Sunshine Magazine

 *‎‎Wealth Is Within: Investment Opportunities in Bende North - OziomaChi*  ‎The concept of wealth being within the sound of your voice aligns perfectly with the Igbo proverb " *nkụ di na mba na esiri mba nri".* This means that within one’s environment lies the opportunities and the inherent means to survive and succeed. It underscores the importance of seeing, understanding, discovering, exploring, tapping into, and utilising the inherent opportunities and benefits in one’s immediate environment. Sadly, many people fail to comprehend nor tap their local resources but instead seek fortunes elsewhere. Russell Conwell’s Acres of Diamonds perfectly captures this irony, where a young man sold his inheritance in search of wealth abroad, only for the new owner to find diamonds on the original land. The essence of this article is to underscore the paradox that amidst the voices of the people in Bende North Constituency, there lies untapped wealth waiting to be harnessed. Hence, does...

IGP Egbetokun Reiterates: Police Must Not Arrest Over Civil Disputes or Contract Breaches By Blessing Eze  The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has reaffirmed that officers of the Nigeria Police Force must refrain from making arrests in matters strictly relating to civil disputes or breaches of contract, emphasizing that such actions contravene the provisions of the Police Act. Delivering this directive on Tuesday at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference in Enugu State, the IGP—represented by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Legal Services, Ohiozoba Ehiede—reminded the Force that Section 32(2) of the Police Act clearly limits the powers of arrest to criminal offences. Quoting the Act, he stressed: “A person shall not be arrested merely on account of a civil wrong or breach of contract.” He further cautioned against the unlawful practice of detaining individuals in lieu of others, stating, “No one should be arrested fo...

 IPMAN Suspends Task Force/Surveillance And Intelligence Units Nationwide following a request to the Inspector General of Police. In a decisive move aimed at restoring order and strengthening the operational integrity of its activities, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has officially suspended the operations of its Task Force nationwide. The development follows a letter addressed to the Inspector General of Police by the national leadership of IPMAN under the able stewardship of Dr. Amb. Kola Adewoyin, President of the Association. In the communication, the leadership clearly outlined the need to streamline the activities of the Association, eliminate excesses, and ensure strict compliance with national laws, regulations, and internal protocols. Acknowledging IPMAN’s concerns, the Nigeria Police Force, in its response, directed the immediate cessation of activities of the IPMAN Task Force across the federation. The letter from the Police emphasized...

Imo State Governor Approves New Minimum Wage of N104,000, Increases Doctors’ Salary to N533,000 By Blessing Eze The Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has approved a new minimum wage structure of N104,000 for civil servants in the state. The announcement was made during a meeting with representatives of the state’s labour force at the Government House, Owerri. Governor Uzodimma further disclosed that medical doctors in the state’s civil service will now receive a monthly salary of N533,000. He explained that the upward review of wages was made possible through improved internally generated revenue as well as increased federal allocations. According to the governor, the revised wage structure is not only aimed at improving the welfare of workers but also at stimulating the state’s economy, boosting morale, and enhancing productivity across the public sector. In addition, Governor Uzodimma announced that his administration has earmarked N16 billion for the settlement of outsta...

Ondo State Celebrates Successful Inauguration of CCPIN State Command By Hassan Abubakar The people of Ondo State have once again demonstrated their unwavering commitment to peace, security, and community development as they celebrated the successful inauguration of the Ondo State Command of the Community Crime Prevention Initiative of Nigeria (CCPIN), held today, August 26, 2025. The historic event marked a bold step towards strengthening grassroots security architecture and enhancing collaboration between the citizenry and law enforcement agencies in combating crime and fostering peace across the state. Inaugurating the new Command, the Director General of CCPIN, Amb. Dr. Onwuka K. Okorie, ably represented by the South-West Regional Commander, Pastor Peter Bamigbade, urged members of the organization to diligently abide by the rules and guiding principles of CCPIN. He stressed that the Initiative is founded on discipline, patriotism, and volunteer service, reminding members that their...

