The Coal City Network

   Tragedy struck in Tarka Local Government Area of Benue State on Friday night as  Aondoakaa Yaiyol , the Commander of the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Services (NHFSS) and a former Chairman of the  Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)  in the area, was  assassinated by unknown gunmen . The shocking attack took place at Yaiyol’s residence and has left the local community in deep mourning. According to reports, the assailants stormed his home on a motorcycle, shot him at close range, and fled the scene while firing sporadically to scare off neighbors. Witnesses say the gunmen were aided in their escape by two vehicles, whose occupants also fired gunshots as cover. Confirming the incident,  Tim Nyior , the PDP Publicity Secretary in Benue, stated, “It’s true that the man was once PDP chairman in Tarka LGA before becoming Commander of the NHFSS. Unfortunately, his wife was killed just last year.” It was also gathered that their family house was set abl...

  Tragedy struck in Tarka Local Government Area of Benue State on Friday night as Aondoakaa Yaiyol , the Commander of the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Services (NHFSS) and a former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the area, was assassinated by unknown gunmen . The shocking attack took place at Yaiyol’s residence and has left the local community in deep mourning. According to reports, the assailants stormed his home on a motorcycle, shot him at close range, and fled the scene while firing sporadically to scare off neighbors. Witnesses say the gunmen were aided in their escape by two vehicles, whose occupants also fired gunshots as cover. Confirming the incident, Tim Nyior , the PDP Publicity Secretary in Benue, stated, “It’s true that the man was once PDP chairman in Tarka LGA before becoming Commander of the NHFSS. Unfortunately, his wife was killed just last year.” It was also gathered that their family house was set ablaze during that earlier tragedy....

   "While this award bears my name, it is truly the result of a collective mission championed by Governor Peter Mbah" -Hon. Ogbodo  ...Award Dedicated to Governor Peter Mbah for Visionary Leadership in Health Sector In a moment of pride for Enugu State, the Executive Chairman of Nkanu West Local Government Area,  Hon. John Ogbodo , has been conferred with the prestigious  World Health Organisation (WHO) Award for Best Abuja Commitment Chairman . The award, presented by WHO representatives, recognizes Hon. Ogbodo’s outstanding commitment to health-friendly governance, consistent support for health initiatives, and active participation in state and WHO health programmes. WHO’s Southeast Zonal Coordinator,  Dr. Chukwumuanya Igboekwu , who led the team, stated that the award was based on a careful review of Hon. Ogbodo’s performance in promoting health at the grassroots level. “The Chairman’s enthusiasm, resource support, and strategic leadership in health inte...

  "While this award bears my name, it is truly the result of a collective mission championed by Governor Peter Mbah" -Hon. Ogbodo  ...Award Dedicated to Governor Peter Mbah for Visionary Leadership in Health Sector In a moment of pride for Enugu State, the Executive Chairman of Nkanu West Local Government Area,  Hon. John Ogbodo , has been conferred with the prestigious  World Health Organisation (WHO) Award for Best Abuja Commitment Chairman . The award, presented by WHO representatives, recognizes Hon. Ogbodo’s outstanding commitment to health-friendly governance, consistent support for health initiatives, and active participation in state and WHO health programmes. WHO’s Southeast Zonal Coordinator,  Dr. Chukwumuanya Igboekwu , who led the team, stated that the award was based on a careful review of Hon. Ogbodo’s performance in promoting health at the grassroots level. “The Chairman’s enthusiasm, resource support, and strategic leadership in health interventi...

"Newton's third law of motion states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. The "action" and "reaction" refer to forces; if Object A exerts a force on Object B, then Object B exerts an equal amount of force on Object A in the opposite direction." This is a confirmation that for every action, there is a driving force. This is in the physical realm. There is yet the driving force unseen. It could be in the form of a spirit nonavailable to the optical vision or ideals that drive those committed to them. When this natural law is kept in view of the actions of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah of Enugu State within  two years, one would want to know what force propels Mbah to unleash unheard-of developmental projects in all nooks and crannies of Enugu State. What exactly is his motivation? What does Mbah want to achieve? Is it personally benefiting or altruistic?  Mbah did not mince words about what he wanted to achieve. He had revealed ...

As Chief Uche Nnaji marks his 62nd birthday, one of his strongest supporters and admirers, Ofor Nwodo, has penned a heartfelt tribute celebrating the life, legacy, and visionary impact of the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology. In a moving piece titled  “Chief Uche Nnaji @62: Celebration of Divine Achievements” , Nwodo described the Minister as a man born with greatness, who has not only achieved remarkable success in business and politics but has also had greatness divinely bestowed upon him. Highlighting Nnaji’s unwavering commitment to national development and technological transformation, Nwodo praised his consistent dedication to public service, his deep grassroots connection as the "Original Enugu Boy," and his selfless support for underrepresented political voices. He noted that Chief Nnaji’s appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marks a new era of innovation for Nigeria, with the Minister already repositioning key agencies to drive research...

