PRESS RELEASE

Date: February 3, 2026

Guidepost News International

The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide has appealed to the Executive Governor of Anambra State, His Excellency, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, to reconsider the timeline issued for the planned demolition of marked structures at the Onitsha Main Market, in order to minimise socio-economic disruption and protect the livelihoods of thousands of Igbo families, particularly Anambrarians who depend on the market for survival.

UNIEC Worldwide’s appeal follows reports, including one published by Vanguard Newspaper on Monday, February 2, 2026, indicating that the Anambra State Government has directed traders in Onitsha Main Market to vacate their shops within 14 days, ahead of the demolition of over 10,000 marked structures.

In a statement issued by the Central Organising Council of UNIEC Worldwide, the elders acknowledged the constitutional authority of the state government to enforce laws, maintain public order, and ensure compliance with official directives, including the directive ending the Monday sit-at-home practice. However, the Council expressed concern that the short relocation window could unintentionally inflict severe hardship on law-abiding traders, families, and dependants.

UNIEC Worldwide noted that many affected traders have operated in the market for years with government approvals, have paid requisite taxes and levies, and constitute a critical pillar of Anambra State’s economy and the wider Igbo commercial ecosystem.

“The Onitsha Main Market is not merely a trading centre; it is a historic economic artery of Igboland and Nigeria,” the statement read. “Any policy action affecting it should be implemented with a balance of firmness, empathy, and adequate transitional arrangements to avoid avoidable social dislocation.”

The Council further observed that prevailing challenges—such as transportation difficulties, intermittent banking services, security concerns, and the lingering effects of economic uncertainty—make a 14-day relocation timeline impracticable for many traders to secure alternative spaces, move goods, and stabilise their businesses.

UNIEC Worldwide therefore respectfully appealed to Governor Soludo to extend the relocation period and engage more robustly with traders’ associations, market leadership, and relevant stakeholders, with a view to achieving compliance without undermining livelihoods.

“As a pan-Igbo body of elders and custodians of Igbo values, UNIEC Worldwide believes that governance is most effective when law enforcement is accompanied by consultation, humane timelines, and practical support mechanisms,” the Council stated.

The elders emphasised that Igbo traders remain committed to lawful economic activity, peace, and the prosperity of Anambra State, and should be supported—not unintentionally displaced—in the process of restoring order and productivity.

UNIEC Worldwide expressed confidence in Governor Soludo’s reputation as a reform-minded leader and appealed to his sense of justice, inclusiveness, and long-term economic vision to ensure that the objectives of the state government are achieved without undue hardship to citizens.

“A prosperous Anambra State must be built on policies that secure public order while preserving dignity, livelihoods, and social stability. We respectfully urge His Excellency to reconsider the timeline in the interest of peace, equity, and sustainable development,” the statement concluded.

Issued by:

Central Organising Council
United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide

Signed:

His Lordship (Bishop),
Justice Alpha Ikpeama
Chairman, Central Organising Council.
United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide

January 30, 2026

PRESS RELEASE

Guidepost News International

UNITED IGBO ELDERS COUNCIL (UNIEC) WORLDWIDE

— Calls for Immediate Cessation of Misunderstanding and Constructive Dialogue

The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide, acting in continuity with the long-established tradition of Igbo elders intervening at moments of communal strain to preserve peace, dialogue, and social cohesion, affirms its firm support for stability and constructive engagement in Onitsha and other parts of Anambra State.

UNIEC commends the people of Anambra State, particularly stakeholders in Onitsha, for the largely calm and restrained manner in which recent concerns involving the Onitsha markets, the Monday sit-at-home observance, and the Anambra State Government are being approached.

The Council observes that these matters are not new sources of contention in our communal life and fall squarely within the category of issues historically resolved through consultation, mutual respect, and negotiated understanding. They are neither irreconcilable nor beyond peaceful resolution and should not be allowed to escalate into tensions capable of undermining social harmony, economic activity, or public order.

At this critical period in Igbo history, when unity, calm, and collective focus are indispensable, UNIEC cautions against any form of internal discord and reiterates that peaceful dialogue and restraint remain the most credible and enduring pathways to resolving differences.

