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Idara Jerome, Uyo The Akwa Ibom State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Prince Akpan Ikim, has defended the policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying the President deserves the support of Nigerians for undertaking difficult but necessary reforms aimed at stabilising the economy and laying the foundation for long-term prosperity. Ikim spoke in Uyo while receiving members of the Tinubu Torchbearers (TTB), led by the group’s State Coordinator, Mrs Inyene Bassey, during a courtesy visit to the leadership of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors. He said President Tinubu inherited enormous economic and institutional challenges and had demonstrated courage by implementing reforms designed to reposition the country for sustainable growth, despite the temporary hardships associated with some of the policies. According to the Renewed Hope Ambassadors’ coordinator, political support groups and stakeholders have a responsibility to deepen public understanding of government programmes and promote national unity through constructive engagement. “As Renewed Hope Ambassadors, we are guided by one party, one message and one mobilisation framework. This principle ensures discipline, unity and strategic engagement, and guarantees that we speak with one voice in communicating government policies and mobilising support across our communities in a coordinated and responsible manner,” Ikim said. He urged members of the Tinubu Torchbearers to remain committed to engaging citizens with facts, patriotism and civility, stressing that their assignment extends beyond electoral mobilisation to fostering understanding and confidence in government policies. Ikim also lauded the contributions of First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu and Governor Umo Eno, noting that their leadership had continued to inspire confidence and promote people-oriented governance. Earlier, the State Coordinator of the Tinubu Torchbearers, Mrs Inyene Bassey, disclosed that the group had commenced an aggressive grassroots mobilisation drive across the 31 local government areas of Akwa Ibom State in preparation for the 2027 general elections. She said the movement was established to promote President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and consolidate support for his administration as well as that of Governor Umo Eno. According to Bassey, the organisation is focused on strengthening party structures, deepening voter education and encouraging greater participation of women and youths in the political process. “We are not here for child’s play or mere political fanfare. We are here with a clear mandate to mobilise voters across Akwa Ibom State ahead of the 2027 general elections and to ensure that the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu resonates in every community and every household,” she said. Also speaking, APC State Woman Leader, Obonganwan Obonodo Uko, described the visit as a reunion of purpose among members of one political family united by the ideals of the Renewed Hope Agenda and national development. She commended Prince Ikim for his grassroots appeal and impact-driven leadership, saying effective political organisation thrives on unity, sacrifice and commitment to service. As part of the visit, Prince Ikim presented a mobilisation handbook to the leadership of the Tinubu Torchbearers, describing the document as a guide for interpreting government policies and strengthening grassroots advocacy across the state.

Idongesit Mishael, Uyo Investigative journalist and farmer, Ibanga Isine, has called on Governor Umo Eno to ensure the full enforcement of the Akwa Ibom State Anti-Open Grazing Law, warning that farmers and agricultural investments in the state are increasingly vulnerable to attacks by herders and their cattle. Isine also alleged that he was humiliated and denied fair hearing at Magistrate Court 7, Uyo, during proceedings arising from the prosecution of a suspect arrested following repeated invasions of his farms. In a statement made available to VVCWatch on Friday, the journalist urged the governor to demonstrate that agriculture, one of the pillars of his administration’s ARISE Agenda, is not merely a slogan but a protected sector capable of attracting and sustaining investments. “Farmers should not be left at the mercy of lawless herders. Citizens who invest their resources in food production should not be punished for contributing to food security and economic development. The state must demonstrate that agriculture is not merely a slogan but a protected and respected sector of the economy. The rule of law must protect farmers as much as it protects everyone else,” he said. Isine disclosed that his family and business partners invested heavily in commercial agriculture in response to government policies promoting the sector and currently operate two farms cultivating tomatoes, cucumbers, okra, pepper, pumpkin leaves, cassava, yam and plantain. According to him, the farms, which provide direct employment to about 20 persons, have suffered at least five invasions by herders and cattle, leading to the destruction of crops and irrigation facilities valued at several millions of naira. “Our farms have been invaded on at least five occasions. One hectare of cucumber was destroyed, another hectare of okra was ruined after cattle trampled through the farm, while a sophisticated irrigation system was damaged. Beyond the destruction of property, farm workers were chased away and, on one occasion, a herder allegedly pursued me with a cutlass,” he alleged. The journalist said he petitioned the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, which led to the arrest and arraignment of one Abdullahi Yusuf, but lamented that his ordeal worsened during court proceedings on June 18. He alleged that journalists from Pioneer Newspaper, Inspiration FM and XL FM were denied access to the courtroom despite presenting valid identity cards, while he was ordered out of the court by the presiding magistrate, Godwin Edemekong, without being allowed to explain that he was the complainant in the matter. “What happened in the courtroom was not only a personal humiliation. It raised serious issues about judicial impartiality, the constitutional right to a fair hearing and freedom of the press. It also questions the transparency in judicial proceedings and the willingness of public institutions to protect law-abiding citizens who seek justice through lawful means,” Isine stated. He further alleged that three police officers forcefully escorted him out of the courtroom after the magistrate refused to hear him despite appearing in obedience to the directive of the police prosecutor. “I had done nothing to disrupt proceedings. I had not insulted the court. I had not disobeyed any lawful order. I had merely appeared in court in response to the directive of the prosecutor and in pursuit of justice regarding the destruction of my property. The humiliation was profound and very deep,” he added. Isine called on the Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Justice Ekaette Fabian-Obot, to investigate the conduct of Magistrate Edemekong and officials involved in the exclusion of journalists and his removal from the courtroom. He also urged the Nigerian Bar Association to probe the actions of the police prosecutor, Mr Blessing Essien, over alleged failures to properly communicate hearing dates and developments in the case.