  IÑU ÑDI (NEW YAM CELEBRATION) OF AMAKPO COMMUNITY, IGBERE: A PILLAR OF CULTURAL GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT. INTRODUCTION: Among the living traditions that bind Igbere Clan together, few are as emblematic as Iñu Ñdi—the Amakpo Community’s New Yam celebration. More than a harvest rite, it is a ceremony of thanksgiving, renewal, and social investment. By honoring yam—the heartbeat of Igbo agrarian life—Amakpo reaffirms values that power the cultural growth and sustainable development of the wider Igbere Clan: solidarity, discipline, creativity, and stewardship. HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL CONTEXT: In Igbo cosmology, yam (jí) symbolizes industry, dignity, and providence. The first public tasting of the new harvest must be consecrated—evidence of a people who see agriculture not only as economics but as ethics. Amakpo’s observance of Iñu Ñdi preserves this ancient covenant: acknowledging God’s grace, honoring ancestors, and blessing the hands that till the soil. ANATOMY OF THE CEREMONY: ...

 Obasanjo Declares Urgency for Nigeria’s Progress, Criticises Past and Present Leadership By Blessing Eze  Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed concern over Nigeria’s slow pace of development, stating that he is in a hurry to see the nation attain its true potential before he reaches what he described as his “departure lounge.” Speaking while reflecting on his public service journey and his newly released book, Nigeria: Past and Future, Obasanjo assessed the trajectory of Nigeria’s leadership, criticising both past and present administrations for failing to live up to the nation’s expectations. The former president explained that his numerous books and public interventions—including My Command, Nzeogwu, Not My Will, and his three-volume autobiography My Watch—were not borne out of malice but from a genuine desire to see Nigeria progress. “All my writings have been aimed at making Nigeria better because I strongly believe that Nigeria can be made better and I also b...

 Lagos State Government Demolishes Alaba Rago Market and Mosque After Five Decades of Operation By Hassan Abubakar  The Lagos State Government has carried out the demolition of Alaba Rago Market, a long-standing commercial hub predominantly occupied by Northern traders who have conducted business there for more than 50 years. Authorities explained that the decision was necessitated by the market’s expansion into surrounding areas, which they said had contributed to congestion, disorder, and urban planning challenges. However, affected traders have expressed deep disappointment over the development, alleging that the demolition was carried out without adequate prior notice or consultation. “We have spent over five decades building this market and struggling to establish our livelihoods here. In a single day, everything was demolished without warning. Over 40 mosques were also destroyed in the process,” lamented one of the displaced traders. The action has sparked widespread rea...

The Resignation of Chief Dike Chukwu Dike: A Turning Point for PDP in Bende Local Government By Ikechukwu Eze  In a dramatic political development on Monday, Chief Dike Chukwu Dike—widely respected as one of the strongest pillars of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Bende Local Government Area—formally resigned from the party. His departure, long considered unthinkable by many, is now being described as a watershed moment for the PDP in the area and, indeed, Abia State politics. Chief Dike is no ordinary party man. A former Chairman of all Chairmen, former LGA Chairman of Bende, and until his resignation, the State Assistant Treasurer of PDP, he has for years been the face of party loyalty, grassroots mobilization, and strategic influence in the region. To many, he symbolized continuity and resilience in a party that has weathered multiple storms in Abia politics. The news of his resignation is therefore more than just a personal decision; it is a political earthquake. As one ...

 IGBO NATIONAL COUNCIL: An Organization Whose Time Has Come. By Amb. Dr. Onwuka K Okorie  Across the annals of history, every generation is confronted with defining moments—turning points where vision, unity, and action converge to alter the course of destiny. For the Igbo nation, that moment is now. And the platform upon which this transformation will be anchored is the Igbo National Council (INC)—an organization whose time has truly come. The Call of History The Igbo people, renowned for their resilience, enterprise, and innovation, have always been central to Nigeria’s economic, political, and cultural life. From the pre-colonial period to the post-independence era, Igbos have consistently demonstrated unmatched adaptability and creativity, making significant contributions to commerce, governance, industry, and education. Yet, despite these achievements, the Igbo nation has faced recurring marginalization, socio-political exclusion, and structural challenges that threaten i...

