Omu Ogwashi-Uku kingdom, stakeholder urge community on peace for development

By Anne Azuka

The acting Omu of Ogwashi-Uku kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, Her Royal Majesty(HRM), Chief Edith Rafua has urged the people of Ogwashi Uku kingdom to give peace a chance and rally round the monarchy for the overall development of the community.

Omu Rafua gave the advice while reacting to a video of a faceless woman accusing the monarch, Obi (Dr) Ifechukwude Anishi Okonjo 11 of masterminding the bulldozing of crops in her farm and of other farmers in the community.

Obi Ifechukwude Okonji who is the traditional ruler of Ogwashi-Uku kingdom is the younger brother to the Director General of World Trade Organization, Dr Ngozi Okonjo Iweala.

The Omu who is traditionally in charge of womenfolk and market affairs in the community said contrary to the campaign of calumny in the video, the traditional ruler was just recovering the Ogwashi Uku land mortgaged to estate developers by some unscrupulous individuals that delight in the sale of the community land.

Omu Rafua who spoke shortly after an inspection of the said farmland the woman referred to newsmen weekend, stated: “when it was found out that the said land at the back of Delta State Polytechnic,Ogwashi Uku was being claimed by some estate developers,His Royal Majesty who is the custodian of the community land went to court in 2021 to legally re-claim what was illegally acquired by the developers.

“After serious court battle, the Obi won the case with the Certificate of Warrant of Possession given to him by the court.

“He then set out to recover the land illegally acquired by the land grabbers hence the clearing of the pathways after due diligence .”, she stressed.

According to her, there was no destruction of any crop as attested to by several farmers in the farming area.

She added that the allegation of the woman was not only false but a calculated attempt to smear the reputation of a monarch who has the interest to take the community to a greater height.

“The video is a faceless video because if you are accusing somebody of destroying your property you don’t need to hide your face, you have to come out so that people will know who you are.

” If actually anything like that happened, the woman should have come to me as Omu of the kingdom or go to the palace and report.

The Omu who commended the Obi for his developmental efforts listed several projects embarked upon by him to include the construction of Mother and Child clinic at the general hospital, provision of over seven transformers to Ogwashi Uku and its satellite communities, boreholes and award of scholarship awards to students amongst others.

Meanwhile, the Palace Secretary, Obi- in- council of the kingdom, Prince Ifeakanachukwu Emordi has appealed for the cooperation of all with the monarch in his efforts to recover all the illegally sold lands in Ogwashi Uku and the good work he has started.

“If not for his efforts, I don’t think our children will have any future because by the time all these perpetrators must have finished their evil crime of mortgaging our land, we will have no place for our children to even call their own land anymore.”

Before taking possession of the land in question following the certificate to do so as granted by a competent court, the secretary explained, Obi Okonjo had exhausted all avenues by writing to the relevant authorities, adding that ” all of them are aware of what is going on there.

” Therefore with the proactive steps of the King in recovering the Ogwashi uku lands from land grabbers, encomiums should be poured on him, not casting aspersions as being portrayed in the video meant to smear the integrity of the king”, he explained.

23-8-

By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi 

Benue State House of Assembly has slammed suspension on four of its members over alleged conspiracy and attempting to disrupt proceedings.

The house during plenary, presided over by the Speaker, Hon Aondona Dajoh, suspended, Hon Alfred Emberga, representing Makurdi North, Hon Shimawua Emmanuel, Vandeikya Constituency ll, Hon Cyril Ikong, Oju Constituency ll, and Hon Abu Umoru, representing Apa State constituency from participating in legislative duties.

The resolution followed a motion moved by the Majority leader, Hon Saater Tiseer,  informing the house about the attempt by the affected legislators to mobilize members with the aim to cause disorder, barely three days after the house unanimously passed confidence votes on  its leadership and the state governor.

In their contributions, members representing Gwer West, Hon Elias Ityav, and the Chief Whip, Hon Bemdoo Ipusu, Katsina Ala West Constituency, who supported the motion, condemned the suspended lawmakers over their misconduct.

The Speaker of the house, Hon Dajoh, while ruling on the matter approved the suspension of the four members for the period of three months.

Hon Dajoh, announced the desolation of all standing committees of the house. He appointed Hon Elias Audu as the new spokes person, Hon Douglas Akya as the new Chief Whip of the house, and Kennedy Angbo, as the Minority Leader.

Meanwhile findings by Daybreak Nigeria indicates that the four legislators were suspended over an attempt to mobilize members for the impeachment of the Speaker but they hit the rocks, hence their suspension to serve as a deterrent to others.

By Daudu Agaba Andrew Samuel

The Israeli-Iranian conflict, often seen as a distant Middle Eastern struggle, is increasingly casting a shadow over Africa’s political, economic, and Security landscape. What began as a rivalry rooted in ideology and regional dominance has grown into a geopolitical battle with ripple effects far beyond the borders of Tel-Aviv and Tehran.

