated into the mainstream of the nation, Nigeria," he stated.

He listed ongoing and completed projects in the region, highlighting efforts to ensure durable infrastructure. Notable projects include the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, Owerri-Onitsha
Expressway, Section 2B of the Second Niger Bridge, and a 123-kilometre road from Ndibe Beach in Ebonyi State to the Benue border, with total investments running into hundreds of billions of naira.

Umahi also praised President Tinubu for prioritising the Southeast, describing the region as "comfortable" and "very happy" under his
administration. He emphasised that political relevance for the Southeast should be pursued strategically rather than through rhetoric or sentiment.

Concluding, Umahi framed the moment as a turning point for the region, saying, "Even those that don't want us to take our rightful position as South-East people, God has opened the time. This is our time, and this is the time that God has sent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reintegrate our people."

Works Minister Umahi Says Biafra Agitation No Longer Necessary Amid Southeast Integration Under Tinubu

Nigeria’s Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has declared that renewed calls for a separate Biafran state are no longer justified, citing what he described as unprecedented integration of the South-East into national development under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. Speaking during an inspection of ongoing federal projects across the region, Umahi said long-standing feelings of marginalisation that once fuelled separatist agitation have eased due to massive investments in infrastructure, particularly roads and bridges.

Umahi listed several ongoing and completed projects, including sections of the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, Owerri–Onitsha Expressway, the Second Niger Bridge, and major flyovers and highways in Enugu and Ebonyi states, running into hundreds of billions of naira. He praised the Tinubu government for prioritising durable concrete roads designed to last decades, arguing that such projects demonstrate genuine inclusion of the South-East in Nigeria’s development agenda.

The former Ebonyi State governor said political relevance for the region should now be pursued through strategic engagement rather than “sentiment and venomous statements,” describing his support for President Tinubu and recent political realignments in the region as deliberate and pragmatic. Umahi concluded that the current moment represents a turning point for the South-East, insisting that sustained federal presence and infrastructure development have removed the basis for renewed Biafra agitation.

Residents of Anambra State Maintain Monday Sit-at-Home Despite Kanu’s Imprisonment

Residents in Onitsha, Nnewi, and other parts of Anambra State continued to observe the weekly Monday sit-at-home, showing solidarity with Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, even after his conviction and imprisonment.

Businesses, schools, banks, hospitals, and government offices remained shut, while streets were largely empty, reflecting widespread public support for Kanu.Some locals told Vanguard that the sit-at-home is a voluntary protest and not enforced by IPOB. They clarified that previous claims of IPOB-imposed lockdowns were misleading, noting that any criminal activity during past protests was opportunistic and not organized by the group.

Obed Nwachukwu stated, “Those expecting markets and businesses to reopen because of Kanu’s imprisonment will have to wait. We are standing in solidarity with him until he regains freedom.”

Chief Okwudili Okoye added, “The Federal Government’s assertions and the Abuja Federal High Court’s ruling lack credibility. The Monday sit-at-home will continue voluntarily to demand justice and fairness for Ndigbo. Normal activities will resume only when Nnamdi Kanu is free.”

Residents stressed that the protest extends beyond IPOB, serving as a wider demonstration of solidarity with Kanu and a stand against what they perceive as unfair treatment of the Igbo people.

Police Restriction Order Flouted in Anambra as Commercial Vehicles Operate Freely on Election Day.

Some residents and commercial vehicle operators in Awka and Onitsha, Anambra State, on Saturday disregarded the restriction of movement order issued by the State Police Command ahead of the governorship election.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the restriction, expected to last from midnight to 6:00 p.m., was meant to cover all roads within the state, including interstate highways.

However, NAN observed that commercial vehicles operated freely in several parts of Awka, the state capital, as commuters openly boarded vehicles without hindrance. A similar situation played out from Ogidi Local Government Area to the Nkpor junction, where movement continued unhindered.

Security personnel were spotted at strategic points, including the popular Nkpor Road, monitoring activities across various junctions in the capital city.

