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Nnamdi Kanu: Why security agencies prefer DSS facility to Kuje Prison

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Nigeria’s intelligence community are against the demand by Nnamdi Kanu and his legal team to have him moved to the Kuje Prison from the Department of State Services (DSS) custody.

In court on Monday, his counsel Ifeanyi Ejiofor informed the media of three applications, including Kanu’s transfer to the correctional centre.

First: An expedited hearing in the case of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader.

The lawyer said Justice Binta Nyako explained that an approval is required from the Chief Justice of the Federal High Court to prosecute the trial due to the current vacation of judges.

Second: Ejiofor disclosed that he complained about DSS’s refusal to allow lawyers to regularly meet Kanu.

“We told the court that the detention authority, in this case, the DSS, should give us access to our client. We’ve not seen him. That has been agreed and we are going to see him soon“, he said.

The third: An application to get Kanu transferred to the Kuje Correctional Centre. “The application was made on July 14, 2021”, Ejiofor hinted.

Justice Nyako rejected the plea, insisting Kanu is safe, secure and being kept in good conditions at the DSS.

However, intelligence agencies are not comfortable with the request. They believe the motive is a jail break being “planned” by IPOB and its militant wing, Eastern Security Network (ESN).

An officer told PRNigeria that a grand plan of a massive attack on the Kuje Prison had been uncovered.

“They want him transferred to the prison so they can storm there as they have done to many Police Stations and Correctional Centres in the South-East in the last six months.

“Nnamdi Kanu celebrated the destruction when he emphasized via his Twitter account that no soul deserved to be locked up in any Nigerian prison. Imagine him now saying that’s where he prefers,” he said.

The source pointed out that prominent individuals arrested and detained at the DSS are normally given better treatment, compared to police cells.

The law enforcement circle asserts IPOB/ESN members carried out the assault on Imo Prison and Police Headquarters with sophisticated weapons such as General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs), Sub-Machine Guns (SMGs), AK49 rifles, Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPGs) and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).

A separate source told DAILY POST on Tuesday that Kuje Prison may not be able to withstand a coordinated intrusion.

“I’m going to be sincere with you, the facility isn’t a place for a high-profile suspect like Nnamdi Kanu who has thousands of die-hard followers.

“Kuje Prison is not extremely fortified and you know it’s actually not within Abuja. So if there’s a situation, damage might have been done before reinforcement gets there.”

Nigerian authorities argue that foreign countries and partners agree that the carnage by IPOB and ESN, including the murder of security agents and civilians, justify Kanu’s arrest.

Kanu was intercepted in Kenya and repatriated on June 27, 2021 after years on the run. The outspoken separatist will be re-arraigned at the Federal High Court, Abuja, in October.

Culled from the Daily Post Nigeria

Houston

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

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

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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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