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Okorocha, Araraume Rift Deepens: Party Chieftain Says “Okorocha Is Afraid Of Me”

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Following the earlier reports in National Dallies were Governor Rochas Okorocha was quoted as saying “With Due Respect, Senator Ifeanyi Araraume Lied. He Is Not One Of The Founders Of APC And Has Never Been A Good Party Man”, the Senator Ifeanyi Araraume Media Office located at Destiny House, Onitsha Road, Owerri, has now replied.

See the response:

“The attention of Senator Ifeanyi Araraume’s media office has been drawn to a press statement by the Imo state governor, His Excellency, Chief Rochas Okorocha, through his chief press secretary, Mr. Sam Onwuemeodo, on the above subject from which he, however, went ahead to pass several other scathing remarks on the senator. Overall, our take on the governor’s statement is that it confirmed our earlier fears that Governor Okorocha was the one who planted recent stories in the media to the effect that Senator Araraume wants to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“Governor Okorocha’s current antics is a clear indication that he sees Senator Araraume as the main stumbling block to his blind ambition to pocket the Imo APC and install a puppet as the next governor of the state and in a final bid to cover his tracks after leaving office. We recall that the senator, in answer to questions by reporters at the Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport, Abuja recently, had refuted the lie over his speculated exit from the party and went ahead to acknowledge that the rumour was the handiwork of those who are afraid and worried that they have lost control of the APC in Imo state.

“Evidently, those rebuttals angered Governor Okorocha and rather than face realities, he has gone further with his campaign of calumny against the senator. Hence, his latest press statement.

“But even the least discerning observer of events in the Imo APC knows that the governor’s latest antics is in desperate pursuit of a remedy to his loss of relevance in the party as clearly illustrated by recent developments. Only a few weeks ago, the party held the first ever State Executive Committee/stakeholders meeting in the state devoid of any inputs from the governor, the so-called leader of the party in the state. It is common knowledge that Governor Okorocha did everything to sabotage the meeting once the State Working Committee (SWC) refused to bow to pressure from him to have the meeting held at the government house. That refusal by the SWC, headed by Chief Hilary Ekeh, angered Governor Okorocha who not only avoided the meeting but rather allegedly sent thugs to disrupt it. But that plan failed and the stakeholders went ahead to hold the meeting at which crucial decisions were taken and even went further to raise funds to the tune of over N50 million, the first of its kind since the coming into being of the APC in the state.

“Needless to say, the main significance of the huge success recorded by that meeting is that Governor Okorocha has lost grip of the party which he hitherto ran as a private company; just as he does for the entire state. This is where His Excellency, Chief Rochas Okorocha, is now. . Add to this the fact that the governor had only a few weeks before that crucial meeting, embarked on the misadventure of having all elected officials of the party sacked but which backfired, and it will become quite clear why Chief Okorocha, who has become almost a pariah as far as the Imo APC is concerned, is now running from pillar to post. Hence, his current diatribe on Senator Araraume who he believes is his nemesis

PARTY MAN

Senator Araraume is, of course, right in claiming that he is a founding member of the APC. The discussions for merger started in 2011 when he was a caucus member of the Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, and part of the merger talks. The discussions went very far between the Congress for Progressive Change, CPC, the ACN, the All Nigeria Peoples Party, ANPP and others. However, the merger could not be consummated then, due to the closeness of the 2011 presidential elections.

Governor Okorocha was still in the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). Even with his clout as a governor and claim as a political leader in the Southeast, he could not bring APGA to be part of the legacy parties of the APC. He only joined as an individual much later.

Now, the question is, who, between the two was a foundation member of the APC? In his press statement under reference, the governor claimed that Senator Araraume “has never been a good party man”. This statement is a good example of the pot calling the kettle black.

Governor Okorocha should first examine his own trajectory since the beginning of the current dispensation. He started with the Democratic Party of Nigeria (DPN), then to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

After the PDP governorship primaries in 1998 in which he lost, the party compensated him with the senatorial ticket for Orlu zone.  But he was roundly defeated by Chief Arthur Nzeribe of the then All Peoples Party, APP; while Chief Araraume won handsomely in Okigwe zone and Chief Evan Enwerem in Owerri zone.

