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Chief Henry Udeh has emerged Chairman of the Labour Party (LP) in Ebonyi State following a consensus-based congress held on Saturday at the party secretariat in Abakaliki.

The development is widely regarded as part of the party’s early strategic realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The congress, which attracted party faithful and critical stakeholders from across the state, formally ratified Ude’s emergence through a unanimous voice vote.

The motion for the adoption of a consensus arrangement was moved by Comrade Christian Mayor Iduma and seconded by Mrs. Priscilla Ijeoma Chukwu, after which it was adopted without dissent, an outcome party leaders described as reflective of strong internal cohesion within the state chapter.

In the same vein, other members of the State Executive Committee, including the State Secretary, Mr. Innocent Igiri, were returned to office, thereby consolidating the existing leadership structure to guide the party through the forthcoming electoral cycle.

The exercise was attended by notable party figures, including the party’s 2023 governorship candidate in Ebonyi State, Chief Splendor Oko-Eze, and the 2023 House of Representatives candidate for Abakaliki/Izzi Federal Constituency, Dr. Ezeh Emmanuel Ezeh.

Officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), alongside security agencies and representatives of the party’s national leadership, monitored proceedings in compliance with statutory requirements.

Addressing members shortly after the congress, Chief Splendor Oko-Eze described the successful conduct of the ward, local government, and state congresses as a defining milestone for the party in Ebonyi State.

“The Labour Party ward, LGA, and state congresses have been successfully concluded in Ebonyi State to the glory of God Almighty. This is the party to beat in 2027. Victory is assured — forward ever, and God remains our helper,” he said.

Similarly, Dr. Ezeh Emmanuel Ezeh commended the party’s internal processes, describing the peaceful conduct of the congress as a demonstration of political maturity and organisational discipline.

He contrasted this with what he characterised as persistent internal crises in other political parties, noting that the LP is positioning itself to play a dominant role in both state and national politics by 2027.

He, however, cautioned against complacency, urging sustained unity, strategic mobilisation, and institutional strengthening to consolidate the party’s growing influence.

In his acceptance speech, Chief Henry Udeh pledged to deliver inclusive, transparent, and accountable leadership rooted in grassroots participation and institutional integrity.

“The strength of any political organisation begins with its leadership. When leadership is properly aligned, the entire structure follows. We will operate an open system where every opinion is valued and duly considered in decision-making,” he said.

He emphasised that integrity, honesty, and political education would form the cornerstone of his administration, noting that the party must distinguish itself through discipline and accountability.

“I intend to serve as a ‘master-servant’ to the Labour Party in Ebonyi State, ensuring fairness, equity, and responsible stewardship in the management of party affairs,” he said.

On preparations for the 2027 general elections, the newly elected chairman disclosed that the state chapter is awaiting official guidelines from the party’s national leadership before initiating its primary election processes.

“We are awaiting directives from the national body. Once these guidelines are released, we will proceed accordingly. Preparatory efforts are already underway, and we will act decisively when the time comes,” he added.

Reaffirming the party’s commitment to internal democracy, Udeh stressed that candidatures would be determined by grassroots popularity and acceptability rather than financial capacity.

“We are a grassroots-driven party. Tickets will be awarded to candidates chosen by the people not those with the deepest pockets so that they can truly represent and serve the electorate,” he assured.

Expressing confidence in the party’s electoral prospects, he underscored the LP’s ambition to emerge as a credible alternative in future elections.

“Our objective is clear, we aim to win. Without that conviction, there would be no purpose in being in opposition,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the national leadership, the Deputy National Woman Leader, Mrs. Priscilla Ijeoma Chukwu, described the congress as peaceful, orderly, and fully compliant with established guidelines. She dismissed reports of factional divisions within the state chapter, affirming that the party remains united.

“The atmosphere has been calm, and the process has proceeded seamlessly in accordance with laid-down procedures. The Labour Party in Ebonyi State remains one cohesive family,” she said.

She further urged the newly elected leadership to sustain the prevailing unity and intensify efforts toward building a formidable political structure capable of delivering electoral success in 2027.

Party members who spoke on the sidelines of the congress expressed optimism that the outcome would reposition the party for enhanced electoral performance. Many pledged renewed commitment to grassroots mobilisation and organisational strengthening as the party prepares for future contests.