 ​A CALL TO ACTION: THE URGENCY OF THE UPCOMING IPMAN AGM.         Dr. Amb. Kola Adewoyin (President) ​The clock is ticking. The future of our organization hangs in the balance, and the upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM), scheduled for the first week of September 2025, is a critical moment we cannot afford to miss. This isn't just another routine meeting; it's a pivotal event for our collective future. ​The primary purpose of this AGM is to ratify the National executive posts. This process is the very foundation of our governance. By confirming our leadership, we ensure that the organization can move forward with stability, direction, and a clear mandate. Without this ratification, our leaders operate in a state of limbo, their ability to make key decisions and implement essential projects hampered. This uncertainty can stall progress, create internal friction, and, most importantly, prevent us from achieving our shared goals. ​The call for this AGM is a dire...

 IPMAN: NEW STRATEGIES AND REFORMS UNDER DR. KOLA ADEWOYIN Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Kola Adewoyin, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) is implementing   bold reforms across all zones to restore efficiency, unity, and transparency. Key Reform Highlights: South West Zone: Streamlined depot operations Removal of allocation bottlenecks Stronger collaboration with regulatory agencies Port Harcourt Refinery Depot: New scheduling systems Improved communication channels Stricter compliance for equitable product loading Calabar Depot: Infrastructure upgrades in progress Elimination of sharp practices Improved product availability to Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and neighbouring states Eastern Zone: Strategic engagement with authorities to rehabilitate depots Pipeline reactivation plans for seamless distribution Reduced reliance on road transportation Northern Zones: Infrastructure and depot management improvements Security collaboration to pr...

​FEDERAL HIGH COURT FREEZES N661 MILLION IN EX-NNPCL BOSS KYARI'S BANK ACCOUNTS: August 20, 2025 By Andrew Oleka   ​In a significant move in the fight against corruption, a Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the temporary freezing of four bank accounts linked to Mele Kolo Kyari, the former Group Managing Director (GMD) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). The court’s decision stems from a high-stakes investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) into allegations of fraud, abuse of office, and money laundering. ​Justice Emeka Nwite, ruling on an ex parte motion filed by the EFCC, issued the order on Tuesday, granting the anti-graft agency a crucial 30-day window to conclude its investigation. Although the EFCC had requested a 60-day freeze, the court limited the order to 30 days, with the option for renewal. ​The EFCC's lawyer, Ogechi Ujam, argued that the freezing order was essential to preserve the funds, which are currently ...

  Refinery Fraud: EFCC Recovers Billions, Moves to Prosecute Ex-NNPCL Officials August 17, 2025 By Nsikak Sunday The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has recovered over ₦5 billion and $10 million from contractors and government officials implicated in the multi-billion naira fraud surrounding the turnaround maintenance of Nigeria’s refineries in Port Harcourt, Kaduna, and Warri. Investigations indicate that an additional ₦10 billion and $13 million siphoned through inflated contracts are currently being traced, with the agency vowing to recover them. EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, is said to have personally supervised the investigation, expressing displeasure over the continued non-functionality of the nation’s refineries despite decades of massive public spending. Years of Spending, No Results Nigeria’s four refineries have remained largely moribund for decades, despite successive administrations approving billions of dollars for their rehabilitation. Instead,...

CCPIN Office Officially Unsealed After Successful Defense Before FCCPC Panel Abuja, Nigeria – August 16, 2025 The Office of the Community Crime Prevention Initiative of Nigeria (CCPIN) has been officially unsealed following a successful defense of the organization’s status before the Panel of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Abuja. This development marks a significant victory for the Initiative, which has remained committed to promoting community safety, crime prevention, and social responsibility across Nigeria. The defense session provided a clear opportunity for the leadership of CCPIN to demonstrate the legality of its establishment, the credibility of its operations, and the relevance of its mandate to national security and community development. After careful deliberation, the FCCPC Panel affirmed the status of CCPIN, clearing the way for the immediate reopening of its office. The decision has been widely welcomed by stakeholders, community lead...