In keeping with its responsibility to offer steady counsel and to help bridge differences when tensions arise, the United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide hereby commits itself to facilitating engagement among all concerned stakeholders, with a view to de-escalation, reconciliation, and the prompt restoration of peace and normalcy. The Council is already in contact with relevant parties and shall intensify these efforts until a balanced, honourable, and sustainable resolution is achieved.

UNIEC therefore appeals to all sides to exercise restraint, prioritise dialogue, and cooperate fully with mediation efforts, in the overriding interest of peace, unity, economic stability, and the shared future of Ndi Igbo and Anambra State in particular.

SIGNED:

His Lordship
Justice Alpha Ikpeama
Director-General(D-G)
United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide

Prof. Obasi Igwe
National Director
Media and Publicity

By Prince Solomon Okorie – Guidepost News International


Tension heightened on Wednesday at the headquarters of the Ebonyi State Independent Electoral Commission (EBSIEC) in Abakaliki following allegations by the Labour Party (LP) that the commission was deliberately frustrating its participation in the forthcoming local government elections in the state.

The Ebonyi State Chairman of the Labour Party, Chief Henry Ude, made the allegation while addressing journalists after leading party officials to the EBSIEC office to obtain nomination forms for the polls. Ude claimed that despite several visits, the commission had refused to issue the party with the required forms.

According to him, officials of the party were denied access to both the Chairman and Secretary of EBSIEC, even though their official vehicles were reportedly seen within the commission’s premises.

“We are here to collect our party nomination forms because we intend to participate in this upcoming local government election. To our greatest surprise, they refused to see us or issue the forms,” Ude said.

He described the situation as a calculated attempt to disenfranchise the Labour Party and vowed that the party would explore all legal options to ensure its participation in the election.

“This is unacceptable. We will take all necessary legal actions to ensure that we participate in this election. Ebonyi people deserve a choice,” he added.

Ude also expressed concern over the alleged high cost of nomination forms associated with the election process, arguing that such costs undermine the credibility of the polls.

“There can be nothing like a free and fair election when forms are said to be as high as N30 million. That automatically shuts out ordinary citizens,” he said, adding that the Labour Party would make its own forms affordable or even free to encourage wider participation.

Also speaking, the Secretary of the Labour Party in the state, Comrade Innocent Igiri, accused EBSIEC of using bureaucratic tactics to edge the party out of the election. He said Wednesday’s visit marked the 10th time the party had approached the commission to obtain the forms.

“Everything they asked us to bring, we brought. Yet, they keep refusing to attend to us. There is an underground plan to disenfranchise Labour Party because they are afraid of us,” Igiri alleged.

He further claimed that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was uncomfortable with the growing popularity of the Labour Party in the state.

“They know Labour Party is the only viable opposition in Ebonyi State. They know we will win in many local governments, including Uburu,” he said.

However, the Chairman of EBSIEC, Mr Patrick Enyi, denied the allegations, insisting that the commission had no intention of excluding the Labour Party or any other registered political party from the local government elections.

Enyi explained that the delay in issuing nomination forms was due to discrepancies between the names of Labour Party officials who approached the commission and the official list of party leadership provided by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“We respect the Labour Party as a duly registered political party. But the guidelines are clear: only the chairman or secretary whose names are certified by INEC can collect the forms,” he said.

According to him, issuing nomination forms to individuals not recognised by INEC could expose the commission to legal challenges.

“INEC is the only body that determines party leadership. Once Labour Party resolves any discrepancy with INEC and comes back with clarification, we are ready to issue the forms,” Enyi stated.

He added that “the Secretary of the Labour Party, whose name appears on the list provided by INEC, had just collected nomination forms for the party and would be addressing the press shortly.”

He also dismissed claims of financial barriers at the current stage of the process, noting that EBSIEC does not charge parties fees to obtain nomination forms for the conduct of primaries.

“There is no monetary implication at this stage. Parties are expected to collect the forms, conduct their primaries, and invite us to observe,” he said, adding that the process is time-bound.

Enyi warned that political parties that fail to complete their primaries before the February 3 deadline risk being excluded from the ballot.

The unfolding controversy has raised concerns among political observers over the transparency and inclusiveness of the forthcoming local government elections in Ebonyi State, with calls for urgent resolution to avert legal battles and possible voter apathy.