Henry Udeh emerges Labour Party Chairman in Ebonyi

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has lambasted the administration of President Bola Tinubu over insecurity bedeviling the country.

In an interview with News Central, Obasanjo said any government that cannot protect lives and property of its citizens does not have the right to exist.

The ex-Nigerian leader was reacting to the recent wave of insecurity which has confronted Nigeria, resulting in the killing of so many citizens and abduction of several others.

“Let me tell you, the government that cannot give security of life and property of its citizen has no right of existence.

“The elected members of our National Assembly have no right to fix their own salary and their own emolument.

“It’s not in our constitution for them to do that. It’s the revenue mobilization and allocation commission that should do it,” he said.

Govt that can’t protect lives has no right to exist – Obasanjo blasts Tinubu administration

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to industrialisation and export-driven growth with the inauguration of a multi-million naira garment factory in Abuja by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole.

The event, which coincided with the 10th anniversary of Mo’Afrique, drew key stakeholders from government and the private sector, highlighting renewed efforts to reposition Nigeria’s garment and textile industry for increased local production and global competitiveness.

Speaking at the ceremony, Oduwole described the occasion as a dual celebration of entrepreneurial resilience and industrial progress, commending the founder’s journey from humble beginnings to establishing a full-scale manufacturing facility.

“Today is truly a double celebration,” she said. “We are marking 10 years of an entrepreneur who started her business in her parents’ home – right from her bedroom – and steadily built it. That journey speaks volumes about tenacity, determination and relentless hard work.”

The minister noted that the transition from a small-scale operation to a factory aligns with the Federal Government’s broader industrialisation agenda.

“She is opening a factory—this is industrialisation in action. This is scale. This is production at scale,” Oduwole said.

She also challenged the company to take advantage of opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), urging expansion into regional and global markets.

“I have already challenged her to take the next step: to export her products across Africa and to the rest of the world,” she said, adding that the government remains committed to “supporting entrepreneurs to achieve productivity, scale and global competitiveness.”

Oduwole further praised Nigerian entrepreneurs for their resilience despite economic challenges.

“They are resilient, determined and unyielding in the face of challenges. We remain committed to supporting them and improving the business environment so they can thrive,” she added.

Founder and Creative Director of Mo’Afrique, Omobolanle Olawale, described the inauguration as a defining moment for the company and the local garment industry, noting that the expansion is aimed at bridging gaps in Nigeria’s clothing market.

“It is with profound gratitude and excitement that I welcome you to this historic occasion – the celebration of Mo’Afrique’s 10th anniversary and the launch of our new brand, Modish, alongside the commissioning of our state-of-the-art garment factory here in Abuja,” she said.

Olawale explained that while Nigeria’s luxury fashion segment has seen growth, the mass market for everyday clothing remains underserved.

“While luxury fashion thrived, the mass market for professional wear, uniforms, casuals and outerwear remained underserved. Modish is our response to this challenge,” she said.

She added that the newly launched Modish Formals brand is designed to meet large-scale production needs for institutions.

“For the military, paramilitary organisations, corporations, schools and other institutions requiring large-scale production, Modish Formals is here to meet your needs with quality and efficiency,” Olawale said.

According to her, the factory is equipped with modern technology and skilled personnel to boost local manufacturing capacity and create jobs.

“This facility will empower local talent through training and job creation, demonstrating that Nigerian fashion can compete globally – not only in creativity but also in manufacturing excellence,” she said.

Highlighting challenges in the sector, Olawale revealed that Nigeria spends about $6 billion annually on imported clothing, with over 90 per cent of commonly used fabrics sourced from abroad, alongside issues such as smuggling and inadequate infrastructure.

“It is against this backdrop that Modish has emerged, not just as a brand but as a solution,” she said, adding that the company aims to strengthen the textile value chain over the next five to 10 years.

She also announced the launch of the Modish Scholars Programme, a corporate social responsibility initiative targeted at supporting the education of disadvantaged children.

“This is our contribution to tackling the scourge of out-of-school children in our society,” she said.

Reflecting on the company’s journey, Olawale said the success recorded over the past decade was driven by resilience and commitment to excellence.

“Ten years ago, Mo’Afrique was a dream. The road was not always easy, but we remained steadfast, guided by excellence and sustained by the trust of our clients and partners,” she added.