Stephanie Peter – Uyo The Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Delta State Governor, Ossai Ovie Success, has condemned the timing of Nollywood actress Omoni Oboli’s announcement of the release of her tribute movie, The First Lady. The film stars Oboli alongside the late Alexx Ekubo and, according to the actress, marked the beginning of their friendship. However, Ovie disagreed with the manner and timing of the announcement. In a Facebook post, the governor’s aide criticised Oboli for unveiling the project on social media just hours after the actor was laid to rest. “I am disappointed in Omoni Oboli for using Alexx Ekubo’s burial to promote her movie and cash out,” Ovie wrote. Although the actress explained in her announcement video that proceeds from the movie would be donated to Ekubo’s family, Ovie described the gesture as a smokescreen, arguing that “it’s clear this is a way of leveraging people’s emotions to subtly promote her YouTube channel.” According to him, if the intention was truly to honour the late actor, the announcement could have been postponed, The PUNCH reported. He further urged the public to call out such actions, stating that “tragedy should not become a content calendar event. Let’s protect the dignity of the dead and stop monetising people’s pain.” The controversy has once again raised questions about the growing trend of posthumous publicity surrounding deceased entertainers. From “Top 10 Movies” to “Top 10 Songs” lists published shortly after the deaths of actors and musicians, opinions remain divided on whether such efforts genuinely help preserve their legacies and support their families, or merely seek to capitalise on public grief and heightened attention. Time, perhaps, will provide the answer.

Idara Jerome, Uyo The Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, have called for extensive amendments to the proposed Ibom Broadcasting Corporation Bill, urging lawmakers to strengthen provisions on workers’ welfare, editorial independence, digital broadcasting, transparency and institutional accountability. In a memorandum submitted to the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly during a public hearing on the Bill, NAWOJ said the legislation presents a unique opportunity to establish a modern public service broadcaster that protects employees, promotes inclusiveness and responds to the realities of contemporary media practice. The memorandum, signed by the Chairperson of NAWOJ in the state, Mrs. Nsikak Okon, expressed concern over the absence of provisions addressing workplace harassment, prolonged casualisation of workers and inadequate gender representation in the governance structure of the proposed corporation. According to the association, one of the most pressing issues confronting the state broadcasting sector is the engagement of journalists, technicians and support staff on contract appointments for several years without pension benefits, health insurance or job security. NAWOJ therefore proposed that any employee retained on contract for a continuous period of 12 months should automatically become a permanent staff member entitled to full statutory benefits, describing the recommendation as necessary to end labour exploitation and promote workforce stability. The women journalists also advocated greater gender inclusion in the governance framework of the corporation, recommending that at least three positions on the governing board be reserved for women while appointments into senior management positions reflect principles of equity and inclusiveness. The association further urged lawmakers to introduce a comprehensive workplace safety and anti-sexual harassment policy, including confidential reporting channels, disciplinary measures against offenders, improved security for female staff working night shifts and adequate maternity protection. NAWOJ equally called for a broader definition of broadcasting to accommodate internet streaming, podcasting, social media broadcasting and other digital communication platforms increasingly shaping audience engagement and news consumption patterns. The association also recommended stronger transparency measures, including the publication of annual reports and audited financial statements, legal protection for whistleblowers and strict adherence to procurement regulations in the execution of major projects and acquisition of broadcasting equipment. Presenting the position of the Nigeria Union of Journalists at the hearing, the Chairman of the union in Akwa Ibom State, Comrade Nsibiet John, warned against establishing a state-owned broadcaster vulnerable to political influence, insisting that editorial independence must remain at the heart of the proposed corporation. The union argued that the credibility and effectiveness of the proposed broadcaster would depend largely on its ability to operate free from undue political interference while adapting to the realities of the digital media age. While commending the House of Assembly for opening the legislative process to stakeholder participation, the NUJ observed that several provisions of the Bill appear rooted in traditional broadcasting models and do not adequately address contemporary developments in media practice. According to the union, public broadcasting has evolved beyond conventional radio and television operations to include internet streaming, social media broadcasting, podcasting, multimedia publishing, artificial intelligence, data journalism and other emerging technologies. The NUJ expressed concern over provisions of the Bill empowering the Governor and Commissioner for Information to issue directives to the proposed corporation, warning that such powers could compromise professional editorial judgment and erode public trust. “The Corporation cannot effectively function as an independent