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Alleged kidnap: Wife implicates husband in Evans’ trial

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4 years ago

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Ogechi Uchechukwu, wife of an alleged kidnapper, Uche Amadi, Tuesday told a Lagos High Court, Ikeja that her husband lied about his involvement with the alleged kidnap kingpin, Chukwudimeme Onwuamadike, alias Evans.

Ogechi said that her husband had travelled from Port Harcourt to Lagos in 2016 after receiving a call from his friend Evans, who invited him to come for a job.

According to Ogechi, her husband lied in his evidence before the court that he only visited Lagos for the first time after he was arrested by the police on May 24, 2017.

Ogechi, her husband, Amadi, Evans, and three others: Chilaka Ifeanyi, Okwuchukwu Nwachukwu, and Victor Aduba are standing trial before the court for allegedly kidnapping the Chief Executive Officer of Maydon Pharmaceutical Ltd, Mr Donatius Dunu.

The couple were particularly accused of providing a detention camp at 21 Prophet Ashaye Close, New Igando, Lagos for victims kidnapped by the alleged kingpin, Evans.

Uche Amadi was reportedly identified as the leader of Detention Gang, one of the two groups coordinated by Evans.

While giving evidence in court, Ogechi said, “I own a shop and sell provisions in Port Harcourt. I was in Port Harcourt when I was arrested by the police. But my Lord I visited Lagos, with my son, in August 2016 during the long (school) vacation.

“My husband invited me to Lagos in August and I spent two weeks there before I returned to Port Harcourt. It was on May 24, 2017 when a Hilux Van, filled with policemen, packed in front of my shop. The police officers marched into the shop, saw my husband and arrested him.

“So, if anyone comes to this court and says that Amadi has never been to Lagos except in 2017 when he was arrested, then that person must be lying.”

Ogechi came shortly after her husband, Amadi, had earlier testified that he had never visited Lagos prior to his arrest.

Amadi, in his defence, told the court that he was arrested alongside his wife in Port Harcourt and that he didn’t know or have any relationship with Evans.

Narrating how she was arrested, Ogechi said: “When the police officers arrested my husband, they also dragged me along when I tried to ask them what offence he committed.

“They took us to a police station in Port Harcourt and I spent three weeks there.

“They later transferred us to Lagos where I spent three months before we were charged to court.

“At the station in Port Harcourt, they asked me if I knew that my husband is a kidnapper and I said no. I told them that my husband is a taxi driver and when he is off from work, he helps me out in the shop.”

When asked when she got married to the 2nd defendant (Amadi), she said, “we got married in 2004 after my Diploma in Marketing at the University of Calabar. We have a son together.”

When asked if she lived with her husband and knew the kind of business he did while in Lagos, she said No.

During cross-examination by the state prosecution, Adebayo Haroun, the witness said that her husband was formerly doing a clothing business in 2004 at Aba, Ariaria International market before he got a contract job and they relocated to Port Harcourt.

She further said that they moved to Port Harcourt in 2013 when her son was 9-years old.

“My husband got a contract to drive a big truck that carries dirts (from dustbins) but he left Port Harcourt in 2016 to Lagos,” she confirmed.

When asked why her husband left Port Harcourt, she said, “my husband told me that his friend invited him to Lagos. He said his friend, Somtochuckwu and I believed him.”

Justice Hakeem Oshodi, thereafter, adjourned the matter till July 9, for the continuation of Defence.

Culled from the Vanguard News Nigeria

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Houston Gets a Taste of West Africa at Chef Kavachi’s ‘Art of Fufu’ Show, August 8

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2 months ago

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July 30, 2025

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When it comes to international culinary gems and cultures across the United States, the city of Houston is counted among one of the best places to experience an authentic taste of every corner of the world.

 On the evening of Friday, August 8th, Houstonians will have a chance to engage all of their senses into the world of real West African flavors at Grubido’s ‘Art of Fufu’ Food & Art Show, a free culinary and art experience taking place at Flatland Gallery (1709 Westheimer Rd.) in Montrose.

