society

Terrorism In Idumuje-Ugboko: Victims Speak Out, Demand Justice

Published

5 years ago

May 9, 2020

.. The Rain Oil Boss, Gabriel Ogbechie’s Alleged Connections Exposed!

Some victims of the terrorism in Idumuje-Ugboko, Delta State, which took place on May 18, 2017 have cried out for justice.

The mayhem was allegedly carried out by Prince Chukwunonso Justin Nwoko, his financiers and suspected gang members.

The victims expressed their grievances and demanded for justice in a four-page petition entitled; “Idumuje Ugboko Terrorism, The Victims Cry Out: We Want Justice Not Justin.”

The petition was co-signed on 8th May, 2020 on behalf of all the 29 victims of the terrorism in Idumuje-Ugboko by nine prominent people in the town.

They include Iyase of Idumuje-Ugboko, Chief Chris Ogwu, Odogwu of Idumuje-Ugboko, Chief Edemodu, Wife of the late Obi Albert Nwoko, Queen Faith Okwukwe Nwoko, Prince Chukwuma Nwoko (AC) and Prince Uche Appear Nwoko.

The rest are Mr. Chisindi Moses, Ms Gladys Kogwuonye, Mr. Donatus Dibia and Mr. Bennett Okoh.

They stated in the petition, which was made available to journalists over the weekend, that eleven persons among the attackers have since been charged to court with pleadings from the four (4) apprehended so far.

It was added that a bench warrant has also been issued on the eleven so far charged, “especially the seven key tormentors, including Prince Chukwunonso Justin Nwoko, the gang Leader, Prince Dennis Uwadiegwu Nwoko and Prince Frederick Ejimofor Nwoko, who are currently at large.”

While pleading with the authorities to ensure speedy justice, the petitioners said that “some of those involved either by financing or securing the services of bandits outside our community should be prosecuted.”

Those involved, according to the petitioners, include Mr. Godwin Akaba Aniemeke (a.k.a Deputy), who they said on the instructions of Prince Chukwunonso Justin Nwoko engaged the services of bandits from Agulere in Anambra State among the foot-soldiers to terrorise them from 18-25 May, 2017 at Idumuje-Ugboko their hometown.

“People like Dr. Gabriel Ogbechie (MD Rainoil Nigeria Ltd.), one of the financiers of Prince Chukwunonso Justin Nwoko and recently said to have attempted compromising members of Aniocha North Traditional Rulers Council with an offer of 1.5 M Naira using the Local Government Chairman to make them hurriedly sign a recommendation to the Delta State Government for the recognition and issuance of Staff of Office to Prince Chukwunonso Justin Nwoko as Obi of Idumuje-Ugboko. A man, who is facing litany of criminal and civil cases before the court.

“Gabriel Ogbechie particularly has been blackmailing and intimidating us, ministry of justice and human rights commission. He is the key sponsor of the terrorists. He is the one standing for bail or organising surety. He pays the lawyers of the suspects.

“We have evidence. We must also mention Felix Sunday Banye, Uche Aligbe, Prince Willy Eziani Nwoko, Mr. Jerry Isichei, Prince Mbanefo Felix Nwoko, Mr. Daniel Onyenachie Osakwe, Uche Nwoko Dibie and others who were not charged but implicated by the suspects,” the petition read.

They traced the Genesis of the crisis in Idumuje-Ugboko to when Prince Chukwunonso Justin Nwoko, who is a son of the King (Obi) “contrary to customs and norms of Idumuje-Ugboko,” appeared on the scene with a letter dated 12th August, 2015 “purported to have been authored by the King (Obi) feigning ignorance of all the activities leading to the allocation of land for the establishment of a Golf Course and STARS University at Idumuje-Ugboko.”

The petitioners said further that notable indigenes requested to consult with the king to ascertain the authenticity of the letter, but that Prince Chukwunonso Justin Nwoko and his agents used their closeness to the aged King to block everybody, including the Principal Chiefs.

The development, they stated, led to a petition dated 14th September to the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command by Prince Walters Eziashi, a former President-General of the Community Development Union (2008-2012) to investigate “the two letters purported to have been authored by the King.”

It was added that the police did a diligent investigation and that on the 24th day of February, 2016, Prince Chukwunonso Justin Nwoko, Ejimofor Nwoko, Richard Obiajulu Nwoko and others were indicted.

“The Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) recommended that the culprits be prosecuted and they were accordingly charged before the Chief Magistrate Court 1, Asaba, Charge No. SMC/429C/2016.