By Prince Solomon Okorie – Guidepost News International

Tension heightened on Wednesday at the headquarters of the Ebonyi State Independent Electoral Commission (EBSIEC) in Abakaliki following allegations by the Labour Party (LP) that the commission was deliberately frustrating its participation in the forthcoming local government elections in the state.

The Ebonyi State Chairman of the Labour Party, Chief Henry Ude, made the allegation while addressing journalists after leading party officials to the EBSIEC office to obtain nomination forms for the polls. Ude claimed that despite several visits, the commission had refused to issue the party with the required forms.

According to him, officials of the party were denied access to both the Chairman and Secretary of EBSIEC, even though their official vehicles were reportedly seen within the commission’s premises.

“We are here to collect our party nomination forms because we intend to participate in this upcoming local government election. To our greatest surprise, they refused to see us or issue the forms,” Ude said.

He described the situation as a calculated attempt to disenfranchise the Labour Party and vowed that the party would explore all legal options to ensure its participation in the election.

“This is unacceptable. We will take all necessary legal actions to ensure that we participate in this election. Ebonyi people deserve a choice,” he added.

Ude also expressed concern over the alleged high cost of nomination forms associated with the election process, arguing that such costs undermine the credibility of the polls.

“There can be nothing like a free and fair election when forms are said to be as high as N30 million. That automatically shuts out ordinary citizens,” he said, adding that the Labour Party would make its own forms affordable or even free to encourage wider participation.

Also speaking, the Secretary of the Labour Party in the state, Comrade Innocent Igiri, accused EBSIEC of using bureaucratic tactics to edge the party out of the election. He said Wednesday’s visit marked the 10th time the party had approached the commission to obtain the forms.

“Everything they asked us to bring, we brought. Yet, they keep refusing to attend to us. There is an underground plan to disenfranchise Labour Party because they are afraid of us,” Igiri alleged.

He further claimed that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was uncomfortable with the growing popularity of the Labour Party in the state.

“They know Labour Party is the only viable opposition in Ebonyi State. They know we will win in many local governments, including Uburu,” he said.

However, the Chairman of EBSIEC, Mr Patrick Enyi, denied the allegations, insisting that the commission had no intention of excluding the Labour Party or any other registered political party from the local government elections.

Enyi explained that the delay in issuing nomination forms was due to discrepancies between the names of Labour Party officials who approached the commission and the official list of party leadership provided by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“We respect the Labour Party as a duly registered political party. But the guidelines are clear: only the chairman or secretary whose names are certified by INEC can collect the forms,” he said.

According to him, issuing nomination forms to individuals not recognised by INEC could expose the commission to legal challenges.

“INEC is the only body that determines party leadership. Once Labour Party resolves any discrepancy with INEC and comes back with clarification, we are ready to issue the forms,” Enyi stated.

He added that “the Secretary of the Labour Party, whose name appears on the list provided by INEC, had just collected nomination forms for the party and would be addressing the press shortly.”

He also dismissed claims of financial barriers at the current stage of the process, noting that EBSIEC does not charge parties fees to obtain nomination forms for the conduct of primaries.

“There is no monetary implication at this stage. Parties are expected to collect the forms, conduct their primaries, and invite us to observe,” he said, adding that the process is time-bound.

Enyi warned that political parties that fail to complete their primaries before the February 3 deadline risk being excluded from the ballot.

The unfolding controversy has raised concerns among political observers over the transparency and inclusiveness of the forthcoming local government elections in Ebonyi State, with calls for urgent resolution to avert legal battles and possible voter apathy.

By Prince Solomon Okorie – Guidepost News International

Abakaliki, Ebonyi State — January 26, 2026

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Local Government primary election in Abakaliki Local Government Area has been described as peaceful and successful, as Hon. Chidiebere Alo emerged the party’s chairmanship candidate amid widespread commendation from party leaders, stakeholders, and supporters.

Speaking shortly after his nomination, an elated Hon. Alo expressed deep gratitude to God and the APC family for the confidence reposed in him. He said the overwhelming support he received during the primaries reaffirmed his belief in the unity and love within the party.

“I am very happy today by the special grace of God. I never knew that the APC family loved me to this extent. They gave me hope and showed me love by giving me their ticket,” he said.

Hon. Alo particularly thanked the APC state leadership and the State Party Chairman for ensuring a transparent and successful primary process. He also paid glowing tribute to the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, for fostering peace and unity within the party and across the state.