Iran and Israel weren’t always adversaries. Finding common ground in opposing regional adversaries, the two countries maintained friendly relations during the reign of Mohammed Reza Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran, who ruled from 1941 to 1979. But ties drastically deteriorated with the Iranian Revolution of 1979. Cooperation had disappeared by the 1990s, and the rivalry had taken on a distinctive role in Middle Eastern affairs.

Iran funded and trained anti-Israel organizations, portraying itself as a champion of the Palestinian cause known as the Axis of Resistance. Iran’s expanding power and nuclear aspirations were perceived by Israel as an existential threat. Soon after, there were proxy conflicts in which both sides supported rival forces in Yemen, Palestine, Syria, and Lebanon. Assassinations, cyberattacks, and infrastructure damage were all used as weapons in this covert conflict.

The conflict escalated sharply in June,2025 when Israel struck Iranian nuclear sites following reports of violations of non-proliferation agreements. Iran responded with missile attacks, drawing the region into open confrontation.

Why Should Africa Pay Attention?  Africa may seem far apart from these conflicts at first glance. However, the economy and security structures of the continent are extremely susceptible to turmoil in the Middle East. Every increase in the Israel-Iran confrontation has real repercussions because of Africa’s abundant natural riches, commercial routes, and dependency on imported petroleum.

The economic effects have been among the most obvious. African consumers have been severely impacted by rising global oil prices brought on by concerns about supply interruptions. Recently, the price of gasoline in Nigeria jumped to 900 Naira a liter, exacerbating inflation that was already being driven by the elimination of subsidies. Higher prices pose a danger to recent economic improvements in Ghana, which imports petroleum at a cost of almost $400 million each month.

The heat has also reached Egypt, a North African country. Domestic gas constraints prompted the government to implement emergency measures, halting supplies to some industries after Israel halted operations at the Tamar gas field in the Mediterranean. Analysts caution that extended instability in West Africa may devalue currencies such as the naira and cedi, increasing import costs and straining reserves.

The Political Repercussions are beyond economics, Africa faces growing political dilemmas. African governments have been compelled by the conflict to adopt stances on a war that is being waged thousands of kilometers away, often against their will. The African Union has warned that the escalation is a major threat to global peace and security and has called for moderation. Nations that have publicly denounced Israel’s strikes on Iran as breaches of international law include South Africa, Mauritania, and Sudan. Citizens in Nouakchott protested against Israel and its supporters in the West.

Other African States, however, have stayed silent. Morocco has refrained from commenting directly, having repaired relations with Israel through the Abraham Accords, which were mediated by the United States. Rwanda, a close agricultural and security partner of Israel, has also opted for prudence. In the meantime, in an effort to preserve harmonious international ties, Nigeria and Kenya have released well-crafted statements calling for communication and de-escalation.

Africa’s conflicted position is demonstrated by its uneven responses. While some countries place a higher priority on strategic connections with Israel, others are more inclined toward solidarity with Palestine and Iran. The risk for Africa is that it may turn into a front in a proxy conflict between outside forces vying for dominance.

Home security risks have posed a potential implication of the Israeli- Iranian conflict on Africa. The conflict between Iran and Israel has security-related ramifications in addition to diplomatic and economic ones. Experts caution that armed smuggling, the recruitment of extremists, and ideological polarization could cause protracted hostilities to spread into Africa. Nigeria offers a sobering illustration. Concerns of Iranian influence have long been raised by the presence of Shiite preacher Ibrahim Zakzaky and his adherents. There is a significant chance that outside parties will take advantage of domestic tensions in a nation already beset by sectarian strife and terrorism. The introduction of weaponry or ideology associated with Middle Eastern conflicts might further destabilize fragile regimes in the Sahel and Horn of Africa, where violent organizations already flourish.

For decades, Africa’s geopolitical importance was defined largely by its natural resources and trade routes. But as the continent’s population and economies grow, so too does its vulnerability to external manipulation. The Israeli-Iranian conflict highlights this fragility, showing how events in distant regions can destabilize African societies almost overnight. Still, Africa is not without agency i.e. Africa is not a passive victim of outside forces; it has the power to act, decide and shape its own future. The issue is being used by some leaders to make the case for increased energy independence, regional collaboration, and varied alliances. For example, if governance obstacles are resolved, Nigeria might transform short-term oil windfalls into long-term investments. The energy crisis in Egypt emphasizes how urgent it is for the continent to invest in renewable energy.

Diplomatically, African states can also use their collective voice at the UN and AU to push for de-escalation, rather than being pulled into divisive alignments. By prioritizing stability and neutrality, Africa may avoid being used as a pawn in a geopolitical chess game it did not create.

