The Enugu Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has re-arraigned Barrister Benjamin Chukwuemeka Nwobodo before Justice F. O. Giwa-Ogunbanjo of the Federal High Court sitting in Independence Layout, Enugu.

He is facing a 20-count charge bordering on forgery, possession of forged documents, and obtaining by false pretence to the tune of ₦15,700,000 (Fifteen million, seven hundred thousand naira).

Nwobodo was initially arraigned on January 27, 2025, on a five-count charge before the same court, where he pleaded “not guilty,” setting the stage for trial. He was granted bail on self-cognisance.

During the trial, EFCC counsel, Chief Superintendent Chikezie Raymond Edozie, presented six witnesses and tendered several exhibits, all of which were admitted in evidence.

At the hearing on April 23, 2026, the prosecution informed the court of an amended charge, which was read to the defendant. He again pleaded not guilty. The prosecution subsequently closed its case, and the matter was adjourned to April 30, 2026, for the defence to open its case.

The court had earlier, on March 4, 2026, issued a strong warning against Nwobodo for allegedly interfering with prosecution witnesses through harassment and intimidation within and outside the court premises. The court warned that his bail could be revoked if such conduct continued.

Count one of the charge states that Nwobodo allegedly forged a land purchase receipt dated January 15, 2014, worth ₦9,000,000, purportedly issued by Onyekachi O. Nwocha and Christiana C. Nwocha, with intent to defraud, an offence punishable under the Miscellaneous Offences Act.

Count seven alleges that on April 25, 2014, he presented a forged land purchase receipt worth ₦5,500,000 to Ude Chinedu Emmanuel, also allegedly issued by the same persons, with intent to defraud.

The defendant, who represented himself in court, is expected to open his defence on Thursday, April 30, 2026.

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The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) has cancelled the 10-day power outage earlier scheduled to affect parts of Enugu State.

In a statement on Thursday, EEDC’s Head of Corporate Communications, Emeka Ezeh, said the outage, initially set to run from Wednesday, October 22 to Friday, October 31, 2025, between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily, was suspended due to unforeseen technical constraints.

He explained that the decision followed communication from the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN).

The planned outage, announced earlier by MEDL, was to affect several 33KV feeders in Enugu metropolis on a rotational basis, including Kingsway Lines 1 and 2, Emene Industrial Lines 1 and 2, Thinkers Corner, Trans-Ekulu, Ugwuogo, and Ituku Ozalla.

Ezeh added that a new schedule for the maintenance exercise would be communicated once confirmed and apologized to customers for any inconvenience caused by the change.

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MainPower Electricity Distribution Limited (MEDL) has announced a planned power outage across Enugu metropolis from Tuesday, October 22, to Thursday, October 31, 2025. The daily interruptions will occur between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., according to a statement issued by Mr. Emeka Ezeh, Head of Corporate Communications, on Monday.

The outage, reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), is part of ongoing rehabilitation and reinforcement projects by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) at its New Haven Station. The exercise will be carried out in segments, with different power lines affected on specific days to allow for systematic maintenance and upgrades.

Ezeh explained that the effort aims to improve power reliability, safety, and quality across the city. MainPower urged residents and businesses to plan ahead and make alternative arrangements during the maintenance period.

Schedule of Affected Power Lines:

• Oct. 22: Kingsway Line 1
• Oct. 23: Emene Industrial Line 1
• Oct. 24: Thinkers Corner Line
• Oct. 25: Trans Ekulu Line
• Oct. 26: Kingsway Line 2 & 9th Mile Line
• Oct. 28: Emene Industrial Line 2
• Oct. 29: Ugwuogo Line
• Oct. 31: Ituku Ozalla Line

Areas to be Affected:

Power supply will be disrupted in areas including Emene Industrial Layout, Abakpa Nike, Transekulu, Thinkers Corner, Ugbo Nnebedum, Nkpologwu, 9th Mile, Shoprite, Golf Estate, Zoo Estate, Okpara Avenue, and parts of Kingsway Road, Abakaliki Road, CBN Quarters, Railway Quarters, Artisan, Ngwo, Coal Camp, Uwani, Asata, Golden Royale, Iva Valley, Centenary City, Ugwuaji, Amechi, and Obeagu.