FG Inaugurates Garment Factory, Targets AfCFTA Opportunities is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has arrived in Russia for a high-level meeting with President Vladimir Putin, as Tehran intensifies diplomatic efforts to end its ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel.

Araghchi confirmed his arrival in St. Petersburg on his official Telegram account on Monday. He is scheduled to meet Putin in Moscow, along with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and other senior officials.

Iran’s Ambassador to Russia, Kazem Jalali, said the visit is part of “close consultations” between the two countries.

The Moscow stop is the final leg of an intensive diplomatic tour that took Araghchi to Pakistan twice in 48 hours and Oman over the weekend. In Islamabad, he met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir. In Muscat, he held talks with Sultan Haitham bin Tariq on maritime security and diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis.

Iranian state media reported that Tehran transmitted written messages to the United States through Pakistani mediators, outlining Iran’s positions on key issues including its nuclear program and the Strait of Hormuz. The messages were described as communicating red lines, not as part of active negotiations.

The diplomatic push comes after U.S. President Donald Trump canceled a planned trip to Pakistan by American negotiators. Trump said Sunday that Iranian officials “can call” if they wish to resume talks, while maintaining that the U.S. would be “very victorious.”

Russia has been a firm diplomatic ally to Iran throughout the conflict, which began in late February. Moscow has condemned U.S. and Israeli military actions, vetoed anti-Iran resolutions at the United Nations Security Council, and proposed storing Iran’s enriched uranium on Russian soil as part of a potential settlement framework.

No official statements on the outcomes of the Putin-Araghchi meeting have been released. Kremlin and Iranian government announcements are expected later Monday.

Iranian Foreign Minister Arrives In Russia For Talks With Putin is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The presidency has said that opposition political parties are standing on a sinking ground while President Bola Tinubu is standing solidly on the rock of competence.

Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, stated this on Sunday in an interview on Arise Television.

The presidential spokesman, who was reacting to the Ibadan declaration by the opposition to field one presidential candidate, described the summit as a collection of recycled politicians.

He said they are people who have been ministers, governors, and political actors for years, stressing that a closer look at their recent performances, whether in executive or legislative roles, there is little evidence of fresh thinking.

According to him, the individuals have nothing new to offer Nigerians.

He said, “They are free to field five, seven presidential candidates. But I said they’re standing on the sinking ground.

“That is the beauty of democracy. You have the opposition, you have individuals, political leaders decide on what they want to do.

“But that does not diminish the fact that there is a government in place that is functional, that has measured outcomes in what it has been doing. It does not take that away.”

Ibadan declaration: Opposition standing on sinking ground – Presidency

Arsenal forward, Eberechi Eze has said that Mikel Arteta team is under serious pressure.

According to the England forward, the team has no time to listen to pundits or criticism coming from outside.

Arsenal beat Newcastle United 1-0 on Saturday to return to the top of the Premier League table.

Eze scored the game’s only goal to give the Gunners all three points at Emirates Stadium.

The win over the visitors moved Mikel Arteta’s side to the top of the Premier League table with three points ahead of second-placed Manchester City.

Manchester City have a game in hand as Pep Guardiola’s side were on FA Cup duties against Southampton.

After the game, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano on X, Eze said, “I don’t hear pundits! The pressure we put on ourselves is so much more than what’s coming from outside.”

He, however, said the pressure is necessary to win matches and the Premier League title.

“It’s the necessary pressure to win, it’s not negative, it’s beautiful,” he said.

EPL: Pressure we put on ourselves too much – Arsenal’s Eze admits

A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Ladan Salihu, says the government of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, will fail the integrity and credibility test at the 2027 general elections.

Salihu made this statement while fielding questions in an interview on ‘Sunday Politics’, a programme on Channels Television.

According to him, the APC government led by President Bola Tinubu would face the anger and frustration of Nigerians at the polls.

“When it comes to credible elections and elections that are based on integrity, this government will fail the integrity and credibility test at the polls.

“This government will not measure up with the anger and the frustrations of the Nigerian people,” Salihu said.

Salihu also renewed the call for the resignation or removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof Joash Amupitan, over alleged bias.

INEC has, however, denied the allegation and insisted on the Amupitan’s neutrality.