“Prince Chukwunonso Nwoko and others in January, 2016 approached the Issele-Uku High Court to challenge the decisions of the community by suing Aniocha North Local Government Council, Prince Ned Nwoko and Linas International, claiming that the process of the land allocation was improper.

“On the 18th of June, 2019, the Court, in a Ruling, awarded a cost against the Claimants (Chukwunonso and others) to the 2nd and 3rd Defendants (Prince Ned Nwoko and Linas International Ltd.) and the 1st Defendant’s name was struck out of the case.

“It is also worthy of note that the 4th Claimant (Prince Edwin Izeonyeunor Nwoko) in the said case withdrew from the case via an affidavit he deposed to at Issele-Uku High Court claiming that he was deceived by Prince Chukwunonso Justin Nwoko,” and “that the king never permitted them to go to court neither do they have a Power of Attorney to file the case on behalf of the Obi nor Umu-omorhisi” they said.

They added that Prince Richard Obiajulu Nwoko, Prince Ejimofor Nwoko, and Prince Chukwunonso Justin Nwoko had written several petitions to the Inspector-General of Police accusing Linas International Ltd, Prince Ned Nwoko, Chief Christopher Ogwu, Prince Walters Eziashi, Kennedy Iloh and Bennet Odor among others of harassment.

The petitioners said further that the police arrested and interrogated the accused and that after diligent investigations they were exonerated.

It was stated in the petition that the King of Idumuje-Ugboko, HRM Obi Albert Nwoko 111; JP, MON joined his ancestors on 6th February, 2017 under questionable circumstances, which they said were still under investigation by the police till date.

They stated that without recourse to the tradition and culture of the Idumuje clan as embedded in the 1937 Intellectual Report by R.B Karr, Prince Chukwunonso, Prince Richard, Ejimofor and Barr. Mbanefo buried the king same day (6/2/2017) without the five principal chiefs present.

“Prince Chukwunonso Justin also appointed himself king within an hour of the purported burial, forcing a 90-year-old man from Atuma Village, one Mr. Odinfono, who holds no traditional title to crown him. An abomination in Idumuje-Ugboko and the entire Anioma land. The consequence is that it further polarised the kingdom, no thanks to the criminality of Prince Chukwunonso and his cabal.

“Thereafter, Prince Chukwunonso, the self-appointed king and his gang began their reign of terror. He ostracised over 51 prominent persons in the community including Prof. Prince Somayina Gabriel Nwoko (OON), a retired Professor of Agricultural Economics, University of Ibadan and the Community Palace Secretary, who later died under mysterious circumstances.

“During the weird siege by Prince Chukwunonso Justin Nwoko and his cabal, attempts were made by their thugs to set Hon. Prince Ned Nwoko’s compound and the proposed university site ablaze, but for the intervention of security agencies drafted to the compound and environ,” the petitioners wrote.

They said further that the crime of these individuals was that they tried to “redirect him and his gang from their acts of injustice, banditry and terrorism.”

It was said further that anyone who is supporting the construction of the ongoing STARS University, Idumuje-Ugboko is either ostracized or banished.

“We are under siege and constant assault by Prince Nonso Nwoko and his militia and wonder what he will do to his perceived opponents if ever he is made the king,” they wrote.

The petitioners revealed that from May 18-25, 2017, Prince Chukwunonso Nwoko and his gang, in a terrorist frenzy ‘imported thugs armed with guns and other dangerous weapons into Idumuje-Ugboko Kingdom and unleashed mayhem attacking different homes, individuals and destroying properties.

“This led to the murder in cold blood of a non-indigene motorcyclist, Cyprian Kumiolun, a native of Benue State in front of Idumuje-Ugboko Palace and one Mr. Kennedy Iloh, who was kidnapped and taken to the palace, where he was tortured to death,” they stated.

The petitioners stressed that the assailants had nothing to do with the STARS University land at Idumuje-Ugboko and that they did not own any interest in the university and that neither did their families.

According to the petitioners, majority of those they attacked had nothing to do with the university land either, and that they were identified by the victims because they did not hide their identities.

“They were happy to be seen and appreciated by Nonso. They carried some of the victims to the palace after destroying their homes,” they said.

It was revealed that the matters are in various courts including the case of terrorism against the suspects in CHARGE NO. FHC/ABJ/11/19 instituted by the Federal Government of Nigeria through the Federal Ministry of Justice, Abuja.

