The Majority Leader of the Abia State House of Assembly and representative for Arochukwu State Constituency, Hon. Okoro Uchenna Kalu, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Chief Chijioke James Ume, affectionately known as Ike Abam, on receiving the esteemed African Hero Award at the 15th Edition of the Voice Achievers Award in London 2026.

Hon. Kalu, who regards Ike Abam as an elder brother, leader, and close friend, expressed immense pride in this international recognition. He emphasized that this honor is a well-deserved acknowledgment of Ike’s years of dedicated humanitarian work, philanthropy, and people-focused leadership.

The prestigious event took place at the Hilton London Kensington Hotel, drawing a remarkable gathering of distinguished Africans, community leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, and philanthropists, all of whom have made significant contributions to their communities and beyond.

This year’s Voice Achievers Award was themed, “Putting Africa in the Right Perspective: Focusing on Mental Empowerment for Economic Inclusion & Growth.” This theme highlighted the critical need for human capacity development, mental empowerment, and economic inclusion, creating opportunities for individuals to become productive members of society. In this context, Ike Abam’s recognition takes on even greater importance.

In response to the award, Hon. Kalu remarked that the African Hero Award is not just a glamorous accolade but a testament to Ike Abam’s unwavering commitment to humanity and his drive to make a positive impact on the lives of those around him.

The lawmaker joined family, friends, associates, beneficiaries, and admirers of the philanthropist in celebrating what he called a well-deserved recognition for a man whose humanitarian spirit continues to inspire many.

For Hon. Kalu, the honor bestowed in London is a moment of shared pride, shining a light on the humanitarian efforts of Ike Abam and the Unubiko Foundation, reaching far beyond Nigeria’s borders. He took a moment to celebrate the award recipient, whom he regards as an elder brother and a leader, highlighting his generosity and genuine concern for others, which truly sets him apart as a dedicated servant to the community.

In a heartfelt congratulatory message, Hon. Kalu expressed:

“I am so proud of you, Dede, and I know you will continue to make us proud.”

He also offered prayers for God’s ongoing blessings, strength, and the ability for Ike Abam to keep being a beacon of hope for humanity.

Hon. Okoro Uchenna Kalu’s tribute to Ike Abam holds special significance, given their close bond. As the Majority Leader of the Abia State House of Assembly and representative for Arochukwu State Constituency, Hon. Kalu has consistently aligned himself with individuals and initiatives that uplift and develop the community.

His message radiates the warmth of a close friend celebrating an elder brother and leader whose accomplishments have become a source of pride for many. For Kalu, this international recognition isn’t just a personal milestone for Ike Abam; it’s a moment for all those who have benefited from his humanitarian work to join in the celebration.

He wrapped up his message with a powerful note of admiration:

“Bravo, our Supreme Leader!”

A High Court in Calabar, Cross River State, has sentenced 51-year-old Apostle Ubong Bassey Etim to death by hanging for the murder of his 16-year-old daughter, Deborah Bassey, in a judgment that has reignited concerns over the continued persecution of vulnerable children through witchcraft accusations.

Justice Blessing Egwu of High Court No. 11 delivered the verdict in Suit No. HC/54C/2025 (State v. Ubong Bassey Etim) after finding the cleric guilty of murdering his daughter on February 15, 2025.

According to reports, Deborah, who lived with Down syndrome, was falsely accused of being a witch before she was killed. Her death sparked widespread condemnation from child rights advocates and organizations campaigning against harmful traditional practices.

Court Sends Strong Message Against Witchcraft Branding

Reacting to the judgment, the Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI), which supported the prosecution, described the conviction as a landmark victory for child protection and justice.

Speaking after the ruling, the organization’s Principal Counsel, James Ibor, said the judgment affirms that every child, regardless of disability or circumstance, has the right to life, dignity, and protection under the law.

“Today’s judgment sends a strong message that such acts are criminal and that perpetrators will be held fully accountable under the law,” Ibor said.

He noted that Deborah’s tragic death highlights the devastating consequences of witchcraft accusations, particularly against children living with disabilities, who are often subjected to rejection, abuse, torture, abandonment, and even death.

Renewed Call to End Child Abuse

The BRCI pledged to intensify its campaign against witchcraft branding and all forms of child abuse across Cross River State, stressing that no child should suffer violence because of harmful cultural or religious beliefs.