According to him, past local government primaries in the state were often marred by violence, but under Governor Nwifuru’s leadership, peace has become entrenched.

“Our governor brought peace, love, and unity to Ebonyi State and to the APC. Because of that peace, we conducted this primary election successfully. I thank God and I thank our governor,” he stated.

The APC flagbearer assured party members and residents of Abakaliki LGA that he would not disappoint the trust placed in him. He pledged to emulate Governor Nwifuru’s leadership style by prioritizing peace, inclusiveness, and unity.

“If elected, I will carry everybody along. I am not going there to pursue anyone; I am going there to make friends. Whether you are APC or not, you are my brother or sister. Peace is the foundation upon which development thrives,” he said.

Hon. Alo further expressed confidence ahead of the main local government election, stressing that he harbors no fear of opposition parties. He also pledged to support APC membership registration and voters’ registration, encouraging all eligible residents to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

Several party leaders and stakeholders present at the event commended the peaceful conduct of the primary election and endorsed Hon. Alo’s candidacy.

Hon. Nwoke Victor Chidi described the exercise as a huge success, noting that party members came out en masse to elect what he called a “tested and trusted” candidate. He recalled Hon. Alo’s previous service as a two-term councillor in Abakaliki LGA and expressed confidence in his capacity to deliver dividends of democracy.

“Chidi Alo is a tested and trusted leader. I assure you that he will deliver. Abakaliki Local Government will witness remarkable transformation under his leadership,” he said.

Similarly, Hon. Joseph Ununu, member representing Abakaliki South Constituency in the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, attributed the smooth conduct of the primaries to Governor Nwifuru’s unifying leadership.

“Our governor has paid the price to unite Ebonyi State. That is why there were no clashes anywhere, only jubilation. Today’s primaries were peaceful and successful,” he said.

Hon. Ngwaga Chukwuma, Chancellor of Ndiegu Urban Ward 11, also thanked Governor Nwifuru for what he described as reward for loyalty and hard work within the party. He expressed joy over Hon. Alo’s emergence, describing him as the right choice for the position.

Other speakers, including Hon. Emeka Nwite, Hon. Ifeanyi Daniel Mbam, Special Assistant to the Governor on Rice Mill Cluster, Iboko, and youth leaders, echoed similar sentiments, praising the governor for his fatherly role and endorsing Hon. Alo as the consensus candidate of the APC in Abakaliki LGA.

Speaking on behalf of the youths, Igwe Ifenyichukwu, President of Ikedioha/Azugwu Youth Assembly, pledged total support for Hon. Alo, describing him as a proven leader committed to youth inclusion and grassroots development.

The primary election concluded with celebrations by party faithful, as APC leaders expressed optimism that the party would record a landslide victory in the forthcoming Ebonyi State local government elections.

By Prince Solomon Okorie – Guidepost News International

Abakaliki, Ebonyi State — January 26, 2026

Hon. Chidebere Alo has emerged winner of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for the Abakaliki Local Government Area chairmanship, following the party’s primaries held on Monday, January 26.

Speaking shortly after his victory, Hon. Alo expressed profound gratitude to the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, for finding him worthy of the opportunity to serve. He also appreciated the leadership of the APC and party supporters for their confidence and support throughout the primary process.

Hon. Alo expressed optimism ahead of the forthcoming local government elections scheduled for August, declaring confidence in the party’s chances of victory. According to him, “there is no opposition party in the state,” adding that the APC remains firmly rooted at the grassroots.

The chairmanship candidate pledged to sustain the prevailing peace across the 13 local government areas of Ebonyi State, an initiative he credited to the leadership of Governor Nwifuru. He promised to run an inclusive and people-oriented administration if elected.

“I will carry everybody along for the peace and progress of Abakaliki Local Government Area. It is only in a peaceful atmosphere that democratic dividends can be effectively extended to the grassroots,” he said.

The primary election was well attended by party members, supporters, politicians, and other dignitaries. Among them was Comrade Igwe Ifenyichukwu, President of the Ikedoha/Azugwu Youth Assembly, who publicly declared the group’s support for Hon. Alo.

Comrade Ifenyichukwu described the APC candidate as a selfless and trustworthy leader, noting that his track record informed the youths’ decision to mobilize in his support ahead of the August election.