“Amupitan should resign or should be removed because in public service today, Amupitan to me is the number one persona non grata because he has failed the integrity test, he has failed the competency test, he has not presented himself as that impartial, credible umpire that can give Nigeria, a nation of 250 million people, an election to celebrate,” the ADC chieftain said.

2027: APC Govt will fail integrity, credibility test — ADC chieftain, Salihu

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State of making remarks capable of inciting violence, following his address at a summit of opposition political parties held in Ibadan on Saturday.

A statement issued on Sunday by the APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the ruling party condemned what it described as Makinde’s invocation of the violent history of “Operation Wetie,” alleging that the governor used it to stoke tensions over claims that Nigeria is drifting toward a one-party state.

“The APC categorically condemns Governor Makinde’s incitement as reckless, and a clear and present threat to peace and national security,” Morka said.

“It is particularly disturbing for a sitting Governor who bears constitutional responsibility as the Chief Security Officer of his state to conjure up one of the darkest episodes of political violence in Nigeria’s history to threaten violence against the people and government of Nigeria.”

The party argued that Makinde’s comments went beyond routine opposition rhetoric, warning of potential consequences for national stability. “Makinde’s violent rhetoric cannot be dismissed as mere opposition posturing. His statement risks fueling anarchy, murderous rage and widespread lawlessness capable of undermining national stability,” the statement read.

Calling for immediate attention from authorities, the APC urged security and intelligence agencies to act. “We therefore call on all relevant security and intelligence agencies to take this unfortunate development seriously and act to safeguard lives, property, and defend Nigeria’s democratic order,” Morka added.

The party further stressed that constitutional immunity should not shield public officials from accountability in matters relating to national security. “Makinde must be reminded that constitutional immunity from prosecution is not immunity from accountability for threats or acts against national security. No individual, however highly placed, should have the power to threaten or endanger the lives and safety of Nigerians,” the statement said.

Beyond its criticism of the Oyo State governor, the APC dismissed broader opposition claims that the country is sliding into a one-party system, describing such assertions as unfounded and politically motivated.

“The APC vehemently rejects attempts by confused opposition leaders to frame their internal shambles in alarmist narratives about so-called one-party domination,” Morka stated, attributing challenges within opposition parties to “anti-democratic practices, miserably poor leadership, internal contradictions, utter disregard for due process and the rule of law, persistent factionalization, and the desperate and dissonant presidential ambitions of their leaders.”

The statement went further to criticise key opposition figures and parties, alleging that internal disputes and leadership struggles had weakened their credibility ahead of the 2027 general elections.

On the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the APC claimed it was “destroyed by Atiku Abubakar’s ruthless confiscation of the PDP’s 2023 presidential ticket in violation of the party’s constitutionally entrenched rotational zoning formula.”

It also took aim at the Labour Party (LP), alleging that it had been “effectively subverted by the restless nomadic disposition of its 2023 presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi,” while describing the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a “so-called coalition platform” that was “basically stillborn.”

According to the APC, the opposition has failed to present a credible alternative to the policies of the ruling party. “These opposition leaders and their coalition of confusion have not put anything forward by way of an alternative vision for Nigeria’s development. All they have in their arsenal is fear mongering built on false narratives about the APC,” Morka said.

Reaffirming its stance ahead of the next electoral cycle, the APC said it would not be drawn into managing the internal crises of rival parties. “Our great Party rejects the veiled expectation of opposition leaders that the APC would help them manage their internal affairs. We bear no such duty and will not provide any such leadership consulting services to them,” the statement read.

The party maintained that Nigeria’s democratic system remains vibrant, citing the number of registered political parties and ongoing political activities nationwide. “Nigeria’s democratic space remains as robust as can be. With nearly two dozen parties registered and participating freely in the country’s electoral process, the opposition’s unjustifiable attacks… is nothing but primitive capitulation,” it added.

Morka reaffirmed the APC-led administration’s commitment saying, “Our great party… remains committed to strengthening democratic institutions, upholding the rule of law, and delivering on the Renewed Hope Agenda for the peace, unity, and prosperity of all Nigerians.”

APC Slams Makinde Over ‘Operation Wetie’ Remarks, Alleges Incitement is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The convener of the Grand Arewa Twitter Connect, Nabila Yusuf Ahmad, has called for greater inclusion of young people in discussions that affect their future, saying many voices in Northern Nigeria are still unheard.