Shortly after the 1999 general election, Chief Okorocha formed the Action Alliance (AA) party but abandoned it for the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) where he was allegedly sponsored to reduce the chances of the party by joining its presidential race which he also lost. He later returned to the PDP and was settled with the position of an Adviser to the president. The outcome of that appointment is in the public domain. Upon getting sacked from that job, he again returned to AA for a short while before again going back to the PDP where he ran for the office of the national chairman in September 2007 and failed woefully. In 2011, he berthed in APGA. Now he is in APC. In 2015 he was again in his usual routine of a “game spoiler” as he was allegedly sponsored to torpedo the chances of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari at the APC presidential primaries. Reports have it that Governor Okorocha is one of the five governors that have secretly joined he Social Democratic Party, SDP and only waiting for an auspicious time to unveil himself. We then ask, can Chief Ethelbert Anayo Okorocha beat his chest and pride himself as a “GOOD PARTY MAN”?

Even so, Okorocha always left behind a trail of woes in each party he berthed in. Let’s take the newest examples. He destroyed the Imo state chapter of APGA after it had given him a governorship ticket on a platter of gold and helped him win the 2011 governorship election.

But how did Okorocha reward the party? He criminalized all the people he met in the party. A good example is that of his erstwhile deputy, Chief Jude Agbaso. Of course, the story is too well known to be repeated here.

Eventually, he left the party battered and shattered.

Today, he is at it again with the APC. Nearly all the politicians of note in the state who came into APC with him have left for other parties.

We ask, what is Governor Okorocha’s relationship with the following personalities who assisted him to his present position today: Prof Anthony Anwuka, Prof Ukachukwu Awuzie, Senators Osita Izunaso and Benjamin Uwajumogu, Chief PC Onuoha, Hon Uche Onyeagocha, Hon Mathew Omegara, Chief Best Mbanaso, Chief TOE Ekechi, Chief Ejike Uche, Chief Esiobu, Barr Iheukwumere Alaribe etc. They have all seen him for who he is and abandoned him. The most pathetic is the case of Prince Eze Madumere, who served him for over 20 years without blemish and later went to jail so that Okorocha could become governor. What is his relationship with Madumere today? The only fellow with Governor Okorocha today as a political ally is his son-in-law, Mr. Uche Nwosu, whom he wants to foist on the state as his successor.

SENATOR ARARAUME AND HIS DEMOCRATIC BATTLES

Governor Okorocha is fond of alluding to the various instances in the past when Senator Araraume stood his grounds to fight for the enthronement of internal democracy in the parties. It is a well-known fact that in all the cases, he came out triumphant. A case in point is that of the PDP in 2006/2007 when the apex court in the land, the Supreme Court, affirmed that he was the authentic governorship candidate of the party. That the election went the way it did is a different matter. Today, the case is a Locus Classicus.

He almost repeated that feat in 2015 but for the fact that the matter became time barred. Even so, Chief Okorocha became the beneficiary of that insistence by Senator Araraume that there must be fair play in party politics. Even a school boy in Imo state knows that had the Senator not decided to fight what happened at the PDP 2014 primary election, Chief Okorocha would not have been re-elected for a second term. There have been only three instances where Senator Araraume had to leave his party. The first was in 1999 when he left the then APP as state chairman to contest for the Okigwe zone senatorial seat under the PDP. And which he won. The second was in 2008 when the national leadership of the PDP dissolved the elected state executives of the party, whose tenure was yet to expire, and handed it over to the then governor, Ikedi Ohakim, following his return to the party.

The third was in 2015 when he won the PDP primary election which was fraudulently manipulated in favor of another aspirant.

After several meetings with the leaders of the party including President Goodluck Jonathan, Chief Tony Anenih and the national chairman, Ahmed Muazu, there were so much foot-dragging until the matter became time barred.

As such, the Senator rightly felt cheated and betrayed his own party.