“Hon. Chidi Alo, popularly known as Ikedoha, has proven himself as a trusted leader. As a youth leader, I am duty-bound to mobilize the youths for his victory in the main election,” he said.

He further commended Governor Nwifuru for what he described as a merit-driven and transparent process, adding that the APC primary election was free and fair.

“Though he may not be the most qualified on paper, it is the will and grace of God that located him. I am happy that the APC conducted a credible primary election, from which Chidi Alo emerged victorious,” Comrade Ifenyichukwu added.

By Prince Solomon Okorie

The Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, FNIOB, FCAI, GGCEHF, on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, joined other top leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Jos, Plateau State, for the official defection of Plateau State Governor, His Excellency Caleb Mutfwang, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC.

The event, described as historic in Nigeria’s political landscape, attracted high-profile party leaders and stakeholders from across the country, including members of the National Assembly.

Prominent among those in attendance were Rt. Hon. (Comrade) Chinedu Ogah (OON), Member representing Ikwo/Ezza-South Federal Constituency and Chairman, House Committee on Reformatory Institutions, as well as Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi, Deputy Chief Whip of the 10th Senate and Senator representing Ebonyi North Senatorial District, who joined the Senate delegation to the event.

Governor Nwifuru’s presence highlighted Ebonyi State’s strong political representation at the national level and reinforced the APC’s message of unity, expansion, and consolidation as the party continues to strengthen its ranks ahead of future political engagements.

By Onyukwu Odenigbo – Guidepost News International

ABAKALIKI – A political storm is brewing in Ebonyi State as the Labour Party (LP) and the Ebonyi State Independent Electoral Commission (EBSIEC) trade accusations over the issuance of nomination forms for the forthcoming local government elections.

Tension peaked on Wednesday at the EBSIEC headquarters in Abakaliki what seems like a peaceful protest erupted when LP officials, led by State Chairman Chief Henry C Ude (Ajimbest), claimed they were being systematically excluded from the electoral process.

This is a calculated attempt to disenfranchise Us” — the Labour Party, Chief Henry C Udeh laments while addressing journalists after a failed attempt to secure forms, further alleged that EBSIEC officials had avoided meeting with the party leadership despite their presence on the premises.

Chief Ude claimed that despite seeing the EBSIEC Chairman and Secretary and their official vehicles in the office premises, the Labour party officials were refused audience.,

The LP leadership also criticized the broader electoral climate, citing rumors of ₦30 million nomination fees in other quarters as a move that “automatically shuts out ordinary citizens from obtaining the forms, stating that are free of charge in Labour Party in order to a common man the opportunity of participation”. Chief Henry Udeh concluded.


The State Secretary Comrade Innocent Igiri alleged this was their 10th visit to the commission. “There is an underground plan to disenfranchise the Labour Party because they are afraid of our popularity,” Igiri stated.

The party maintains that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is uncomfortable with LP’s growing strength, particularly in key areas like Uburu, and vowed to explore all legal options to ensure they appear on the ballot.

In a swift reaction, EBSIEC Chairman, Mr. Patrick Enyi dismissed the allegations of bias, insisting that the commission is merely following legal guidelines regarding party leadership.

Leadership Discrepancy: Enyi explained that the individuals currently approaching the commission do not match the official list of LP leadership provided by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)

Legal Safeguards: “Issuing forms to individuals not recognized by INEC would expose this commission to litigation. We are ready to issue forms once the LP resolves these discrepancies with INEC,” Enyi clarified.

No Hidden Fees: The Chairman further debunked claims of financial barriers at this stage, noting that EBSIEC does not charge parties for obtaining forms to conduct primaries.

The the danger of February 3 deadline.
With the deadline for the conduct of party primaries set for February 3 the clock is ticking. Mr. Enyi warned that any party failing to resolve its internal leadership issues and complete its primaries by the deadline risks total exclusion from the ballot.

Analysis
Labour Party alleges deliberate frustration and denial of forms. Cites mismatch between applicants and INEC-certified leadership list.
Claims this is their 10th attempt to engage.  Insists the process is open once legal verification is met.
Labour Party fears political disenfranchisement by the ruling party- APC. Emphasizes that the process is time-bound and must follow due process.