She made this known on Sunday in Kano during the youth gathering, which brought together participants from different states to network and share ideas.

According to her, the event was organised to give young people a platform to speak and be part of decisions that concern them.

“There are so many voices that are not heard, and we need to have one strong voice for Northern Nigeria,” she said.

She explained that over time, the connection among youths in the region has weakened, making it harder for them to collaborate and support one another.

“We used to have strong connections among youths in Northern Nigeria, but that space reduced. That is why we decided to bring people together again and close the gap,” she added.

Nabila stressed that unity among young people is key to addressing major challenges such as unemployment and insecurity.

“Unity is one of the most important things we are targeting. If you look around, people are already connecting and building relationships,” she said.

However, she noted that financial limitations affected participation, despite interest.

Also speaking at the event, entrepreneur, Aliyu Muhammad, popularly known as Sarkin Mota, stressed the need for unity across the country.

“We often say North, we say South, but the truth is the North cannot win alone and the South cannot succeed alone. If Nigeria fails, we all fail together,” he said.

He criticised how young people use social media, saying it is often used for negative purposes.

“We use X to drag instead of to build. We use influence to insult instead of to empower. Clout will make you popular, but only value will make you powerful,” he added.

Sarkin Mota encouraged young Nigerians to focus on building and supporting one another.

He noted that the generation is full of energy but needs better direction.

Many voices in northern Nigeria still unheard – Nabila

The tragic death of two-year-old Winnie Akakue at Wisdom Gate International School, Campus 1, Eligbolo, on March 17, 2026, has sparked outrage and grief.

Her parents are now demanding answers, insisting that justice must be served.

DAILY POST reports that amid the storm, the family is accusing the police of biased investigation of the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Father’s Account of the Incident

Winnie’s father, Dr Iasuaka Akakue, recounted the painful sequence of events that led to the loss of his daughter.

According to him, the school informed the family that Winnie had been asleep in her classroom when a bookshelf allegedly collapsed on her.

A verbal briefing from the pathologist who conducted the autopsy indicated that the child suffered a fractured skull, he said.

Akakue expressed concern that the family was only notified after the school had already taken the child to two separate medical facilities.

At the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, UPTH, doctors reportedly confirmed that she was brought in dead.

He further alleged that the scene of the incident was tampered with, claiming the bookshelf was moved and the area cleaned before any independent assessment could take place.

He also accused certain individuals of attempting to pressure his family into a swift burial and an out-of-court settlement.

He added, “I’m aware the said AIG has continued to mount pressure from wherever he is. On Thursday, I was told the detained had been released.

“While we grieve and in our pain, we found the attitude of the school very disturbing, because they’ve been using proxies, highly placed persons to try to pressure me.

“At this point, I don’t know how safe I am, but, all I want to ask is justice for my daughter, to at least, be able to lay her to rest, knowing actually what killed her.

“No thorough investigation has been made on the matter, everything has been about suppressing the matter, hoping that we would be able to reach a resolution.”

Concerns Over Autopsy Report and Police Process

Akakue also challenged claims by the police that his family failed to request the autopsy report, insisting that authorities had earlier assured them they would be contacted once the report was ready.

He said efforts to obtain clarity were unsuccessful, even after police confirmed receipt of the report during a follow-up inquiry.

The father expressed dissatisfaction with the direction of the investigation, alleging that officials appeared more focused on reaching a quick resolution than uncovering the full truth.

He added, “On Tuesday, when they invited us, they were only hammering on the idea of having a quick resolution.

“Like I said, we have made that point clear and that we want to head to court. The claims of having gone to the first hospital, did the baby come there alive? Did she leave there alive? All of that we are not aware of.

“The body language does not suggest any proper investigation has been done. And so, we are just now waiting for the police to finish their processes so that we head to court.”

He confirmed that the family is preparing to seek legal redress.

Mother’s Account and Family Impact

Winnie’s mother, Mrs. Chinyere Akakue, described receiving conflicting information from the school in the immediate aftermath of the incident.

She said the initial phone call from a teacher suggested that her daughter was still alive, only for her to arrive at the school and be confronted with a devastating reality.

She said, “When I got there, a lot of persons were on ground already. I was wondering, why the crowd? I still didn’t realize what was happening, until one of the teachers took me down to where she was lying on the couch unattended to, nobody was answering me.

