A Heartbreaking Discovery: Kidnapping Den Uncovered in Imo State

Too many families in Igboland have suffered unimaginable pain, losing their loved ones to the hands of kidnappers. The recent discovery of a kidnapping camp at the boundary between Umuosinta Amuzi Obowo and Iheteafor-Ukwu Ahiazu Mbaise in Imo State has once again exposed the horrors many have endured in silence.

At this site, unmarked graves were found—silent witnesses to the fate of victims who never made it home. Some were reportedly murdered even after their families paid ransom, while others were killed outright. Scattered among the graves were stolen vehicles—Toyota Avalons, Range Rovers, Toyota Camrys, Lexus models—belonging to individuals whose fates were cruelly sealed by these criminals.

Reports indicate that this gang operates from Port Harcourt. After carrying out their evil acts in Imo State, they retreat there to hide, only to return and continue their reign of terror in the Obowo axis. Just this past Monday, witnesses say they came back to move two stolen cars, likely to sell them off.

This discovery is a painful reminder of the insecurity that plagues our land. But it is also a call to action. Our communities must stand together, and our authorities must act swiftly to dismantle these networks of terror. No family should have to endure the agony of losing a loved one in such a cruel manner.

Let’s not look away. Let’s demand justice.

#JusticeForVictims #EndKidnapping #SecureOurCommunities

Anambra Government Shuts Down Church Over Alleged Oke Ite Practices

The Anambra State Government has sealed off a church in Nkpor, Idemili North LGA, led by Pastor Onyebuchi Okocha a k.a Onyeze Jesus, over alleged Oke Ite practices. The closure followed public petitions and a viral video where the pastor admitted to performing controversial rituals.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Security, Ken Emeakayi, led the enforcement team, stating that while the government respects religious freedom, it will not tolerate exploitative practices. Authorities have seized liquid substances for forensic testing and plan to analyze the waters of "River Bethsaida", allegedly used for questionable rituals.

The government urges the public to report harmful religious activities as investigations continue.

When Barack Obama became the first Black president of the United States, Africa rejoiced. Many saw his Kenyan roots as a sign that African nations would receive more support and respect from the U.S. However, looking back, Obama’s policies toward Africa tell a different story—one that includes political interference, regime changes, and economic setbacks.

At the top of the list of controversies is the 2011 NATO-led intervention in Libya, which led to the brutal killing of Muammar Gaddafi. Under Obama’s leadership, the U.S. played a significant role in the military action that destabilized Libya, turning the once-prosperous nation into a war-torn state plagued by terrorism and human trafficking. Before his downfall, Gaddafi had been pushing for a united Africa with a single currency backed by gold—a move that would have reduced Africa’s dependence on Western financial systems. His removal not only caused chaos in Libya but also had ripple effects across Africa, fueling instability in Mali, Nigeria, and the broader Sahel region.

Another major incident tied to Obama’s tenure was the role his administration allegedly played in the removal of Nigeria’s former president, Goodluck Jonathan. Reports suggest that the U.S. government’s stance against Jonathan, particularly due to disagreements over Nigeria’s approach to LGBTQ+ rights and counterterrorism policies, influenced the 2015 elections in favor of Muhammadu Buhari. While Buhari's presidency was welcomed by some, many Nigerians later criticized his administration for worsening economic conditions and security challenges.

Obama’s foreign policy also had economic consequences for Africa. His administration prioritized military cooperation over economic partnerships, leading to increased U.S. military presence in places like Niger, Somalia, and Djibouti. While framed as a fight against terrorism, this militarization often exacerbated conflicts rather than solving them. Additionally, despite early promises, Obama failed to deliver significant trade benefits for Africa. His much-publicized Power Africa initiative, which aimed to boost electricity access, fell short of expectations, leaving many African nations still struggling with energy shortages.

Beyond policies, there was also a cultural and ideological push that many Africans found troubling. The Obama administration aggressively promoted progressive social policies that clashed with the conservative values held by many African societies. This approach created tensions between the U.S. and several African governments, leading to strained diplomatic relations.

Ultimately, Obama’s presidency, which began with high hopes for Africa, ended with many feeling disillusioned. While his legacy remains complex, it is clear that his administration’s actions did not always align with the best interests of African nations. Instead of empowerment, many African countries experienced deeper instability, weakened leadership, and increased foreign influence—outcomes that still shape the continent today.

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on North Central Development Commission (NCDC), Senator Titus Zam, Benue North West (APC), has said that the NCDC will help rebuild the zone.

Sen Zam, who disclosed this during the funeral oration for the late Tyoor Augustine Azer Tingir, District Head of Saghev/Ukusu at Naka, Gwer West Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State, further said the commission will also help tackle the challenges of insecurity facing north-central Nigeria.

Nigeria's President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) signed into law a bill establishing the NCDC on February 4, 2025. Senator Zam is the pioneer Senate Committee Chairman of the commission.

"With this commission, I know that there is somewhere to run to," Senator Zam told his audience, noting that a similar commission in the South and North East is developing the aforementioned regions.

According to the Benue North West Senator, the problems facing the zone will soon be tackled. He explained that by Tuesday next week, the budget for the commission will be presented before the National Assembly, and once passed, funding will be available for the commission to take off.

Already, political leaders in the zone have met to fine-tune arrangements for the NCDC's smooth takeoff.

Benue State Governor, Fr. Hyacinth Alia, said after the meeting that the leaders met to chart "the best path forward for the NCDC to drive security, economic growth, and sustainable development across the North Central Zone in our collective quest to strengthen the region, provide lasting solutions to our challenges, and unlock opportunities for our people."

Credit: The News Times.

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