In contrast, INEC operations suffered delays as officials arrived late at multiple polling units in Awka and Onitsha. At Agwuoka Polling Unit 008, officials were dropped off at exactly 8:40 a.m., while their counterparts at Aroma Polling Unit 022 were still setting up their stand around the same time.

Mrs Mary Fajoye, an INEC monitoring official in Awka South Local Government Area, confirmed that both sensitive and non-sensitive materials had been dispatched from the council office on Friday. She attributed some delays to difficulties encountered by polling officers in locating their designated registration areas, adding that the challenges had been resolved.

At Amawbia 02, Polling Unit 3, Central School III, officials and voting materials were already in place by 8:19 a.m., ahead of the official commencement of voting at 8:30 a.m.

The Presiding Officer, Mr Mark Kalu, was seen briefing voters on the conduct of the election, assuring them that priority would be given to albinos, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and the elderly.

As of the time of filing this report, accreditation of voters had commenced at Eze Chima Primary School Polling Unit on Awka Road.

Yahoo Boys Are Geniuses Who Need Redirection – Peter Obi.

The former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 Labour Party Presidential Candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned the inordinate pursuit of wealth by internet fraudsters.

Addressing a gathering of young people during the Golden Health Conference held at the Archbishop Patterson Auditorium, All Saints Cathedral, Onitsha on Saturday, he described internet fraudsters popularly called Yahoo boys as “geniuses who need redirection.”

The conference, themed “Money Beyond Wealth,” brought together students, professionals, and youth leaders to discuss the moral, social, and economic dimensions of wealth creation.

Obi, while speaking during the event, stated that only money gotten through ethical means can be described as real wealth.

He said, “Money becomes real wealth only when it is earned through ethical means and used to uplift both the individual and society in an edifying manner.”

Obi observed that despite the fraudsters moral misdirection, many of them possess rare intelligence and creativity that, if properly guided, could drive innovation and national development.

“Looking at what they do, there is no doubt that many of them are geniuses. The challenge before us as a society is to redirect them, to channel their ingenuity into productive ventures that will not only dignify them but also edify society,” he said

Lamenting the state of moral decay in the country, Obi attributed much of it to leadership failure and the bad examples set by those in power.

Anambra Govt Orders Iron Dealers to Relocate to Nteje After Election — “No Going Back,” Soludo’s Aide Warns


The Anambra State Government has issued a firm directive to all iron dealers in Onitsha and Ogbaru, ordering them to relocate to the new permanent Iron Dealers Market at Nteje, Oyi Local Government Area, immediately after the November 8 gubernatorial election.

Speaking during the dedication of the new market, the Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Trade and Markets, Hon. Evaristus Ubah (represented by Hon. Ezennia Chukwuemelie Ibekwe), vowed that traders who refuse to move will be forcefully ejected.

“If there are those still remaining in Onitsha or Ogbaru, we will ensure they are relocated here to Nteje. There is no going back after the election,” he declared.


Union Chairman Mr. Evaristus Ejezie expressed gratitude to Governor Soludo for his unwavering support in the market’s construction, describing the project as a divine success story despite numerous challenges. He also appealed to the government to enforce relocation of remaining members, emphasizing that the market will significantly boost state revenue once fully occupied.

Ejezie urged traders who have made payments to submit their evidence for shop allocation, assuring them that transparency and fairness remain the priority.

The market dedication was conducted by Lt. Col. Godspower Anozie of the Salvation Army, Anambra West Division, who prayed for prosperity, unity, and divine protection for the traders.

In his remarks, Chief Humphrey Anuna, President-General of the Anambra State Markets Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA), commended the union executives for their vision, describing the Nteje Market as a future international hub that could surpass major building materials markets in Nigeria.

Other union leaders, including Hon. Ejike Ignatius of Allied Building Materials International Market and former chairman Mr. Nnaemeka Onuzulike, pledged total cooperation with the relocation plan, urging members to embrace peace and unity as business activities commence.