Political analysts in the state have expressed concern that this standoff could lead to protracted legal battles and voter apathy. There are growing calls for an urgent tripartite meeting between INEC, EBSIEC, and the Labour Party to resolve the leadership verification crisis before the February 3 cutoff.

PRESS RELEASE

– Guidepost News International

Abuja, Nigeria | January 2026

The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide has announced that it will, on Sunday, 22nd February 2026, induct and invest Chief Dr. Barr. Engr. Obioma Success Akagburuonye (JP) in a landmark ceremony scheduled to coincide with his 60th Diamond Birthday Celebrations.

The historic event, to be held in Nigeria with national and international attendance, represents a triple-recognition honour in acknowledgment of Chief Akagburuonye’s enduring contributions to Igboland, Nigeria, and humanity at large.

Honours to Be Conferred

At the ceremony, Chief Akagburuonye will be formally:

Inducted as Member, Board of Trustees (BoT) / National Life Patron of the United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide; and

Invested as Chairman, Board of Directors of Igbo Think-Home Investment and Development Limited, the institutional custodian of the Igbo Think-Home Investment and Development Philosophy.

The programme will feature formal decoration rites and the presentation of the UNIEC Worldwide Certificate of Honour, alongside goodwill messages from elder-statesmen, traditional rulers, captains of industry, religious leaders, and members of the Igbo Diaspora.

Basis for the Honour

According to UNIEC Worldwide, the induction and investiture recognise Chief Akagburuonye’s exceptional record of enterprise, philanthropy, leadership, and advocacy for home-grown development, particularly his consistent promotion of the Igbo Think-Home Investment and Development Philosophy through large-scale, impact-driven investments located within Igboland.

About UNIEC Worldwide

The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide, operating in strategic affiliation with the United Igbo Patrons and Elders Congress (UNIPEC) Worldwide, is a socio-cultural umbrella body comprising elder-statesmen, major stakeholders, opinion leaders, and thought leaders of Igbo extraction across Nigeria and the Diaspora.

UNIEC Worldwide is dedicated to the restoration of Igbo identity, language, values, traditions, and cultural heritage, as well as the regeneration and institutionalisation of the Igbo Think-Home Investment and Development Philosophy as a pathway to sustainable regional prosperity.

The Council’s growing national and international profile reflects the visionary leadership of its Pioneer President-General, His Lordship, Hon. Justice Anthony I. Iguh, CON, Emeritus Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

Profile of the Honouree

Born on 22nd February 1966 in Umuoshike, Ogbor Uvuru, Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State, Chief Akagburuonye rose from humble beginnings to national prominence through resilience, faith, and disciplined self-improvement.

A legal practitioner and entrepreneur, he holds LLB and LLM degrees from Kogi State University, was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2012, and is the founder of O.S. Akagburuonye & Co. (Akara Ugo Chambers), Abuja.

His diversified business interests span civil engineering, real estate, hospitality, security, manufacturing, finance, and water production, with flagship enterprises including Praco International Company, Peace Be Still Hotels, AKARAUGO Microfinance Bank, and AQUA Refresh Table Water, many of which are strategically located in his home community of Ogbor Uvuru.

Public Service, Advocacy, and Philanthropy

Chief Akagburuonye has served in numerous leadership roles across civic, professional, religious, and political platforms. He is also widely recognised for his philanthropic interventions in youth empowerment, healthcare, infrastructure development, and security enhancement through initiatives such as Hope Rising for Imolites.

Among his most notable legacies is the construction and donation of Africa’s first Noah’s Ark Church, valued at over ₦2 billion, to the Assemblies of God Nigeria, alongside multiple church, educational, and community development projects.

His landmark legal victory in Obioma v. Nigeria (2005) at the Court of Appeal contributed significantly to prison decongestion and justice reform in Nigeria.

Integrity and National Recognition

Despite active engagement in politics, including his withdrawal from the 2019 ADP governorship race, Chief Akagburuonye remains widely respected for integrity, having been cleared by the EFCC, ICPC, and SSS after comprehensive investigations.

Conclusion

UNIEC Worldwide describes Chief Dr. Barr. Engr. Obioma Success Akagburuonye (JP) as “a quintessential model of faith-driven leadership, enterprise, and community-rooted development”, whose life exemplifies the values the Council seeks to promote among present and future generations.

