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EndSARS: CLO knocks panel for direct submission of report to Gov. Emmanuel

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4 years ago

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The Akwa Ibom State chapter of the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) has condemned the judicial Panel of Investigation into incidences of police brutality and infractions in the State for submitting its report directly to the Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel without first of all making the recommendations therein public.

The media reports that the panel headed by Justice Ifiok Ukana, (Rtd) had on Friday July, 23, 2021, submitted its report to Gov. Emmanuel.

But the CLO, in a press statement signed by its chairman, Franklyn Isong and the Secretary Christopher Ekpo and made available to the media on Friday, expressed reservations that the recommendations of the panel could go down the drain as was the case with the recommendations by the panel of inquiry into the Reigners’ Bible Church collapse in December, 10, 2016.

It could be recalled that the commission set up to investigate the remote and immediate causes of the church collapse made its recommendations in 2017 indicting the founder of the church, Akan Weeks, as well as recommending compensations to the victims’ families.

But the State government has not acted upon the report five years after.

The CLO said that since the EndSARs panel did not make the recommendations open, there was a tendency that Gov. Emmanuel would suppress the report.

It said, “CLO faults the EndSARs panel of investigation into incidences of Police brutality and infractions of the rights of Nigerians in Akwa Ibom State for submitting its report to the State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, without making public its recommendations.

“CLO notes that the manner in which the EndSARS Panel shrouded its recommendations in secrecy leaves room for the suppression of the recommendations.

“We are worried given the unsavoury manner in which the current state administration suppressed the recommendations and white paper of the 2017 Reigners Bible Church Panel of Inquiry.”

It, however, commended the Chairman and members of the EndSARS Panel for their dedication and commitment and called on the Panel to clear the haze by making public its recommendations.

In his reaction, Justice Ukana said it was wrong to make the recommendations public before submitting to the governor, saying that such was beyond the powers of the panel set up by the governor.

He said, “our work is to make recommendations after receiving petitions and send to the State government. If we make it open, we are going to run into problem because you discover that some States did not give money for payment while some did.

“Now those States which gave money for payment set up another small committee which worked with the panel and they agreed on the quantum of compensation.

“The office of the vice president wants to collate the total financial implication of recommendation,l and tell the National Assembly to provide for it in the supplementary budget.”

Asked if the recommendations would not end like that of Reigners’ Bible Church collapse, the Chairman said, “no! This has nothing to do with the Reigners Bible Church collapse. This panel came to fruition through the instance of the National Economic Council meeting headed by the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo. The State governments must implement the recommendations. What happened in Akwa Ibom happened in other States.

“We are sending this report to Abuja, NEC. They will pay, there is nothing to panic for. The office of the vice president has been communicating to us every Thursday.”

Culled from the Daily Post Nigeria

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Houston and Owerri Community Mourn the Passing of Beloved Icon, Lawrence Mike Obinna Anozie

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6 days ago

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October 3, 2025

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Houston was thrown into mourning on September 19, 2025, following the sudden passing of businessman and community advocate Lawrence Mike Obinna Anozie, who peacefully joined his ancestors. Immediate family member in Houston, Nick Anozie, confirmed his untimely death and expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and condolences from both the Houston and Owerri communities.

Lawrence was born to Chief Alexander and Lolo Ether Anozie of Owerri in Imo State, Nigeria, and will be dearly remembered by family members, friends, and the entire Houston community.

An accomplished accountant, the late Lawrence incorporated and successfully managed three major companies: Universal Insurance Company, LLC, Universal Mortgage LLC, and Universal Financial Services. Through these enterprises, he not only built a thriving business career but also created opportunities for countless individuals to achieve financial stability. His contributions to entrepreneurship and community development will remain a lasting legacy.

According to the family, arrangements for his final funeral rites are in progress and will be announced in due course.

Lawrence will forever be remembered as a loving and compassionate man who dedicated much of his life to uplifting others. He helped countless young Nigerians and African Americans overcome economic challenges by providing mentorship, financial guidance, and career opportunities. His generosity touched the lives of many who otherwise might not have found their footing. A devout Catholic, he was unwavering in his faith and never missed Mass, drawing strength and inspiration from his church community. To those who knew him, Lawrence was not only a successful businessman but also a pillar of kindness, humility, and faith whose legacy of service and compassion will continue to inspire generations.

For more information, please contact Nick Anozie – 832-891-2213

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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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