As the Psalmist writes, "Sing unto the Lord a new song" (Psalm 96:1), I am moved to share the profound revelation that "Amazing Grace" has its melodic roots in the rich cultural heritage of Akoko, Nigeria.

The Akoko people, an esteemed ethnic group nestled in the southwestern region of Nigeria, particularly within Ondo State and parts of Kogi and Edo States, are an integral part of the larger Yoruba community. They are celebrated for their rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions, which contribute significantly to the diverse tapestry of Nigeria’s ethnic mosaic.

Renowned for their resilience, the Akoko people embody a spirit of cultural richness that enriches the nation as a whole. Like many ethnic communities across Nigeria, they played a pivotal role in resisting colonial rule during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

As British influence expanded in Nigeria during this period, the imposition of foreign governance structures and the exploitation of local resources posed significant threats to the Akoko way of life. In response, the Akoko people courageously stood against these encroachments, forging a path for future movements that sought independence and self-determination for Nigeria.

Their steadfast resistance is a powerful testament to their commitment to preserving their identity amidst the challenges of colonial oppression. This historical narrative remains a vital aspect of their cultural legacy, inspiring future generations to honour their heritage and strive for a brighter, united future.

Despite the shackles of oppression, our enslaved ancestors managed to craft a masterpiece of hope and redemption, echoing the Quranic verse: "And We have certainly honoured the children of Adam" (Quran 17:70).

The majestic harmony that resonates within the realm of *"Amazing Grace"* evokes a profound realization: our enslaved ancestors were permitted only to touch the black keys of the piano, while the white keys remained reserved for others. It is within this context that many Negro spiritual hymns emerged, composed and performed using those very black keys. Yet, from these notes sprang forth a masterpiece of hope and redemption, illustrating the resilience of the human spirit.

As I stumbled upon this profound revelation, I am compelled to share it. The awe-inspiring and majestic harmony of *"Amazing Grace"* resonates deeply, reminding us that "Music is the divine way to tell beautiful, poetic things to the heart" (Pablo Casals). Wintley Phipps' breathtaking performance at Carnegie Hall is a testament to the song's enduring power, moving audiences to thunderous applause.

Although the U.S. Library of Congress, a research library in Washington, D.C., founded in 1800, and the oldest federal cultural institution in the United States, houses over 173 million items in its collections in more than 470 languages, a search for "Amazing Grace" there only acknowledges John Newton as the author of the song, while the composer of the melody is named as “Unknown.”

Whereas, the most remarkable aspect of this iconic hymn is its melody and cultural heritage, which I say without equivocation traces back to the fertile soil of Akoko in South West Nigeria.

Through my humble research, conducted in various locations across the globe, from Igarra to Lisbon; Ifira-Akoko to London; Ipesi to Kent; Imeri to Newport; Ishua to Madrid; Oka to Oxford; Akungba to Atlanta; Ikare to Ireland, I have uncovered the melodic roots of "Amazing Grace" in the very region where my ancestors once walked.

As we reflect on this remarkable journey, we are reminded of the unyielding spirit of our ancestors. Despite the trials and tribulations they faced, they managed to craft something truly extraordinary - a melody that has become a beacon of hope and redemption for generations. Their legacy is a testament to the power of resilience and creativity in the face of adversity.

May we honor their memory by embracing the beauty and richness of our cultural heritage. As their descendants, we carry the torch of their legacy, and it is our responsibility to ensure that their stories, traditions, and contributions are not forgotten. By doing so, we keep their spirit alive, and their impact continues to inspire and uplift us.

As the echoes of "Amazing Grace" reverberate through the ages, may the legacy of our ancestors forever resonate within our hearts. May their story be a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope, always beauty, and always a chance for redemption. May we continue to draw strength from their indomitable spirit, and may their legacy inspire us to create works of sublime beauty that will touch the hearts of generations to come.

https://youtu.be/qNuQbJst4Lk?si=5llNW8alJz2pKqeG

Recent discussions in the public space, following the reference by the adopted son of our respected brother, Obi Cubana, to himself as "next of kin," have generated widespread debate and misunderstanding.