public broadcaster if editorial decisions remain susceptible to political influence,” the union stated in its memorandum. To safeguard credibility and public confidence, the NUJ proposed statutory guarantees for editorial independence in news gathering, content production, programme scheduling and other professional media functions. The union also urged lawmakers to expand the corporation’s mandate to expressly include digital broadcasting, online media operations, internet streaming services, podcasting and future communication technologies to ensure the legislation remains relevant in an increasingly digital media environment. On governance, the NUJ advocated a more inclusive board composition with representation from professional media bodies, civil society organisations, persons with disabilities, information technology experts, media law practitioners and stakeholders in the creative industry. The union further recommended a professionalised process for appointing the Director-General of the corporation, insisting that the position should be occupied by a qualified media professional with extensive industry experience and be subject to confirmation by the House of Assembly. Recognising the growing influence of technology in media operations, the NUJ proposed the establishment of specialised departments for Digital Media Services, New Media and Innovation, as well as Research, Data and Audience Analytics to enhance content delivery and audience engagement. The journalists’ body also called for the creation of a statutory Fact-Checking and Verification Unit to combat misinformation, verify digital content, monitor fake news and promote media literacy among citizens. In addition, the union sought legal protection for journalists and other employees of the corporation against victimisation, suspension, dismissal or discrimination arising from the lawful discharge of their professional responsibilities. The NUJ further recommended the establishment of an independent Ombudsman Office to receive public complaints, review disputed broadcasts, recommend corrections and monitor compliance with professional and ethical standards. It also urged the Assembly to incorporate robust cybersecurity and data protection measures in line with relevant provisions of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, Cybercrime Act and other international digital security standards. The union additionally proposed the creation of a Digital Broadcast Archive to preserve historical recordings, audiovisual materials and cultural heritage content, as well as mandatory annual staff retraining programmes covering digital journalism, artificial intelligence literacy, data journalism and emerging broadcast technologies. Both NAWOJ and NUJ maintained that the proposed Ibom Broadcasting Corporation should emerge not merely as a replacement for the existing state broadcasting structure but as an independent, technologically-driven and globally competitive public service media institution capable of serving the interests of all Akwa Ibom people.

Idongesit Mishael, Uyo Nigerian engineers have been challenged to take the lead in transforming the country’s tourism sector through smart innovations capable of attracting visitors, improving experiences and boosting revenue generation. The Delivery Advisor to the Akwa Ibom State Governor on Tourism and Managing Director of Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort, Sir Charles Udoh, said Nigeria risks losing relevance in the rapidly evolving global tourism market if destinations fail to embrace emerging technologies that are reshaping how travellers make decisions and experience destinations. Speaking at the 2026 Engineering Conference of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Akwa Ibom State Branch, in Uyo, Udoh declared that tourism is no longer driven merely by physical attractions but by digital experiences powered by data, connectivity and artificial intelligence. He warned that organisations and destinations that ignore technological disruption could suffer the fate of once-dominant global brands such as Kodak and Nokia, which failed to adapt quickly to changing technological realities despite their market leadership. According to him, today’s traveller often experiences a destination digitally long before physically arriving, relying on online searches, reviews, videos, AI-powered travel assistants, digital bookings, electronic payments and GPS-enabled navigation systems. “The first tourism experience today is no longer physical; it is digital. Increasingly, it is powered by Artificial Intelligence,” Udoh told the gathering of engineers, academics, government officials and industry stakeholders. Highlighting Akwa Ibom’s tourism assets, he noted that the state already possesses critical infrastructure, including an international airport, Ibom Air, hospitality facilities, sporting infrastructure, beaches, cultural heritage sites, festivals, rainforests and waterways capable of positioning it as a leading tourism destination. However, he stressed that the next challenge is not necessarily constructing more tourism assets but ensuring existing facilities are intelligently integrated to provide seamless and personalised visitor experiences. Udoh argued that the future competitiveness of destinations would depend less on the quantity of assets available and more on how effectively technology is deployed to remove obstacles, anticipate visitor needs and simplify access to tourism offerings. He said engineers have become indispensable to that process, noting that smart airports, hotels, transportation systems, booking platforms, security architecture, data management systems and AI-driven tourism solutions all depend on engineering expertise. According to him, what visitors often perceive as convenience and efficiency