The Enugu SME Center, under the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Digital Economy, has unveiled a transformational opportunity for young people in Enugu State to access world-class digital skills at a fraction of the cost, as part of its broader Human Capital Development agenda. In partnership with AltSchool Africa and Bybit, the state government is offering a 50% Digital Skills Grant to support 300 Enugu-based youths to pursue UK-accredited diploma programs in high-demand technology fields — all delivered fully online with live sessions and expert-led mentorship. Empowering the Next Generation of Global Tech Talent This scholarship covers half of the ₦435,000 tuition, reducing the cost to just ₦217,500 per participant. In addition, successful candidates can choose to pay upfront or opt into the Enugu SME Center’s Human Capital Development Loan (HCDL), a zero-interest facility that allows payment in 12 monthly installments of ₦9,062.50 after an initial deposit of ₦108,75...

Tensions in the Middle East reached a boiling point as Iran launched a series of long-range missiles targeting sites across Israel in retaliation for what it described as deadly Israeli airstrikes on its nuclear facilities and military leadership. The unprecedented escalation left at least 40 Israelis injured , with one woman confirmed dead , marking the first Israeli fatality since the Iranian barrage began. According to Iranian officials, Israeli attacks killed 78 people , including senior military officials, and injured over 320 others in Iran. Tehran vowed that its retaliatory strikes were lawful and aimed at restoring deterrence, as Iran's UN ambassador labeled Israel's attack a "declaration of war" during an emergency Security Council session. In the midst of the assault, explosions were reported in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem , with footage showing interceptive activity and smoke rising from urban areas. Israeli defense forces claimed to have intercepted hostile...

Tragedy in Onitsha: 17-Year-Old Boy Killed by Stray Bullet From Security Operatives  Tension gripped the residents of Ifejike Street by Sokoto Road, near the bustling Biafra Market in Onitsha South Local Government Area, as a 17-year-old boy was tragically killed by a stray bullet allegedly fired by operatives of the Anambra State security outfit, Agụnechemba . Eyewitnesses reported that the victim, whose identity was not immediately disclosed, was seated on a culvert near the Nwangene Drainage when he was struck by the bullet. The security agents were reportedly in pursuit of a fleeing suspect and opened fire indiscriminately during the operation. "The boy was just sitting quietly, apparently waiting to use the toilet nearby when he was hit. It was chaos. Blood everywhere. He died instantly," one eyewitness recounted. The incident sparked outrage among residents and traders who blocked the operatives' vehicle, preventing them from fleeing the scene. Amid pressure fro...

In a historic milestone for Ebonyi State, the first commercial flight landed at the Wilberforce Chuba Okadigbo Airport in Onueku on Friday at exactly 10:30 AM . Operated by United Nigeria Airlines , the aircraft with registration number 5N-8WV arrived from Abuja, marking the official commencement of commercial operations at the airport. Passengers on board expressed elation at the event. Emmanuel Nwafor described the experience as a “dream come true,” emphasizing the long wait and the state’s significant investment in the facility. “Today, history has been made,” he said, praising the smooth flight and perfect landing. Professor Chigozie Ogbu echoed the sentiment, calling the runway “one of the best in the country” and noting the symbolic importance of the flight. “Ebonyi State has arrived,” he stated. Former Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission , Chief Elias Mbam , who was departing for Abuja, lauded the quality of the airport’s facilit...

The Enugu State Chapter of the National Youth Assembly of Nigeria (NYAN) has officially declared the commencement of sales of interest forms for its forthcoming state convention. According to the Convention Planning Committee (CPC), the window for form collection will run from Thursday, 13th June to Sunday, 30th June 2025. This announcement signals the beginning of a critical phase in the lead-up to the highly anticipated state convention, scheduled to hold on Wednesday, 2nd July 2025. The convention is expected to gather vibrant youth stakeholders, emerging leaders, and aspirants who are passionate about championing youth advocacy, public service, and community engagement across Enugu State. Eligible and interested individuals are strongly encouraged to seize this opportunity by picking up the interest forms within the stipulated timeframe. Early application will allow for smooth processing and ensure full inclusion in all pre-convention and convention activities. Speaking on the deve...

As Nigeria marks 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance, the Senior Special Assistant to the Executive Governor of Enugu State on Market Affairs , Hon. Dr. Chinedu Mbah , has extended a heartfelt Democracy Day message to the people of Enugu State, commending the exceptional leadership of His Excellency, Barr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah . In his Democracy Day message, Hon. Dr. Mbah described the day as not just a celebration of the ballot but a reaffirmation of the people’s collective will, courage, and faith in a government that truly serves. He noted that democracy thrives when leaders place the people's welfare at the center of governance, and he proudly affirmed that this has been the hallmark of Governor Peter Mbah’s administration. According to him, “ Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah has shown uncommon courage, foresight, and capacity in redefining governance in Enugu State. From tackling long-standing issues like water provision, to launching a digital transformation agenda ...

