The Coordinator of the 27 Local Government Areas of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) in Imo State, Mr. Kennedy Onwunali, has appealed to Governor Hope Uzodimma to intervene in a brewing leadership crisis within the state’s youth council.

Mr. Onwunali specifically urged the governor to caution Mr. Eric Uwakwe, the Special Adviser to the Government of Imo State on Youth mobilisation, over actions that, he claims, are threatening the harmonious relationship between the youth and the state government. He emphasized that the National Youth Council of Nigeria, as its name implies, operates under the jurisdiction of the national president and not as an independent “Imo State Youth Council.” This structure ensures that all youth organizations in the country are unified under the council at the federal level.

According to Mr. Onwunali, Mr. Uwakwe has been promoting Mr. Humphrey Osuji as the chairman of the NYCN in Imo State, contrary to directives from the national president of the council, Ambassador Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo. He noted that the NYCN president had officially communicated with the state government, affirming Barrister Udoka Ezinwanne Chimuanya as the recognized chairman of the council in Imo State.

Despite this clarification, Mr. Uwakwe allegedly continues to support an alternative leadership structure. Mr. Onwunali described this as an act capable of embarrassing the state government and disrupting the operations of the NYCN in Imo State.

In his statement, Mr. Onwunali urged Governor Uzodimma to direct Mr. Uwakwe to align with the NYCN’s national leadership and recognize Barrister Udoka Ezinwanne Chimuanya as the legitimate leader in the state. He argued that such alignment is crucial for maintaining a smooth and effective relationship between the youth movement and the government. It would also ensure the successful implementation of youth programs spearheaded by the Ministry of Youth and Talent Development.

Mr. Onwunali’s call underscores the need for unity and adherence to established protocols in advancing the interests of the youth in Imo State.

.pledges to Support Late Eze Oparaoji

By Silvernews

The family of Late Eze Cletus and Ugoeze Dorathy Oparaoji has offered scholarship to students and donated free food items to widows in Mbaise.

The event is part of efforts by the family to support the educational aspirations of young men and women in Amuzi Ahiara Ahiazu Mbaise, through the Eze Cletus and Ugoeze Dorathy Oparaoji Memorial Educational Fund, ECUDOMEF, Foundation.

Speaking with Silvenews.com.ng, the fourth grandson of the Late Eze Oparaoji, Dr. Chinemerem Daniel Onwuliri said the move is in continuation of the humanitarian assistance of their late grandfather that started about 25 years ago.

According to the Medical Doctor and Pubic Health Specialist, the family will continue to assist the less privileged in the society through the foundation.

His words: “The foundation is designed to support the educational aspirations of the children in our community, specifically, Amuzi where Eze was the leader of this community when he was alive.

“After he died on the 31st of December, 1997, this foundation was started to support children who have finished secondary school to make a smooth transition into the university by supporting their exams fees for WAEC, NECO, JAMB etc.

“We have been able to do this since the late 90s. It’s about 25 years since this has been going on. We want to appreciate God for bringing the families through. It’s always an interesting time to come together to the community to commemorate their lives.

“They lived very good live by supporting the community, making donations and being good to the community. He was one of the first persons who started the water scheme here in Amuzi. He was passionate about the community development. I am happy we are able to do this to sustain that narrative and legacy.

“We thank God for the young ones, seven of them would be receiving 50,000 each to support that process as the 25th or 26th set for the foundation scholarship.

“The widows are going to get support as well. We will continue to encourage other students to put in their best. Many persons have done well as a result of this support, even the person’s who did not win have been able to encourage others to do well.

“We will continue to push it on even beyond the third generation. Our children are here and they are also observing. We hope to see that the good work Eze Oparaoji started inspired many, including my Father, Late Prof. Celestine Onwuliri.”

By Silvernews

A historic gathering of the Greater Mbaise Forum, led by Prof. Polycarp Nwoha, Isiewu get together, was held at the residence of Mazi OCK Unegbu’s descendant in Afor Ogbe. The event brought together stakeholders from Mbaise, both at home and in the diaspora, to deliberate on strategies for the sustainable development of the Mbaise nation.

The meeting served as a platform for robust discussions on addressing socio-economic challenges, fostering unity, and charting a course for growth in the region. Key participants emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between residents and those in the diaspora to achieve common goals.

One of the event’s highlights was the unveiling of Ilulu Na Akpaalaokwu Igbo, a publication produced by the forum. The publication aims to promote Igbo culture, language, and heritage while advancing the intellectual and cultural renaissance of Mbaise.

Prof. Nwoha, in his address, lauded the efforts of all attendees and urged continuous engagement in developmental projects. He reiterated the forum’s commitment to driving progress through innovative and inclusive initiatives.

The well-attended gathering was hailed as a significant milestone in the collective quest to transform the Mbaise nation into a beacon of progress and excellence.

A historic gathering of the Greater Mbaise Forum, led by Prof. Polycarp Nwoha, titled Isiewu Get-together, was held at the residence of a descendant of Mazi OCK Unegbu, located at Afor Ogbe. The event brought together stakeholders from Mbaise, both at home and in the diaspora, to deliberate on strategies for the sustainable development of the Mbaise nation.

The meeting served as a platform for robust discussions on addressing socio-economic challenges, fostering unity, and charting a course for growth in the region. Key participants emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between residents and those in the diaspora to achieve common goals.

One of the event’s highlights was the unveiling of Ilulu Na Akpaalaokwu Igbo, a publication produced by the forum. The publication aims to promote Igbo culture, language, and heritage while advancing the intellectual and cultural renaissance of Mbaise. Three other works by members were also showcased on the day. These included: Mbaise People of Southeast Nigeria by Professor Paul Uchenna Mbakwe, and My Glorious Faith by Bro. I.A.M. Eluwa. The former is a finished work, and participants purchased copies, while the latter is ready for publication but seeking sponsors. Another work presented was Silvernews Newspaper, published by Mr. Kennedy Onwunali.

The brief book presentation was conducted by Desmond Obani and Chief Remy Onuoha. Chief Andy Evuleocha and High Chief MOE Ogoko were commended for their generous financial support for the ceremony. Foundation members of the Greater Mbaise Development Forum present were accorded due recognition.

In his address, Prof. Nwoha lauded the efforts of all attendees and urged continuous engagement in developmental projects. He reiterated the forum’s commitment to driving progress through innovative and inclusive initiatives.

The well-attended gathering was hailed as a significant milestone in the collective quest to transform the Mbaise nation into a beacon of progress and excellence.