Connect with us

Lifestyle

Ebonyi APC Youth Leader, Two Policemen’s Bodies Recovered From Mining Pit After Three Days

Published

4 years ago

on

The decomposed bodies of the All Progressive Congress (APC) youth leader in Ebonyi State, Comrade Ogochukwu Elem, and two police escorts attached to him have been recovered from an unmarked mine pit Enyigba area of the state.

The media recalls that Elem’s Golf car which was conveying them plunged into the mine pit at about 3 pm on Saturday afternoon.

A crane supplied by the state Ministry of Infrastructural Development for Concession and local divers were deployed to the scene on Sunday to help with the rescue efforts.

Reacting to the ugly incident, Governor David Umahi, condemned the activities of miners who dig mining pits indiscriminately thereby endangering the lives of the people and destroying the environment.

He mourned the death of Mr Elem and the two others believed to be police escorts.

He said his government will set up a committee to look into the incident, warning that henceforth, his administration will not tolerate such practice from miners in the state.

He, however, commiserated with Elem’s immediate family, APC, the state and the Nigerian Police over the loss.

He said: “We learnt of the unfortunate incident of an accident here on this road that was on Saturday. The accident is still a mystery to all of us, that was the APC youth leader with some policemen that were going for a function and the accident happened.

“We do not know the cause of the accident, we do not know what happened but it’s quite very mysterious how it happened that even the wages of the sand could not stop them and the small vehicle plunged into a pit that was dug over 20 years and not closed.

“It is very unfortunate and we have been fighting this issue of digging pits, harvesting lead, zinc and shippings without closing it back. We have been fighting with miners in Ebonyi State over this issue. And so, the Chief of Staff is here who also doubles as the Commissioner for Solid Minerals.

“We are going to identify all the pits in Ebonyi State whether it was dug for lead, for zinc, for shippings or any other minerals. We have to identify who did it and then the closing of these pits must commence latest by next week Monday.

The media reports scores of angry Ebonyi youths trooped out on Sunday to protest the failure of the government and its rescue operators to pull out the victims and the vehicle as soon as possible. The angry youths blocked the Enyigba/Ikwo Road in protest.

The protest came after the vehicle slipped off while being lifted by the crane and plunged back into the pit.

Chairman of Ikwo Local Government, Chief Steve Orogwu, who spoke with Tribune Online on Sunday evening described the incident as tragic and unfortunate.

He said: “We invited local divers from different locations. We are very worried, you can see the population of sympathisers here. Even the youth have become restive to the extent of blocking the road. So, it is a very precarious situation.”

On his part, Abakaliki Local Government Chairman, Chief Emmanuel Nwangele described the incident as mysterious.

“Government has tried so much because since yesterday (Saturday), my local government and that of Ikwo have put heads together, we have called divers from all corners; from Izzi, Ikwo and other places. Even Hausa people have tried since yesterday (Saturday). Then this morning (Sunday), they continued and nothing has happened.

“This is too mysterious because if you look at how it happened and where it happened, you will hardly believe it until the vehicle is seen. But divers have established that it is inside the water. We are now waiting for the crane and everybody is restless and we are doing everything humanly possible to make sure they are rescued,” he said.

Culled from the Tribune News Nigeria

Texas Guardian News
Latest posts by Texas Guardian News (see all)
Related Topics:
Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Houston

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

Published

2 months ago

on

July 30, 2025

By

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

Texas Guardian News
Latest posts by Texas Guardian News (see all)
Continue Reading

Houston

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

Published

5 months ago

on

May 11, 2025

By

Texas Guardian News
Latest posts by Texas Guardian News (see all)
Continue Reading

Houston

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

Published

5 months ago

on

May 11, 2025

By

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.

Texas Guardian News
Latest posts by Texas Guardian News (see all)
Continue Reading

Trending