MainPower expressed regret for any inconvenience caused and appealed for public understanding during the period.

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Nigeria’s cost of living eased in September 2025 as headline inflation fell to 18.02%, with several states recording lower rates, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The ranking is based on headline inflation, showing where prices of essential goods and services rose the least.

10. Jigawa – 16.3%

Inflation dropped from 23.1% to 16.3%, driven by government agricultural programmes like the Rice Millionaire Project and Special Agro-Processing Zones.

9. Akwa Ibom – 16.3%

Down from 20.7% in August, with food inflation at 9%. A new ₦695 billion budget and food security committee helped stabilise prices.

8. Imo – 15.8%

Improved security and stable housing costs reduced inflation from 18.3% to 15.8%, with food inflation at 12.4%.

7. Ebonyi – 14.8%

Inflation eased from 21.2% to 14.8%. Despite strong farm output, transport and distribution costs remain high.

6. Bayelsa – 14.8%

Inflation dropped from 23.8% but food inflation rose to 21.9% due to high import dependence.

5. Sokoto – 14%

Inflation fell sharply from 22.5%. Salary support to civil servants helped ease short-term pressures.

4. Enugu – 12.4%

Transport and rent relief cut inflation from 14.2%. Fertilizer distribution supported food supply.

3. Bauchi – 12.4%

Inflation declined from 15.3%, food inflation to 2.8%, supported by better roads, fertilizer subsidies, and grain reserves.

2. Niger – 11.8%

Inflation halved from 25.5%. Flood relief, road repairs, and food aid helped stabilise prices.

1. Anambra – 9.3%

Now Nigeria’s most affordable state, down from 14.2%. Market digitalisation and rural water projects reduced costs.

Overall, agricultural expansion, infrastructure upgrades, and relief programmes are helping many states achieve lower living costs despite national inflation pressures.

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The bill, aimed at curbing exploitative rental practices, has gained national attention and sparked calls for similar action in Lagos.

Many Lagos residents have complained about arbitrary rent increases, excessive agency fees, and unfair tenancy practices affecting their housing security.

Jubril Gawat, a senior aide to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, hinted that Lagos might introduce its own rent regulations soon.

Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Gawat said, “LAGOS… Coming Soon. A strong issue needing thorough discussion before any implementation.”

Mixed Reactions to Potential Rent Regulation

Some residents support rent regulation to protect tenants, while others believe it could discourage investment in Lagos’ housing sector.

“Government intervention should not control rent directly because it reduces investment incentives, leading to landlords bypassing regulations,” Abayomi Adekoya posted.

Critics argue that instead of price controls, the government should address housing supply constraints and construction material costs.

“Cement now costs ₦11,000, iron is ₦1.2 million per ton, yet landlords are blamed for high rents,” another wrote.

Tenants Frustrated by Extra Charges, Not Just Rent

Many tenants say their biggest concern is not rent but excessive extra charges imposed by landlords and real estate agents.

“How can a house cost ₦1.5 million, yet additional charges like agency fees add another ₦1.2 million?” Naheem Okunola asked.

Some tenants also argue that landlords should not charge the same rent for older buildings and newly constructed apartments.

“Lagos should regulate rent based on building age, preventing old houses from having the same rates as newer buildings,” Akande Alli said.

Will Lagos Take Action?

Lagos residents await government action, hoping authorities introduce measures to address affordability or alternative solutions for the crisis.

The post Enugu’s Rent Control Bill Sparks Debate on Lagos Housing Crisis appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The visit marked a significant milestone as he inaugurated several transformative projects spearheaded by Governor Peter Mbah’s administration.

The projects included 30 out of 260 Smart Green Schools, 60 newly completed Type 2 Primary Health Centres, and the 19-kilometer stretch of roads connecting the Airport, New Haven, Bisalla, and Okpara Square. These developments are part of a broader effort by the Mbah administration to modernize Enugu and improve its infrastructure.