The suspects in the case, they said include: Prince Chukwunonso Justin Nwoko, Prince Frederick Ejimofor Nwoko, Prince Dennis Uwadiegwu Nwoko, Ndudi Chiejume, Onwochei Agiliga Light, Raymond Omesiete, Adim Nwafor, Okey Ifejoku, Azuka Mukolu, Omoye Esonye and Aikhomo Omezi.

It was stated that a bench warrant was issued on 21st March, 2019 by the Federal High Court, Abuja against the suspects for failure to appear in court severally.

The petitioners said that this explains “why the narrative of a serial liar, Azuka Jebose becomes objectionable. His provocative and malicious lies about the ongoing trial of those that terrorised us in 2017 can only incite more violence in the community.

“How can he continue to instigate violence and hatred from his hideout in America? How can anyone in their right senses be asking that the charges against the evil terrorists, who took us as easy and defenceless targets be dropped? We demand the arrest of Azuka Jebose because he is a dangerous accomplice to murder and terrorism.”

The petitioners then stated that injustice to one is injustice to all.

“By the United Nations Charter on fundamental Human Rights, which Nigeria is a signatory to, we are entitled to protection under the law.

“We are fighting for our rights of existence and survival challenged by terrorism.

“We say NO to threats and intimidation by reactionary forces of violence. We are vulnerable victims of unprovoked attacks and unprecedented horror. We need the law. We need JUSTICE Now!” the petitioners concluded

society

CAN Calls for Compassion and Crowd Management Reform After Stampede Tragedy In Anambra, Oyo State

Published

13 minutes ago

December 23, 2024

Sahara Weekly

CAN Calls for Compassion and Crowd Management Reform After Stampede Tragedy In Anambra, Oyo State

CAN,ib

In the wake of the tragic stampede at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama on Saturday, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed deep sorrow and called for improved measures to manage large crowds during charitable events.

In a statement titled “A Heartfelt Response to the Tragedy at Holy Trinity Catholic Church” issued on Sunday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described the incident as “not just statistics” but a devastating loss affecting real families. He offered condolences to the bereaved families and called for collective support and understanding.

“The National Leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) is disturbed by the tragic events at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama on Saturday morning. We have learned that at least ten people, including children, lost their lives in a stampede while trying to seek help from the church,” Okoh stated.

“This tragedy is not just statistics; it represents real families who are hurting. Each person lost was someone’s beloved family member. We wish to express our heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Church and to the families affected by this terrible incident. We stand together with you in this time of sadness and prayer,” he added.

The incident, which occurred during a charitable event, is part of a concerning trend. Archbishop Okoh highlighted two other tragic stampedes that took place earlier this month in Nigeria.

On December 18, a Christmas funfair in Ibadan turned deadly when a stampede claimed the lives of 35 children and left six others critically injured. The event, intended to distribute cash and food to over 5,000 children, has since come under investigation for potential lapses in crowd management.

In another instance, a rice distribution event in Anambra State resulted in the deaths of 22 people and injuries to 32 others. Both incidents underscore the challenges associated with organizing large-scale charitable efforts in the country.

“These heartbreaking incidents highlight the challenges of managing large crowds during charitable events. In the face of these tragedies, we recognize the importance of coming together to support those who are grieving,” Okoh said.

He urged Nigerians to show compassion and solidarity in these trying times. “It is crucial that we listen to one another, share our feelings, and offer help in any way we can. This is a time for compassion and understanding as we help one another heal,” the CAN president emphasized.

The CAN leadership also called for a review of protocols and strategies to ensure the safety of participants at charitable events, aiming to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

society

A Safer Tomorrow: Lessons from a Tragic Event

Published

19 minutes ago

December 23, 2024

Sahara Weekly

A Safer Tomorrow: Lessons from a Tragic Event

The sun was just beginning to rise over the bustling city of Ajayi as hundreds of people gathered outside the Civic Center. The event, a food distribution drive organized by a well-meaning NGO, promised relief to those struggling amidst the recent economic downturn. What began as a hopeful morning turned into a day etched in sorrow.

By noon, the crowd had swelled to thousands, including women cradling children, elderly men leaning on walking sticks, and teenagers who had come to secure meals for their families. The organizers, overwhelmed by the turnout, tried to maintain order, but the narrow entrance to the distribution hall became a bottleneck. As impatience grew, the atmosphere shifted from hopeful to tense.

When the gates finally opened, chaos erupted. People surged forward, pushing and shoving in a desperate bid to be among the first to receive the aid. A child’s cry pierced the air as bodies pressed against each other. Within moments, the situation spiraled out of control. In the ensuing stampede, dozens were injured, and eight lives were lost, including three children.

