In a recent address during the inauguration of the 5th edition of the Expanded National Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Clinic in Enugu State, Nigeria’ s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, emphasized the significance of the South- East region in President Bola Tinubu’ s administration. Shettima assured residents that the administration is dedicated to addressing infrastructure deficits and combating the rampant erosion issues affecting the area.Highlighting the urgent need for intervention, Shettima lamented the severe impact of erosion on the livelihoods of the people in the region. He noted that the president has initiated plans for discussions with the National Assembly and the governors of the South- East to devise effective strategies for tackling the erosion crisis. ” The challenges facing the South- East are primarily rooted in infrastructural deficits and the erosion that threatens the very livelihood of our people, ” he stated....Click to Read More

To address these pressing concerns, Shettima outlined the administration’ s commitment to collaborative efforts. ” We have coordinated with the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and we will engage with the leadership of the National Assembly and the governors of the South- East to develop a comprehensive solution to the erosion issues, particularly in states like Anambra and Abia, while also considering Enugu, which is similarly afflicted by this crisis, ” he added. He underscored the necessity of practical solutions to these long- standing problems.

Shettima further expressed optimism about the current administration’ s approach to governance in the South- East, declaring, ” In terms of governance, we’ ve never had it so good in the South- East as we do now. We must nurture this brotherhood and relationship for the betterment of our people. Through development and investments in education, we can transform the narrative from negativity to positivity. ”
In his remarks, Shettima conveyed President Tinubu’ s message of support for the people of Enugu and the South- East, stating, ” The president has entrusted me with the responsibility to come to Enugu and assure the people that our government will do everything within its power to support the South- East. ”
Expressing a personal connection to the region, he remarked, ” Enugu holds a special place in my heart, as does President Bola Tinubu’ s commitment to Enugu State and the South- East as a whole. ” He highlighted the establishment of the South- East Development Commission (SEDC), which received prompt presidential assent and is headquartered in Enugu. This move signifies the administration’ s dedication to fostering development in the region.
Addressing the issue of energy, which he deemed crucial for industrial growth, Shettima pointed out that without adequate power supply, industrialization would remain elusive. To that end, he announced the appointment of Engr. Jennifer Adighije, a daughter of Abia State, as the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company of Nigeria. This strategic decision aims to enhance power supply and facilitate industrial growth in the South- East.
During the inauguration ceremony, Shettima commended Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah for his commendable efforts in revitalizing the state and improving the living conditions of its residents. He recognized Mbah’ s initiatives in lifting the state from the depths of poverty, expressing confidence in the governor’ s leadership.
To further support small businesses, Shettima announced the distribution of grants amounting to N150, 000 to outstanding Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Enugu State. This financial assistance is intended to bolster local businesses and stimulate economic growth in the region.
In conclusion, Shettima’ s address underscored the significance of the South- East region in President Tinubu’ s administration, highlighting the government’ s commitment to addressing pressing challenges such as infrastructure deficits and erosion. Through collaborative efforts with local leaders and investments in development, the administration aims to create a more positive narrative for the South- East, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
The Vice President’ s visit and initiatives reflect a broader strategy to strengthen the relationship between the federal government and the South- East, fostering an environment conducive to growth and development. As the administration continues to prioritize infrastructure and economic support, the people of the South- East can look forward to tangible improvements in their living conditions and opportunities for progress.

Troubling Allegations From INEC Staff
According to the whistleblowers within INEC, what was expected to be a fair and transparent election turned into a deeply compromised process. The staff shared how their original commitment to uphold the principles of democracy was betrayed by internal pressure to manipulate the results.

One key element of the statement emphasized the personal toll the election fallout had on these staff members. ” Since the election, many of us have been subjected to insults and abuse from our neighbors, church members, and even our own families, ” the statement read. ” These accusations are based on the assumption that we were involved in manipulating the election, which is far from the truth. ”

The staff detailed a series of alarming incidents, including direct coercion from senior INEC officials, who allegedly pressured them to alter vote counts or overlook glaring irregularities. When some staff refused to comply, they were reportedly threatened with dismissal or even physical harm.

In addition, the whistleblowers claimed that their communication devices were seized at various collation centers across the state, cutting them off from their colleagues and preventing them from reporting the irregularities they witnessed. “We saw firsthand how election results were manipulated before being announced, ” the statement revealed.

Public Outcry On Social Media

As news of these allegations spread, Nigerians have taken to social media to express their outrage, with the hashtag #EdoElection Truth gaining widespread traction. Many citizens have demanded a full investigation into the election process and those responsible for the alleged manipulation.