Police Operatives attached to the 3-3 Divisional Headquarters today December 13 arrested one Alfred Bassey (M) aged 40 years and native of Abi in Cross River State over the tragic loss of his seven year old child at a Construction site along Trans- Nkisi Layout, Onitsha.

Confirming the arrest to newsmen, the command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said preliminary investigation by the police revealed that the father of the victim forcibly took the minor from the mother and has been living with him in an uncompleted building at Trans-Nkisi Layout Onitsha.

‘’Furthermore, on 11th December 2024, the lifeless body of the child was found in a soakaway pit dug in the abandoned uncompleted building after the suspect left the child for an unknown destination. The body of the child was later recovered and taken to the hospital before he was confirmed de@d by a doctor.’’

Ikenga said the state Commissioner of Police CP Nnaghe Obono Itam who is saddened by this development, has admonished parents to prioritize the well-being of their children against any difference they may have had with their spouse to avoid exposing them to emotional and psychological trauma and/or de@th.

He further directed the immediate transfer of the Case to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Awka, for a more detailed investigation.

By Ambrose Nwaogwugwu, December 13, 2024.

The ongoing construction and asphalt laying on the Avu-Obosima-Adapalm-Etekwuru Road and Akachi Road are clear testaments to the transformative leadership of Governor Hope Uzodimma. Under the meticulous supervision of the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructural Development, Ralph Nwosu, these critical infrastructure projects are progressing steadily towards completion, showcasing the administration’s commitment to delivering quality and durable infrastructure for the people of Imo State.

During an inspection of the project sites, Commissioner Nwosu expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work being executed. He commended the contractors for adhering to the approved timelines and maintaining engineering best practices. “The administration of Governor Hope Uzodimma is resolutely focused on delivering infrastructure that will stand the test of time,” Nwosu remarked, emphasizing that these roads are pivotal to enhancing economic activities, improving connectivity, and easing transportation for the people.

The Avu-Obosima-Adapalm-Etekwuru Road, a flagship project under the “Government of Shared Prosperity” agenda, is a critical infrastructure designed to transform Imo State into a hub of economic and infrastructural excellence. By connecting key economic zones, this road promises to stimulate trade, attract investment, and uplift the living standards of the people.

In his remarks, Commissioner Nwosu called on community members and road users to support the contractors by fostering a conducive environment for uninterrupted progress. He assured the public that the Ministry of Works and Infrastructural Development is rigorously monitoring every phase of the project to ensure strict adherence to specifications and standards.

Governor Hope Uzodimma’s leadership continues to garner praise for prioritizing impactful projects that drive development and improve the quality of life in Imo State. The near-completion of the Avu-Obosima-Adapalm-Etekwuru Road is a glowing example of his administration’s resolve to deliver on its promises and secure a brighter future for the state.

As Imo State inches closer to the realization of these projects, residents and stakeholders can look forward to reaping the benefits of a government dedicated to prosperity, progress, and the well-being of its people.

– Ambrose Nwaogwugwu is the Senior Special Assistant to Imo State Governor on Electronic and Creative Media.

On this special day, I am honored to join millions of Imolites, Nigerians, and members of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), to celebrate a remarkable leader whose dedication, resilience, and visionary leadership continue to transform Imo State and inspire the Southeast. Your birthday is an opportunity to reflect on the incredible strides made under your guidance and to honor your tireless efforts in advancing the ideals of good governance, party unity, and socio-economic development.

Your achievements as Governor of Imo State speak volumes of your commitment to fulfilling the trust reposed in you by the people. Under the 3R agenda of Rehabilitation, Reconstruction, and Recovery, you have laid a foundation of transformational governance. Critical infrastructural projects, including over 90 roads completed or under construction, have reconnected urban hubs to rural communities, driving economic integration and accessibility. The dualization of key routes such as the Owerri-Orlu and Owerri-Okigwe roads, and the construction of a flyover at control post, is a testament to your vision of economic expansion and regional connectivity​.

Your administration’s dedication to healthcare is particularly praiseworthy. By rehabilitating 305 primary healthcare centers across the state, you have brought essential medical services closer to the people, ensuring that even the most remote areas feel the impact of governance. Your swift decision to recently provide necessary healthcare resources and services to rural dwellers in the state, underscored your prioritization of public health and safety​.

In education, your efforts to upgrade infrastructure, provide free education policies, and introduce digital learning solutions for schools have significantly enhanced the quality of learning in Imo State. Similarly, your investments in youth and women empowerment through skills acquisition programs and funding for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) reflect your commitment to building a prosperous future for the people of Imo​.

Your Excellency, beyond governance, your leadership within the APC has redefined the political landscape of the Southeast. Through strategic engagement and an inclusive approach, you have strengthened party structures at all levels, galvanizing grassroots support and fostering unity among stakeholders. The APC’s dominant status in the region is a direct result of your unrelenting efforts to position the party as the preferred choice for progressive governance. You have consistently bridged divides, bringing together diverse voices under a common vision of development and inclusivity​.

Furthermore, your ability to foster harmony among the three arms of government has ensured stability and effective policy implementation, making Imo State a model of good governance in Nigeria. The collaborative environment you have nurtured has translated into tangible development across sectors, earning you well-deserved commendations from citizens and institutions alike​.

As we celebrate this milestone in your life, we are reminded of the unwavering dedication you bring to every endeavor and the profound legacy you continue to build. Your leadership is a beacon of hope, not only for Imo State but also for the entire Southeast and Nigeria. May this birthday mark the beginning of even greater achievements, and may you continue to lead with wisdom, courage, and compassion.

Happy birthday, Your Excellency! May you be blessed with long life, good health, and unending prosperity as you continue to serve with excellence and distinction.

Yours in Service,
Hon. MacDonald Ebere, Ph.D.
State Chairman, APC, Imo State
12-12-2024