The organization also commended the Nigeria Police Force, the Cross River State Ministry of Justice, led by Attorney General Etubom Ededem Ani, and the judiciary for ensuring justice was served.

Special recognition was given to the Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr. Okoi Ukam, prosecuting counsel Patrick Usang and Deborah Tom, as well as Dr. David Ushie of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital for their contributions to the successful prosecution.

A Landmark Judgment

The conviction adds to a growing number of court decisions in Cross River State aimed at combating violence linked to witchcraft accusations.

Child rights advocates say the ruling reinforces the urgent need for stronger enforcement of child protection laws, increased public awareness, and sustained efforts to end the stigmatization of children, particularly those living with disabilities.

The case serves as a reminder that accusations rooted in superstition can have devastating consequences, and that the law will hold perpetrators accountable for crimes committed under such beliefs.

Residents of Ohafia South State Constituency are receiving temporary relief following the recent restriction on commercial motorcycle operations, as the Honourable Member representing the area in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Kalu Mba Nwoke (popularly known as Etiokwe), has introduced free transportation services to ease the movement challenges facing commuters.

In a swift intervention aimed at cushioning the impact of the restriction across Ohafia metropolitan communities, the lawmaker announced the deployment of free shuttle vehicles to convey residents to their various destinations. The initiative is designed to bridge the mobility gap created by the policy change and ensure that daily economic and social activities continue with minimal disruption.

Hon. Etiokwe acknowledged the concerns raised by affected transport operators, particularly commercial motorcyclists, but emphasized that the government’s decision is anchored on broader considerations of public safety and urban order. He appealed to residents for calm and understanding, assuring them that the current hardship is temporary and will be addressed through ongoing support measures.

According to his Media Aide, Mr. Nnanna Echeme, the intervention reflects a commitment to responsive leadership and people-centered governance, particularly in moments of sudden policy adjustment that directly affect grassroots livelihoods.

The initiative has already begun easing pressure in affected routes, with residents expressing cautious optimism about the palliative transport arrangement.

The Abia State Government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring justice for the late Miss Wendy Achumba, whose tragic death has continued to attract public attention and calls for accountability.

Speaking during the burial ceremony held on Friday in Obingwa Local Government Area, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Students Affairs, Hon. Chinedu Nwosu, represented Governor Alex Otti, OFR, and conveyed the Governor’s heartfelt condolences to the Achumba family.

Nwosu assured the bereaved family that although Wendy had been laid to rest, the government’s determination to ensure that those responsible for her death face justice remains unwavering.

He described the deceased as a promising young woman whose life, dreams, and aspirations were tragically cut short, emphasizing that the Abia State Government would not remain silent in the face of violence against its citizens.

According to him, the state government will continue to stand by the Achumba family throughout the judicial process until justice is fully served.

The Governor’s representative also commended the resilience of the family during the difficult period and urged them to remain hopeful as security agencies continue efforts to ensure that justice prevails.

Hon. Nwosu expressed appreciation to everyone who took time to attend the burial, especially the students who turned out in large numbers to honour the memory of their late colleague. He noted that their presence demonstrated unity, compassion, and solidarity with the grieving family.

The solemn burial ceremony was marked by prayers, tributes, and emotional moments as family members, friends, colleagues, and sympathisers gathered to pay their final respects to the late nursing student.

Among those who attended the burial were the Member Representing Aba Central State Constituency, Hon. Akachukwu Ucheonye; Mayor of Obingwa Local Government Area, Hon. Maxwell Nwadike; the Chief Security Officer of the Abia State Government House, CSP Ken Nwosu; the Deputy Chief of Protocol to the Governor, Mazi Ikechukwu Nwankwo; the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Blessing Felix, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry; the National Senate Chief Clerk of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Comrade Chinyelu Okolie Chinelo; the Deputy Coordinator of NANS South-East Zone F, Comrade Unique Kelechi; the South-East Coordinator of the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), Comrade Ofoegbu Victoria; as well as students from various tertiary institutions across Abia State and the College of Nursing, Umulogwo, Obowo Local Government Area of Imo State, who attended in large numbers to honour their late coursemate.