News
Charles Orie At 59: The Man, The Myth,The Mystery
Published
2 days agoon
By
Ekwutos BlogWritten by: Samuel Arinze
Today marks the 59th birthday of Chief Charles Orie, a man whose legacy, influence, and humility have earned him a special place in the hearts of many in Imo State and beyond. Known as Akuatuegwu, Chief Orie is celebrated not only for his illustrious career in public service but also for his unwavering commitment to community development and his faith in divine providence.
Chief Orie’s journey from Umuokanne in the Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area to the corridors of power in Imo State epitomizes dedication and resilience. As the former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC), he left an indelible mark on the commission by addressing critical workforce issues, promoting youth empowerment, and initiating developmental projects in the state’s oil-producing regions.
His tenure at ISOPADEC was a beacon of hope for underserved communities, earning him widespread admiration. However, his resignation from the commission in 2024 sparked a wave of speculation. Many wondered why he stepped down from such a pivotal role. In retrospect, it appears Chief Orie’s decision was driven by a desire for self-renewal and a quest to broaden his horizons. His recent public appearances suggest he took this opportunity to embark on a sabbatical, engaging in a fact-finding mission to advanced societies to explore ideas that could enhance social constructs in Imo State and Nigeria at large.
In a recent article widely published in The Sun and other local newspapers, Chief Orie’s name emerged as one of the potential contenders for the Imo State Douglas House. The speculation stirred conversations across political circles, yet Chief Orie, in his characteristic humility, distanced himself from such aspirations.
In his response, he emphasized that power comes from God, and he harbors no desperation for political office. “If such is destined for me, it shall manifest at the right time,” he stated. This declaration reflects a deep-seated belief in divine timing and purpose, a philosophy that has guided his personal and professional life.
As Chief Orie turns 59, it becomes evident that this milestone is not merely about celebrating the years gone by but also about honoring a man who constantly seeks growth and renewal. His post-ISOPADEC phase has been a time of introspection and exploration, aimed at acquiring practical knowledge to enhance economic leadership and impart it to the youths.
Chief Orie’s ability to combine traditional wisdom with modern practicality has made him a revered figure in his community and beyond. As the Traditional Prime Minister of Ohaji, he remains deeply connected to his roots, advocating for the needs of his people and leveraging his position to foster unity and progress.
What sets Chief Orie apart is the mystique surrounding his persona. He is a man of action, yet he avoids the limelight unless it serves a greater purpose. This enigmatic quality has made him both an admired and a mysterious figure in Imo State politics. While his contributions are tangible, his motives are often guided by principles that transcend personal ambition.
As we celebrate Chief Charles Orie at 59, we honor a man who has dedicated his life to service, self-improvement, community upliftment. His legacy at ISOPADEC and his continued efforts to explore innovative solutions for societal advancement are a testament to his commitment to the greater good.
Chief Orie’s story is a reminder that true leadership is not about seeking power for its own sake but about serving with humility and vision. Today, as friends, family, and admirers join in celebrating his birthday, we look forward to the continued impact of this remarkable leader.
Happy 59th Birthday, Chief Charles Orie – a man whose life inspires us to believe in the power of service, faith, and renewal.
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Business
Major chocolate recall upgraded to highest risk level
Published
7 hours agoon
January 30, 2025By
Ekwutos BlogThe FDA has urgently upgraded the risk level of some of the products included in a chocolate recall – warning that the products could cause death.
Cal Yee Farm, a Suisun Valley, California-based candy company, urged customers across nine states to return some of their chocolate and yogurt covered snacks on December 12, 2024.
FDA inspectors discovered undeclared substances – including milk, wheat, sesame, soy and coloring agent Yellow 6 – in several Cal Yee Farm products.
The risk level of three of the recalled items has been bumped up to the highest classification, according to the New York Post.
In a January 22 update, the FDA said the company’s Dark Chocolate Almonds, Dark Chocolate Apricots and Dark Chocolate Walnuts have been given a Class 1 recall rating for containing undeclared milk.
A Class 1 recall is the most dire kind of food recall and is described as ‘a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death’ by the FDA.
Arizona, California, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia are the nine states included in the recall.
The food items were also sold online, so officials have warned that they may be available in other states.
The other recalled products are: Yogurt Coated Almonds, Dark Chocolate Raisins, Butter Toffee Almonds, Tropical Trail Mix, Mango with Chili, Cajun Sesame Hot Sticks, New Orleans Hot Mix, Butter Toffee Almonds and select Fruit Baskets.
The products were sold in either 8oz, 1lb, 2lb or 5lb sizes – a full list of products has been published by the FDA.
Items are packaged in clear plastic zipper pouches with bright yellow labels on the front.
In the alert, the FDA advised consumers to throw out the recalled products or return them to the seller for a full refund. No illnesses related to the warning have been reported.
Officials warned: ‘People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk, soy, wheat, sesame, Yellow 6 and almonds run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.’
Cal Yee Farm is a family-owned business with more than 60 years of experience, according to the brand’s website.