It has become necessary to clarify the true meaning, legal position, and implications of the term "next of kin" under Nigerian law. While an adopted child enjoys full rights equivalent to a biological child within a family, the term "next of kin" carries a far more limited and technical meaning.

This write-up seeks to enlighten the public accordingly.

1. Meaning of "Next of Kin" in Nigeria

Under Nigerian law, the next of kin is primarily a contact person, and his or her role includes:

Being notified in cases of emergency.

Being consulted regarding funeral or burial arrangements.

Having the priority to apply for letters of administration if the deceased dies without a Will (intestate).

Critically, being named a next of kin does not confer any automatic right of inheritance. It simply grants some priority in administration, particularly where the deceased left no formal testamentary instructions.

2. Where the Deceased Left a Valid Will (Testate Succession)

If the deceased made a Will:

The property is distributed strictly according to the provisions of the Will.

The deceased may bequeath assets to anyone of choice, spouse, child, friend, religious body, etc.

A next of kin not mentioned in the Will has no right to inherit simply because of the "next of kin" status.

If dissatisfied, the next of kin can only challenge the Will on narrow legal grounds such as undue influence, fraud, or lack of testamentary capacity, not merely because they are the next of kin.

Relevant Laws:

Wills Law of various States (e.g., Lagos State Wills Law, 2004).

Wills Act of 1837 (received English law applicable in some states).

3. Where the Deceased Died Without a Will (Intestate Succession)

Where there is no Will, the rules of intestate succession apply, depending on the deceased’s background and marital system:

(a) Under Statutory Law (Administration of Estates Law)

Typically applies to those married under the Marriage Act (Statutory Marriage) and Christians.

Inheritance is ordered as follows:

1. Spouse and children first.

2. Parents, if no spouse or children.

3. Siblings, if no parents.

4. More distant relatives.

Thus, a next of kin who is a spouse, child, or parent can inherit.

If the next of kin is just a cousin, friend, or distant relative, they may inherit only if closer relatives are absent.

Example:

Under the Lagos State Administration of Estates Law, the spouse is entitled to one-third of the estate, while the children share the remainder equally.

(b) Under Customary Law

Customary rules vary across Nigeria:

In many Igbo communities, the eldest son (Okpala) traditionally inherits the ancestral home (Obu).

Widows often have limited rights to occupy but not own real property.

Other children share movable assets.

Extended family (Umunna) may intervene if the deceased had no surviving spouse or children.

Judicial Caution: Courts have increasingly rejected customs that discriminate against widows and daughters, as seen in cases like:

Mojekwu v. Mojekwu (1997).

(c) Under Islamic (Sharia) Law

For Muslims, Islamic law (Faraid) governs succession:

Shares are fixed by the Qur'an.

Specific portions are allotted to spouses, children, parents, and siblings.

A next of kin must be within the class of Qur’anic heirs to inherit.

4. Key Nigerian Cases on Inheritance Rights

Mojekwu v. Mojekwu (1997) 7 NWLR (Pt. 512) 283:

The Court condemned discriminatory customary practices that favored only male heirs.

Ukeje v. Ukeje (2014) 11 NWLR (Pt. 1418) 384:

The Supreme Court upheld that female children are entitled to inherit under Igbo customary law.

Okonkwo v. Okagbue (1994) 9 NWLR (Pt. 368) 301:

Addressed intestate succession and customary practices.

Conclusion

In summary, under Nigerian law:

Being next of kin does not make you an automatic heir to the deceased's estate.

It grants no proprietary right, only a priority in administration if intestate.

Inheritance rights depend either on the provisions of a valid Will or on the applicable laws governing intestate succession, statutory, customary, or Islamic.

It is essential for every citizen to understand this distinction to avoid misconceptions.

