Written 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.

The price of tomatoes in Lagos and other parts of Nigeria has significantly dropped due to a glut caused by the ongoing harvest season.

Farmers and traders have attributed the price crash to the surplus supply, which occurs annually between January and March.

A tomato glut refers to a situation where an excess harvest of tomatoes leads to a price drop.

According to reports by the News Agency of Nigeria, the price of a 50kg basket of tomatoes now sells for as low as N10,000 to N12,000, depending on the species. In the northern part of the country, a 25kg plastic crate is priced between N6,000 and N7,000.

In Lagos, the price of a big basket of tomatoes has fallen to N13,000–N15,000, compared to the N140,000–N150,000 price range recorded in May 2024. This represents a decrease of approximately 90% over an eight-month period.

The Chairman of the Tomato Growers and Processors Association of Nigeria (Kaduna State Chapter), Mr. Rabiu Zuntu, said the glut is a result of the January-to-March harvest period, during which tomato plants produce an abundance of fruits. This surplus often leads to reduced prices and significant post-harvest losses.

“One of the problems we face in the tomato sector is that the period from January, February, and March is that of tomato glut,” Zuntu explained. 

He added that approximately 50% of harvested tomatoes are lost during this period due to inadequate storage facilities and limited processing capabilities.

“Presently, we only have a few functioning tomato processing facilities to help reduce the post-harvest losses we witness annually,” he said. 

Urgent need for preservation 

Zuntu urged consumers to take advantage of the low prices to stock up and preserve tomatoes for future use.

“We usually advise consumers this period to preserve as much tomatoes as they can to cushion the effect when the produce gets expensive later in the year,” he said. 

• He further highlighted small-scale preservation methods that households can adopt, such as blending, boiling, and storing tomatoes in airtight jars, which can last up to six months.

• Another traditional method involves burying tomatoes underground in a humid environment to maintain freshness.

“However, these preservation methods may not be able to work for large-scale preservation and storage of the produce,” Zuntu cautioned. 

Vendors confirm price drop 

Traders in Lagos also acknowledged the significant price drop. Mrs. Queen Oloyede, a trader at Surulere, noted that a 50kg basket of tomatoes now sells for N15,000–N20,000 at the Mile 12 market.

“Since a week ago, a basket of 50kg tomatoes sells at the Mile 12 market for between N15,000 and N20,000. I advise customers to begin to stock up for the time the produce will be scarce in the market,” Oloyede said. 

However, Mrs. Judith Amen pointed out that the highest quality tomatoes still come at a premium price. “Presently, the highest quality of tomatoes at the Mile 12 market sells between N35,000 and N37,000 for a 50kg basket. People should preserve the quantity they can buy,” she advised. 

Consumers share challenges 

Some consumers expressed concerns about their ability to preserve tomatoes effectively. Mrs. Catherine Eigbedion, a resident of Agege, attributed her limited preservation efforts to an inconsistent electricity supply.

“With tomatoes in surplus this period and at a favorable price, it is advisable to buy in bulk and stock for the scarce days. Not everyone knows the local preservation techniques due to the inconsistent electricity situation. I just buy enough to last me for a week,” Eigbedion said. 

Similarly, Mrs. Ebere Dudu from Dopemu emphasized the unpredictability of tomato prices. “We are glad that there are enough fresh tomatoes in the market and they are very affordable. Because we cannot predict the price of tomatoes in the coming months, I buy as much as I can and preserve for the rainy days,” she explained. 

• Recharge Benchmark Policy Illegal, Says Expert

Some low-income earners in the country are currently living in darkness because of the new policy of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) which disallowed prepaid customers from recharging below N5,000.

It was gathered that as a result of IBEDC new policy of N5000 benchmark, some Nigerians within the company’s coverage area compelled to recharge N5000 and above against their natural will while others have resorted to borrowing from families and friends to be able to enjoy electricity through the prepaid metering system.

The Guardian gathered that many others who were unable to meet the recharge benchmark have been left with no choice but to live in darkness.This is even as some of the consumers grapple to pay for high electricity bills under the Band A system imposed on them by the electricity firms.

In a public notice to its customers, the IBEDC stated that: “Please be informed of a recent update regarding IBEDC electricity recharge. Users on Band A are now required to make a minimum recharge purchase of N5,000. Users in other bands must make a minimum purchase of N2,000.

“Kindly note that this new payment structure is effective already and applies exclusively to IBEDC customers,” it stated. It was gathered that this policy was peculiar to IBEDC, as other discos contacted by The Guardian debunked such policy.

However, a lawyer, and an electricity expert, Anthony C. Nwajuigo, said the policy is illegal and a violation of the Electricity Act. He said: “This is illegal and not covered by law. The Multi Year Tariff Order (MYTO) pegged tariff for Band A at around N209.5 per kWh, hence the directive that flouts such MYTO regulation by National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) is not only unconstitutional but illegal and in contravention of the Electricity Act and Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018 (FCCPA)”.

Nwajuigo continued: “Stating that customers under band A cannot procure less than N5,000 is absurd. Why other customers cannot procure less than N5,000. It is totally illegal. And it is not just a breach of the NERC regulation on MYTO, it is also a breach of the provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018 (FCCPA).

“They don’t have such rights. Such a promulgation order made by IBEDC is unconstitutional. Not only is it unconstitutional, it’s illegal. It is a contravention of two extant acts that are regulating the electricity industry.

“Even in Lagos here, where I reside and where I practice, Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) and Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (IKEDC) donot do that. If you want to recharge N1,000, you are permitted to do it. If you want to recharge N500, you are permitted. The only thing is that you are giving the unit that you have recharged,” he stated.

A consumer in Ota area of Ogun State, Bolade Akindele, decried the situation, describing it as unnecessary exploitation of the masses who are still struggling to meet daily needs.

Akindele said: “This policy is inhuman. Even though we are on Band A, consumers should not be subjected to these conditions. Afterall, we are not consuming for commercial purposes. We are still struggling to cope with Band A tariff and now the company is coming with this new recharge policy. It is really not fair.

“We may begin to consider switching to solar energy. With these new developments in the power sector, I am afraid, many people will only be seeing the light but will not be able to afford to use it.”