The final point to note is that it is becoming too late in the day for Governor Okorocha. The APC in Imo has left him behind. However, the train can be momentarily halted to let him in if he is ready to cultivate team spirit and eschew greed and insatiable appetite for grabbing. As noted earlier, the APC faithful made a bold statement on Sunday, March 18, 2018; which is that they have taken back their party from him. It is not about Ifeanyi Araraume or Rochas Okorocha. It is about repositioning the party for the great task ahead.

Signed:

Ethelbert Okere

Media Consultant to Senator Ifeanyi Araraume

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NUJ at 70: Private Broadcast Members Congratulate Union

Reporter: Ikenna Oluka

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NUJ at 70
NUJ

The Guild of Private Broadcast Managers  has extended its heartfelt congratulations to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) as it celebrates its 70th Anniversary.

In a congratulatory message signed by the Guild’s National President, Ambassador Patrick Uzoyi-Peters, JP MNGRM, the guild described the milestone as a testament to the NUJ’s unwavering commitment to upholding press freedom, journalistic integrity, and the advancement of democracy in Nigeria.

“For seven decades, the NUJ has played a pivotal role in shaping the media landscape, advocating for the rights and welfare of journalists, and ensuring that the voice of the people remains strong and unyielding. Your resilience, professionalism, and dedication to ethical journalism have been instrumental in fostering transparency, accountability, and national development”.

Celebrating this historic achievement, the Guild’s President, Uzoyi-Peters recognized the sacrifices and contributions of journalists across the nation who work tirelessly to inform, educate, and empower society.

The Guild reiterated it commitment towards collaborating with the NUJ in promoting responsible journalism and strengthening the media industry for the greater good.

While wishing the NUJ continued success, growth, and greater impact in the years ahead, President Uzoyi-Peters prayed that the anniversary serve as a renewed call to uphold the principles of truth, fairness, and press freedom in our collective pursuit of a more informed and just society.

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Family Marks one-year Memorial of Late APC Chieftain, Ojougboh with Charity Outreach

By Ikenna Oluka

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Mrs. Bose Ojougboh
Mrs. Bose Ojougboh, wife of the Late Dr. Cairo Ojougboh (Centre) flanked by other members of Dr. Cairo Ojougboh Foundation during the outreach programme.

The family of the late chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, led by his wife, Mrs. Bose Ojougboh, marked his one-year memorial anniversary with a series of charitable initiatives aimed at honoring his legacy of philanthropy and service to society.

The memorial activities included the donation of school books and bags to pupils of Erigbe Primary School, in Agbor within the Ika South Local Government Area (LGA) of Delta State, where Dr. Ojougboh had received his early education.

The outreach also included extension of financial assistance to patients at Central Hospital, Agbor, and the provision of toiletries, cash, and food items to children at the Salve Regina Children’s Home, Agbor.

The outreach was carried out under the ‘Dr. Cairo Ojougboh Foundation’, a family-led initiative established to immortalise him and continue his lifelong commitment to education, healthcare, and social welfare.

Speaking during the event which took place recently, Mrs. Ojougboh reaffirmed the family’s dedication to sustaining the ideals of the late APC chieftain, describing him as a man who strongly believed in education and giving back to society.

“We are here to celebrate the life of my husband, Late Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, who passed on a year ago. In his honour, we decided to give back to society. He was a man who valued education and was always willing to help others. It is only fitting that we continue his legacy through acts of generosity,” she stated.

Honouring his passion for education

The first visit was to Erigbe Primary School, where Dr. Ojougboh had received his early education. The Foundation distributed school bags, writing materials, and food packs to the pupils. The family encouraged the pupils to take their education seriously and strive to become responsible citizens.

Supporting patients at Central Hospital, Agbor

At Central Hospital, Agbor, Mrs. Ojougboh and her entourage moved through the medical wards, offering financial support to patients to assist with their treatment costs. The hospital staff and beneficiaries responded with prayers and words of gratitude for the kind gesture.