When in doubt about your rights or obligations, consult a qualified lawyer.

Media personality Chude Jideonwo has shared valuable insights into managing finances and making smart investment decisions.

In a recent interview, he emphasised the importance of storing wealth in assets that can be relied upon during difficult times.

He cited his experience of buying a house at 24 as a significant investment decision.

Chude also stressed the need for a practical approach to financial planning, sharing his experience of owning the same car for 10 years before purchasing a new one.

He cautioned against making life decisions based on social media influencers, emphasising that their financial situations may not be what they seem.

According to Chude, financial prudence is key, and individuals should never buy something that cannot be replaced immediately if lost.

He said: “I bought my first house at 24. I got one big money and I went to buy a house in Lekki. I just bought a new car last year. I had the same car for 10 years until the car was crying. 

“I’ve never thought of car as a store of wealth. You have to store wealth, so that in time of trouble, you won’t land on the floor. Look, don’t make your decisions based on an influencer. In 10 years you might find out the person was broke all along. 

“Don’t make decision of your life based on followers that will not be relevant to your life in five years. Economy is down, cost of living is up and perception is also up. Social pressure is a very powerful thing. But it is a problem. Never buy a thing that if you lose it you cannot replace it immediately. That means you cannot afford it”.

[TheNation]

Pope Francis was buried inside his favourite Rome church after a funeral mass in St Peter’s Square, the Vatican said on Saturday.

The Argentinian pontiff, who died on Monday aged 88, was laid to rest during a 30-minute burial ceremony which started at 1:00 pm (1100 GMT) at the Santa Maria Maggiore basilica in the Italian capital.

Details later…

AFP

As Canada continues to grow and diversify its economy, the demand for skilled workers across various industries is on the rise.

For those looking to immigrate and secure a Canadian work visa, choosing a profession in high demand can significantly improve the chances of approval.

1. Registered Nurse

Canada’s healthcare system continues to grow in response to an aging population and increasing healthcare needs. As a result, the demand for medical practitioners, particularly nurses, has surged. Canada offers multiple immigration options for skilled nurses, making this profession the top choice for those looking to immigrate.

Various nursing roles are in demand, including Registered Nurses (RNs), Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs/RPNs), and Registered Psychiatric Nurses (RPNs). Entry-level nurses in Canada earn an average of $58,499 annually, while more experienced nurses can earn up to $80,321 annually.

2. Web Developer

Web developers are essential for designing, coding, and maintaining websites and web applications. With the continued growth of the tech industry in Canada, skilled web developers are in high demand.

They work with front-end technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and often use back-end languages like PHP, Python, or Node.js. The average salary for a web developer in Canada is approximately $70,221 per year, making this a lucrative field for those seeking a Canadian work permit.

3. Electrical Engineer

Electrical engineers are responsible for designing and analyzing complex electrical systems. Due to the increasing demand for electrical expertise in various industries, electrical engineers are highly sought after in Canada. The average annual salary for electrical engineers is around $136,283, with entry-level positions offering lower pay. This field provides excellent opportunities for securing a work visa and long-term employment in Canada.

4. Truck Driver

Though it may seem surprising, truck drivers are in extremely high demand in Canada, where the need for transportation of goods across the country far exceeds the number of available drivers. Truck drivers do not necessarily need formal education but are compensated well due to the high demand. Truck drivers in Canada earn between $46,620 and $94,685 annually, making this profession a viable option for those seeking a work permit.

5. Welder

Welders are in demand across Canada, particularly for tasks such as manufacturing, heavy equipment repairs, shipbuilding, aerospace engineering, and infrastructure construction. With the ongoing growth of industries in Canada, the country expects to add 23,000 welding positions by 2028. Welders in Canada earn an average annual salary ranging from $45,000 to $75,000, making this a solid career choice for immigrants seeking work in the country.

