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Suspected killer of Akwa Ibom job seeker pleads guilty to murder

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4 years ago

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The 20-year-old man, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge of rape.

Uduak Akpan on Monday pleaded guilty to the murder of Iniubong Umoren, the Akwa Ibom woman who was lured out of her home with a fake job interview.

He was arraigned before a State High Court judge, Bennet Illaumoh, in Uyo.

Miss Umoren was raped and killed in April in the outskirts of Uyo by Mr Akpan who the police in Akwa Ibom State described as a serial rapist.

Her remains were buried in a shallow grave in Mr Akpan’s family house where the crime took place.

Mr Akpan, however, pleaded not guilty to the rape charge.

Dressed in a peach-coloured caftan, the 20-year-old Mr Akpan looked calm and confident in the dock.

His father, Frank Akpan, who is the second defendant in the case, pleaded not guilty to charge of accessory after the fact to murder.

An accessory-after-the-fact is someone who is believed to have assisted another person who has committed a crime to evade justice.

The Attorney General of Akwa Ibom State, Uko Sam, SAN is leading the prosecution team.

After Mr Akpan was docked and the charges read to him, it was discovered that he had no lawyer to represent him.

A lawyer, Emms Ekongson who announced his appearance for the second defendant (Mr Akpan’s father) told the court that he was holding a brief for the second defendant, Mr Akpan Snr only.

The judge had to appoint a lawyer, Sampson Adulla, the Akwa Ibom State coordinator of the Legal Aid Council, to represent the first defendant.

The Legal Aid Council is a statutory body which provides free legal services to low-income Nigerians who are unable to hire a lawyer.

Mr Adulla prayed the court to enter a not-guilty plea for the first defendant, even though he had pleaded guilty, since he was charged for a capital offence.

The judge acceded to the prayer and entered a not-guilty plea for Mr Akpan before adjourning the case to August 18.

Why we aren’t prosecuting the third suspect – Akwa Ibom Government

Meanwhile, the state Attorney General, Mr Sam, while fielding questions from reporters outside the courtroom said the state government was prosecuting only two suspects because the evidence before them can sufficiently cater for the two.

Mr Sam was responding to concerns raised by reporters on the absence in court of the third suspect that was linked to the case.

“In criminal prosecution we rely on the evidence that is brought from the investigation by the official investigators of the state,” he said.

 “We’ve gone through all the investigation reports by all the security operatives that handled the investigation.”

“Currently, the two people that have been arraigned today and charged are the people that we have sufficient evidence to prosecute them.”

“There has been so much in the social media and we don’t prosecute cases based on information on the social media but by what official investigating authority present by way of fact and evidence.”

He, however, said that if the state has evidence on the culpability of another person in connection with the case the person will be charged and prosecuted.

“In criminal prosecution there is no time bar for criminal culpability. If by tomorrow or ten years from now evidence comes out that can tie anybody who is not charged today in this crime, that person will be charged and prosecuted to the end,” he said.

Culled from the Premium Times Nigeria

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

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4 weeks 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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3 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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6 months ago

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May 11, 2025

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