Issued by:
United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide

Signed:
Justice Alpha Ikpeaama
Director-General (D-G)
UNIEC Worldwide

By Prince Solomon Okorie. –  Guidepost News International

Abuja, Nigeria | January 2026

The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide has announced that it will, on Sunday, 22nd February 2026, induct and invest Chief Dr. Barr. Engr. Obioma Success Akagburuonye (JP) in a landmark ceremony scheduled to coincide with his 60th Diamond Birthday Celebrations.

The historic event, to be held in Nigeria with national and international attendance, represents a triple-recognition honour in acknowledgment of Chief Akagburuonye’s enduring contributions to Igboland, Nigeria, and humanity at large.

Honours to Be Conferred

At the ceremony, Chief Akagburuonye will be formally:

Inducted as Member, Board of Trustees (BoT) / National Life Patron of the United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide; and

Invested as Chairman, Board of Directors of Igbo Think-Home Investment and Development Limited, the institutional custodian of the Igbo Think-Home Investment and Development Philosophy.

The programme will feature formal decoration rites and the presentation of the UNIEC Worldwide Certificate of Honour, alongside goodwill messages from elder-statesmen, traditional rulers, captains of industry, religious leaders, and members of the Igbo Diaspora.

Basis for the Honour

According to UNIEC Worldwide, the induction and investiture recognise Chief Akagburuonye’s exceptional record of enterprise, philanthropy, leadership, and advocacy for home-grown development, particularly his consistent promotion of the Igbo Think-Home Investment and Development Philosophy through large-scale, impact-driven investments located within Igboland.

About UNIEC Worldwide

The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide, operating in strategic affiliation with the United Igbo Patrons and Elders Congress (UNIPEC) Worldwide, is a socio-cultural umbrella body comprising elder-statesmen, major stakeholders, opinion leaders, and thought leaders of Igbo extraction across Nigeria and the Diaspora.

UNIEC Worldwide is dedicated to the restoration of Igbo identity, language, values, traditions, and cultural heritage, as well as the regeneration and institutionalisation of the Igbo Think-Home Investment and Development Philosophy as a pathway to sustainable regional prosperity.

The Council’s growing national and international profile reflects the visionary leadership of its Pioneer President-General, His Lordship, Hon. Justice Anthony I. Iguh, CON, Emeritus Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

Profile of the Honouree

Born on 22nd February 1966 in Umuoshike, Ogbor Uvuru, Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State, Chief Akagburuonye rose from humble beginnings to national prominence through resilience, faith, and disciplined self-improvement.

A legal practitioner and entrepreneur, he holds LLB and LLM degrees from Kogi State University, was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2012, and is the founder of O.S. Akagburuonye & Co. (Akara Ugo Chambers), Abuja.

His diversified business interests span civil engineering, real estate, hospitality, security, manufacturing, finance, and water production, with flagship enterprises including Praco International Company, Peace Be Still Hotels, AKARAUGO Microfinance Bank, and AQUA Refresh Table Water, many of which are strategically located in his home community of Ogbor Uvuru.

Public Service, Advocacy, and Philanthropy

Chief Akagburuonye has served in numerous leadership roles across civic, professional, religious, and political platforms. He is also widely recognised for his philanthropic interventions in youth empowerment, healthcare, infrastructure development, and security enhancement through initiatives such as Hope Rising for Imolites.

Among his most notable legacies is the construction and donation of Africa’s first Noah’s Ark Church, valued at over ₦2 billion, to the Assemblies of God Nigeria, alongside multiple church, educational, and community development projects.

His landmark legal victory in Obioma v. Nigeria (2005) at the Court of Appeal contributed significantly to prison decongestion and justice reform in Nigeria.

Integrity and National Recognition

Despite active engagement in politics, including his withdrawal from the 2019 ADP governorship race, Chief Akagburuonye remains widely respected for integrity, having been cleared by the EFCC, ICPC, and SSS after comprehensive investigations.

Conclusion

UNIEC Worldwide describes Chief Dr. Barr. Engr. Obioma Success Akagburuonye (JP) as “a quintessential model of faith-driven leadership, enterprise, and community-rooted development”, whose life exemplifies the values the Council seeks to promote among present and future generations.

Issued by:
United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide

Signed:
Justice Alpha Ikpeaama
Director-General (D-G)
UNIEC Worldwide