Reaching out to orphaned children

The outreach team also visited Salve Regina Children’s Home in Agbor where they donated cash, food items, and toiletries to the children.

Mrs. Bose Ojougboh -
members of Dr. Cairo Ojougboh Foundation during the outreach programme.

The Matron of the home expressed her deep appreciation to the Ojougboh family, commending their commitment to sustaining the late politician’s legacy of compassion and social impact.

Dr. Cairo Ojougboh’s enduring legacy

Reflecting on her late husband’s contributions to society, Mrs. Ojougboh emphasised that his legacy of generosity and service to humanity would not be forgotten.

“Dr. Cairo was a selfless man who touched many lives. His contributions to the Nigerian political landscape, his mark in Agbor Kingdom, Delta State, and the country at large, will always be remembered. He may be gone, but his impact will continue to be felt for generations,” she said.

The Dr. Cairo Ojougboh Foundation has pledged to continue supporting education, healthcare, and social welfare initiatives in his memory, ensuring that his vision for a better society lives on.

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Widows, Wives and More than 2,000 Residents of Ikeja Police Barracks Benefit from YP4T’s Initiative

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YP4T
L-r: Alex Oware, Director, YP4T; a beneficiary; Dr. Love V. Tinuoye (C.E.O. Medvita Consultancy); Pharm. Enobong S. Useh (M.D. Medvita Pharmacy and Stores LTD); Mrs Jumoke Elom, beneficiary; Ojey Victor Benjamin, Director, YP4T.

More than 2,000 individuals from the Ikeja Police Barracks community benefited from an impactful outreach program spearheaded by Young Professionals for Tinubu (YP4T), an advocacy and support group working in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The initiative provided critical medical services, care packages, food supplies, and financial assistance to widows, wives, and vulnerable residents, demonstrating the heart of nation-building through community-centered support.

The program, which united healthcare professionals, community organizers, and volunteers, complemented the government’s broader efforts to bring essential services closer to the people.

Residents of the Ikeja Police Barracks received free medical consultations, blood pressure and diabetes screenings, and wellness advice. Widows and families also left with care packages filled with food items, toiletries, and financial support to help alleviate the pressures of the holiday season.

Dr. Love V. Tinuoye, CEO of Medvita Consultancy and the lead doctor on-site, reflected on the impact:

“This initiative reflects a collective commitment to advancing healthcare in Nigeria. We were able to screen for and address critical health issues such as hypertension and diabetes while also providing preventive care like vaccinations and cancer screenings. This is what true community-focused care looks like.”

Beyond medical services, the outreach distributed care packages containing food staples, toiletries, and financial support, designed to alleviate the challenges faced by vulnerable members of the police barracks community.

The event highlights the ongoing efforts under the Renewed Hope Agenda to provide inclusive support for Nigerians across the country. Initiatives like this not only extend access to essential services but also strengthen the fabric of communities.

Mrs. Jumoke Elom, a businesswoman and beneficiary, shared her gratitude:

“I am deeply grateful for this program. The care my family received today—both medical and material—has given us hope and reminded us that we are not alone. It shows that there is real support for families like mine.”

The outreach program was also a platform for demonstrating the principles of nation-building through collaborative action. Alex Oware, Security Expert and Director of YP4T, explained the motivation behind the initiative: “The Renewed Hope Agenda is about about bringing real transformation to communities. This initiative embodies that vision by supporting over 2,000 people—not just through tangible resources, but by reaffirming their place in the collective growth of our nation. It lies at the soul of Renewed Hope: fostering resilience and creating opportunities for all Nigerians.”

The outreach program extended beyond healthcare, providing food and financial support to families within the police barracks. A touching moment involved a widow who, after receiving her care package, expressed her gratitude with tears of joy. Her story is just one of many that reflect the transformative power of collective action.

This initiative by YP4T—an advocacy and support group of Nigerian professionals from across the globe—represents a continued commitment to driving grassroots impact, inspired by President Tinubu’s vision. The success of the Ikeja outreach program demonstrates the power of collaboration between the public and private sectors to deliver meaningful change across Nigeria.

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