President Tinubu also inaugurated the International Conference Centre and a cutting-edge Command and Control Centre equipped with 150 AI-powered patrol vehicles. The facilities are designed to enhance security and attract both local and foreign investments to the state.

Addressing attendees, President Tinubu expressed his admiration for the projects, stating, “Infrastructural development is crucial for creating jobs, attracting investments, and building a better future for our people. It is an honour to be here to inaugurate these impressive projects.”

Governor Mbah, while welcoming the President, highlighted his administration’s achievements, including the construction of 85 urban roads within a year. “We are proud to host Mr President in Enugu and to showcase these transformative projects that will improve the lives of our people,” Mbah said.

The President’s visit underscores the growing recognition of Enugu’s progress under Mbah’s leadership, signaling a new chapter for the state in terms of development and national attention.

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The Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, announced the visit in a statement issued on Friday, highlighting the significance of the President’s first official visit to the state since assuming office.

According to Onyia, “The Enugu State Government is pleased to welcome His Excellency, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, to Enugu for a historic state visit. During this visit, the President will commission landmark projects that reflect our administration’s commitment to improving the lives of the people.”

The projects to be commissioned include:

• 30 Completed Smart Green Schools: Out of 260 planned across the state’s wards, these schools are fully equipped with modern learning facilities.
• 60 Completed Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres: Part of an initiative to establish 260 centers across all wards to improve healthcare access.
• Enugu International Conference Centre: A state-of-the-art, multi-functional facility designed to host events of global standards.
• 90 Urban Roads in Enugu City: Newly completed roads aimed at improving connectivity and urban development.
• Command and Control Centre with AI Technology: A cutting-edge security hub supported by 150 patrol vehicles equipped with AI-embedded surveillance cameras.

President Tinubu will also commission several completed rural roads, further underscoring the administration’s commitment to rural development.

The visit is expected to reinforce federal-state collaboration and highlight Enugu’s strides in infrastructure and social development under Governor Mbah’s leadership.

This landmark visit is anticipated to draw widespread attention and underscore the transformative progress being achieved in the state.

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From Monday, October 21st to Thursday, October 24th, 2024, town planners from across the country will converge to discuss critical national issues related to urban and regional planning. The theme of this year’s event is “Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Law and the Challenge of National Development.”

Speaking at a press conference to mark the start of the event, the National President of NITP, Tpl Nathaniel Atebije, welcomed delegates and the public, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to host the gathering. He emphasized the significance of the event, describing it as an essential platform for town planners to tackle pressing environmental and planning challenges facing the nation.

“I want to express my deep appreciation to God, the Maker of heaven and earth, the Sustainer of life, for the privilege of gathering here today. This is not just another conference; it is a platform for us, as town planners, to bring forth ideas that can reshape the future of Nigeria’s urban and regional planning system,” Atebije remarked.

Reflecting on his tenure since November 2022, Atebije highlighted key issues previously raised, such as environmental challenges, urban and regional planning shortfalls, and the role of physical planning in fostering national development. He stressed that stronger physical planning systems are essential to curb environmental degradation and promote better urban planning policies.

A focal point of this year’s press conference was the dual challenge of frequent flooding in Nigeria and rampant environmental fraud, both of which exacerbate these disasters. Atebije cited the recent flooding in Maiduguri, Borno State, caused by the collapse of the Alau Dam after heavy rainfall, which affected over a million people and led to extensive damage to homes, farmlands, and schools.

He explained that human activities, such as illegal land use, deforestation, and encroachment on waterways, are major contributors to these floods, worsened by climate change and poor planning practices. “Inadequate urban planning, corruption, and environmental fraud are key factors behind these disasters. Illegal developments, poor waste management, and unregulated urban sprawl leave cities vulnerable to flooding, causing immense social and economic costs,” Atebije stated.

In addition, Atebije highlighted the rising threat of environmental fraud, describing it as a significant hindrance to Nigeria’s urban development. He called on the government, private sector, and citizens to prioritize sustainable development by enforcing planning laws, improving drainage systems, and protecting natural resources.