6. Veterinarian

Canada has a deep affection for pets, animals, and agriculture, but there is currently a shortage of veterinarians to meet the needs of the population. Whether it’s for animal care or agricultural research, veterinarians are in high demand. With an average annual salary of $128,000, this profession offers lucrative opportunities for those with a veterinary degree seeking to immigrate to Canada.

[Vanguard]

Following the development in the Delta State Chapter of our party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), I have been inundated with phone calls from leaders and members of our party as well as various youths who have been active in promoting democracy and good governance in our country. Many of the callers want to know what my reaction is to the defection of top PDP leaders in Delta State and its impact on our party.

My view is that those who want to leave the PDP should leave now and let the rest of us who want to stay concentrate on rebuilding the party and refocusing it to play the role of a viable opposition that will provide a better alternative for the good people of Nigeria.

I am convinced that it is important for all Nigerians to work for the sustenance of democracy. And to sustain democracy, there must be viable choices for people at every point. Also, there must be a viable opposition to keep people’s hope alive and create credible alternatives to keep the government on its toes. A one-party state as being disingenuously designed by some people will not augur well for a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, multi-cultural, multi-religious, and highly diversified society like ours. It is even more dangerous when we eliminate alternatives and make people hopeless.

Therefore, it is in the interest of Nigeria and the survival of our democracy for the opposition to be vibrant and strong enough with the capacity to replace the ruling party at any point. Thus, my charge to our party members is that the PDP is merely experiencing a rebirth. Those who want to leave the party should go and let those of us remaining have a clear view of who we are talking to and where their political loyalty lies. All we need is for those who want to stay back in PDP to show commitment and we can all work to rebuild the party.

This development has vindicated the stance of people like me who have decided to remain silent and watch events unfold. 

I have seen that there was no sincerity with supposed leaders of the opposition. One was not sure of the next person one was talking to.

My appeal to PDP members nationwide is that we should know that the sustenance of democracy is not a sprint. Rather, it is a marathon. It is not a knock-out football match series. It is a league. 24 hours is a long time in politics and nobody can predict how the dynamics will evolve in the coming weeks and months. That is why PDP members across the country should not be discouraged, disillusioned, disappointed, or demoralised by the development in Delta State. We should stay strong and focus on strengthening the party. It is not necessary at this point to lament why they left.

Our party members should also refrain from blaming our woes on the ruling party. That would be a lazy approach. They are playing politics to win elections. It is our responsibility as party members to ignore their antics and seize the moment and momentum to make our party stronger and better.

Yes, it is unbecoming and shocking for the running mate to the standard bearer of a leading party to abandon ship to join the ruling party. This is unprecedented and nobody should try to justify such an act with the talk of being put under pressure. It is simply a sign of how low we have sunk as a polity. The country is experiencing a collapse of leadership values.

These developments in the polity are the reason why I have always canvassed the idea that we should emphasize building and strengthening our institutions and not individuals. With the defection of the governor of Delta State, even if the party has only ten governors in its fold, the PDP is still in a good position to win the next round of elections..

Our numerous party members should know that the PDP is better with fewer members who are loyal, sincere, determined, dedicated, and committed to its ideas, ideals, and progress than to have so many who will identify with us in the afternoon and be romancing the ruling party in the night.

We still have about two years before the next election. That is a long time in politics. We have enough time to brace up to the challenge. 

There is nothing that prevents us from getting some governors from the other parties to join our ranks. My appeal to our young party members is that this defection is just a mere challenge to us to further mobilize and put our house in order. Also, our women’s wing should seize the opportunity to help in the rebuilding mission. The PDP will come out stronger from this development.

I am very sure the various leadership organs of our party will soon make public their reaction to this development and convey the necessary meetings to strategize on how to strongly and strategically respond to it. Therefore there is no cause for alarm.

Our party members should not lose focus, hope, or the determination to win. We should see the current development as a challenge to rebuild and refocus the party. Tomorrow is very bright.

. Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki is a former Senate President and Waziri of Ilorin.