  Curated by Grubido founder and Culinary Cultural Curator Kavachi Ukegbu, the annual celebration of west African cuisine and artistry will once again open its doors to patrons to witness the delights of creating and eating Fufu (a starchy, dough-like food that is a staple in many West and Central African countries), and its delicious and diverse pairings of soups and stews that originate from various parts of the continent, and uniquely compliment the beloved food staple as a complete meal. The event will also celebrate the observance of National Fufu Day  in the United States on August 11th.

  From the process of how different types of fufu are grown and manufactured, to the careful guidance on properly preparing the fufu to be eaten, the ‘Art of Fufu’ Food & Art showcase will give patrons a full circle perspective and appreciation for the food staple that has gained global popularity on social media and in many countries around the world.

  Attendees will be treated to fufu and soup samples, live Afrobeats music, an impressive display of fufu inspired artwork and collectables from over the years, and the opportunity to purchase Grubido food products, t-shirts, and the official The Art of Fufu cookbook. Originally published and released by Chef Kavach in 2021, “The Art of Fufu is a fascinating and informative guide to fufu, one of the most delicious and beloved staple foods of West Africans.” All cookbook purchases at the event will be signed by Chef Kavachi.

Entry for this event is free to all guests, but RSVP is strictly required in advance. To RSVP for the upcoming Art of Fufu Food & Art show, please visit the official website online at www.TheArtofFufu.com, or contact Grubido at (832) 818-6847.

The Art of Fufu Cookbook is a culinary treasure that explores the flavors, techniques, and cultural significance of fufu. It is a testament to the artistry of West African cuisine and serves as a guide for those seeking to immerse themselves in this beloved dish.

For more information, please visit www.theartoffufu.com & www.artoffufu.com

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Video: Omambala Cultural Association in Houston Celebrates Motherhood with Joyous Igbo-Inspired Mother’s Day Event

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5 months ago

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May 11, 2025

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Omambala Association in Houston Celebrates Motherhood with Joyous Mother’s Day Event

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5 months ago

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May 11, 2025

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HOUSTON, TEXAS – May 5, 2025 — The Omambala Cultural Association in Houston hosted a vibrant and heartfelt Mother’s Day celebration on Sunday evening at the Igbo Catholic Community Hall on Creekbend. The event brought together families and community members to honor the enduring strength, love, and sacrifices of mothers within the Igbo community.

Led by the association’s president, Ichelle Awkuzu, the Isaaka of Igboland, the gathering featured prayers, cultural music, dance, and speeches dedicated to celebrating motherhood. Awkuzu described the event as a moment of reflection and appreciation for mothers, emphasizing their central role in shaping families and preserving cultural values.

The association’s president, Ichelle Awkuzu, the Isaaka of Igboland, addressing the group.

 

Celebrants celebrate at the Omambala Cultural Association’s Mother’s Day celebration on Sunday evening at the Igbo Catholic Community Hall in Houston.

 

Celebrants

“Mothers are the heartbeat of our homes and the foundation of our culture,” Awkuzu said, urging attendees to honor and support mothers every day, not just on special occasions.

The celebration included lively performances of traditional Igbo music and dance, homemade meals prepared by members, and the presentation of thoughtful gifts to each mother in attendance. Vice President Chief Ugochukwu Chukwuka, known as Omemma Igbo, also delivered remarks, recognizing the vital role of mothers in nurturing future generations.

Photo from left_ Vice President of the group, Chief Ugochukwu Chukwuka – Omemma Igbo, and the President, Ichelle Awkuzu, the Isaaka of Igboland.

The evening was filled with laughter, music, and shared memories, reinforcing the communal spirit that defines the Omambala Cultural Association. Elders and youth alike participated in storytelling sessions and interactive cultural activities, creating a multigenerational experience that underscored the importance of preserving Igbo heritage. Several attendees expressed appreciation for the sense of belonging and cultural pride the event fostered.

The Omambala Cultural Association Inc. is a community-based organization representing people from the Old Anambra Local Government Area in Anambra State, Nigeria. It remains committed to promoting cultural education, unity, and socio-economic development for Igbo people in the diaspora and beyond.

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