The Anambra State Police Command has arrested eight individuals for crimes including kidnapping, cultism, illegal firearm possession, and armed robbery.

The suspects were apprehended in various operations across the state, with weapons and a stolen vehicle recovered.

Two suspects involved in a recent kidnapping confessed to their crimes, while others were linked to electricity vandalism.

One suspect, Chigozie Ejikeme, was caught with a firearm and admitted to being part of the Black Axe cult. All suspects will face charges after investigations are complete.

Peter Obi, a prominent political figure, has recently addressed the wave of calls and concerns following his interview with News Central TV.

In his detailed statement, Obi sought to clarify his position amid accusations of distortion and misinformation by critics.

Obi explained that during the interview, he took the opportunity to lay out his views and clarify his stance on various issues.

He expressed frustration over what he perceives as deliberate attempts by some individuals to manipulate and misrepresent his words for their own agendas.

“I want to make it clear that I am not focused on the 2027 elections while Nigerians are grappling with severe issues such as hunger, poverty, and insecurity,” Obi stated.

He emphasized that his primary concern is addressing these pressing challenges rather than being preoccupied with future political ambitions.

When questioned about potential collaborations, Obi highlighted his willingness to work with others, provided their motives align with his vision for Nigeria’s advancement.

He specifically mentioned that he is open to partnerships as long as they are not driven by the goal of state capture.

Obi stressed that any collaboration should be centered on genuine efforts to progress Nigeria and not on personal or political gains.

Obi also reiterated his steadfast commitment to the Labour Party and made it clear that any discussions or negotiations regarding future political alliances must be transparent.

“If anyone wishes to join forces, they need to be upfront about their intentions,” he said.

Addressing rumors about his political aspirations, Obi clarified that he is not desperate for the presidency or any other political office.

His focus, he noted, remains on contributing to Nigeria’s development through his current efforts.

He stated that if he chooses to run for office in 2027, it will be with individuals who are committed to tangible solutions for Nigeria’s problems, rather than those solely aiming to win elections or capture state power.

Obi was particularly surprised by the misinterpretation of his statements and reaffirmed his dedication to building a new Nigeria.

He rejected claims that he had expressed an intention to become vice president, firmly stating that he has never made such a declaration.

Instead, he reiterated his openness to working with those who share his vision for a better Nigeria, whether or not he holds a formal position.

“My commitment to Nigeria is unwavering,” Obi concluded.

“I believe that I can make a significant impact even without holding an official office, and I will continue to work towards a Nigeria where every child has access to education, where people live in health and prosperity, and where poverty is effectively addressed.”

Fortunately, no fatalities were recorded in the building collapse, though several individuals sustained injuries.

Remarkably, all the affected residents managed to escape the wreckage with the help of passersby and neighbors. The building in question wasn’t heavily occupied due to its deteriorating condition.

Originally constructed as a simple storey building, the owner decided to expand it by adding two additional storeys, turning the structure into a high-rise tower.

However, the construction was still ongoing at the time of the collapse.

The ill-advised expansion seems to have overburdened the original foundation, which was only designed to support a single storey.

The police have arrived at the scene and are currently investigating the situation.

Questions are now being raised about the owner’s decision to extend the building far beyond its initial design, especially in a neighborhood like Ekosodin, where demand for housing has skyrocketed.

With rental prices soaring, the temptation to maximize space and profits has led some property owners to cut corners in construction.

The incident serves as a cautionary tale: the building was intended for a modest structure, but in the quest for financial gain, safety was compromised.

Ekosodin’s housing market is so competitive that people seem willing to take dangerous risks to profit from the demand, but as this case shows, such shortcuts can lead to near-disaster.