By looking ahead, it is unlikely that the Israeli-Iranian war will cease very soon. Its foundations are long-standing, intense ideological, religious, and strategic disputes. However, the stakes are high and immediate for Africa: increased security threats, political tensions, rising fuel prices, and unstable currencies.

“Africa may be far from the Middle East, but we are never far from its consequences,” as Hafsat Bello, a Nigerian analyst stated. The issue for African countries is to forge their own foreign policy path while protecting their economies and communities from the consequences. The continent cannot afford to be destabilized by a war it neither started nor benefits from. In the end, Africa’s message must be clear: its peace and stability should not be sacrificed to the rivalries of others.

Daudu Agaba, is a Corp member currently serving with the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Abuja.And can be reached via: agabadaudu@gmail.com

By Anne Azuka

The Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC) has announced its readiness to begin the registration of 10,000 widows under the Widows Welfare Scheme into the State’s health insurance program.

The Director General of the Commission, Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, disclosed this on Wednesday while receiving a delegation from the Delta State Social Investment Program, led by the Executive Assistant to the Governor, Chief Isioma Okonta.

Dr. Akpoveta assured that all necessary modalities have been put in place to ensure the registration process is completed within two weeks.

He noted that the initiative is designed to enable beneficiaries to begin accessing healthcare services by September 2025.

He emphasized that the State’s Social Health Insurance Scheme was established to provide quality healthcare for vulnerable groups in society, including widows. According to him, access to affordable and quality healthcare should be regarded as a right, not a privilege, especially for the most disadvantaged.

The DG commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his unwavering support of the Commission and his commitment to improving the well-being of vulnerable populations in the state. He also praised Chief Okonta for his tireless efforts in driving social programs that directly impact the lives of Deltans.

In his remarks, the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Social Investment Program and Coordinator of the Widows Welfare Scheme, Chief Isioma Okonta, expressed appreciation for the Commission’s leadership, noting the significant improvements in its operations and service delivery.

Chief Okonta further lauded Governor Oborevwori for demonstrating compassion toward widows, particularly in the face of ongoing global economic challenges.

He expressed confidence in the Health Commission’s capacity to carry out a seamless and effective registration process for the 10,000 widows.

The highlight of the visit was the presentation of the DSCHC Scorecard, showcasing the achievements of the Commission in expanding access to healthcare across Delta State.

This registration exercise marks a major step forward in extending healthcare coverage to vulnerable groups, reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive health insurance for all Deltans.

By Israel Adamu Jos 

Executive Chairman of Agatu Local Government Council, Hon. James Melvin Ejeh, has expressed profound outrage over the gruesome murder of four individuals in the Egwuma and Ogbai communities by suspected Fulani terrorists.

The Chairman condemned the attack, which claimed the lives of an innocent mother, her son, and two others, as barbaric, senseless, and an unprovoked assault on peaceful citizens. “

This is an unprovoked attack on our people. It’s senseless and barbaric,” Hon. Ejeh declared. “How could anyone attack and kill a mother and her son who were simply working on their farm? This tragic incident occurred on Wednesday in Egwuma, where an innocent mother and her son were brutally murdered. Two others were also killed in the neighbouring community of Ogbai. This heinous act is a stark reminder of the terror that criminal elements continue to unleash on our land.”

While commending the efforts of security personnel deployed to the area, Hon. Ejeh noted that the attack took place while security forces were conducting surveillance in other villages. “The attack occurred when security personnel were patrolling other areas. However, their swift and professional response prevented what could have been an even more disastrous situation,” he stated.

The Chairman thanked the Operation Whirl Stroke team, the Nigeria Police Force, the Civil Defence Corps, and Operation Anyam Nyor for their commitment and tireless efforts in protecting Agatu. “I commend our security agencies for their prompt and professional response. Their dedication to securing Agatu is deeply appreciated, and I urge them to continue their excellent work,” he said.

Hon. Ejeh also praised Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia for his unwavering support and proactive measures in tackling insecurity across the state. “We are fortunate to have a governor who is committed to fighting criminality and ensuring peace in Agatu and Benue State as a whole. His leadership and support have been instrumental in addressing these recurring challenges,” the Chairman remarked.

Recognising Agatu’s unique vulnerabilities due to its swampy terrain, Hon. Ejeh called on the youth to remain vigilant. “Given the difficult terrain, poor road network, and other factors that make Agatu vulnerable, I urge our youth to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and proactive in sharing intelligence for the protection of our community,” he advised.

In a heartfelt message, the Chairman extended his condolences to the affected families and communities. “My heart goes out to the families of the victims, the communities of Egwuma and Ogbai, and the entire Agatu land. This is a tragic loss for all of us, and we stand together in grief and solidarity,” Hon. Ejeh said.

The Chairman reaffirmed his commitment to collaborating with security agencies, community leaders, youth, and the state government to ensure that such acts of violence are prevented in the future. “We will continue to work tirelessly to secure our communities and bring lasting peace to Agatu,” he concluded.