The event ended with prayers and blessings for the market executives and their committees, symbolizing a new beginning for Anambra’s booming building materials sector.

Peter Obi Sues Deji Adeyanju For N1.5Billion Over Alleged Defamatory Social Media Posts.

The suit, No: 0/254/25, was filed at the High Court of Anambra State, Onitsha Judicial Division, with Obi as the plaintiff and Adeyanju as the defendant.

Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Gregory Obi, has filed a ₦1.5 billion defamation lawsuit against Nigerian human rights activist and social commentator, Mr. Deji Adeyanju.

The suit, No: 0/254/25, was filed at the High Court of Anambra State, Onitsha Judicial Division, with Obi as the plaintiff and Adeyanju as the defendant.

According to the writ of summons issued by Obi’s counsel, Alex Ejesieme (SAN), the former governor is seeking ₦500 million in aggravated damages and ₦1 billion in general damages over a series of allegedly false and malicious statements made by Adeyanju across his social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram.

NDLEA Nabs Lagos, Onitsha Boutique Owner With 127 Wraps of Cocaine Hidden in Stomach and Underwear.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested a 52-year-old businessman, Ejiofor Godwin Emeka, at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) in Kano for attempting to smuggle 127 wraps of cocaine into Nigeria.

Ejiofor, who reportedly owns boutiques in Lagos and Onitsha, Anambra State, was intercepted on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, upon arrival from Bangkok, Thailand, aboard an Ethiopian Airlines flight.

According to a statement released on Sunday by NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi, the suspect was apprehended following credible intelligence. A body scan revealed that he had ingested several pellets of cocaine and concealed more inside his underwear.

“Ejiofor was immediately taken into custody after the scan confirmed he had ingested the drugs. A total of 58 wraps were recovered from his underwear, while another 69 pellets were later excreted in seven rounds, bringing the total to 127 wraps weighing 1.388 kilograms,” the statement said.

In related operations, NDLEA operatives in Lagos intercepted three shipments of illicit drugs bound for the United Kingdom between October 9 and 10. The seizures included 1.74 kg of methamphetamine hidden in glass ceramic blocks, 114 grams of pentazocine, 168 grams of tramadol injections, and 48 grams of tramadol capsules concealed in Vitamin C containers.

The agency also foiled attempts by other drug syndicates to smuggle 2.6 kg of skunk and 422 grams of tapentadol disguised as black soap heading to Turkey, 169 grams of cocaine hidden in women’s handbags destined for Australia, and 568 grams of “Loyd” cannabis concealed in herbal containers en route to the United Arab Emirates.

NDLEA reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying operations against drug trafficking networks across Nigeria and beyond.

Founder of Vivian Fowler Memorial College, Leila Fowler, Passes On at 92

Chief (Mrs.) Leila Fowler, the Yeye Mofin of Lagos and founder of the prestigious Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls, has passed away at the age of 92.

Her death was confirmed in a statement issued by the school on Sunday. “It’s with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved founder, Chief (Mrs.) Leila Fowler, on Saturday, September 6, 2025. Chief (Mrs.) Fowler was a true pioneer, an erudite lawyer, and a visionary educationalist who founded Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls in 1991. Her life was a testament to the power of empowering young women through education.

Her guidance and motherly warmth built not just a school, but a community dedicated to excellence,” the statement read. Born on March 23, 1933, in Lagos, Fowler (née Moore) attended CMS Girls’ School and Queen of the Rosary College, Onitsha.

She began her career in teaching before training as a nurse at St Thomas’ Hospital in London. She later studied law at Middle Temple and was called to the Bar in 1962, and to the Nigerian Bar in 1963.

Fowler specialised in insurance law and consultancy and also served in public life, including as a councillor in the Lagos City Council between 1978 and 1980. She was actively involved with the Nigerian Bar Association, the Nigerian Red Cross, and the Corona Schools Trust Council.