In the ever-evolving landscape of language and communication, moments of spontaneous brilliance often birth new expressions, coined phrases that encapsulate the mood, the moment, and the message. On Wednesday, 23rd April 2025, the vibrant and outspoken Nollywood icon, Kate Henshaw, once again stepped into this space through her X handle, not just as a beloved actress or fitness enthusiast, but as a creator of language. Her reaction to an update by the Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) on power distribution gave the public a sparkling new coinage: “CBEXing.”

At a time when power distribution remains a hot-button issue across Nigeria, and frustrations boil over in the face of epileptic supply and ambiguous communication from distribution companies, Henshaw’s expression resonated. With one word, she captured the feelings of irony, skepticism, and the exhausting dance between hope and disappointment that many Nigerians experience daily with their electricity providers.

So, what is “CBEXing” and why does it matter? To understand its impact, one must begin by appreciating the power of words, how they shape our understanding, our discourse, and our cultures. “CBEXing” may sound humorous and flippant at first glance, but it bears the hallmarks of linguistic ingenuity. It is a neologism, one of the freshest in the Nigerian lexicon, and like many before it, it springs from a blend of acronyms, sarcasm, and shared experience. According to context clues and online reactions, the term is derived from “CBEX,” believed to stand for Constant But Erratic Electricity eXperience, or some variation therein, depending on interpretation.

CBEXing is more than just an amusing linguistic invention, it encapsulates a deeper critique of Nigeria’s electricity distribution system. It mirrors the pattern of a Ponzi scheme, where consumers keep paying with the expectation of consistent power supply that never comes. Like the illusion of quick returns promised in fraudulent investment schemes, the hope dangled by electricity providers feels like a scam that cycles through repeated disappointment. The power never truly stabilizes, yet bills keep coming, often inflated and unexplained. In this light, CBEXing is a metaphor for the institutionalized exploitation of consumers, repackaged with corporate PR and hollow reassurances.

Henshaw’s use of “CBEXing” is more than a tweet, it is a linguistic rebellion. It is cultural commentary. And above all, it is creative expression at its finest.

Every language, including English, is an ever-growing organism, continuously fed by the creativity and experiences of its speakers. New words are coined daily, through pop culture, tech innovations, politics, and even slang, and these words evolve, are adopted, and sometimes enshrined in dictionaries.

Consider how the word “Google” transitioned from being the name of a company to a verb in common use (“to google something”). Or how “selfie” went from a social media trend to an entry in the Oxford English Dictionary. Language historians and etymologists constantly remind us that today’s casual slang could be tomorrow’s formal expression.

Kate Henshaw’s “CBEXing” is thus situated within this historical tradition. It holds potential to transcend the moment, becoming shorthand for the uniquely Nigerian experience of unreliable electricity, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it.

At this juncture, not a few readers may have wondered in this context, “Why “CBEXing” resonates with this writer.  To address the wonderment, it is expedient to opine that the term caught on because it struck a nerve. It speaks to the everyday frustration and absurdity of Nigerian power supply. It is that moment when you see NEPA, sorry, PHCN, sorry again, your ‘DisCo’, flicker the lights on for five minutes, only for them to vanish mid-toast or mid-shower. It is the dry apology, the vague explanation, the unconvincing assurance that things will “soon stabilize.”

Kate Henshaw did not just name the phenomenon, she gave it personality. She anthropomorphized the energy sector’s dysfunction in a way that made it digestible, even laughable, in a country where many feel powerless in the face of such critical inefficiencies.

Without resort to flattery in this context, it is germane to applaud her creative spark. This is as Henshaw has always been known for more than just her acting skills. She is vocal, passionate, articulate, and unapologetically expressive. Whether speaking up for social justice or sharing tips on wellness, she engages the public with candor and intelligence. Her coinage of “CBEXing” is just another feather in her already vibrant cap.

