Metu Announces Scholarship for Five Nnewi Inmates, Initiates Borehole Project

Metu Announces Scholarship for Five Nnewi Inmates, Initiates Borehole Projects ProjectFormer National Publicity Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olisa Metu, has unveiled a scholarship programme for five inmates at the Nnewi Correctional Centre in Anambra State, covering university tuition.

At the same event, Metu also announced the commencement of a bore‑hole drilling project aimed at providing safe drinking water to the facility.

The announcements were made during a ceremony in Nnewi marking Metu’s 60th birthday.
Recalling his own experience as a former inmate, Metu said he understood the challenges of incarceration and urged the detainees not to view their situation as the end of the world.
“I have come here to give you hope,” “For those who are minor offenders, I will expedite action to secure your bail.”he said.

He outlined the details of the scholarship, stating, “I have a scheme that will train five of the inmates up to university level.”
Addressing the issue of water scarcity, he added, “I know you have problems accessing good drinking water, which is why I am sinking a bore‑hole here at the Nnewi Correctional Centre.”

Metu encouraged the inmates to remain resilient, saying, “Though you are here, let your body be present, but keep your soul where you want it to be when you leave.”
He also noted his own past incarceration, emphasizing that his visit was part of celebrating his birthday with them.

In addition to the correctional centre, Metu visited the Old Rev. Father’s Home and St. Andrew’s Anglican Church in Nnewi, where he donated gift items, food, and wheelchairs to persons with disabilities.
Metu’s philanthropic gestures come at a time when the PDP is seeking to rebuild grassroots support in Anambra ahead of forthcoming elections. As a former party spokesperson, his high‑profile charity work is being viewed as an attempt to reinforce the party’s image of empathy and service, especially among marginalized communities such as prison inmates and the physically challenged. The scholarship and water project are likely to be highlighted in PDP communications as evidence of the party’s commitment to social welfare and rehabilitation, contrasting with critics who argue that such initiatives are politically motivated.

The bore‑hole, expected to be completed within three months, will be managed by the correctional centre’s administration, with oversight from the State Ministry of Works. The scholarship recipients will be selected based on academic potential and good conduct, with the PDP’s local chapter overseeing the disbursement of funds.

These initiatives underscore Metu’s continued influence within the PDP and his efforts to leverage personal philanthropy for political capital as the party prepares for the next electoral cycle.