The tragedy sent shockwaves through the community and drew nationwide attention. Critics lambasted the event organizers for failing to anticipate the crowd size and implement adequate safety measures. The government, too, faced scrutiny for its lack of proactive policies to prevent such incidents.

In the days following the tragedy, the city of Ajayi became a focal point for discussions on public safety and crowd management. At a press conference, Mayor Adedayo Adekunle expressed profound regret for the loss of lives and pledged swift action. “This is a wake-up call for all of us. We cannot allow such a preventable tragedy to happen again. The safety of our citizens must always come first,” he stated.

In response, the city council introduced a new set of regulations for public events. Under the policy, any gathering expected to host more than 200 attendees required pre-approval from the newly formed Event Safety Commission (ESC). Organizers would need to submit detailed plans, including crowd control strategies, medical response teams, and security personnel deployment.

The ESC also mandated that venues have multiple entry and exit points to prevent bottlenecks, provide ample drinking water, and deploy trained volunteers to assist with managing queues. Additionally, the city’s emergency response hotline was upgraded, and public awareness campaigns were launched to educate citizens on safety protocols during large gatherings.

The tragedy also inspired grassroots efforts. Community leaders organized workshops on crowd safety and first aid. Churches, mosques, and other organizations reevaluated their event planning processes, emphasizing safety above all.

One of the most poignant moments came during a memorial service for the victims. Family members and community members gathered to honor the lives lost and advocate for change. Among the speakers was Mrs. Ifeoma Nnaji, who lost her six-year-old daughter, Ada, in the stampede. Holding back tears, she addressed the crowd: “Ada’s life was precious, and her death must not be in vain. Let this be the last time we mourn such a loss. Let us learn, let us act, and let us protect each other.”

Months later, Ajayi’s efforts began to show results. A subsequent food distribution event, held at a larger venue with stringent safety measures in place, went smoothly. Attendees praised the organizers and city officials for their diligence, noting how the lessons from the past had been implemented effectively.

The tragedy in Ajayi became a turning point for the entire nation. State governments adopted similar policies, and collaborations between public and private sectors strengthened safety frameworks. While the scars of that fateful day remained, the collective response demonstrated resilience and a commitment to preventing such incidents in the future.

As the city moved forward, it carried with it the memory of those who had lost their lives. Their legacy became a catalyst for change, ensuring that public events in Ajayi—and beyond—would be safer for everyone.

Epilogue

In a quiet corner of the city’s central park, a memorial was erected in honor of the victims. Inscribed on it were the words: “In their memory, we build a safer tomorrow.” It served as a somber reminder of the past and a beacon of hope for the future.

society

Christmas Party Tragedy: Seasoned Movie Producer, Bukky Amos-Bello, Expresses Support for Queen Naomi, Sympathizes with Victims

Published

2 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Christmas Party Tragedy:
Seasoned Movie Producer, Bukky Amos-Bello, Expresses Support for Queen Naomi, Sympathizes with Victims

A top Nollywood actress and movie producer, Arewa Bukky Amos-Bello, has joined numerous well-wishers who have expressed their support for former queen of Ife Kingdom, Naomi Silekunola, who is currently facing challenges following a tragic stampede at a charity event she organised in Ibadan, resulting in loss of children’s lives.

The beautiful thespian popularly called Ajitannawo, in a statement made available to journalists on Sunday, sent a message of encouragement, urging Queen Naomi to stay strong.

In her heartfelt message, Arewa Amos-Bello expressed sorrow over the incident and offered prayers for Queen Naomi’s courage and resilience in the face of the tragedy.

“Be strong and courageous; the Lord is with you. And He will never forsake you my Queen Silekunola. My heart goes out to you in this sorrowful time of yours. My prayer is with you always. God bless you in this difficult time,” Arewa Bukky wrote, while she offered her sincere condolences to families and parents of the victims.

Arewa Amos-Bello stated that she feels every bit of what Queen Naomi feels at the moment because she is also a philanthropist who understands that the former Ife Queen did what she did with good intentions.

She added;

“I know she meant well because I’m also into charity. The Ibadan event was not her first nor was it the second. We can only pray that God help her and console the victims.”

“I want to assure her of my valid support; she is not alone. Her struggles are valid and real, and in acknowledging this, she finds our solidarity. When things like this happen, we may feel ashamed and find it hard to cope, yet even in such a dark time as this, we share our burdens, support one another, and find strength in our unity. She must not give up on her goal and she is encouraged to stand tall against the odds. She is never alone in this journey, she will overcome.”