Language experts often point out that the best neologisms are those rooted in shared experience, those that reflect a collective emotional truth. Kate’s coinage did just that. She turned a national grievance into a linguistic gem. She reminded us that even in frustration, Nigerians are masters of humor, satire, and expression.

It is also worth celebrating how “CBEXing” was not forced. It did not come out of a marketing campaign or a think tank. It was organic. Raw. Instinctive. And that is what makes it brilliant.

Whether “CBEXing” will find its way into formal linguistic acceptance remains to be seen. But language is not governed from the top-down, it evolves from the grassroots up. If people begin to adopt the term in everyday conversation, if it becomes shorthand in headlines, if radio hosts and comedians pick it up, then it lives. Just like “japa,” “sapa,” and “gist” have all taken root beyond their original niches, so too can “CBEXing.”

Already, social media users are having fun with it: “My fridge just CBEXed my stew,” “We are back to CBEXing again. Generator go run tire,” “CBEXing is now a national sport.”

These are not just jokes, they are the linguistic evidence of adoption.

It is indeed a lesson for creatives and communicators. Kate Henshaw’s coinage is a gentle reminder to all creatives, journalists, marketers, and public speakers: never underestimate the power of originality. In a digital age flooded with recycled phrases and buzzwords, originality cuts through the noise. It endears, it engages, and it endures.

To the creatives out there, let “CBEXing” inspire you. Every moment is an opportunity for expression. Every frustration can be molded into metaphor. Every observation can become a line, a phrase, a movement.

In fact, let there the light, and laughter.  In a nation grappling with the very serious problem of power instability, Kate Henshaw gifted us a word that blends irony, frustration, and humor in one breath. “CBEXing” may be informal, but its truth is undeniable.

We salute her not just as an actress, but as a wordsmith, a culture-shaper, and a woman whose wit refuses to dim, even when the lights do.

So here is to Kate Henshaw. May your light never flicker, your voice never fade, and your lexicon continue to enrich ours.

After all, it is through the lens of creative minds like hers that new language, and new thinking, emerge. And in that spirit, we are all better for it.

CBEXing. You have heard it. You have lived it. Now, go ahead use it.

A former governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) are currently exploring their political options, with the possibility of aligning with either the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) or the opposition coalition led by Atiku Abubakar.

A reliable source, who spoke to Punch on condition of anonymity, revealed that Kwankwaso and the NNPP would not contest independently in the upcoming 2027 elections, as they did during the 2023 elections.

“What I can confirm is that Kwankwaso and the NNPP will not contest independently as they did in the 2023 elections. Considering the current political landscape, they are weighing the possibility of either joining President Tinubu’s APC or aligning with the coalition led by Atiku, el-Rufai, and others,” the source disclosed.

The development comes amid a rapidly shifting political environment, as various political actors and parties seek strategic alliances ahead of the next general election.

In response to growing speculation, NNPP National Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, confirmed in an interview with Punch that the party was indeed considering these political options.

He stated, “Well, so far, what I’ll say is this: in the NNPP, we tend to, at least from our own history as the Kwankwasiyya movement, wait till midterm. May 29th will be the midterm for this administration. It will be two years down, and two years to go. That is when we believe that proper politicking will commence.

“So, yes, we are talking, and we’ve been talking. But you’ll recall that at that time, I told you I didn’t want to mention specifically the groups or persons or movements that are in conversation with us. That is still the position now.

“You’ll recall that there have been many publications in newspapers and online, insinuating that Senator Kwankwaso is moving to the APC, that it is imminent and all that. That is just the nature of the game. Some people are pressing or pushing that narrative for their selfish reasons.

“But the bottom line is that very soon, they will begin to hear from us. We will tell our supporters what we are doing. There are basically three cards on the table: either we remain in the NNPP and continue with those who joined us all the way or we form some sort of coalition with Atiku, others; or we form an alliance with the ruling party. I am not saying any of these is the case now. But these are the three basic options that could happen.”

[NaijaNews]

In the story of every great society, the true engine of transformation is not limited to oil or infrastructure alone; it is also about the people.