Her passion for education led to the founding of Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls in 1991, in honour of her late daughter. The school has since grown into one of Nigeria’s foremost all-girls institutions, known for academic excellence and leadership development.

Fowler was widowed in 2015 following the death of her husband, Professor Vidal Fowler. She was later honoured with the chieftaincy title of Yeye Mofin of Lagos by Oba Adeyinka Oyekan II.

Described by the school as a devout Christian, philanthropist and mentor, Fowler “will be deeply missed… Her legacy of service, faith, and dedication will continue to inspire us all.”

When I Die, No One Will Find My Body, I Will Fly Away — Prophet Odumeje

Prophet Chukwuemeka Cyril Ohanaemere, popularly known as Odumeje, and General Overseer of the Mountain of Holy Ghost Intervention and Deliverance Ministry, Onitsha, has sparked reactions with a dramatic prophecy about his death.

During a recent church service, the controversial preacher revealed that his time on earth is short and that when he passes, his body will not be found.

“I am the strongest spiritual man in the world after Emmanuel TB Joshua. We are only two. One has completed his mission and returned home; now it’s just the Lion himself, the dead man. My assignment is not about living long — nobody will ever see my corpse,” he declared.

Odumeje explained that his calling is to prove the reality of Jesus Christ, emphasizing his message of “one God and one power.”

“Our mission is to clear people’s doubts about Jesus Christ. There is only one God and one power, and that power is Jesus Christ,” he said.

Odumeje Declares Nobody Will See His Corpse, Sparks Reactions

Prophet Chukwuemeka Cyril Ohanaemere, popularly known as Odumeje, has stirred controversy after declaring that when his life ends, his body will not be seen.

Speaking during a recent service at his Mountain of Holy Ghost Intervention and Deliverance Ministry in Onitsha, the flamboyant preacher said his mission on earth is almost complete.

“I’m the strongest spiritual man in the world after the general, Emmanuel TB Joshua. We are not many—just two. One has finished his assignment and returned home. Remaining is the Lion Himself, the dead man. I don’t have much time to spend here. Nobody will see my corpse,” he said.

Odumeje stressed that his calling is not about longevity but about fulfilling a divine mandate, noting that his ministry exists to clear people’s doubts about Jesus Christ.

“Our mission is to clear your doubt about Jesus Christ. Our mission is one God and one power, and that man is Jesus Christ,” he added.

Known for his dramatic style, controversial prophecies, and unconventional approach to deliverance, Odumeje has consistently divided opinion among Nigerians—attracting both staunch supporters and fierce critics.

Nobody will see my corpse, I’m the strongest spiritual man after TB Joshua’ – Odumeje predicts own death.

General Overseer of the Mountain of Holy Ghost Intervention and Deliverance Ministry, Onitsha, Prophet Chukwuemeka Cyril Ohanaemere, popularly known as Odumeje, has stirred reactions with a new revelation about his life and ministry.

During a recent church service, the preacher declared that his time on earth is limited and that when his journey comes to an end, no one will ever see his body.

“I am the strongest spirtual man in the world, after the general ‘Emmanuel’ TB Joshua. We are not many, we are just two. One has done the job and has returned home, remaining the Lion Himself. The dead man. I don’t have much time to spend here. Nobody will see my corpse,” Odumeje said, stressing that his earthly assignment was not about longevity but about fulfilling a divine mandate.

According to him, his ministry was established to “clear people’s doubt about Jesus Christ,” pointing out that his central message is anchored on the supremacy of one God and one power.

“Our mission is to clear your doubt about Jesus Christ. Our mission is one God and one power, and that man is Jesus Christ,” he added.

The Onitsha-based cleric, who has gained nationwide attention for his unorthodox style of preaching and deliverance, is no stranger to controversy.

His dramatic demonstrations on the pulpit, bold prophecies, and unconventional statements have earned him both staunch supporters and strong critics.

Odumeje has often described himself as the “liquid metal,” “the war,” and “the indaboski bahose,” titles that have become catchphrases among his followers and online audiences.