‘Over the years, we have strived to provide the highest quality of dried fruits and nuts to all our customers in the U.S. and abroad. Our pledge is to provide the best customer service and fulfill all of our customers’ needs,’ Cal Yee Farm wrote.
On Wednesday, the company addressed the recall on the website, writing: ‘We did a voluntary recall on undeclared milk, soy, wheat, sesame, FD&C #6 and almonds in snack products, due to outdated labels which did not specify allergen statement.
‘Labels are now consistent with known allergens.’
An urgent recall for Lay’s potato chips has also been escalated to the highest level for containing undeclared milk.
The FDA revealed the affected products are bags of 13 oz Lay’s Classic Potato Chips distributed in Oregon and Washington.
Around 4.9 million American suffer from milk allergies and it is one of the most common food allergies in children.
Symptoms of milk allergy range from mild to severe and can include wheezing, vomiting, hives and digestive problems.
In severe cases, the condition can also cause anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening reaction that narrows the airways and can block breathing.
Business
Hilda Baci apologizes, gifts customer ₦50K voucher after complaint over ₦6K pepper soup
Published
1 day agoon
January 29, 2025By
Ekwutos BlogPopular Nigerian, chef Hilda Baci has reportedly apologized to a customer who complained about the small portion of a ₦6,000 turkey pepper soup from her restaurant.
To make amends, she gifted the customer a ₦50,000 food voucher.
Hilda Baci’s apology message read:
“Thank you for bringing this to our attention. I sincerely apologize for the disappointment you experienced with your recent order from MyFoodByHilda. “
“It is our mission to consistently deliver the best, and I deeply regret that we fell short this time. Your feedback is valid and appreciated, as it helps us improve.”
“To make things right, I would like to offer you a meal voucher worth ₦50,000, which you can use at your convenience. Kindly share your name and email address so we can arrange this for you promptly. “
“Once again, I truly apologize and assure you of a better experience moving forward. Thank you for your understanding and continued support.”
“Warm regards,”
“Hilda Baci”
“MyFoodByHilda”
This was revealed in a trending post on X (formerly Twitter), where the customer shared an update in a fresh video, expressing gratitude to the celebrity chef for acknowledging her complaint and reaching out.
In the video, she said:
“I have to say a very big thank you to Hilda Baci for reaching out to me. She actually sent the message last Wednesday, but I just saw it today when I opened my TikTok on my laptop.”
“Thank you for acknowledging my complaint and validating my concerns. I truly appreciate it.”
“I honestly didn’t expect my video to go as viral as it did, but I’m grateful that you reached out. Thank you so much.”
Her statement comes days after she publicly called out Hilda Baci’s restaurant over the portion size of the turkey pepper soup.
While her complaint initially sparked mixed reactions online, with some labeling her “not the target audience,” she has now confirmed that Hilda Baci personally addressed the issue.
Following the new update, social media users have flooded the comment section with their thoughts on the development.
See some reactions below:
@Dansuki1122: “That means Hilda Baci should have her eatery closed down if they intentionally inflate prices of their food. I was thinking it’s that expensive normally.”
@lifeinsolace: “It’s not just enough. How many people will she give vouchers? She should just do the needful and reduce the price of her food.”
@DAllSeeinRetina: “Those that are defending her earlier should hide their face in shame…now that she has reached out.”
@ChuksOhaxx: “Hilda Baci is a good person tbh… left for me, I will allow you cry for all I care after you made that silly comment about that pepper soup.”
@omowumi_omoleke: “Thank God she doesn’t sue her because sue no dey taya them. That’s so nice of her. Good Business woman.”
@promoting_naija: “Where are those people attacking her and saying Hilda baci has her target audience.”
@mr_peteru77: “For wat she did so she should expect more people to drag her cuz me now I will go and buy that pepper soup for 6k then go online and show the world how small it is then after all the backlash I knw say 50k go bounce bak to my account. Wat a smart move.”
Business
Female rapper sues ride-hailing company after rider said she couldn’t fit in his car and canceled her trip
Published
1 day agoon
January 29, 2025By
Ekwutos BlogA plus-sized rapper who describes herself as a BBW — aka “big beautiful woman” — is suing Lyft after one of the company’s drivers allegedly told her she was too large to ride in his car.
Dank Demoss, who has previously disclosed that she weighs nearly 489 lbs., claims the rejection unfolded earlier this month in Detroit when the Lyft driver rolled up in his Mercedes-Benz sedan and immediately locked his doors.
“I can fit in this car,” the rapper, who also goes by Dajua Blanding, could be heard saying in a videoshe posted on social media on Jan. 19.
President of Burkina Faso Faso, Captain Ibrahim TRAORÉ, successfully completed his biometric enrollment and received his passport from the Confederation of Sahel States (AES), which has officially takes effect .
Imo State Governor, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, has announced a special event where he’ll swear in newly appointed Commissioners and members of Statutory Commissions, including the Civil Service Commission (CSC), Local Government Service Commission (LGSC), and Judicial Service Commission (JSC).
Union to mark 80th anniversary of Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings with a number of special events
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