 EFCC Hands Over ₦100 Million Recovered Funds to Federal Ministry of Solid Mineral Development in Uyo August 15, 2025 By Aniefiok Udoh The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has handed over a recovered sum of ₦100 million to the Federal Ministry of Solid Mineral Development in Akwa Ibom State. The official presentation, which took place on Friday, August 15, 2025, at the EFCC Zonal Office in Uyo, was conducted on behalf of the Chairman by the Zonal Director, Assistant Commander of the EFCC (ACE I) Oshodi Johnson. According to the Commission, the funds were recovered from defaulting mining companies operating in Akwa Ibom State that had failed to remit statutory royalties due to the Federal Government. While handing over the bank drafts to the Federal Mines Officer in charge of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Emmanuel Effiong Bassey, Oshodi reiterated the EFCC’s unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and the diligent re...

 ABIA STATE CHAPTER OF IGBO NATIONAL CONGRESS HOSTED BY GENERAL AZUBUIKE IHEJIRIKA, FORMER CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA. 15th August, 2025 By Amb. Dr. Onwuka K Okorie  A delegation from the Abia State Chapter of the Igbo National Congress (INC), led by its Chairman, Dr. Stanley Chima, was graciously hosted by Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika (Rtd.), the former Chief of Army Staff of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The meeting, which took place at the General's residence, was a crucial step in the preparations for the upcoming Igbo Cultural Conference (ICF).   The atmosphere was one of profound respect and collaborative spirit as both parties discussed the logistics, themes, and goals of the conference. Dr. Chima expressed his gratitude to Gen. Ihejirika for his unwavering support for Igbo cultural preservation and his willingness to lend his immense experience and wisdom to the INC's cause. He emphasized that the ICF is a vital platform for showcasing...

  JUST IN: APC Names Senator Orji Uzor Kalu as Co-Chairman of National Campaign Council for Taraba Bye-Election August 14, 2025 By Udo Emmanuel, Abuja The National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has appointed Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North Senatorial District, as Co-Chairman of the party’s National Campaign Council for the August 16 Karim I State Constituency bye-election in Taraba State. The appointment, effective immediately, was communicated to Senator Kalu—who also chairs the Senate Committee on the South-East Development Commission (SEDC)—via a letter dated August 12, 2025, and personally signed by APC National Secretary, Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basira. In the letter, the party commended the former Abia State Governor and immediate past Senate Chief Whip, describing his selection as:  “A testament to your exceptional leadership qualities, unwavering commitment to the ideals of our great party, and deep understanding of t...

 *Beyond Borders: Migration and the Ancestral Imperative*- *OziomaChi* _*Migration often doesn't alter an individual's social status; instead, it can replicate their existing socio-economic stratification, albeit in a new social environment*_ The phenomena of emigration and migration are undeniable aspects of human existence, shaping the fabric of societies worldwide. People have always been drawn to new lands in pursuit of opportunities, whether for business, education, or the promise of a better life- the golden fleece. This universal quest for improvement explains why many leaders in countries like the United States have roots tracing back to other parts of the world, particularly Europe. Historically, the flow of people across borders has been a two-way street, with Europeans engaging in trade with African nations long before colonial times. In Nigeria, for instance, pre-colonial trade revolved around commodities such as palm oil, pepper, ivory, cotton, and gold, setting th...

BREAKING: President Tinubu Reappoints FCC Chairman, Appoints 31 Commissioners Including Orji Kalu’s Aide, Peter Eze, and Former Abia Finance Commissioner, Obinna Oriaku President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the reappointment of Dr. Muheeba Dankaka as the Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC) for a second five-year term. In addition, the President confirmed the appointment of Mohammed Musa as Secretary of the Commission and retained Kayode Oladele from Ogun State as a Commissioner. The tenure of Lawal Ya’u Roni (Jigawa), Abubakar Atiku Bunu (Kebbi), and Eludayo Eluyemi (Osun) has also been renewed. As part of a major restructuring move, President Tinubu appointed 31 new commissioners to the FCC. The list includes notable figures such as Hon. Obinna Oriaku from Abia State, a former Commissioner for Finance, and Peter Eze from Enugu State, an aide to former Senate Chief Whip, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu. Other appointees are: Mrs. Bema Olvadi Madayi (Adamawa) Obongawa...