are outcomes of carefully designed systems built and maintained by engineers working behind the scenes. The tourism expert further identified artificial intelligence as a game changer capable of enabling personalised hotel services, predictive visitor analytics, smart transportation planning, multilingual digital storytelling at heritage sites and real-time decision-making by tourism operators. He urged engineers, universities, technology firms and entrepreneurs to collaborate in developing practical digital solutions capable of enhancing tourism experiences and increasing the sector’s contribution to economic development. “The future of tourism will not be built by tourism professionals alone. It will be built by engineers,” he said, adding that the destinations that will dominate the next decade will be those that deploy technology most intelligently rather than those with the largest physical infrastructure. Udoh expressed confidence that Akwa Ibom possesses the vision, leadership, assets and technical talent required to become a model for smart tourism in Africa. He therefore urged stakeholders to embrace innovation and work collectively to ensure the state occupies a prominent place in the continent’s emerging digital tourism landscape.

Idongesit Mishael, Uyo The newly inaugurated Vice Chancellor of the University of Uyo, Professor Christopher Ekong, on Tuesday declared an uncompromising crackdown on cultism and sexual harassment, warning that any staff or student found culpable would face disciplinary action within 72 hours. Speaking during his investiture as the 9th substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution, Ekong unveiled what appeared to be one of the toughest anti-misconduct policies in the university’s history, insisting that his administration would operate a zero-tolerance regime against behaviours capable of undermining academic excellence and campus safety. “We have zero tolerance for sexual harassment and cultism. The panel will not sit for more than 72 hours, and anyone involved will be shown the way out of the university,” he declared. Beyond disciplinary reforms, the Vice Chancellor announced a sweeping security and digital transformation agenda aimed at making the institution safer and more efficient. He disclosed plans to deploy CCTV surveillance systems, drones and biometric access controls across campuses to combat insecurity and monitor movement within the university community. Ekong said biometric capturing would also be introduced within his first 100 days in office to determine the actual number of staff and students and strengthen administrative planning. He further promised a comprehensive audit of the university’s infrastructure, finances, human resources, academic programmes and administrative systems. The Vice Chancellor also pledged to provide round-the-clock internet access for staff and students, noting that work had already commenced on the digitisation of the institution’s ICT infrastructure. He added that the management would outsource the operation of key facilities such as hostels and lecture theatres to professional facility managers to ensure sustainable maintenance. As part of efforts to improve the university’s physical environment, Ekong promised aggressive landscaping, regular maintenance of green areas, artistic beautification of buildings and gates, and the refurbishment of dilapidated structures while preserving existing facilities in good condition. In his remarks, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Dr Muiz Banire, urged the new Vice Chancellor to rise above the controversies that trailed his emergence and remain focused on the task ahead. Describing the selection process as turbulent and challenging, Banire advised Ekong to forgive those who opposed his appointment and avoid distractions. “The journey to this day has not been smooth. It has been turbulent and, at times, traumatic,” Banire said, adding that there was no room for revenge despite the difficulties encountered during the leadership transition. The outgoing Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Samuel Odewumi, also counselled Ekong to focus on the future of the institution rather than dwell on past disputes, urging him to concentrate on transforming the university and advancing its academic mission.

The Federal High Court in Abuja has directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord Party, Action Peoples Party, Action Alliance and Zenith Labour Party for failing to meet constitutional requirements for continued registration. Justice Peter Lifu issued the order while delivering judgment in a suit filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators, which challenged INEC’s continued recognition of the affected parties. The plaintiffs argued that the parties failed to satisfy the performance thresholds prescribed under Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution, including securing a minimum percentage of votes in presidential elections or winning elective seats at the national, state or local government levels. According to the suit, the parties performed poorly in the 2023 general elections and subsequent by-elections, making their continued existence as registered political parties unconstitutional. The ruling is expected to have far-reaching implications ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly for politicians associated with some of the affected parties. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has recently been linked with the ADC as part of ongoing coalition talks, while other political actors may also be affected by the judgment. Unless overturned by a higher court, the decision effectively removes the parties from Nigeria’s electoral landscape and bars them from participating in future electoral activities recognised by INEC.

