By Prince Uwalaka Chimaroke
9- DEC- 2025

Governor Hope Uzodimma has announced that he paid an official visit to the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, as part of efforts to strengthen joint economic strategies aimed at improving the wellbeing of Nigerians. He was accompanied by Lagos State Governor, His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-Olu, whom he described as a brother and valued partner in national development.

During the visit, the leaders engaged in extensive discussions focused on enhancing cooperation between state governments and the apex bank. Their deliberations covered existing economic programmes currently underway across the country, with particular attention to reforms designed to support fiscal stability, promote investment, and protect the livelihoods of citizens.

Governor Uzodimma noted that the meeting also created room to explore fresh avenues for synergy on policies that can stimulate sustainable growth. The goal, he said, is to ensure that shared commitments among key government institutions are consistent with long-term national economic objectives.

He reaffirmed that such collaborations remain essential in addressing present economic challenges and securing a more prosperous future for Nigerians, emphasizing that the dialogue with the CBN Governor underscores a united resolve to deliver impactful results.

The discussion ended with all parties expressing optimism that strengthened partnerships will translate into improved outcomes for the nation’s economy.

A child-protection civil society organization, the Onurube Coalition, has submitted an urgent petition to the Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, calling for the immediate takeover of the investigation and prosecution of a case involving an alleged serial sexual exploitation of an 11-year-old girl, Ginika Obodozie, from Umudiatu Orlu Autonomous Community in Orlu LGA.

In the petition, addressed to the State Commissioner of Police, the coalition alleged that the child has been repeatedly exploited by multiple adult men within her community, with the initial police investigation at the Orlu Division, said to have being compromised and obstructed.

According to the petition, signed by the coordinator of the coalition, Marjorie Ezihe, the minor resides with an aunt who is believed to have been aiding the constant abuse of the child.

“The girl’s parents are reportedly unable to protect her due to the mother’s mental health condition and the father’s medical incapacitation. The situation is further complicated by serious allegations against the Orlu Police Division. We have credible information that the handling of the case at the Orlu Police Division was allegedly compromised through financial inducements, leading to the release of all but one suspect.” the coalition stated.

The Group, in the petition alleged external interference in the matter.

“Given these concerns, the continued handling of this case at the divisional level poses a threat to justice, child safety, and public interest. The legal basis for the request is grounded in several laws, including the Imo State Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law, the Child Rights Act, and the Constitution of Nigeria, which enshrine in the state’s primary duty to ensure the security and welfare of its citizens, especially vulnerable children.”the petition read.

The group demanded the immediate takeover of the case file by the State Criminal Investigations Department, SCID, for a fresh, unbiased investigation.

It also requested a formal inquiry into the alleged misconduct of the Orlu Police Division and other officers and for the re-arrest and proper charging of all suspects previously released.

In the petition, the goup sought for urgent action to ensure the child’s safety, including a safety assessment of her home, temporary protective custody, and provision of medical and psychosocial support.

The coalition emphasised the gravity of the situation, stating that the case involved a minor who has allegedly suffered repeated sexual violations in the hands of men old enough to be her grandfather.

“Men in their 40s, 50s and 60s, with the case further compounded by the alleged police compromise and family failure in their duty of care.”the group added.

As of the time of the petition, the organization informed that the State Police Command, had scheduled an interview with the group along with the victim.

“Brigadier Archong” (also referred to as Colonel Charlie Archibong) was a prominent Biafran commander during the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), known for his bravery and key role in the Biafran invasion of the Midwest region.

Key Activities During the War

Midwest Invasion Commander: Colonel Archibong was the lead commander of the Biafran forces that invaded Nigeria’s Midwest region on August 9, 1967. His orders were to advance rapidly through the West and capture Dodan Barracks in Lagos within 48 hours. The advance was halted by a controversial retreat order from Brigadier Victor Banjo at Ore, which ultimately led to the failure of the offensive.

Ojukwu blamed himself for not letting achuzie or Charlie archibong lead the troops to capture Nigeria capital city Lagos after the Biafran capital city Enugu was attacked by the Nigerian, even after Charlie archibong territory fell to the Nigerian military Charlie archibong and his people mostly lead to lay a deadly ambush against the Nigerian army in Calabar and akwa ibom and pH and this action Also lead to the killing of innocent civilians by Nigeria army not only Asaba experienced massacred south south of today veteran can testify

Key Biafran Fighter: Archibong was considered one of General Odumegwu Ojukwu’s most trusted and gallant fighters. He was known by the nickname “Charlie Bazooka” and was respected for his zeal and determination.

Further Action: After the Midwest campaign, he saw more action around Ikot Ekpene.

Disappearance/Death: Archibong was reported missing after an officer-led reconnaissance operation, and his command headquarters waited in vain for his return. Sources suggest he may have been killed through internal sabotage within Biafra.

Archibong is remembered as a significant figure in the Biafran military, often appearing in historical photos alongside Ojukwu as a “war hero.