WIC WARNS POLITICIANS AGAINST THREATS TO IGBOS OVER OBI

The World Igbo Congress has warned politicians and their supporters against threatening, intimidating or harassing Igbo people over their political choices, particularly in connection with the political activities of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

The organisation said political disagreements should not be allowed to degenerate into threats against the lives and property of Igbo people as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.

The warning was issued by the Vice-Chairman of the World Igbo Congress, Basil Onwukwe, during an interview with Rudolf Okonkwo on 90MinutesAfrica.

Onwukwe said the organisation remained non-partisan but would not remain silent if Igbo people were threatened because of their political affiliations or choices.

He said the WIC had been monitoring political developments and would respond appropriately to any situation in which threats against Igbo people could endanger their lives or property.

The WIC official also cautioned politicians and their supporters against allowing political differences to fuel hatred, intimidation or violence.

According to him, the organisation's previous silence over alleged threats linked to Peter Obi should not be interpreted as ignorance or indifference.

Onwukwe further assured Igbos living across Nigeria that the organisation was committed to protecting their interests, regardless of their political affiliations.

Speaking ahead of the WIC convention in Austin, Texas, he disclosed that the organisation was strengthening its networks to support Igbo people living and doing business around the world.

He also revealed plans by the group to establish an Igbo Credit Union in the United States, alongside efforts to develop a Biafra Cenotaph and Monumental Park, an initiative proposed at an earlier WIC convention in Worcester, Massachusetts.

The WIC urged politicians to pursue their ambitions peacefully and respect the political choices of citizens without resorting to threats or intimidation.

NCWCAASD 2026 Opens in Taraba, Sets Agenda for Women, Children and Social Development

The 2026 National Council for Women Affairs, Child Advancement and Social Development (NCWCAASD) has commenced in Taraba State, bringing together government officials, delegates, development partners and key stakeholders from across the country.

The opening ceremony marked the beginning of a series of engagements focused on issues affecting women, children and other vulnerable groups, with participants expected to exchange ideas, review existing interventions and explore practical approaches to advancing social development.

As host state, Taraba welcomed delegates and participants to the council, with emphasis on strengthening partnerships and deepening collective efforts towards creating greater opportunities and protection for women and children.

The gathering provides a platform for stakeholders to share experiences, shape policies and renew commitments to programmes that promote inclusion, empowerment and improved welfare for families and communities.

The council is expected to feature discussions and engagements aimed at advancing women and child development while strengthening collaboration among governments, development partners and other relevant stakeholders.

For Taraba, hosting the council represents an opportunity to showcase its commitment to social development and contribute to national conversations on building a more inclusive society.

The council continues with further engagements as stakeholders work towards stronger partnerships and practical solutions for women, children and communities across Nigeria.

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT TO DEEPEN ENGAGEMENT WITH CATHOLIC BISHOPS /OTHER FAITH BASED ORGANIZATIONS

 

The Federal Government says it will strengthen collaboration with the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria, CBCN, and other stakeholders to address the country's social, economic and security challenges.

A statement personally signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, says the Tinubu Administration believes lasting solutions require sustained partnership with faith-based organisations, traditional institutions, civil society, the private sector and citizens.

The statement says government remains open to constructive dialogue and honest counsel, adding that discussions with the Catholic Bishops covered issues including security, the economy, education, public services, electoral credibility and religious freedom.

The SGF reaffirmed the administration's commitment to democratic principles, stressing that it neither seeks nor supports a one-party state and will continue to respect the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

He also acknowledged the Catholic Church's contributions to national development and assured that consultations with the Bishops and other stakeholders would continue in the interest of peace, national unity and sustainable development.