Idara Jerome, Uyo As Nigeria grapples with escalating kidnappings, killings and violent crimes across several parts of the country, the Lead Pastor of Insight Bible Church, Uyo, Dr. Sylvanus Ukafia, has called on governments at all levels to take more decisive steps to protect lives and restore public confidence in the nation’s security architecture. Ukafia made the appeal on Monday while explaining the significance of the church’s “Black Sunday” observance, a symbolic service during which members dressed in black attire to mourn victims of insecurity and pray for peace, national healing and divine intervention in the country’s affairs. The cleric said the observance was informed by growing concerns over the deteriorating security situation in the country, noting that the increasing cases of abduction, killings and attacks on communities have left many Nigerians living in fear and uncertainty. According to him, the church chose to wear black as a mark of mourning for lives lost to violence and as a reminder that the nation must not become indifferent to the suffering of victims and their families. “Nigeria is going through a difficult season. Every day, we hear stories of kidnappings, killings and attacks on innocent citizens. We felt compelled as a church to identify with the pain of affected families and to cry out to God for mercy and intervention,” he said. Ukafia stressed that while security agencies continue to make efforts to combat criminality, government must intensify measures aimed at tackling insecurity and ensuring that citizens can live and conduct their businesses without fear. He also urged political leaders to govern with wisdom, integrity and compassion, noting that the country’s challenges require purposeful leadership and collective responsibility. The special prayer service, held at the church auditorium along Nsikak Eduok Avenue, Uyo, attracted members and visitors who offered prayers for Nigeria, political leaders, security agencies, kidnapped victims and communities affected by violence. During the service, worshippers prayed for the safe release of those in captivity, comfort for bereaved families and divine guidance for leaders entrusted with the responsibility of managing the nation’s affairs. Following the service, members staged a peaceful procession within the church premises carrying placards with inscriptions such as “Blessed Are The Peacemakers,” “Where Are The Peacemakers?”, “Let My People Live In Peace,” “Turn Our Cries Into Testimonies,” and “Thou Shall Not Kill.” The placards reflected growing public anxiety over insecurity and underscored calls for greater commitment from both leaders and citizens towards protecting lives, promoting justice and preserving the sanctity of human life. Addressing journalists after the event, Ukafia explained that the demonstration was neither political nor directed against any government or individual, but was intended to draw attention to the urgent need for peace and collective action against insecurity. He added that the church would continue to stand in the gap through prayers and advocacy until peace is restored across the country. “Our message is simple: Nigerians deserve to live in peace. We are praying for our leaders, for security agencies and for all those affected by violence. We believe that with sincere leadership, collective action and God’s intervention, our nation can overcome these challenges,” he stated. The Black Sunday observance comes amid growing national concerns over persistent insecurity, with stakeholders across the country calling for stronger and more coordinated efforts to curb kidnappings, violent crimes and attacks on communities.

A pastor in Anambra State has landed in police custody over allegations that he lured married women away from their husbands and incorporated them into his own household. Pastor Harrison Charles of Day Spring Assembly, Awada, Onitsha, was arrested by Agunechemba security operatives following the emergence of a viral video containing a series of allegations against him. Among the claims being investigated are accusations that the cleric encouraged wife-swapping among church members and persuaded married women to abandon their husbands and become his wives. The controversy has attracted even greater attention following reports that the pastor’s household may include as many as 75 wives, although authorities have yet to independently verify the figure. Officials disclosed that 11 babies were found in the pastor’s residence during the operation. According to the allegations, the pastor claimed to be the father of all the children and said they were born by 11 of his wives. Investigators were reportedly met with further surprise when the cleric allegedly stated that he could not accurately determine the total number of wives and children under his care. The unusual nature of the allegations has triggered intense reactions online, with many social media users expressing disbelief at the reported size of the household, while others questioned how such an arrangement could have existed without attracting earlier scrutiny. Beyond the public amusement generated by the case, observers say the development raises important questions about religious accountability, the influence of self-styled spiritual leaders, and the protection of vulnerable followers from possible exploitation. The Anambra State Government, through its spokesman, Dr. Ejimofor Opara, confirmed that Pastor Charles remains in police custody while a joint investigation involving the government and the police continues. Authorities have called on residents with relevant information to assist investigators as efforts continue to establish the facts surrounding the allegations. Government officials have emphasized that the claims against the pastor remain allegations and have not been proven in court. They reiterated that he is entitled to the presumption of innocence until a competent court rules otherwise. As investigations progress, what began as allegations of wife-grabbing has evolved into one of the most talked-about controversies in the state, with public attention fixed on both the criminal claims and the extraordinary size of the household at the centre of the case.