It is education that shapes their minds, healthcare that preserves their lives, skills that empower their hands, and dignity that secures their place in society.

In Anambra State, Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, is scripting this very story with breathtaking urgency. His human capital and social agenda is a people-centred movement to build a prosperous and compassionate homeland.

At the onset of his tenure, Governor Soludo’s bold declaration of a state of emergency in education was a necessary jolt to a system that had lost its way. Today, Anambra is the first state in Nigeria where every child in public school, from nursery to SS3, pays nothing: no levies, no fees, and no hidden charges.

This landmark policy has reversed a decline in enrollment. Public primary school enrollment has surged by 27.05%, while secondary school numbers have risen by 10.36%.

In 2024, Unesco rated Anambra State as the lowest in out of school syndrome at a rate of 2.90 While the 2024/25 National Education Management Information System Annual Census held in conjunction with State Education Management Information System rated the out of syndrome at 0.25. Anambra now boasts with the lowest rate of out of school children in Nigeria.

When Governor Soludo took office, over 7,500 teaching positions were vacant. Within his first year, he recruited 8,115 teachers in a merit-based, digital-savvy cohort drawn from 18 states across Nigeria. These teachers have been deployed to every corner of the state, from bustling cities to forgotten villages, dramatically improving the teacher-learner ratio to 31:1 in primary, 28:1 in secondary, and 26:1 in ECCD. Every headteacher and principal now has a laptop. 22 pilot smart schools are transforming into centres of innovation, preparing students for a world where knowledge, not connections, defines the future.

Through the Public-Private-Community Partnership (PPCP) model, 70 philanthropists have invested in renovating and building schools. Mission schools, long neglected, are receiving generous government support, ₦2.2 billion in grants, including for Pentecostal schools for the first time. Eighty per cent of newly recruited teachers serve in mission schools whose salaries are fully covered by the state, almost ₦1 billion monthly. Education is no longer an orphan of policy; it is the crown jewel in Anambra State under Governor Soludo

Also, Anambra is setting national standards in healthcare with its telemedicine network. Every primary healthcare centre in the state is now digitally linked to a pool of 42 doctors, available 24/7. With the tap of a button, a villager in the remote areas can consult a doctor, be referred, and even evacuated using the Anambra State Emergency Ambulance Service (ASEMSAS) via a toll-free line.

Today, 326 primary health centres have been renovated and equipped with solar-powered boreholes, lithium inverters, and internet-enabled diagnostic tools. Once-abandoned facilities are now hubs of life-saving care. Each political ward in Anambra has at least one functional medical facility.

Five brand-new general hospitals have been built, all in underserved areas of Anambra North, defying political calculations as Governor Soludo is from Anambra South. Additionally, three general hospitals have been upgraded to specialist status. Equipment such as dialysis machines, dental theatres, and ophthalmology labs now exist where there was once neglect. At the tertiary level, a state-of-the-art Trauma Centre is under construction at the Chukwuemeka Odimegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital. A smart nursing school, the largest in Southeast Nigeria, is also taking shape.

Over 102,643 women have benefited from completely free antenatal care and delivery, including 344 cesarean sections. Since its inception, public hospital births have risen from 200 to over 1,000 monthly, with 52% of beneficiaries being non-indigenes, an evidence of the universal humanity guiding the policy.

From 3.8 million mosquito nets distributed to cervical cancer screening for over 13,000 women, the healthcare revival is as broad as it is deep. Anambra’s Health Insurance Scheme now covers 120,000 residents, including keke riders and shuttle bus drivers, and aims to double coverage by 2025.

Governor Soludo’s vision for youth development is practical, visionary, and deeply cultural. Inspired by the Igbo Apprenticeship System (IAS), the One Youth, Two Skills initiative is empowering 5,000 young people in 2024, with another 8,700 in training for 2025. With over ₦2 billion in seed capital and an additional ₦2.5 billion in concessional loans through ASBA, over 3,000 youth have become self-made millionaires, armed with skills that scale. This is not the usual handout or welfarist tokenism; it is wealth creation in action.

