By Prince Uwalaka Chimaroke
12- DEC- 2025

The Government of Abia State has announced a key administrative adjustment following Governor Alex Otti’s approval for the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Professor Kenneth Kalu (FCA), to embark on a leave of absence. In line with this development, the Governor has appointed Dr. Emmanuel Meribole as the Acting Secretary to the State Government, effective January 1, 2026.

Dr. Meribole, who currently serves as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Projects, will assume the responsibilities of the SSG in an acting capacity. The administration emphasized that a structured transition plan is in place to guarantee continuity. To this end, the official handover procedure will begin on Monday, December 15, 2025, allowing Professor Kalu and Dr. Meribole to work collaboratively to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted flow of government activities.

A medical doctor by training, Dr. Meribole brings a distinguished record of public service and administrative leadership to his new role. His extensive career includes serving as Permanent Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development before his retirement. Since joining the Abia State Government as Special Adviser on Projects, he has played a pivotal role in implementing transformative initiatives that align with the administration’s development objectives.

The decision to appoint him as Acting Secretary to the State Government underscores the confidence Governor Otti places in his expertise, work ethic, and capacity to further advance the government’s reform agenda.

Governor Otti also expressed his sincere appreciation to Professor Kenneth Kalu for his remarkable dedication and contributions to the progress of Abia State. The Governor commended Professor Kalu’s steadfast service and assured that his efforts will continue to reflect in the administration’s ongoing reforms.

The announcement was issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, on December 12, 2025.

Former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, broke down in court today, pleading with the judge to grant him bail due to his health challenges. “I can afford any bail condition, please let me go home, I have health issues,” he said, visibly shaken.

Ngige was remanded to Kuje Prison by Justice Mariam Hassan after pleading not guilty to an eight-count charge of alleged contract fraud and abuse of office, totaling over N2.2 billion. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) opposed his bail application, citing concerns he might flee.

The judge has adjourned the hearing on Ngige’s bail application to Monday, December 15, 2025. Until then, Ngige will remain in Kuje Correctional Centre, where he will have access to medical practitioners.

A disturbing incident was recorded along Utsu–Okigwe road after residents found a young woman unclothed and visibly confused.

Eyewitnesses said a man who was pretending to be mentally unstable had allegedly dragged her into the nearby bush and took advantage of her. They did not meet him, but they met the woman n*ked and disoriented.

When questioned, she struggled to recall her identity. She first said her name was Uju, then changed it, later mentioning she was from a place called Amiza in Olusa. She repeatedly told those around that her entire family was dead, insisting they were all killed in her village.

Throughout the conversation, she appeared confused and unable to explain how she got there. At one point, those around said she even tried to walk back in the direction of the man before they stopped her.

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