Court rules on Nnamdi Kanu’s request to transfer from Sokoto prison

The Federal High Court in Abuja has refused a request by IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu to be transferred from the Sokoto Correctional Centre to a prison closer to the capital.

Kanu, represented by the Legal Aid Council, had asked the court to order the Nigerian Correctional Service to move him either to Kuje Custodial Centre in Abuja or Keffi Custodial Centre in Nasarawa.

In his application, Kanu also sought the option to be relocated to any facility within the court’s area, including Suleja or Keffi, to help him pursue his ongoing appeal.

Justice James Omotosho rejected the request on Monday, stating that the court could not grant such an order without hearing from the Federal Government.

The judge instructed Kanu to turn the ex-parte application into a motion on notice, ensuring all parties are served for a fair hearing.

The court has scheduled the hearing of the motion for January 27, 2026.

By Douglas Princemola

The General Manager of the Imo State Waste Management Agency ISWAMA, Hon Ugochukwu Aghazie, has been honoured with the Great Achiever Award by the National Association of Electronic Media Presenters of Nigeria NAEMPON. The award was presented in recognition of his outstanding dedication to environmental management, his commitment to improving public health, and his continuous contributions to the overall development of Imo State.

The ceremony, which took place on Saturday at Rockview Hotel Owerri, attracted a large gathering of dignitaries, government officials, media practitioners, community leaders, and stakeholders who came together to celebrate excellence in public service. The atmosphere was filled with admiration as several personalities who have made positive impact in their fields were recognized, with Aghazie standing out as one of the most applauded awardees.

In his remarks during the presentation, the President of NAEMPON, Jerry Osuji, explained that the association carefully examined the activities and achievements of the ISWAMA General Manager before selecting him for the honour. According to Osuji, the awardees track record in maintaining cleanliness in Imo State, particularly within Owerri metropolis, has been consistent and visible to residents and visitors alike.

Osuji further stated that the association appreciates the effort of ISWAMA under Aghazies leadership in improving sanitation, reducing environmental hazards, and ensuring that public spaces remain welcoming. He encouraged him to sustain the progress, noting that the cleanliness of a state is a reflection of its leadership and plays a crucial role in attracting tourists, investors, and development partners.

He stressed that a clean environment is fundamental to economic growth as it boosts the confidence of business owners, helps to prevent diseases, and creates a healthy atmosphere for residents. Osuji added that maintaining sanitation is not just a government responsibility but a collective duty that requires the cooperation of all citizens.

Responding to the honour, Aghazie expressed sincere appreciation to NAEMPON for recognising his efforts. He described the award as a call for greater service and promised to continue working diligently to improve the environment across the state. He noted that the recognition serves as motivation to further strengthen his commitment to maintaining a healthy and safe environment for all.

The ISWAMA General Manager explained that the agency has been expanding its operations through the introduction of innovative methods, including the use of technology to monitor waste disposal and environmental activities. He said ISWAMA has adopted a more strategic approach to waste management to ensure efficiency and sustainability.

Aghazie announced that the agency has concluded plans to intensify sanitation efforts during the festive season, when environmental pressures tend to increase. He said ISWAMA is working with various partners, community associations, and environmental volunteers to maintain maximum cleanliness in both urban and rural areas.

He also appealed to residents to support the agency by keeping their surroundings clean, avoiding indiscriminate dumping of refuse, and embracing good hygiene habits. According to him, maintaining a neat environment is not just for comfort but is essential in preventing outbreaks of diseases, improving the quality of life, and preserving the aesthetic appeal of the state.

The Chairman of Aify Global, Chief Engr Dr Athan Ifeanyichukwu Nwagu, has been honoured with the Great Achiever Award by the National Association of Electronic Media Presenters of Nigeria, NAEMPON, in recognition of his service to humanity, philanthropy, and support to the media industry.

The award was presented during the 4th Anniversary Celebration of NAEMPON held on Friday at Rockview Hotel Owerri, where media practitioners, stakeholders, and dignitaries gathered to celebrate commitment to public service and media advancement.

While presenting the award, the President of NAEMPON, Amb Jerry Osuji, described Dr Nwagu as a strong supporter of media development and a consistent promoter of human empowerment. He noted that the association honored him because of his contributions to the growth of electronic broadcasting in Nigeria and his continued assistance to the less privileged.

Osuji commended Dr Nwagu for his charitable works, leadership qualities, and encouragement to media professionals, stressing that NAEMPON appreciates individuals who use their influence and resources for the benefit of society.

In his response, Dr Nwagu thanked the leaders and members of NAEMPON for recognizing his commitment to humanity and development. He stated that the award would further motivate him to increase his humanitarian activities and strengthen his partnership with media practitioners.

He said the award is a call for greater service, adding that he is committed to doing more to promote human welfare, support the media, and contribute to the improvement of the state.

Dr Nwagu, who described broadcasting as a powerful tool in shaping society, urged media practitioners to uphold ethics, truth, and objectivity in their reports. He warned against spreading false or inflammatory information, especially through social media, which he said can be harmful to peace and stability.

He advised broadcasters to stand by the truth, avoid misleading content, and ensure that the media continues to inform, educate, and entertain the public responsibly.

The event ended with applause and commendation for the Aify Global Chairman, whose contributions to philanthropy and media development continue to earn national recognition.