He also underscored the importance of engaging Indigenous urban planners in the planning and development control processes. “Town planners must be actively involved in every phase of development control. By strictly enforcing building regulations, zoning laws, and physical planning guidelines, we can mitigate the risks of natural disasters. Town planners must be at the forefront of ensuring that our cities are sustainably built and managed,” he said.

This year’s NITP conference will provide a platform for experts to present research, share knowledge, and deliberate on actionable solutions to Nigeria’s planning challenges. Participants include professionals from academia, government, private practice, and various service sectors, all united in finding lasting solutions to urban planning issues. Collaboration between the government, international agencies, and the private sector will be essential for implementing sustainable planning initiatives.

As the NITP 55th International Conference and AGM unfold in Enugu, discussions on Nigerian urban and regional planning law, the challenge of national development, and the future of urban planning in Nigeria are expected to take center stage. Resolutions made at the event will aim to drive positive change in the nation’s built environment.

The Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) is the professional body representing urban and regional planning practitioners in Nigeria. The institute plays a key role in shaping policies and practices related to the physical planning and development of human settlements across the country. The annual international conference and AGM serve as a forum for members to address pressing national issues and propose solutions for sustainable development.

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In an open letter titled “Heavy And Multiple Taxes: Have Mercy On The People Of Enugu State,” Edeoga accuses the governor of imposing harsh taxes that exacerbate the financial struggles of Enugu residents.

Edeoga claims that the administration’s tax policies, including significant increases in tenement and business taxes, are crushing the local population and worsening poverty.

READ ALSO: We’re dying, stop property demolition, landlords, residents beg Makinde

He argues that these actions contradict fundamental principles of fair taxation and have led to severe economic hardship, including the closure of small businesses.

He appeals to Governor Mbah’s sense of empathy, citing biblical references to plead for relief and arguing that the current tax regime resembles “Taxation Without Representation,” a historical injustice that continues to affect the people of Enugu.

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The group, Ubosi Eleh and Co, emphasized that proper land policy and administration are essential for any country’s development.

During a courtesy visit to Government House Enugu on Wednesday, the group notified and invited the governor to a workshop for estate surveyors and valuers in Enugu city. Led by Emeka Eleh, the group praised the enactment of the Enugu State Geographic Information Services law, legislation to combat land grabbers, and efforts to correct illegalities in property development as significant steps towards the state’s socioeconomic development.

Emeka Eleh expressed the group’s appreciation for Mbah’s leadership, stating, “You coming from a very strong pedigree and private sector background, we were very delighted when you were elected because we felt it would be a turning point in the affairs of this state. We are very delighted to say that we have been very correct, given the evidence of governance we see.”

He highlighted the importance of addressing both housing and infrastructural deficits, noting the governor’s efforts in cleaning up the town and ensuring adherence to proper building regulations to create a more livable city.

READ ALSO: FG Announces Land Reforms to Simplify Access to Certificates of Occupancy

Eleh also commended Mbah for fast-tracking the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy, addressing land grabbing issues, and the overall improvements in land administration and physical planning. “You are just one year in office, and a lot has happened. So, we are imagining what will happen in the next three years. We are certain, and we believe that Enugu is in very good hands,” he added.

In response, Governor Mbah assured the group of his administration’s commitment to making Enugu State a hub for investment, business, tourism, and living. He outlined various initiatives, including the Enugu State Geographic Information Service, the New Enugu City project, aggressive road construction, restoration of water supply, and radical reforms in land administration.

“We are currently able to generate 120 million litres of water daily from the occasional 2 million litres we met. Now, we are dealing with all the challenges with reticulation to make sure that water gets to the last man,” Mbah stated.

READ ALSO: FG to Develop New National Integrated Land Transport Policy

He also mentioned the state’s efforts to ensure a 24-hour power supply by setting up the Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission, which allows the state to regulate activities in the electricity value chain independently.

Mbah concluded by inviting the private sector to partner with the state, particularly in the land sector, to further improve the ease of doing business in Enugu. “Enugu is open for business, and we are looking forward to partnering with the private sector,” he emphasized.

The commendation from Ubosi Eleh and Co highlights the significant strides made by the Enugu State administration in transforming the state’s infrastructure and land administration, paving the way for future development and growth.

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