In an eventful display of love, unity, and religious tolerance, the Member Representing Igbo Eze North/Udenu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dennis Nnamdi Agbo, hosted members of the Muslim community in Igbo Eze North to a special Sallah celebration. During the event, Rt. Hon. Agbo emphasized the importance of love, unity, and peaceful coexistence, which are the core values of the Sallah festival. He encouraged mutual respect and harmony among all religious and ethnic groups within the constituency. In their separate remarks, leaders of the Muslim community expressed deep appreciation to Rt. Hon. Agbo for his thoughtful gesture. They noted that it was the first time in the history of the Federal Constituency that a representative had hosted them in celebration of Sallah. They pledged their unwavering support and loyalty to his leadership and vision for the constituency. The celebration was filled with joy, camaraderie, and meaningful interactions between ...

In a strategic move aimed at restoring peace in Timber Market and ending multiple taxation in Abakpa Market, the Enugu State Market Monitoring Team, led by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Market Affairs, Hon. Dr. Chinedu Mbah, paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman of Enugu East Local Government Area, Engr. Pastor Beloved-Dan Obi Anike. The visit, which preceded the team’s tour of both markets, was held at the local government headquarters and attracted key officials and stakeholders. It served as a high-level engagement to align the state's market sanitation agenda with the local government’s efforts in addressing long-standing issues affecting traders in the area. Welcoming the delegation, Chairman Engr. Pst. Beloved-Dan Anike expressed delight at the visit and lauded the team’s proactive approach. He described the intervention as timely and necessary, noting the pressing need to curb illegal levies and resolve the leadership crisis that had destabilized Timber Mar...

The entire Nkanu East Local Government Area is agog with excitement as the council, under the warm hospitality of Mrs. Rita Edeh , wife of the Executive Chairman of Nkanu East LGA, welcomes Her Excellency, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah , the First Lady of Enugu State, on a familiarization visit taking place today, Sunday, 8th June 2025 . The high-profile visit is holding at the Nkanu East Local Government Headquarters,  by 9:00 am , and is drawing wide participation from women across the local government area. Mrs. Rita Edeh, who is hosting the event, described the visit as a landmark occasion for the women of Nkanu East. She emphasized that the First Lady’s outreach reflects the current administration’s commitment to grassroots inclusion, women empowerment, and community development. The familiarization visit is strengthening the bond between the office of the First Lady and the women of Nkanu East, while also creating opportunities for shared initiatives that promote social welfare, ...

  Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah has commissioned the newly reconstructed New Artisan Bridge on the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, marking a major milestone in the state’s infrastructure renewal drive. The original bridge collapsed in September 2023 under the weight of a truck, prompting swift intervention from the Enugu State Government and federal agencies. Governor Mbah advocated for a state-supervised maintenance model, which led to a full redesign and rebuild of the bridge by the Federal Ministry of Works and CCECC. Completed on schedule, the new concrete bridge is built to last 50 years and restores a critical commercial route linking Enugu with several South-East and South-South states. Governor Mbah described it as “hope restored” and a symbol of responsive, cooperative governance.

  According to Vanguard News , a bus full of traders returning from the Orie Orba Market in Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State was ambushed on Saturday evening, around 7 p.m., by gunmen suspected to be herdsmen. The tragic incident occurred along the Owukpa–Orokam road in Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State. The attackers reportedly hijacked the vehicle and abducted several female passengers, including young girls and elderly women, taking them into the nearby bushes. One woman, who was shot and severely injured during the attack, was abandoned by the kidnappers due to excessive bleeding. She was later rescued and taken to St. Mary’s Hospital in Okpoga, where she is receiving medical treatment. As of Sunday morning, families of the kidnapped victims had not received any contact from the kidnappers, leading to heightened fear and anxiety within the community. The leader of the local vigilante group in Owukpa confirmed the incident, stating that local security ...

The strong political wind sweeping across Nigeria is now gaining momentum in Enugu State, leading to mass defections of prominent members from other political parties into the All Progressives Congress (APC). Like a whirlwind, the APC is drawing in influential figures from rival parties. In Delta State, the People's Democratic Party (PDP) recently suffered a major blow as its former vice-presidential candidate and ex-Governor, Mr. Ifeanyi Okowa, alongside his followers, defected to the APC. Similarly, the political structure of the Akwa Ibom State Governor has also joined the ruling party, further shaking the foundations of the PDP. This trend reflects a broader national realignment, as politicians rush to align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and join what many now see as the winning team. In Enugu State, notable political heavyweights are joining forces with Chief Uche Nnaji, the Honorable Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, who also serves as ...

It was a moment of overwhelming joy and visible relief at Abakpa Market in Enugu East Local Government Area on Tuesday, 3rd June 2025, as traders danced and sang in celebration following the visit of the Enugu State Market Monitoring Team led by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Market Affairs, Hon. Dr. Chinedu Mbah . The visit, which formed part of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s ongoing statewide market sanitation tour, signaled a decisive end to illegal taxation and revenue exploitation that had plagued traders for years. The jubilant atmosphere in the market reflected the collective gratitude of the business community, many of whom hailed the Governor for coming to their rescue through concrete policy actions. Welcoming the delegation, the Chairman of Abakpa Market, Mr. Bernard Nnaji , expressed appreciation to the state government for responding to the plight of traders. He assured the SSA of the traders’ willingness to collaborate with the state’s revenue reforms...