The Soludo administration’s compassion also finds real expression in its social justice programmes. Over 1,800 children separated from families have been rescued and reunited. Over 150 interventions have protected widows from inhumane practices, enforcing the Widowhood Rights Law. More than 3,000 disputes have been resolved through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), giving women and children an accessible justice mechanism. Over 2,000 perpetrators of gender-based violence and trafficking have been apprehended, while 121 children were rescued from exploitative conditions. Over 1,500 grassroots women leaders have been mobilised into governance, with 2,500+ women trained in vocational and entrepreneurial skills. Governor Soludo’s women agenda is empowerment by design.

With decades of dry taps behind them, Anambra residents are now witnessing the return of pipe-borne water. Five major urban water schemes, 15 small-town networks, and 109 rural projects, including 30 in Okpoko alone, have been rehabilitated and upgraded. For many, this is the first time in living memory that potable water flows at home.

Governor Soludo’s human capital agenda is a deeply personal, profoundly life-changing covenant with the people of Anambra. By investing in minds, healing bodies, empowering youths, uplifting women, and restoring dignity, he is building a better, more just, equitable society where every life counts. In Anambra, for the first time in a long time, governance has truly come home. Solution is here!

A pressure group, Action Collective, has accused one Sandra Duru of spearheading a desperate campaign using artificial intelligence (AI) tools to discredit the suspended Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Teddy Onyejuwe, the group raised the alarm over a trending online video allegedly featuring the female Senator. Onyejuwe clarified that the video was an AI fabrication and urged the public to disregard any content linked to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan that does not originate from her verified platforms.

According to Onyejuwe, the smear campaign was the work of political opponents deploying Duru “as a pawn to mislead the public.”

“We call on Nigerians to ignore such content and to be vigilant about the growing use of digital manipulation to spread falsehood,” the statement read.

The group described Sandra Duru, who now reportedly goes by the alias ‘Professor Ngbeke,’ as a “serial fraudster with a longstanding reputation for deceit.” They alleged that Duru has operated through a network of fictitious NGOs and shell companies to defraud public figures, private individuals, and institutions over the years.

Tracing Duru’s history, the Action Collective claimed she first gained political access in Imo State through a relationship with Chantel Adanna Chinyere, whom she later allegedly betrayed. Her reputation, according to the group, became further tarnished during the 2011 elections after a series of smear campaigns against notable figures, including former Deputy Governor Eze Madumere.

“She is a master fabricator who uses forged letters, fake programs, and non-existent partnerships to lure unsuspecting victims,” Onyejuwe alleged.

The statement referenced several reports on Duru’s activities, including a June 10, 2020 article on Nairaland and an April 24, 2027 report on Secretsreporter.com, which linked her to numerous scams and acts of misrepresentation.

One notable case highlighted involved Chukwubuike Nelson Ubechi, who reportedly lost N1.2 million to a travel and training scam operated by Duru through her organization, the Pre-Adult Affairs Organisation (PAAO), falsely claimed to have international endorsements.

Beyond public fraud, the group alleged that Duru’s misconduct extended to her personal relationships, citing accusations of blackmail and emotional manipulation from her estranged husband, Emmanuel Ebuka Elobi, and his family.

“This is someone whose every move is laced with fraud, betrayal, and character assassination. She has used everything from fake marriages to AI tools in her crusade of lies,” the statement asserted.

The Action Collective urged media organisations, government agencies, and the general public to remain cautious and distance themselves from Duru and her alleged schemes. They also called for heightened skepticism towards any AI-generated material associated with Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

“This is a coordinated attempt by desperate political adversaries to discredit a highly respected public servant. We urge everyone to verify their sources and expose this woman’s deceit before more lives and reputations are destroyed,” Onyejuwe concluded.

[Leadership]