 DR. KOLA ADEWOYIN: REVOLUTIONIZING THE PETROLEUM INDUSTRY THROUGH THOROUGH REFORMS IN THE INDEPENDENT PETROLEUM MARKETERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (IPMAN) The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has, for decades, been a major driver in Nigeria’s energy distribution network, bridging the gap between refineries and millions of end users across the nation. Yet, like many critical institutions, it has faced its share of challenges—ranging from internal disputes to structural inefficiencies that have hindered its full potential. Enter Dr. Kola Adewoyin—a visionary leader whose determination, intellect, and unwavering commitment to justice have placed him at the forefront of a new era for IPMAN and the petroleum industry at large. His recent and hard-earned victories in a series of landmark legal battles—from the High Court to the Appeal Court, and ultimately at the Supreme Court—have not only solidified his mandate but also paved the way for unprecedented refor...

 BREAKING: Nigerian Senator Dies After Abuja Hospital Allegedly Refuses Surgery Over $15,000 Fee By Blessing Eze  Former Nigerian lawmaker, Senator Ibrahim Musa Kontagora, has died in a heartbreaking incident that is sending shockwaves across the nation. Multiple reports allege that a private hospital in Abuja refused to perform an urgent, life-saving surgery because the senator could not immediately pay the $15,000 (₦23 million) demanded upfront. Moments later, he was pronounced dead. The tragedy has ignited nationwide outrage, with many questioning how a former senator — once part of Nigeria’s political elite — could be denied critical care over a bill. “This is more than a personal loss; it’s a damning indictment of our healthcare system,” one observer said. The incident has intensified calls for urgent reform to address: The declining state of Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure. The profit-driven nature of essential medical care. The widening gap between leaders and the c...

  BREAKING: Nationwide Aviation Shutdown Looms as Unions Announce Indefinite Service Withdrawal from August 11 By Blessing Eze Nigeria's aviation sector is on the brink of a major disruption as four leading unions have announced plans to withdraw their services indefinitely starting Sunday, August 11, 2025. Air passengers across the country are being strongly advised to make alternative travel arrangements immediately. In a joint statement released on Thursday, August 7, 2025, the unions declared that the industrial action will persist "until further notice," signaling a potentially prolonged shutdown of critical aviation services nationwide. The notice has been officially communicated to: The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo The Managing Directors of FAAN and NAMA The Commissioner of Police, Airport Command The Director of State Security, all airports All Nigerian airline operators The decision is the result of unresolved griev...

 *CHIEF DAVID OGBA (BOURDEX) AND THE POLITICS OF SELF-DELUSION* ✍️ _:Hon. Chief Alaezi Onyekwere John._  There comes a time in politics when silence is no longer golden, especially when people begin to mistake wishful thinking for public declaration. Chief Ogba, famously known as Bourdex, recently made a statement that the Abia North senatorial seat will "shift to Ohafia" by 2027. He didn’t stop there, he went further to declare that Senator Orji Uzor Kalu would not return to the Senate, no matter the circumstance. Now, let's take a moment and truly assess the weight of that statement. For a man whose influence barely goes beyond the boundaries of Abiriba, one would expect a bit more humility in political utterances. This is a man whose only known public office was at the local government level. Ironically, instead of aspiring for something greater, he proudly wears the title of “local government chairman” as if it is a national medal of honour. That, in itself, is where ...

 ABIA NORTH: THE TRUTH ABOUT OUK’S IMPACT AND The UNIFIED VOICE OF OHAFIA. In the unfolding political discourse surrounding Abia North Senatorial Zone (ANSZ), a compelling narrative has emerged—one anchored not in noise or misinformation, but in truth, performance, and unity. At the center of this story stands Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (OUK), a leader whose tenure has redefined representation and rekindled the developmental flame across the zone. Two powerful commentaries recently released—one by Dr. Ody Ajike and another by Prof. Kalu Eni—offer an unfiltered insight into the achievements, integrity, and public trust that OUK continues to command in Abia North. *Leadership Beyond Rhetoric* Dr. Ajike’s analysis provides a clear lens through which to view OUK’s legacy. Abia North, once referred to as the “Rust Belt” of Abia State, has undergone a remarkable transformation since OUK assumed office in the Senate. The senator's projects are not confined to paper—they are visible, measurabl...