“They now took me to the corner and started asking me, madam, how many children do you have. At that point, I just knew it was just all over.

“I went close to my baby. I looked at her, I felt her, she was already cold.”

Reflecting on the days since the incident, she added, “It’s been three whole weeks without my child. A child that I slept with on the same bed before letting her go to school in the morning.

“Three whole weeks I’ve been expecting her to come back home, and she’s not been coming back home. She’s not there in the house.

“Her siblings, everybody is worried. Of course, they heard from school, they lied to them too that Winnie was at home. When they got home, Winnie was not in the house.

“When we finally got home that night, they were asking where Winnie was? Winnie was not there. They all started crying when I told them what had happened.”

Calls for Investigation and Accountability

A legal practitioner and activist, Chetam Nwala, called for decisive action, urging authorities to shut down the school pending the outcome of a thorough investigation.

He also emphasized the need for law enforcement agencies to handle the case with diligence and transparency.

School’s Official Response

The management of Wisdom Gate International School expressed sorrow over the incident, describing it as deeply tragic.

In an official statement, the school extended condolences to the bereaved family and maintained that immediate steps were taken to provide medical attention to the child.

The school stated that it promptly reported the incident and has been cooperating fully with relevant authorities to ensure a transparent investigation.

It also reassured parents and the public that the safety and well-being of pupils remain its highest priority.

According to the management, internal reviews are ongoing to strengthen safety protocols, while maintaining that no information has been withheld from investigators.

Government Directive and Regulatory Action

In response to the incident, the Rivers State Government ordered the immediate closure of Wisdom Gate International School, Campus 1, Eligbolo.

The Ministry of Education, in a statement dated April 20, said it undertook an independent review of the circumstances surrounding the child’s death after engaging with the school’s management.

While extending condolences to the grieving family, the government urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information and to respect the family’s privacy.

Authorities confirmed that the school would remain closed until all concerns are fully addressed.

The Commissioner for Education, Dr Peters Nwagor, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enforcing strict safety and quality standards across all schools in the state.

Appeals for Reopening Amid Ongoing Grief

Despite the ongoing investigation, the school’s management and several concerned stakeholders have appealed for a reconsideration of the closure, citing its wider impact on pupils, parents and staff.

They argued that while the tragedy remained deeply painful, prolonged suspension of academic activities was disrupting learning and placing additional strain on families who must now make urgent alternative arrangements.

The school’s proprietress, Toyon Obikoya, described the shutdown as unexpected but acknowledged the authority of the government’s decision, while pleading for compassion.

She stated, “The children in Wisdom Gate International School are our children. We see that our commissioner is a father, he is our grandfather in this institution. That’s why we are calling on him. He has the right to suspend activities for now.

“But we are telling him that he should please show us mercy because other children’s education is equally at stake.

“The parents are calling but because we are a law-abiding institution, we can’t do otherwise.

“But these children, where do we turn them to? The period they were writing the exam was when this incident happened, and so we had to close the school.

“We are crying out that the people should please intercede and see all children as theirs.”

Obikoya maintained that the school has made several attempts to reach the bereaved family through appropriate channels, including community and religious leaders, emphasizing that these efforts were made in good faith.

She said, “The family demanded that we speak to them through their lawyer and so on. Knowing this, we moved to his hometown in Tai, Ogoni kingdom, to reach the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese, who led us to the grandparents of our dear pupil.

“And we reported the incident that happened and shared our sincere empathy with the family and then we left.

“Afterwards, the management of the school equally travelled to Etche to see the Bishop. Why we did all of these is just to see how we can reach the family, not to intimidate or to show pomposity.”

She also noted that the matter is now before the police and assured that the institution would not obstruct any investigation.

Some parents of pupils echoed the appeal, highlighting the emotional and financial strain the closure has imposed on families.

One parent, Cynthia, said, “It’s really heartbreaking. I’ve lost a child, so I understand the pain the parents are going through.

“There is nothing we can do to bring back the child but we are pleading for empathy, for a little compassion, because we, parents, it’s really difficult for us. Wisdom Gate, they’ve been good academically, morally.

“Please have mercy on behalf of my co-parents. It’s difficult for us. We are confused. Most of us are not sleeping well. Like me, my blood pressure is rising.”

Pupil’s death in Rivers school sparks outrage, as family alleges ‘cover up’ ​